Bullet 350 or Honda H’ness: Know Which Retro Motorcycle Offers More Value, Power & Features Compared

Royal Enfield Bullet 350 vs Honda CB350 H’ness : If you’re planning to buy a powerful motorcycle in the 350cc retro segment, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Honda CB350 H’ness must have come to mind. While the Bullet, which has ruled Indian roads for decades, has its own unique status and legacy, Honda’s H’ness is attracting young people with its modern engineering and high-tech features.

Price and Variants

In terms of price, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 remains the preferred choice of middle-class customers, with its base variants starting at around ₹1.73 lakh (ex-showroom). In contrast, the Honda CB350 H’ness starts at around ₹2.10 lakh (approximately ₹2.10 lakh). This significant price difference makes the Bullet an affordable option for those looking to experience a powerful 350cc motorcycle on a budget.

However, to justify its increased price, Honda offers safety features like dual-channel ABS and LED headlights as standard on the base model. If you’re looking for value for money, the Bullet wins, but if you can afford to spend a little extra for safety and advanced features, the Highness offers a premium feel.

Design and Road Presence

In terms of design, the Bullet 350 still retains its vintage identity. It features hand-painted pinstripes, a round headlight, and a classic metal body, giving it a rugged, steely look. Colors like Military Black and Standard Black give it a vintage appeal that appeals to people of all ages. The Honda Highness, on the other hand, is a ‘neo-retro’ bike that combines a vintage look with a modern touch.

The Highness comes standard with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, making it quite convenient for everyday city use. While the Bullet’s spoke wheels give it a classic look, the Highness’s sleek chrome finish gives it a modern and premium feel on the roads.

Engine Performance and Riding Experience

The Bullet 350’s new J-series engine is significantly more refined than before. Its biggest plus point is its low-end torque, allowing you to accelerate smoothly in second or third gear even in heavy traffic. Its soft, firm sound, often referred to as a “thump,” remains its biggest USP. In contrast, the Honda Highness’s engine is a testament to Japanese finesse, remaining quiet and vibration-free.

On paper, the Highness’s torque output is 30 Nm, which appears to be higher than the Bullet’s, but its longer gearing may require frequent gear changes in city traffic. If you have long highway journeys, the Highness’s slipper clutch will make your ride fatigue-free, but if you prefer a comfortable city cruise, the Bullet is unbeatable.

Weight and Handling

When it comes to weight and handling, the Honda Highness wins hands down. The Highness weighs just 181 kg, significantly less than the Bullet’s 195 kg. This 14 kg difference is evident when driving, especially when cornering in traffic or putting it on a stand.

The Highness is much easier to handle for new riders, while the Bullet, due to its heavier weight, is very stable on the highway but requires some experience to maneuver in narrow streets. The Honda also excels in features, offering Bluetooth connectivity and an all-LED setup, while the Bullet emphasizes simplicity and a raw experience.