In the fiercely competitive modern retro motorcycle market, the Honda CB350 emerges as a strong contender, vying for dominance against its rivals—the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Harley-Davidson X440. Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of these bikes, considering engine specifications, weight, dimensions, suspension, brakes, features, and pricing.
Engine and Performance
- Honda CB350:
- Engine: Air-cooled, 349cc, single-cylinder
- Power: 21hp at 5,500rpm
- Torque: 29.4Nm at 3,000rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed
- Royal Enfield Classic 350:
- Engine: Air-cooled, 349cc, single-cylinder
- Power: 20.2hp at 6,100rpm
- Torque: 27Nm at 4,000rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed
- Harley-Davidson X440:
- Engine: Air/oil-cooled, 440cc, single-cylinder
- Power: 27hp at 6,000rpm
- Torque: 38Nm at 4,000rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed
The X440 boasts the highest peak output and power-to-weight ratio, thanks to its larger displacement and 6-speed gearbox. The CB350 and Classic 350 are closely matched on paper, but real-world performance nuances come into play.
Weight, Dimensions, and Ergonomics
- Honda CB350:
- Kerb Weight: 187kg
- Seat Height: 800mm
- Wheelbase: 1441mm
- Ground Clearance: 165mm
- Fuel Capacity: 15.2 litres
- Royal Enfield Classic 350:
- Kerb Weight: 195kg
- Seat Height: 805mm
- Wheelbase: 1390mm
- Ground Clearance: 170mm
- Fuel Capacity: 13 litres
- Harley-Davidson X440:
- Kerb Weight: 190.5kg
- Seat Height: 805mm
- Wheelbase: 1418mm
- Ground Clearance: 170mm
- Fuel Capacity: 13.5 litres
Despite carrying the most fuel, the CB350 is the lightest, with the lowest seat height. The X440 features a modern USD fork and a substantial rear tyre, offering a contemporary feel. Classic 350, being the heaviest, may impact its overall handling.
Suspension, Brakes, and Features
- Honda CB350:
- Suspension: Telescopic fork (front), Twin shock absorbers (rear)
- Brakes: 310mm disc (front), 240mm disc (rear)
- Features: Traction control, Bluetooth connectivity (basic), customizable kits
- Royal Enfield Classic 350:
- Suspension: Telescopic fork (front), Twin shock absorbers (rear)
- Brakes: 300mm disc (front), 270mm disc (rear)
- Features: Optional Tripper dash for navigation
- Harley-Davidson X440:
- Suspension: USD fork (front), Twin shock absorbers (rear)
- Brakes: 320mm disc (front), 240mm disc (rear)
- Features: TFT dash, Bluetooth connectivity, oil cooler
The X440 stands out with its modern USD fork, TFT dash, Bluetooth connectivity, and an oil cooler. The CB350 offers traction control, while the Classic 350 remains true to its roots with simplicity and optional navigation.
Price
- Honda CB350:
- Price (ex-showroom, Delhi): Rs 2 lakh – Rs 2.18 lakh
- Royal Enfield Classic 350:
- Price (ex-showroom, Delhi): Rs 1.93 lakh – Rs 2.25 lakh
- Harley-Davidson X440:
- Price (ex-showroom, Delhi): Rs 2.40 lakh – Rs 2.80 lakh
While the Classic 350 is the most affordable, the CB350 competes closely with its closest rival in terms of pricing. The X440, although the most expensive, offers premium features and the iconic Harley-Davidson badge.
In conclusion, each bike brings its unique strengths to the table, catering to different rider preferences in the competitive modern retro motorcycle segment.
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