The HMS H'Ness is no more; well, at least, in terms of naming conventions. If I said the model name "CB350" to you, and you're at all interested in motorcycles and their history, you'd probably know I was talking about a Honda naked bike, right?
Ever since Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India brought the CB350 H'Ness to life a few years ago, it's been the subject of massive interest, both at home in India and abroad. The timeless retro styling combined with a modern 350cc runabout motorbike proved to be a very enticing combo for all kinds of riders. Pretty soon, it made its way to Japan, to Australia, to Europe, and to the UK as the GB350.
And with good reason. 350 is a sweet number; small enough in displacement that it all but sips fuel, but still usually powerful enough to do most of the things you need a regular, everyday type of machine to do. This isn't a bike that's meant to knock your socks off with sheer power. You'd never race it against an H2R on a drag strip; that's simply not what it's for.
But looking good down at your favorite coffee shop, being reliable, and good-looking transport to/from work or school? That, friends, is where a bike like this excels. Practical and good-looking, all at the same time; and honestly, isn't that kind of worthwhile? I don't know about you, but I think it is.
So what's Honda doing new with this platform for the new year? Over in India, it's just released the CB350C Special Edition; no H'Ness designation needed. Simplify and add lightness also applies to model names, too, apparently.
The color-matched fork shrouds are still in evidence, but there's a subtle pinstriped accent on the front and rear fenders, as well as the fuel tank. Special stripes and stickers are also part of the new look, and contrasting piping on the split saddle also adds a certain something to the combined composition, which is available in your choice of Rebel Red Metallic or Matt Dune Brown.
Still present are that little 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, Honda Selectable Torque Control, dual-channel ABS, and a handy and usable assist and slipper clutch. You'll also find Honda's Smartphone Voice Control System, which lets you not only pair your smartphone with the bike, but also use voice commands if you're using a Bluetooth headset.
A raft of OEM accessories are available for the CB350C Special Edition, including all kinds of protection, rear racks, saddlebags, and a passenger backrest. Pricing will vary, but the ex-showroom price in Delhi at the moment is ₹ 201900, which works out to about US $2,276 at the time of writing.
What do you think, is the name simplification of this undeniably attractive model a good call? Do you like the subtle styling changes Honda has made for the Special Edition? Are you excited for when (and it probably is a when, not an if) these colorways make it to markets outside of India? Let us know in the comments below.
