With tax rates lowered to 18% on sub-350cc bikes, both Royal Enfield and Honda have slashed prices—but which one offers better value now?
GST 2.0 Brings Festive Cheer for Two-Wheeler Buyers
India’s updated GST 2.0 reform has come as a timely benefit for the two-wheeler segment. The tax on bikes under 350cc has been slashed from 28% to 18%, making popular models like the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350 more accessible during the festive season.
Let’s break down how much you save and how the two rivals stack up post-GST revision.
🏍️ Royal Enfield Classic 350: Price After GST 2.0
- Old price range: ₹1.97 lakh – ₹2.33 lakh
- New price range: ₹1.81 lakh – ₹2.16 lakh
- Price drop: Up to ₹16,000
Variants explained:
- Lower trims get single-channel ABS, rear drum brakes, and halogen lighting
- Mid to top trims offer dual-channel ABS, alloy wheels, and tubeless tyres
- Top-end variants feature chrome finishes and premium paint schemes
Powertrain:
- 349cc air-cooled J-series engine
- Power: 20.2hp, Torque: 27Nm
- Refined and torquey, suited for leisure riding and cruising
🏍️ Honda CB350: Price After GST 2.0
- Old price range: ₹2.00 lakh – ₹2.18 lakh
- New price range: ₹1.88 lakh – ₹2.00 lakh
- Price drop: Up to ₹18,000
Variants explained:
- Offered in Standard and DLX trims
- DLX adds Bluetooth connectivity and additional colour options
Powertrain:
- 348cc air-cooled engine
- Power: 21hp, Torque: 29.5Nm
- Slightly more powerful and torquey than the Classic 350
- Known for its refinement, reliability, and Honda’s smooth engineering
💰 Classic 350 vs CB350: Price Comparison Snapshot
| Model | Old Price Range | New Price Range | Max Price Drop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | ₹1.97L – ₹2.33L | ₹1.81L – ₹2.16L | ₹16,000 |
| Honda CB350 | ₹2.00L – ₹2.18L | ₹1.88L – ₹2.00L | ₹18,000 |
- The Classic 350 is cheaper to start with, making it more accessible.
- However, its top-end chrome variant is pricier than the CB350’s DLX trim.
- The CB350 offers better power figures and a more refined riding experience.
- Classic 350 wins on retro charm and brand legacy, while the CB350 feels more modern under the skin.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re choosing based on pricing after GST 2.0, here’s the breakdown:
Buy the Classic 350 if:
- You prefer iconic design and old-school charm
- You want a wider variant range at different price points
- You’re looking for affordable entry pricing
Buy the Honda CB350 if:
- You value refinement and smoother performance
- You prefer a more modern feel with Honda reliability
- You want a fully loaded bike at a slightly more consistent price point
Ultimately, both bikes now offer more value than before, and your decision will depend on whether you’re drawn more to the heritage of Royal Enfield or the refinement of Honda.
