The math is simple for the buyer: you pay an extra ₹80,000 over the Honda CB350C to get a liquid-cooled, 29hp engine instead of an air-cooled 21hp unit. That is a significant jump in performance for the 350cc segment. The Bonneville T40, launched at ₹2.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), isn't trying to be the value king. It’s positioning itself as the premium option in a market flooded with budget-friendly retro bikes.
Under the skin, the difference is stark. The T40’s 350cc TR Series engine makes 31.2Nm of torque at 5,500rpm, paired with a six-speed gearbox and five riding modes, including two user-configurable ones. The CB350C, sitting at ₹2.00-2.04 lakh, relies on a 348.36cc air-cooled engine pushing 29.5Nm at 3,000rpm with a five-speed box. If you want low-end grunt for city traffic, the Honda’s torque curve is friendly. But if you want the punchier mid-range and the feel of a more modern machine, the Triumph’s ride-by-wire throttle and liquid cooling give it the edge.
Hardware-wise, the T40 feels more modern. It rides on 18-inch front spoked wheels with 43mm forks, while the CB350C sticks to traditional 19-inch wheels and telescopic forks. The Triumph offers a 4-inch circular TFT display with built-in navigation, cruise control, and lean-sensitive cornering ABS. Honda counters with RoadSync for connectivity, but the Triumph’s display and traction control setup feel more comprehensive for the tech-savvy rider. Both bikes share 2-channel ABS, though the T40’s rear disc is slightly larger at 255mm compared to the Honda’s 240mm.
So, who is this for? The T40 is for the rider who wants the British badge, modern tech, and a more powerful engine without stepping up to the 660cc Bonneville. The CB350C remains the rational choice for those who prioritize low running costs, ease of maintenance, and a lower entry price. The Triumph is a lifestyle purchase; the Honda is a utility purchase. At ₹2.80 lakh, you’re paying for the experience, the torque, and the brand cachet, not just the wheels on the ground.
Both bikes are available now. The T40 comes in standard and Black variants, with a more affordable T4 version also in the lineup. If you’re crossing shops, test ride both. The T40’s extra ₹80,000 buys you a fundamentally different riding experience—smoother, more powerful, and tech-heavy. The CB350C is the proven, no-nonsense option. Your choice depends on whether you value performance and prestige or economy and simplicity.