If you know your Honda history, the CB series probably needs no introduction. From the CB750 that kicked off the superbike era to the CB350 that became a starter bike for an entire generation, the CB badge is about as iconic as it gets. Fast-forward to today, and Honda has been quietly reviving that heritage in Japan and Asia with the GB350 lineup.
The bikes in the modern-day GB family consist of retro-styled thumpers that channel classic CB charm with modern reliability. One of the latest spins on that formula is the GB350C, a model that takes the core GB350 and cranks up the vintage styling.
Honda first launched the GB350C in late 2024, but for 2025 it’s getting some subtle updates—most notably, a set of new colorways with a military-inspired edge. If the original GB350C leaned toward polished retro chic, the 2025 version toughens things up with a more utilitarian vibe. Honda also tweaked the headlight to throw a wider beam, improving visibility at night. Other than that, the bike is unchanged mechanically.
So what exactly is the GB350C? Think of it as the most classic member of the GB family. The design brief was The Standard Classical Motorcycle, and Honda wasn’t kidding. The GB350C features deep steel fenders, a split seat that’s about two inches longer, a horizontally mounted muffler, and even exclusive parts like the headlight case, meter panel, and taillight placement. Compared to the regular GB350 (also known as the CB350 H'Ness in India), nearly every exterior detail is unique, giving the C model a distinct identity.
Underneath all that retro dress-up, though, it’s the same proven package: a 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder, good for around 20 horsepower and 21 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed gearbox and Honda’s assist/slipper clutch. It rolls on the same wheels and brakes as the standard GB350, which means easygoing handling. The slightly higher curb weight might even make it feel more planted on the road without crossing into heavyweight territory.
Now here’s where it gets interesting: you can’t look at the GB350C’s new military-style paint without thinking of the Royal Enfield Classic 350—or even the freshly updated Bullet 350. Both of those bikes lean hard into the old-school army-bike aesthetic, and they’ve been selling like hotcakes in markets where retro singles dominate. Is Honda taking a page out of Enfield’s playbook? It sure looks that way. Royal Enfield has quietly become one of the hottest mid-size brands worldwide, and if Honda wants a slice of that pie, the GB350C feels like its weapon of choice.
As for pricing, the 2025 GB350C goes on sale in Japan on October 31, 2025, at 715,000 Yen. That works out to roughly $4,800 USD, which makes it a seriously attractive proposition if you could actually buy one in the States. Unfortunately, Honda hasn’t announced any plans to bring the GB350C—or even the standard GB350—to the US. Right now, it’s exclusive to Japan, with related versions available in India and Australia.
Still, it’s hard not to daydream. A lightweight, air-cooled, retro-styled Honda single at under five grand? That sounds like a recipe for success on US streets. For now, though, we’ll have to admire from afar—and maybe hope Honda eventually decides to share the GB350C with the rest of the world.
Sources: Young-Machine, Honda Japan
