Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350 – New Prices After GST 2.0 Make the Battle Hotter!

The new GST 2.0 tax reform has brought a pleasant surprise for Indian motorcycle enthusiasts — especially those eyeing the 350cc retro cruiser segment. Two of the biggest names in this category, the Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350, have now become significantly more affordable. With this move, the rivalry between these two icons has intensified, giving buyers more reason to reconsider their next retro ride.

GST 2.0 Price Cut – Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 benefits the most from the GST 2.0 reform, with prices dropping between ₹16,135 and ₹19,222 across variants. Previously priced between ₹1.97 lakh and ₹2.34 lakh (ex-showroom), it now starts at just ₹1.81 lakh, going up to ₹2.15 lakh.

Meanwhile, Honda has made an equally bold move by cutting a flat ₹18,887 off its CB350 lineup. Thanks to this reduction, the retro-modern Honda now starts at ₹2.00 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it directly against the Classic 350’s mid and top variants.

Verdict on Price:
The Classic 350 remains the more affordable option, but the CB350’s superior refinement and performance make the fight closer than ever.

Engine & Performance – Smooth vs Thumpy

Under their classic designs,Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350 both motorcycles house modern engines tuned for relaxed cruising.

Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Engine: 349cc, air-oil cooled
- Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm
- Torque: 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed
Honda CB350
- Engine: 348.36cc, air-cooled
- Power: 20.8 bhp @ 5500 rpm
- Torque: 29.5 Nm @ 3000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed

While both make near-identical power, the Honda CB350 offers more torque at lower RPMs, translating to stronger off-the-line acceleration and smoother city rides. The Classic 350, on the other hand, continues to charm riders with its trademark thump and laid-back delivery.

ALSO READ: Honda CB500X Price in India – Everyday Adventure Bike

Hardware & Ride Comfort

When it comes to build and dynamics, both bikes are true to their retro DNA but take slightly different approaches.

Honda CB350
- Frame: Diamond type
- Weight: 186 kg
- Wheelbase: 1441 mm
- Fuel tank: 15.2 litres
- Seat height: 800 mm
Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Frame: Twin downtube spine
- Weight: 195 kg
- Wheelbase: 1390 mm
- Fuel tank: 13 litres
- Seat height: 805 mm

Both come with dual-channel ABS, but the CB350 gets a slightly larger 310 mm front disc, while the Classic 350 features a larger 270 mm rear disc. In terms of ergonomics, the Honda feels lighter and easier to manage, especially in city traffic. The Classic 350, with its heavier build, provides a more planted and stable highway ride.

Key Highlights

Feature	Honda CB350	Royal Enfield Classic 350
Engine	348.36cc, air-cooled	349cc, air-oil cooled
Power	20.8 bhp @ 5500 rpm	20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm
Torque	29.5 Nm @ 3000 rpm	27 Nm @ 4000 rpm
Weight	186 kg	195 kg
Starting Price	₹2.00 lakh	₹1.81 lakh
ABS	Dual-channel	Dual-channel

Final Verdict – The Classic Rivalry Reignited

With the GST 2.0 price cuts, both bikes are now more tempting than ever. The Royal Enfield Classic 350 wins on nostalgia, customisation, and road presence, while the Honda CB350 impresses with refinement, lower vibrations, and superior torque delivery.

If you crave the traditional thump and timeless charm, go for the Classic 350. But if you want modern reliability with retro looks, the CB350 makes more sense than ever.