Honda has created quite a stir in the retro segment with the launch of its first classic motorcycle developed specifically for India, the Honda H’Ness CB350. Like most of its portfolio, it is available in two variants. Here is a detailed explanation of how different the functions are in DLX and DLX Pro.
Esthetic:
The Honda H’Ness CB350 DLX Pro variant has a more premium retro-looking two-tone color scheme on the fuel tank. This variant is available in three colors: Pearl Nightstar Black with Spear Silver Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic with Virtuous White, and Matte Steel Black Metallic with Matte Massive Gray Metallic. The matte black and gray color variant comes with a beige seat cover, while the other two color variants get a black one. Of these three, blue is our favorite as it echoes the nostalgic blue and white scheme of its forebear, the 1970 Honda CB350.
On the other hand, the basic DLX variant comes only in single-tone color schemes: Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Night Star Black, and Matte Marshal Green Metallic. The black variant comes with a matching black seat cover, while the other two variants have a beige seat cover for an authentic retro look.
Fortunately, all variants have a premium 3D Honda logo on the fuel tank, chrome fenders, exhaust, and engine details.
Role changes:
The biggest difference between the two variants is the smartphone-friendly instrument cluster that is unique to the DLX Pro variant. The instrument cluster has bluetooth connectivity along with an integrated USB port. It uses a segment-first Honda smartphone voice control system paired with the headset, whereby voice commands can be issued and features such as turn-by-turn navigation can be used; access calls / messages, music and even weather information. Functions can be toggled via the navigation buttons on the left handlebar. It should be noted that the headphones will be sold separately. While the instrument cluster itself is extremely packed with information, the digital inset appears to be too small to view functions conveniently. For added convenience, this variant also has a dual-horn setup instead of the single horn on the DLX version. Read also: Everything you need to know about the Honda H’Ness CB350
In addition to the smartphone-friendly features, the rest of the bits like the side stand engine shutdown function, hazard lights, distance-to-empty readings, real-time / average mileage indicator, voltage meter from the battery, gear position indicator, engine shutdown switch, the fully LED lighting system, Honda selectable torque control (AKA traction control), slip assist clutch, alloy wheels with tubeless tires and dual channel ABS are standard on both variants. So even if you go for the basic variant, you won’t miss out on the features that really matter.
