Triumph Bonneville T40 vs Honda CB350: how do the two modern classics compare?

Key highlights

• Triumph T40 makes 29 PS and 31.2 Nm, considerably more than the Honda CB350
• Honda CB350 is around Rs 80,000 cheaper, making it the more accessible retro roadster
• The T40 counters with more technology, including cruise control, five riding modes and lean-sensitive rider aids

Triumph has entered the heart of India’s retro motorcycle space with the Bonneville T40, and on paper, it makes for an interesting alternative to the Honda CB350. Both motorcycles follow a classic design formula, but their approach to performance, technology and pricing is quite different.

Engine and performance

The T40 uses a 350 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 29 PS at 7,000rpm and 31.2 Nm at 5,500 rpm. It gets a six-speed gearbox, electronic throttle and slip-and-assist clutch.

The Honda CB350 uses a larger 348 cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 21 PS and 30 Nm. It also gets a five-speed gearbox and assist-and-slipper clutch.

The numbers make the T40 the clear performance winner. Its additional 8PS should make itself felt during acceleration and highway riding, while the extra ratio should also make cruising more relaxed.

Classic looks, different interpretation

Both motorcycles use the familiar modern-classic recipe, but the T40 leans harder into traditional Bonneville styling. It gets a teardrop tank, round headlamp, spoked wheels, twin shocks and peashooter-style exhausts.

The CB350 takes a similar retro approach, with its long wheelbase, large fuel tank, chrome detailing and 19-inch front wheel. Honda also offers RoadSync connectivity and Honda Selectable Torque Control.

T40 brings significantly more technology

This is where the Triumph pulls away. The T40 gets a 4-inch circular TFT, smartphone connectivity, navigation, music and call controls, cruise control and five riding modes. It also gets lean-sensitive cornering ABS and traction control.

The Honda’s equipment list is simpler, although it does include HSTC, RoadSync and dual-channel ABS.

The price difference is substantial

The Honda CB350 starts at around Rs 2.00 lakh ex-showroom, while the Bonneville T40 is priced at around Rs 2.80 lakh. That puts roughly Rs 80,000 between the two motorcycles before on-road costs.

That premium is not insignificant, especially when the Honda is already a capable and well-rounded modern classic.

Final thoughts

The Honda CB350 makes more sense as the value proposition, particularly for someone who wants classic styling, relaxed performance and everyday usability without stretching the budget.

The Bonneville T40 is the more premium and performance-oriented motorcycle. It makes considerably more power, gets a six-speed gearbox and packs electronics that would have seemed excessive in this segment a few years ago.

Also read: Triumph Bonneville T40 revealed with 350 cc engine and OG Bonnie character