India’s love affair with retro motorcycles shows no sign of slowing down. From chrome fenders to thumping exhausts, the timeless appeal of classic bikes has created one of the most competitive segments in the country. For decades, Royal Enfield has worn the crown uncontested, but now the field is heating up.
The Hero Mavrick 440, Royal Enfield Bullet 350, and Honda CB350 are the latest contenders for your heart—and your garage. While all three promise nostalgic design cues and old-school charm, their approaches are strikingly different. So, which one truly captures the spirit of the modern classic? Let’s find out.
Design and Styling
Hero Mavrick 440 – Bold and Modern
The Hero Mavrick 440 steps into this segment with confidence, but also with a twist—it’s not pretending to be a retro machine. Instead, it blends modern streetfighter cues with a few subtle vintage touches. Its muscular tank, wide shrouds, and aggressive stance give it a roadster identity that’s very different from the typical old-school aesthetic.
However, while the Mavrick’s design feels bold, it lacks the fine detailing seen on its rivals. The plastics and switchgear are functional but don’t feel premium. The rear section is rather plain, and the digital display layout, though feature-rich, looks busy and uninspired. Yet, the Mavrick deserves credit for originality—it’s the only one here that doesn’t borrow design inspiration from anyone else.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350 – The Timeless Icon
The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 is the very definition of retro authenticity. Its design language has remained remarkably consistent for decades—and that’s precisely its charm. The round headlamp nacelle, chrome-laden peashooter exhaust, squared-off mudguards, and hand-painted pinstripes instantly evoke nostalgia.
The Bullet doesn’t try to be modern—it simply refines what was already iconic. The build quality is excellent, with tight panel gaps and solid metal construction. Even the new J-platform engine is integrated beautifully into the frame. If there’s any complaint, it’s that Royal Enfield could have retained the original rectangular tail lamp instead of reusing the Classic 350’s unit. Still, the Bullet’s design and craftsmanship remain unmatched in its class.
Honda CB350 – Familiar Yet Polished
The Honda CB350 falls somewhere in between. It’s a beautiful motorcycle in its own right, but the design feels overly “inspired” by the Royal Enfield Classic 350. From the chrome-lipped fenders to the teardrop tank and long muffler, the resemblance is uncanny.
That said, typical of Honda, the CB350’s quality and fit-finish are top-notch. The paint quality is deep, the chrome is perfectly polished, and the switchgear feels premium. However, what it lacks is individuality—the design doesn’t reflect Honda’s own legacy, which is a bit disappointing considering the brand’s rich history with models like the CB750 and Dream series.
Features and Equipment
This is where things start to get interesting.
Hero Mavrick 440 – Tech-Savvy and Loaded
The Hero Mavrick 440 brings a tech-forward approach to the retro table. It gets turn-by-turn navigation, call and notification alerts, and a slipper clutch as standard. The top variant even comes with eSIM-based connectivity and machined alloy wheels.
However, the digital instrument cluster could have been executed better. The primary data (speed, fuel, trip) sits in a small rectangle surrounded by unnecessary bezels. The design feels more functional than premium. Still, no one can deny that Hero offers the most features in this comparison.
Honda CB350 – Smart Safety
The Honda CB350 keeps things simple yet effective. It includes Bluetooth connectivity, though it only works through a paired headset rather than displaying information directly on the screen. Honda also adds traction control—a unique feature in this class. While 21 horsepower doesn’t really demand traction control, it’s a thoughtful touch for slippery or rainy conditions.
The CB350 also gets a slipper clutch and well-placed hazard lights, making it feel refined and safe without overcomplicating the experience.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350 – Minimalist Charm
The Bullet 350 doesn’t chase tech trends, and that’s part of its allure. It keeps things analog and honest—simple dials, minimal electronics, and the purest connection between rider and road. You do get ABS, a digital fuel gauge, and Tripper navigation on higher variants, but the overall experience is refreshingly mechanical.
Royal Enfield knows its audience well: riders who prefer metal over menus.
Engine and Performance
| Specification | Hero Mavrick 440 | Royal Enfield Bullet 350 | Honda CB350 |
| Engine Type | 440cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder | 349cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder | 348cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 27 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 20.2 hp @ 6,100 rpm | 20.8 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 36 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | 30 Nm @ 3,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Weight | 187 kg | 195 kg | 187 kg |
Performance Impressions
The Hero Mavrick 440 borrows its heart from the Harley-Davidson X440, and it shows. The engine is torque-rich, refined, and surprisingly smooth. With its 6-speed gearbox, the Mavrick cruises effortlessly at highway speeds. The acceleration feels linear but confident, and the extra displacement gives it an edge in overtakes.
The Royal Enfield Bullet 350, powered by the new J-series motor, delivers the classic “thump” riders love—but with modern refinement. The vibrations are well-contained, and throttle response is smoother than ever before. It’s not fast, but it’s emotionally satisfying—perfect for riders who enjoy the journey more than the speed.
The Honda CB350 is the smoothest of the lot. Its engine is butter-like in refinement and very predictable in power delivery. It’s happy at both low revs and cruising speeds, but it doesn’t evoke the same excitement or character as the other two. It’s a polished performer but lacks the soul of the Bullet or the punch of the Mavrick.
Ride and Handling
Hero Mavrick 440
The Mavrick 440 feels planted and surefooted. The wide handlebar and slightly aggressive stance make it fun to flick through corners. Suspension tuning is on the firmer side, which improves confidence at high speeds but can feel a bit harsh over bad roads.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350
The Bullet 350 maintains a plush, absorbent ride quality. It glides over potholes effortlessly, and its weight adds a sense of stability even at slow speeds. The chassis feels mature, predictable, and designed for comfort, not agility.
Honda CB350
The CB350 strikes a nice middle ground. It’s light and easy to maneuver in city traffic while maintaining good composure on open roads. The suspension setup is balanced, but it doesn’t feel as plush as the Bullet or as sporty as the Mavrick.
Braking and Safety
All three motorcycles feature dual-channel ABS, but braking feel and feedback differ.
- The Mavrick 440 offers sharp, confident braking with strong initial bite.
- The CB350 has the most progressive brakes, ideal for newer riders.
- The Bullet 350 feels slightly spongier at the lever, but its large discs bring the bike to a stop safely and predictably.
Pricing and Value
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) | Key Highlight |
| Hero Mavrick 440 | ₹1.99 – ₹2.24 lakh | Best performance, most features |
| Royal Enfield Bullet 350 | ₹1.73 – ₹2.16 lakh | True retro charm, high build quality |
| Honda CB350 | ₹2.14 – ₹2.19 lakh | Smooth, refined, balanced performer |
The Hero Mavrick 440 offers the most modern package, while the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 delivers unmatched heritage at a friendlier price. The Honda CB350 sits in between, providing premium quality but without a distinct identity.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Retro for You
Each of these motorcycles brings something unique to the table:
- Hero Mavrick 440: The best all-rounder for modern riders. It’s fast, tech-laden, and comfortable for long rides. A great choice for those who want classic proportions with modern muscle.
- Royal Enfield Bullet 350: The true-blue retro king. It oozes heritage, charm, and craftsmanship. Perfect for those who ride for pleasure and emotional connection.
- Honda CB350: The calm and composed gentleman of the trio. Smooth, reliable, and easy to live with—but lacking a touch of character.
Final Word:
If you want the most authentic retro experience, buy the Bullet 350.
If you want performance with practicality, pick the Mavrick 440.
If you want refinement and balance, go for the CB350.
Either way, India’s retro motorcycle scene has never looked better.
