Since its debut in India and internationally towards the end of the previous year, the recently launched Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 has garnered considerable attention. The middleweight adventure touring category has been a prominent topic of conversation recently, attributed to the practicality, touring capabilities, feature-packed offerings, and comfort that motorcycles in this class deliver.
It is clear that a growing number of motorcycle manufacturers are competing for prominence in this lucrative segment, and Honda appears ready to enter the competition. This is evident from its submission of multiple patents for an adventure bike. According to the patent documents, it seems that the Japanese manufacturer is developing both a scrambler and an adventure bike, potentially exciting enthusiasts who appreciated the Honda Gold Wing.
As an illustration, similarities in bodywork, fuel tank, and various components are noticeable between the two models. However, the adventure tourer sets itself apart through distinctive features such as a floating front fender and an adjustable windshield. Spoked wheels adorn both the front and rear, with no significant differences apparent in their sizes.
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Furthermore, notable features encompass a luggage rack, split seats, tank-mounted luggage racks, telescopic front forks, and a side-mounted exhaust system. Currently, Honda provides the CB350 in India within the entry-level middleweight retro motorcycle segment. Signals from patent filings indicate that the adventure bike might share a foundation with the CB350, albeit with an evolutionary approach.
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Honda has secured patents for several luggage racks, though it’s uncertain which ones will be incorporated into the final production. Furthermore, it’s noteworthy that the scrambler and adventure models showcase different exhaust finishes, emphasizing their individuality. The adventure bike’s engine and chassis exhibit similarities to those found in the H’ness CB350.
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The renowned 348 cc single-cylinder air-cooled fuel-injected engine is likely to be utilized. However, given the performance benchmarks set by competitors such as the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G310 GS, and Yezdi Adventure, maintaining the same power and torque outputs as the CB350 might not meet expectations.
Given that the Honda CB350 produces 20.8 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm at 3,000 rpm, the upcoming adventure bike could be positioned directly against rivals like the Yezdi Adventure.
