Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350 Showdown 2024
In the ever-growing world of classic motorcycles, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350 stand out as timeless icons with modern features. As we delve into the comparison of these two iconic machines, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Honda CB350, we aim to determine which one takes the crown in 2024.
Engine, Power, and Torque:
Categories | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Honda CB350 |
Displacement | 349 cc | 348.36 cc |
Power | 20.2 bhp(15kW approx) @6100 rpm | 20.78 bhp(15.5 kW approx) @5500 rpm |
Torque | 19.9 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm | 29.4 newton-meters (about 21.68 pound-feet of torque) at 3,000 rpm |
Bore and stroke | 72mm x 85.8 mm | 70.0mm x 90.519mm |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Supply | Electronic fuel injection | PGM-FI |
Starting method | Electric Starter | Electric Starter |
Gearbox | 5-speed gearbox | 5-speed gearbox |
When it comes to power, both motorcycles offer impressive performance from their 350cc engines. The Honda CB350 takes a slight lead with just a tad more horsepower and torque, both delivered slightly lower in the rev range than the Royal Enfield Classic 350. In this round, the Honda CB350 claims victory, showcasing a marginal advantage in power delivery.
Round One Winner: Honda CB350
Chassis:
Categories | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Honda CB350 |
Frame | Twin downtube spine frame | Diamond frame |
Front Suspension | 41mm telescopic front fork with 130mm (about 5.11 inches) of travel | Telescopic; no dimensions given |
Rear Suspensions | Twin tube emulsion shock absorbers with six-step preload adjustability | Hydraulic twin shock; no mention whatsoever of adjustability |
Wheels | Spoked; 19-inch front and 18-inch rear | Alloy; 19-inch front and 18-inch rear |
Brakes | ByBre brakes; two-piston floating front caliper and 300mm disc and single-piston floating rear caliper and 270mm disc | 310mm front disc and 240mm rear disc; no specification given for calipers |
The chassis is a critical aspect of a motorcycle's performance and handling. While the choice between spoked and alloy wheels is subjective, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 takes the lead in this round. Despite a slightly smaller front brake disc, the Classic 350 boasts a larger rear brake disc and the added benefit of braided stainless steel brake lines. Additionally, the Classic 350 offers rear shocks with preload adjustability, giving it an edge in terms of overall chassis features.
Round Two Winner: Royal Enfield Classic 350
Dimensions:
Categories | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Honda CB350 |
Wheelbase | 54.7 inches | 1441 mm (about 56.7 inches) |
Ground Clearance | 6.7 inches | 165mm (about 6.5 inches) |
Length | 84.45 inches | 2,207mm (about 87 inches) |
Width | 30.9 inches without mirrors | 788mm (about 31 inches) |
Height | 42.91 inches without mirrors | 1,110mm (about 43.7 inches) |
Seat Height | 31.69 inches | 800mm (about 31.4 inches) |
Curb Weight | 430 pounds | 187 kilograms (about 412.2 pounds) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 liters | 15.2 liters |
In the dimension category, the Honda CB350 proves to be slightly larger than the Royal Enfield Classic 350, offering a larger tank capacity. However, the CB350 is lighter by nearly 18 pounds, contributing to better maneuverability. The lower seat height of the CB350 also adds to its accessibility for a wider range of riders. This round, though close, goes to the Honda CB350 for its lighter weight and efficient fuel capacity.
Round Three Winner: Honda CB350
Other Features:
Categories | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Honda CB350 |
Dash | Digital and analogue with Tripper navigation (requires smartphone connectivity to use) | DLX Pro version comes with Honda Smartphone Voice Control, which is not available on the base DLX model |
Lighting | Halogen | LED |
ABS | Dual or single-channel available | Dual channel ABS standard |
Colors | 12 colors available | 5 colors available |
Warranty | 3 years | 10 years |
As we explore additional features, the competition becomes more intense. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 excels in offering a navigation system (with smartphone integration) and an extensive range of 12 color choices. However, it falls short of traditional halogen lights, which may not align with the contemporary preferences of riders in 2024.
On the Honda side, the CB350 brings modernity to the table with Smartphone Voice Control, LED lighting as standard, and a 10-year warranty for added peace of mind. Although it offers fewer color choices, the advanced features and warranty make the Honda CB350 the winner in this round.
Round Four Winner: Honda CB350
Price:
Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Honda CB350 |
Nrs. 4,99,000 | Nrs. 5,69,900 |
In this Classic 350 vs. CB350 showdown, the Honda CB350 emerges as the winner, claiming victory in three out of four rounds. With a slight edge in engine performance, a well-balanced chassis, and modern features, the Honda CB350 stands as a testament to Honda's commitment to delivering a classic motorcycle with a touch of contemporary flair. While the Royal Enfield Classic 350 puts up a strong fight, the Honda CB350 ultimately takes the crown for the year 2024.