Choosing the right motorcycle can be challenging with so many options to consider. The Honda GB350S stands out for riders who appreciate a machine that feels like more than just transportation. After spending several months and thousands of kilometers on this bike, many riders have found it delivers a comfortable and engaging ride, especially on winding coastal roads. Its design and features make it suitable for both new and experienced riders.
The GB350S offers stable handling, a smooth and manageable amount of power, and thoughtful details like a comfortable saddle and easy-to-use controls. The bike’s sound and character add to the overall riding experience without being too loud or aggressive. This model is designed for everyday rides, leisurely cruises, and handling tight corners, providing a blend of reliability and enjoyment.
Key Takeaways
- The Honda GB350S is designed for balanced everyday use and relaxed rides.
- Its features support both beginner and experienced riders seeking comfort and control.
- The bike offers enjoyable performance on winding roads and steady sound character.
Quick Look at the Honda GB350S
Approach to Design
The Honda GB350S is built with a focus on everyday enjoyment and comfort. Its frame is lightweight, which makes it easy to handle in tight corners or on winding roads. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and keep the ride smooth.
The seat on the S model is more streamlined than on the standard version, letting the rider grip the bike easily with their knees. This provides a sense of control and connection, whether you’re a new or seasoned rider. The seating height (about 80 cm) suits a wide range of riders, so getting your feet on the ground isn’t a problem. For different rider heights, the seat allows easy adjustments—taller riders can move back, and shorter ones can scoot forward.
A quick comparison:
| Feature | GB350S S Model | Standard GB350 |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle | Slim, more tapered | Wider, boxier |
| Riding Position | Slightly forward-leaning | Very upright |
| Grip Feel | Easier knee grip | Wider stance needed |
Rider and Bike Connection
Riding the GB350S creates a strong bond between person and machine. Many find themselves admiring the bike even after parking it.
This bike isn’t just a way to get from one place to another. It becomes part of the owner’s life, sometimes feeling almost like an extension of themselves. The sound of the engine, especially in mid gears, along with the way it handles on a sunny day, makes riding a real joy.
There is a deep sense of satisfaction in both the ride and the feel of the machine, which keeps riders coming back, day after day. For a lot of people, once they ride the GB350S, it ends up being a bike they want to keep for a long time.
Performance and Riding Feel
Engine Details
The Honda GB 350S comes with a single-cylinder engine that produces just over 20 horsepower. Maximum power peaks at around 5,000 to 5,500 RPM. The bike uses a simple air-cooled setup, keeping maintenance easy.
A key point is the torque output: the engine generates 30 Nm, which comes in early at about 3,000 RPM. This lower RPM torque helps the bike handle different road conditions without needing to rev the engine too high.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 20+ HP |
| Torque | 30 Nm |
| Peak Power RPM | 5,000 – 5,500 |
| Peak Torque RPM | ~3,000 |
| Saddle Height | 80 cm |
Power Output and Usability
The GB 350S is not a fast bike, but it has enough strength for a comfortable ride, especially on winding and coastal roads. Power delivery is steady and smooth. Even though the bike won’t accelerate quickly at high speeds, it holds its own at city and backroad speeds up to 80 or 90 km/h.
- The clutch is light, making it easy for beginners.
- Gear shifts stay smooth and the seating makes longer rides possible for most riders.
- ABS and traction control come standard.
- The exhaust sound is quiet at idle, becoming more noticeable as you pick up speed, but never gets too loud.
Pull and Takeoff Experience
Thanks to the early torque curve, the GB 350S has good pull in the lower gears. It shines on twisty, uneven roads. Riders find it easy to lean and turn thanks to the light frame and well-tuned suspension.
- Acceleration: Strong in the low to mid RPM range, ideal for city and mountain roads.
- Feel: No sudden bursts, no intimidating kickbacks; the delivery is controlled and easy to manage.
- Beginners will appreciate that it doesn’t try to lift the front wheel or surprise the rider.
- More experienced riders can push the bike to its limits safely, even at regular speeds.
The seat design makes a difference in handling, giving a secure and comfortable grip with the knees, and the S model offers a slightly sportier position without losing comfort.
Riding Feel and Comfort
Suspension Performance
The Honda GB 350S has a suspension setup that deals well with uneven roads and bumps. Even when the road surface is rough or broken, the bike remains comfortable and stable. The suspension helps the rider stay relaxed during long rides, as it does not bounce or skip when hitting rough patches.
Smoothness on the Road
This bike is built for comfort, especially on winding coast roads and back roads. The ride remains smooth up to about 80-90 km/h. The light weight allows for easy handling in corners, and the bike feels nimble and planted. Riders do not need to fight the bike to maintain control, making it easy to enjoy even on longer trips.
Sitting Comfort and Position
The GB 350S offers a seat height of around 80 cm, making it accessible for many riders. The saddle is narrow and lets riders grip the tank easily with their knees, supporting a connected feel without needing to use arm strength. The seating position is slightly forward-leaning on the S model, which feels more engaging but is still comfortable. Riders of different heights can easily find a good position by shifting on the seat, making it well-suited for both taller and shorter individuals.
| Rider height | Saddle comfort | Foot reach |
|---|---|---|
| 178 cm | Comfortable | Both feet flat |
| Under 178 cm | Still roomy | Can adjust |
| Over 178 cm | Can scoot back | Good support |
Features That Matter Most to Riders
Built-In Rider Protection
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): This bike includes ABS, helping prevent wheel lock-up during sudden stops.
- Traction Control: Traction control supports safe riding by reducing the chance of slipping on wet or loose roads.
- Smooth Power Delivery: With around 20 horsepower and 30 Nm of torque, the bike is not too powerful, making it beginner-friendly and less likely to surprise new riders.
These features provide extra control and confidence, especially for those just starting out.
Easy for All Kinds of Riders
The seat height is about 80 cm (800 mm), which supports a wide range of rider heights. Riders who are about 178 cm (around 5’10”) can put their feet on the ground with ease.
- Taller people can slide back a bit.
- Shorter riders can move forward and still reach the ground.
The bike is also lightweight, making it easy to handle in city traffic or while parking. The clutch is light, and the gear change is smooth, so even new riders will find it simple to operate.
Seat Shape and Comfort
The seat on the S model is designed to be a bit narrower and more shaped than the regular one. This lets riders grip the tank better with their knees.
- More comfort: Less pressure on the legs, easier to sit for long rides.
- Added control: Feels more connected to the bike, especially when turning or moving fast.
Overall, the seating position is slightly more forward and sporty compared to the standard version, giving a more active and enjoyable riding feel. The seat shape also works well for both short and tall riders, offering plenty of room to adjust for comfort.
Sound and Personality
Exhaust Sound
The GB 350S has a steady, deep exhaust note that stands out most in the middle gears. When riding in second, third, or fourth gear, the sound becomes stronger, adding a satisfying “thump-thump-thump” feeling. At idle, the bike is fairly quiet. It doesn’t annoy neighbors or draw too much attention when starting up. The sound level drops a bit once the engine warms up, staying pleasant but not loud. During regular cruising, the bike’s tone is smooth and not overwhelming, but it feels more exciting when accelerating or riding at higher RPMs.
| Riding Condition | Exhaust Sound |
|---|---|
| Idle (start-up) | Slightly louder |
| Idle (warmed-up) | Quieter, mellow |
| Low gears (cruising) | Deep, satisfying |
| High revs | Stronger, richer |
Roadside Impression
The GB 350S gives off a stylish presence on the road. Its body design and saddle shape look streamlined and well put together, helping the rider feel connected to the bike. It’s light and easy to lean into corners, which adds to its visual appeal while moving. The seating makes the rider look comfortable but ready for action.
From the side, the GB 350S has a shape that draws the eye—owners often find themselves looking back at it after a ride. The seat height suits both taller and shorter riders, making the bike look balanced with almost anyone riding it. Overall, the combination of design, sound, and fit makes it noticeable, but not flashy. The bike’s subtle style and clear lines show its charm without extra fuss.
Best Places to Ride
Riding Along Coasts and Countryside
Cruising beside the ocean or along quiet countryside lanes is where the Honda GB 350S truly stands out. Riders get to enjoy relaxing trips, feeling the breeze while taking in wide views. The light build of the bike means it leans into curves with little effort, and the comfortable seat offers support for longer hours of riding.
Key Highlights:
- Smooth, flowing turns: Easy to control even for less experienced riders
- Ideal speed: Performs well between 80–90 km/h
- Good for beginners: Traction control, ABS, and manageable power make it less intimidating
- Comfort: Soft suspension absorbs most road bumps
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lightweight frame | Easy cornering |
| Smooth throttle | Relaxed, steady performance |
| Moderate seat height | Suits riders of many sizes |
Tight Bends in Hilly Areas
The GB 350S feels alive on winding mountain roads. Its low weight lets riders switch directions quickly on sharp bends. Strong torque at low engine speeds is perfect for moving through second, third, and fourth gears on twisty routes.
Even when the road surface is less than perfect, the bike handles rough patches with ease. The seat and riding position help riders feel connected to the machine, which is a big plus in tighter turns.
Notable Points:
- Quick handling: Light and nimble on sharp corners
- Responsive power: Enough low-end pull for uphill stretches
- Adaptability: Stays steady and fun even on uneven roads
For those who like bendy roads and active riding, the GB 350S is a good match. The engine note is most satisfying in these gears, making every ride more enjoyable.
