Honda CB350RS Too Little, Too Late?
- By Aditya Gowda
- April 11, 2021
The first CB- CB92 Super Sport, debuted in 1959; since then, the two-cylinder, 125cc classic has taken on various iterations over decades while amassing a throng of hardcore riders who still swear by the CB brand.
Does the CB350RS provide the same emotive connect between man and machine? How different is it from the H’ness CB350? What’s in store after becoming a Honda owner in India? All that and much more as you read on.
Visually, the Honda motorcycle gets a dual-tone fuel tank, blacked-out engine area and exhaust, round LED headlamps, an under-seat tail lamp, and sharp LED turn indicators.
From afar, what stands out is the redesigned cafe racer look, a pleasant sight for Royal Enfield-seeing sore eyes. One can appreciate the build quality and the overall finish on the rear set footpegs, sporty grab rails, and the switchgear buttons from up close.
Between the H’ness CB350 and CB350RS, the latter boasts an updated under-seat tail section, tuck and roll seat, front fork covers, and an engine skid plate; while these accessories do not go a long way in making the motorcycle any more practical, they add an aesthetic appeal to the rowdy look Honda aims to achieve.
The similarities do not end there as both motorcycles are equipped with the same instrument cluster, LED headlamp, and fuel tank. However, the RS’s tank colours are bright and flashy with two colour options- Radiant Red Metallic and Black with Pearl Sports Yellow. The indicators, too, have been replaced over the circular turn signals with sleek and sharp LED offerings.
Mechanically, the contemporary cruiser is powered by the same engine on the H’ness CB350, a 348.36cc, single-cylinder motor mated to a 5-speed gearbox producing a max power of 20.78 Bhp at 5500 RPM and a max torque of 30 Nm at 3,000 RPM. Additionally, it also gets a class-leading slipper clutch for seamless gear shifts.
The digital-analogue instrument cluster hosts various features such as mileage indicators, gear position indicator, and Honda Selectable Torque Controller (HSTC).
Both motorcycles also share the half-duplex cradle frame with a box-section swingarm. The CB350RS also features the same wheelbase and seat height as the H’ness CB350. However, it weighs around 3kg lighter and has marginally reduced ground clearance.
The large section front suspension adds to the imposing image while also providing great comfort on rough roads. The pressurised nitrogen-charged rear suspension provides a highly responsive rear damping performance. The riding position has been made slightly aggressive with rear-set footpegs, but the patterned seat provides better comfort and grip, both- for the rider and the pillion.
As seen on the H’ness CB350, the road tyres have been swapped for wide pattern tyres to assist riding in difficult terrains. The RS also shares brakes with the H’ness, a sure-stopping 310mm front disc and a 260mm rear disc backed by dual-channel ABS.
So, are the H’ness CB350 and the CB350RS the same? Yes and no! The H’ness, as its name suggests, is laid back, majestic, and equally powerful. On the other hand, the RS is sportier, more impulsive, and looks like a roughed-up king in exile. Even though they share most of the ride-determining components, they are very far apart in how they carry themselves, and you, on the road.
With the CB series, Honda seeks to grow engagement with riders and looks to connect with them on a deeper level. In an effort to inculcate the CB culture, the Japanese bike maker organises around 10 rides every month across India. This is expected to increase once more Honda owners sign up; with this, the company strives to create a biking community and organise rides to different parts of the country.
Honda is on course to set up 50 plus BigWing touchpoints soon with more dealerships expected to take root in the future.
Although the company has no plans for a bigger capacity motorcycle at the moment, consistent demand, well-received products, and an avid biking community may change that in the future. Interestingly, Honda may replenish their 350cc segment if the demand exists.
The CB350RS is priced at INR 1,96,000/- (ex-showroom). The rugged yet classic motorcycle is set to take on the likes of Royal Enfield Meteor, the new Jawa 42 2.1, and the Benelli Imperiale 400. (MT)
- Suzuki Motorcycle India
- Suzuki Burgman Street
- Burgman Street Ride Connect Edition
- Burgman Street Ride Connect TFT Edition
Suzuki Motorcycle India Launches Second-Gen Burgman Street With Premium Upgrades
- By MT Bureau
- April 02, 2026
Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL) has introduced the all-new second generation Burgman Street, a comprehensive evolution of its popular luxury scooter. Building on the strong market presence of the original model that launched in 2018, this updated version brings significant improvements in design, performance and features. The result is a fresher, more premium offering aimed at customers seeking a distinctive ride in the luxury scooter segment.
Since its debut seven years ago, the Burgman Street has consistently grown into one of the fastest-moving models within the 125-cc scooter category. The new model is built around a concept called ‘ONE & ONLY’, which blends premium maxi-style design, superior comfort and everyday practicality. This unique combination sets it apart from any other scooter in its class. Customers can choose between two variants: the Ride Connect Edition and the Ride Connect TFT Edition.
Urban comfort and handling have been prioritised through a lightweight yet rigid frame that improves manoeuvrability. A tuned suspension setup, long wheelbase and Combined Brake System ensure stable and well-balanced braking. The scooter also retains its spacious, well-padded long seat, flexible floorboard and dedicated front footboards, reinforcing its reputation as a practical yet premium daily rider.
The new Burgman Street showcases a ‘Sleek Modern’ design language that fuses sharpness with elegance. Curvaceous bodywork, split-lens LED headlights with integrated position lights, compact LED turn signals and an updated rear combination light create a distinctive road presence. Metallic emblems, a dark smoked windscreen and an upswept muffler add further premium appeal. Underneath, the proven 124-cc Suzuki Eco Performance engine delivers 6.2 kW power and 10.2 Nm torque with strong low to mid-range response.
Practical enhancements include a 5.5-litre fuel tank with a tail-mounted lid, redesigned grab bar, aluminium pillion footpegs and a larger 24.6-litre underseat storage compartment with front pockets, dual utility hooks and a USB outlet. Features like the Suzuki Easy Start System, side stand interlock and waterproof switches ensure daily reliability. The Ride Connect TFT Edition goes further with a 4.2-inch colour TFT screen, a keyless system and an answer-back function for added convenience and security.
The all-new Burgman Street will be available across all Suzuki Motorcycle India dealerships from 8 April 2026 onwards. The price and colour options are given below:

Kenichi Umeda, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd., said, “When we launched the Burgman Street in India, it created a distinct space for itself in the luxury scooter segment. Over the years, it has received an encouraging response, with sales doubling over the past three years. We have seen that Burgman Street owners take pride in owning something different. Building on this insight, our engineers have developed the second generation with a focus on refined design, enhanced comfort and a more premium riding experience. This new model truly represents ‘ONE & ONLY’ – delivering a unique combination of design, comfort, balance and real-world usability that sets it apart in the segment. We are confident that the new Burgman Street will continue to strengthen this pride among our customers.”
Suzuki Motorcycle India Records Annual Sales of 1.4 Million Units in FY2026
- By MT Bureau
- April 01, 2026
Suzuki Motorcycle India (SMIPL), the subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has concluded FY2026 with total sales of 1.43 million units, which marks a 15 percent growth over 1.25 million units sold in FY2025.
This marks the highest annual sales for the company to date in the country.
In FY2026, domestic sales reached 1.17 million units, up 12 percent YoY, while exports grew by 26 percent, totalling 264,541 units. Additionally, spare parts sales generated revenue of INR 10,434 million, an 18 percent increase over the previous period.
In March 2026, Suzuki Motorcycle India recorded total sales of 128,227 units, compared to 126,164 units in March 2025. Monthly domestic sales stood at 105,397 units, while exports contributed 22,830 units. Domestic retail sales for the month rose to 108,661 units, reflecting an 11 percent growth.
During the year, the company surpassed cumulative production total of 10 million units in India. Commenced construction of a new manufacturing facility in Kharkhoda, Haryana. Launched the Suzuki e-Access, the company's first electric scooter. Introduced the Suzuki Access with ABS and the Ride Connect TFT Edition. And expanded its national reach to 1,240 outlets across all Indian states.
Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President – Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “FY 2025-26 has been a landmark year for Suzuki Motorcycle India, with our highest-ever sales performance reflecting sustained momentum across both domestic and export markets. This achievement is driven by the strong trust our customers place in the brand and the consistent efforts of our dealer partners and teams across the country. The encouraging performance in exports further reinforces our growing global relevance. As we move ahead, we will continue to focus on delivering products and experiences that resonate with evolving customer aspirations.”
Hero MotoCorp Wholesales Grows 10% In FY2026
- By MT Bureau
- April 01, 2026
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has announced its wholesales for FY2026 with total dispatches of 6.5 million units, which marks a 10 percent growth. This includes 6.06 million units sold in the domestic market and 402,786 units exported.
In March 2026, the company dispatched 598,198 units, compared to 549,604 units in the same month of the previous year. Retail performance for the month reached 542,436 VAHAN registrations, indicating an increase of approximately 24 percent.
Growth in March was led by the 100-125cc motorcycle segment and double-digit growth in scooters. The internal combustion engine (ICE) scooter segment grew by 24 percent, supported by the expansion of the Glamour and Xtreme motorcycle ranges. Demand in rural markets improved, aided by early festive trends.
For FY2026, motorcycle sales grew from 5.47 million units to 5.84 million units, scooters from 422,692 units to 626,285 units.
Vida, the company's electric vehicle (EV) brand, recorded its highest monthly VAHAN registrations to date at 21,434 units, a MoM increase of approximately 70 percent. For the full financial year, VIDA dispatches grew by 154 percent. The brand also introduced the VX2 Plus - KKR Limited Edition as part of its partnership with the Kolkata Knight Riders.
In international markets, the global business division recorded its highest-ever dispatches. March 2026 exports rose by 16 percent to 45,693 units, contributing to a total fiscal year dispatch growth of approximately 40 percent.
Royal Enfield Sales Crosses 1.2 Million Units In FY2026
- By MT Bureau
- April 01, 2026
Chennai-based mid-sized motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield has achieved its highest annual sales to date, surpassing 1.2 million units in the financial year ending 31 March 2026. This marks the second consecutive year the company has exceeded the million-unit threshold.
The company concluded FY2026 with total sales of 1.23 million units, representing a 23 percent increase from FY2025. Domestic sales came at 1.10 million units, up 23 percent YoY, while exports came at 131,316 units, up 23 percent YoY.
Royal Enfield sold 112,334 units last month, an 11 percent rise over the same month last year.
The performance was supported by demand in domestic and international markets and a diverse motorcycle portfolio.
Going forward, Royal Enfield is expanding its manufacturing facility at Cheyyar to support future growth and maintain production efficiency. The company's international strategy includes deepening its presence in markets such as Brazil.
The upcoming financial year will involve the introduction of new platforms and product launches, including the Flying Flea C6. These initiatives coincide with the brand's 125th anniversary.
B Govindarajan, Managing Director, Eicher Motors and CEO, Royal Enfield, said, “Every year at Royal Enfield, we try to raise the bar a little higher than before, and this time was no different. We delivered our second consecutive year of over one million motorcycle sales, crossing 1.2 million units, our highest-ever annual performance. Achieving this milestone as we celebrate 125 years of Pure Motorcycling makes it even more meaningful. But in this landmark moment, we are not pausing to look back, instead we are focused on how we can continue to build motorcycles for the current and next generation of riders while remaining grounded in our ethos. This year we also achieved our best-ever festive season sales and highest-ever volumes across both domestic and international markets. Our international business continues to be a focus area and we are deepening our presence in high-potential markets such as Brazil. Equally important is the strength of our riding community, which continues to grow with our rider engagements and festivals expanding significantly across regions. We are also investing in staying ahead of the curve by expanding our manufacturing facility at Cheyyar, which will support future growth while maintaining our focus on quality and efficiency. As we move into the new financial year and continue our 125th year journey, we remain focused on the future with new product launches, new platforms and the launch of the Flying Flea C6. Our endeavour is simple: to keep growing in a way that stays true to who we are as we build a global motorcycling brand from India.”

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