Honda GB350?

[Ric]

I am actually contemplating this bike, as a possible replacement to my himi 411. My himi is too heavy for me, as I am old, and find it at 200kg with racks, as a bit unwieldly. I havent gotten used to it in two tears. I also haven used it offroad, except for a 100km stint. The Honda is only 181kg and I am sure that 20kg will make a difference and the weight is low down unlike the himi.

The only time I like the weight on my bike is, when 2up, as it does feel planted like a bigger bike. If I could get a modern Kwaka z250 twin, I would go for that instead, as my wife and I had that as our transport in the early part of our marriage, and also took it around OZ 2up, for 9 months.

Any thoughts on this bike out there?

 

[Dool2]

I like the Model sold in India, the one we have here is perhaps a better bike than a Hunter.
Still in love with my Bullet

 

[Overdrive]

is that 181kg the real weight, or Honda’s quoted weight? Until it’s actually weighed, with some fluids and a battery, I’d take that figure with a pinch of salt.
My KTM 390adv was quoted by KTM as weighing c170kg - when actually weighed, ready to roll and with a sump guard and crash protection (but no luggage racks) it was nearly 200kg.
My Himalayan, with crash protection and luggage racks (no luggage) ready to go with half a tank of fuel is 210kg…

 

[Ric]

I have never weighed my himi, but if it is 210 like yours, 215 full fuel, it is even heavier, then I thought hence, no wonder I notice it, yes the Honda is wet weight.

 

[2LZ]

There are a bunch of vids online comparing the new Honda GB350 to other bikes, such as the Classic 350. Worth a look. Here's just one example.
From what I understand, the new Honda is pretty nice and numbers very comparable to the J350 engine.

 

[StefArmstg]

Based on the video, the Honda's riding position sounds like the one I'd like best. Slower steering and more torque at lower rpms, would also puts it at the top of my list.

With the Asian market fenders, polished engine covers, and a retro exhaust, it would be pretty close to just right.

But right out of the box, I'd rather have a Classic.

 

[Ric]

I also would prefer a classic but at 195kg it is way too heavy, but as both the classic 350 and the gb350, are lower than my himi, which is also an issue for my wife, they are both contenders, but the GB pips the post first

 

[Woodstock]

Seems as if you have your heart set on the Honda. Buy it and I'm sure you will be happy. And you can still tell us of your adventures.

 

[Ric]

I have to wait 12 months, I am allowed one big ticket item as she calls them a year, and as we are going O/S in 3 weeks to get an operation done on my dog ( very expensive, including airfares and accom), this is my big ticket amount this year.

Maybe in that time, Kawasaki may come out with a 250 twin, we can all hope.

 

[Eatmore Mudd]

Does anyone know if Honda has plans to bring it to the States ?

 

[Bikeruk]

I recently saw and got talking the owner of a Honda GB350, very nice bike without question!

 

[Tim H]

I saw one at Burnham on Sea when Lexy made me go for seaside fish and chips. Had a lovely chat with the owner and a sit on as he did with Lexy.
Basically we both liked both bikes! The Honda obviously has a reputation, coming from a manufacturer that doesn't produce duds.
The Meteor has a well proven engine in a tried and trusted package so not much between them.
Personally, the choice for me comes down to looks and price, include in that parts prices. Anything I've needed for Lexy has been very reasonable so far, the purchase price as a used machine was so low it was ridiculous.