The 2024 Honda CB350RS has been launched in Malaysia.
Honda calls it a “road sports model” but calling it a modern retro or more specifically the UJM (universal Japanese motorcycle) would hit closer to the mark. In any case, this was the shape of all motorcycles in the old days. You take one of these, mod it up, and race it regardless on- or off-road, then ride to work the next day.
Anyway, the 2024 Honda CB350RS is a modern thoroughly modern motorcycle with likewise modern features, wrapped up in a more cohesively designed body, compared to the mishmash “neo retro” design of the Honda CB250.
Highlights:
- Powered by a 348cc, air-cooled, four-stroke, OHC, single-cylinder engine.
- It produces 15.5 kW (20.8 hp) at 5,500 RPM and 30 NM at 3,000 RPM.
- The engine is fuel-injected and features Honda’s signature Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system.
- The cylinder is placed at an offset from the crankshaft’s vertical centreline. This reduces friction on the thrust face of the piston against the cylinder as it is pushed up from BDC to TDC.
- The engine also has an asymmetrical connecting rod (conrod) to reduce energy losses.
- Power is transferred to the gearbox via an Assist and Slipper Clutch. It was Honda who invented the slipper clutch, anyway.
- Semi-double cradle steel frame which Honda says balances vertical, horizontal, and torsional rigidity.
- Electronic features include the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) traction control system.
- The bike’s braking system consists of a single disc brake up front and at the back.
- Dual-channel ABS is standard.
- Wheel and tyre sizes are 100/90-19 front and 150/70-17 rear.
- A classic shaped round headlamp, with LED lighting all around.
- Digital-analogue metre panel displaying some useful data including gear position, battery voltage, and distance to dry fuel status.
The 2024 Honda CB350RS is offered in two colours, namely Mat Massive Gray Metallic and Athletic Blue Metallic, and retails from RM20,500 (not on the road).
2024 Honda CB350RS photo gallery
