Honda has launched the new CB350RS in India with a price of Rs 1.96 lakh ex-showroom pan India. The CB350RS builds on the made-in-India for India platform and motor combination that we saw on the Honda H’ness CB350, albeit with a slightly different design ethos and ergonomics. In the run up to the launch, we speculated as to whether Honda would opt for the Scrambler approach or the cafe racer with the 350RS. Instead Honda have thrown away convention and created an interesting amalgamation of both ideas.

From the rear, with the tuck and roll seat and tail lamps that integrate neatly into the seat the CB350RS might lead one to believe that the RS is in fact a cafe racer. The 19/17inch on-off road tyres(compared to the 19-18 set up on the H’ness 35), fork boots, metal bash plate and up-right riding position bring forth the RS Scrambler intent. The tank remains largely the same although you do get unique two paint schemes, Radiant Red Metallic and Black with Pearl Sports Yellow.  While it isn’t a big step away from what we saw on the H’ness CB350, the CB350RS.

Under the skin though, the CB350RS is almost identical to the H’ness with the same half - duplex cradle frame in steel pipe chassis that houses the same 350cc engine from the CB350 that makes 21bhp and class-leading 30Nm of torque. The exhaust is slightly different as well, aside from being blacked out, the diameter has also been increased to 45mm to increase the aural experience of the motor. You also get all-LED lights, and the indicators are slimmer than modern units. The analogue speedometer with a digital inset allows for mobile connectivity and the RS also gets Honda’s switchable traction control system HSTC and dual channel ABS as standard.

Speaking on the rich legacy of CB Brand, Mr Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Brand CB stands for realizing dreams of a true motorcycle enthusiast. Since the launch of the CB92 in 1959, it has pushed the boundaries of technology. It is a beautiful overlap of performance, comfort, style, technology and reliability. Last year, Indian riders got a chance to experience ‘made in India’ CB brand and elevate their pride of fun riding. Today, we are excited to add another chapter to the CB series. Exhibiting the true legacy of CB Brand, the CB350RS will add value for the Indian customer by providing contemporary style and superior stance, further enhancing the fun biking culture.”

Elaborating on CB350RS, Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Carrying forward the legacy of CB brand, the all-new CB350RS is based on “Road Sailing Concept RS”. It defines the character of the bike’s smooth performance on the road with a sailing feel & comfort for the rider. The CB350RS is crafted to suit the rider’s lifestyle with its sophisticated urban style and a powerful advanced 350cc engine. It’s a call to all the riders to gear up and ‘Live Your Story’.”