Honda’s Retro-Modern Twins Get a New Look for 2023

On Thursday, July 6, 2023, Honda released Japan’s lightly updated 2023 GB350 and GB350 S motorcycles. The updates primarily focus on bringing the bikes in line with current Japanese emissions regulations. Additionally, new colour options have been introduced for the new year.

The 2023 Honda GB350 now comes in an all-new Matte Pearl Glare White colour, joining the existing Matte Pearl Morion Black and Matte Jeans Blue Metallic options from 2022. Another small aesthetic change is the black spring on the rear shock.

New shade

As for the 2023 Honda GB350 S, it receives a new colour called Puko Blue, which is a light blue shade. This colour has been featured on other Honda models offered in the Japanese market, including a limited-edition Cross Cub 110 in 2021, which later became a standard colour on the 2022 Cross Cub 110. The GB350 S retains the Pearl Deep Mud Gray and Gunmetal Black Metallic colours from 2022.

Engine

An air-cooled, four-stroke, single overhead cam, 348cc single-cylinder engine, powers the 2023 Honda GB350 and GB350 S. The engine features a bore and stroke of 70mm x 90.5mm and is fuel injected, producing a claimed 20 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 21.3 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. It is paired with a five-speed gearbox.

Hardware

Suspension on both models consists of a non-adjustable telescopic front fork, twin rear shocks with preload adjustability, and a conventional swingarm. Hydraulic disc brakes are used on both ends, and both bikes feature a 19-inch front wheel. Aside from aesthetics, one difference between the GB350 and GB350 S is that the GB350 has a 130/70-18 rear wheel and tire, while the GB350 S uses a slightly wider 150/70-17 rear wheel and tire combination.

Height

Both bikes’ seat height remains 800mm (about 31.49 inches). The 2023 GB350 has a curb weight of 179 kilograms (about 394.6 pounds), while the 2023 GB350 S weighs slightly less at 178 kg (or 392.4 pounds) due to the use of resin in certain elements such as the front and rear fenders.

Price

The 2023 Honda GB350 and GB350 S were made available for sale in Japan on July 6, 2023. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2023 GB350 is 561,000 yen, approximately $3,878.42 as of July 5, 2023. The 2023 GB350 S has an MSRP of 605,000 yen, equivalent to about $4,182.61. There have been no announcements from Honda regarding releasing the GB350 or GB350 S in markets outside of Asia.

Pros of the 2023 Honda GB350 and GB350 S:

• Compliance with emissions regulations: The updates to the 2023 models ensure that they meet current Japanese emissions regulations, making them more environmentally friendly.
• Updated color options: Adding new color schemes, such as Matte Pearl Glare White for the GB350 and Puko Blue for the GB350 S, provides more choices for customers.
• Aesthetic enhancements: The black spring on the rear shock of the GB350 and the use of resin in certain elements of the GB350 S, like the front and rear fenders, contribute to the overall visual appeal of the motorcycle.
• Reliability: Honda motorcycles are known for their reliability, and the GB350 and GB350 S continue this tradition. The air-cooled, fuel-injected engine and other components are designed for durability.
• Fuel efficiency: With a 348cc single-cylinder engine and fuel injection, the GB350 and GB350 S are expected to offer good fuel efficiency, allowing riders to cover more distance on less fuel.

Cons of the 2023 Honda GB350 and GB350 S:

• Limited availability: Honda has not announced plans to release the GB350 and GB350 S in markets outside Asia. This means potential customers outside the region may not have access to these models.
• Limited updates: Apart from compliance with emissions regulations and minor aesthetic changes, the 2023 models do not seem to feature significant updates or enhancements compared to their predecessors. Some riders may have expected more improvements in performance or technology.
• Price: While pricing can vary depending on the market and currency exchange rates, the GB350 and GB350 S MSRP may be considered relatively high for a 350cc motorcycle. This could potentially make them less accessible to budget-conscious riders.
• Limited customization options: The motorcycles come with non-adjustable front forks and limited adjustability for the rear shocks. This may limit the customization options for riders who prefer personalized suspension settings.
• Lack of information: The provided information focuses on colour options, engine specifications, and basic features. More detailed information about additional features, technological advancements, and user experience is not available, making it harder to assess the overall value and performance of the 2023 GB350 and GB350 S.

Conclusion

the 2023 Honda GB350 and GB350 S motorcycles offer updates primarily focused on compliance with Japanese emissions regulations and introducing new color options. These motorcycles maintain Honda’s reputation for reliability and are likely to provide good fuel efficiency.

High price

The availability of the GB350 and GB350 S outside of Asia has not been announced, potentially limiting access for riders in other regions. The updates to the 2023 models may be perceived as relatively minor, with limited enhancements beyond compliance and aesthetics. The pricing of the motorcycles may also be considered relatively high for their 350cc segment.

Fuel efficient

While the provided information lacks details about additional features and user experience, the 2023 GB350 and GB350 S are still likely to appeal to riders looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient motorcycle with updated colour options. It is advisable to seek more comprehensive information and reviews before finalising their overall value and performance.

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