By Gary Gvandyke
The Big Red has a fresh two-wheeled Special Edition that dresses its elusive CB350C in a handsome new look.
Honda originally produced the CB350 as a twin and a four-cylinder (the latter of which was known as the CB350F) in various capacities from 1968 to 1974. Eventually, however, the Big Red phased out the model in favor of the CB360, a bike which was then supplanted by the even larger CB400T.
In any case, since the revival of the CB nameplate in 2020 as a small-displacement single, Honda has offered the retro thumper in a variety of different paint schemes — including eye-catching two-tone versions.
While they’ve all been attractively old-school, few have adhered to the model’s namesake quite as well as this new CB350C Special Edition.
An old-school special edition
Being based on the modern CB platform, this bike is exclusively bound for India. That said, Honda does also sell it as the GB350 in Europe and the UK, and the United States has a similar offering with the SCL500. The Big Red could very well introduce similar Special Editions for other markets.
As it should. Even though the treatment essentially comes down to a set of special tank stripes, some fender stripes and some decals, it makes for an impactful makeover and a sharp look.
Especially in the ‘Metallic Red’ colorway, as the retro-inspired cream accents recall the decal designs that Honda used in the 1960s and 1970s on its various CB offerings. Moreover, the hue itself resembles some of the paint that Honda used on larger bikes like the CBX and CB750.
Alternatively, the CB350C Special Edition is also available in a ‘Mat Dune Brown’ for those with more military-styled tastes. As was the case with the Honda GB350C, this single gets a similarly neutral-toned makeover, though this time it adds some darker brown accents to complement the dusty paint.
No matter your preference between the two color schemes, the Big Red has proven that it’s good for more than the dull ‘Matte Metallic Black’ that it currently offers on models like the SCL500. Assuming that Honda brought these bikes (or even just the paint options) Stateside, it’d likely have a hit on its hands.
This single would be a Stateside hit
Honda currently has several smaller retro-styled models in its North American lineup — like the Dax, the Monkey, the Super Cub and the Trail 125 — though it hasn’t yet brought any of its neo-retro CBs to market in the States.
It’s a shame, because this Special Edition would be a hit with motorcyclists at events like the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride — the handsome retro colors would fit right in.
Even beyond the unique paint and decals of the Special Edition, though, there’s plenty about the CB350C that would make it appeal to U.S. buyers.
For instance, it’s an ideal runabout for getting around town, and the compact size would make it approachable to both newer and smaller riders. With around 20 horsepower on tap from a 348cc single, it’s hard to get into trouble.
Especially because Honda packs the model — an otherwise budget-minded motorcycle — full of tech features. In addition to Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for optimized wet-weather traction and PGM-FI for improved fuel economy, it also boasts creature comforts like Honda Roadsync for easy smartphone integration.
And that’s not even addressing the custom potential. Whether you’re after a little bolt-on personalization or some more involved fabrication, these kinds of classically styled UJMs provide the ideal canvas for such projects.
Until that day comes, American buyers will have to make do with the SCL500, the Rebel cruiser or one of BSA’s various small-displacement retro revivals.
Forbidden fruit
As mentioned, if you’re located outside of India, Honda’s CB350C Special Edition will be forbidden fruit. It’s set to retail for the equivalent of roughly $2,275. You can learn more about it on Honda’s website.
