Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has started 2026 with a bang by refreshing its popular CB series. The company has officially launched the updated 2026 Honda CB350 today (January 26, 2026), bringing subtle yet important improvements to its retro-classic lineup.

But that’s not all—reports suggest that Honda is also preparing to bring its premium “Big Bike” CB models, including the CB1000GT and the CB750 Hornet, to Indian shores later this year.

If you are a fan of the “CB” badge, here is everything you need to know about the latest launch and what lies ahead.

2026 Honda CB350: What Has Changed?

The Honda CB350 (H’ness) has been a strong rival to the Royal Enfield Classic 350. The 2026 update focuses on refinement and comfort rather than a complete design overhaul.

1. Design & Ergonomics

The retro look remains, but Honda has introduced more mature styling.

• New Colors: The 2026 model gets fresh dual-tone color options with updated tank graphics.
• Better Seating: The seat cushioning has been improved for better long-distance comfort, addressing a common feedback from touring riders.
• Handlebar Position: Slight adjustments have been made to the handlebar to offer a more relaxed, upright riding posture, reducing fatigue in city traffic.

2. Engine Refinement

The heart of the bike remains the reliable 348cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine.

• Power: It continues to produce 20.7 bhp and 30 Nm of torque.
• Vibration Control: Honda claims to have further tuned the balancer shaft, making the 2026 CB350 smoother than before. The “thump” is still there, but high-speed vibrations are minimized.
• Gearbox: The 5-speed gearbox now feels even slicker, thanks to tweaks in the assist-and-slipper clutch mechanism.

3. Features

• Digital-Analog Meter: The instrument cluster has been updated for better visibility in bright sunlight.
• Connectivity: The Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) is now standard on more variants.
• Safety: Dual-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) remain standard.

Upcoming “CB” Big Bikes for India (2026-27)

While the CB350 caters to the mass market, Honda is also gearing up to expand its premium CB portfolio in India.

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• Honda CB1000GT: Expected to launch in February 2026, this sports-tourer will likely be priced between ₹13 Lakh to ₹15 Lakh. It features a powerful 1000cc engine and advanced electronics for highway touring.
• Honda CB750 Hornet: The streetfighter segment will see the entry of the new Hornet. The 2026 India-spec model is rumored to come with Honda’s new E-Clutch technology, allowing riders to shift gears without using the clutch lever, even in a manual bike.

Why This Matters for Indian Riders

The “CB” tag is legendary in India. By updating the CB350, Honda is ensuring it stays relevant against the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 (updated recently) and the Triumph Speed 400.

For enthusiasts, the return of big CB models like the Hornet and CB1000GT shows that Honda is finally taking the premium market in India seriously again, moving beyond just commuter bikes.

Price and Availability

• 2026 Honda CB350: The price has seen a marginal hike. The new model starts at approximately ₹2.15 Lakh (Ex-showroom). Bookings are open at Honda BigWing dealerships across India.
• Deliveries: Deliveries for the 2026 CB350 are expected to begin by the first week of February.

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