Honda Highness Problems

The Honda H'ness CB350, and its sibling the CB350RS, have captured the hearts of many Indian riders with their retro charm, smooth engine, and refined performance. However, like any machine, these motorcycles aren't immune to occasional issues. Understanding these potential problems, from minor niggles to more significant concerns, can help owners proactively address them and ensure a long and enjoyable ownership experience. This article dives deep into the common problems reported by Honda H'ness CB350 owners, offering insights and potential solutions to keep your ride running smoothly.

So, What's Bugging H'ness Owners? Let's Talk Real-World Issues

While the H'ness CB350 enjoys a reputation for reliability, it's important to acknowledge the issues some owners have faced. These problems range from easily fixable annoyances to concerns requiring more serious attention. Let's break them down.

1. The Mysterious Case of the Clicking Sound (Valve Train Noise)

One of the most frequently reported issues revolves around excessive valve train noise, often described as a "clicking" or "ticking" sound emanating from the top end of the engine. This noise is more pronounced during cold starts and tends to diminish slightly as the engine warms up.

• Possible Causes: This noise can be attributed to several factors, including:

  • Valve Clearance Issues: Incorrect valve clearances are a primary suspect. The H'ness CB350 utilizes a traditional valve train system with tappets, and proper adjustment is crucial for quiet operation.
  • Wear and Tear: Over time, components like the rocker arms, cam lobes, and tappets can experience wear, leading to increased clearances and noise.
  • Oil Viscosity: Using the wrong engine oil viscosity can also contribute to valve train noise. Honda specifies a particular viscosity grade for optimal lubrication and noise reduction.
  • Cam Chain Tensioner: A faulty or weak cam chain tensioner can allow the cam chain to slap against the guides, producing a rattling or clicking sound.

• Solutions:

  • Valve Clearance Adjustment: The first step is to have the valve clearances checked and adjusted by a qualified mechanic. This is a relatively straightforward procedure and can often resolve the noise issue.
  • Oil Change: Ensure you're using the correct engine oil viscosity as recommended by Honda. A good quality, fully synthetic oil can also help reduce friction and noise.
  • Cam Chain Tensioner Inspection: If the noise persists, the cam chain tensioner should be inspected for proper function. Replacement may be necessary if it's found to be faulty.
  • Component Replacement: In rare cases, worn rocker arms or cam lobes may require replacement.

2. Gear Shifting Blues: When Smoothness Takes a Vacation

Another common complaint involves gear shifting issues, specifically difficulty in shifting gears smoothly, especially between first and second. Some owners report experiencing a "clunk" or a general lack of smoothness during gear changes.

• Possible Causes:

  • Clutch Cable Adjustment: An improperly adjusted clutch cable is a common culprit. Too much slack can prevent the clutch from fully disengaging, leading to difficult shifting.
  • Shift Linkage Issues: The shift linkage, which connects the gear lever to the transmission, can become loose or worn over time, affecting shift quality.
  • Clutch Plate Wear: Worn clutch plates can also contribute to shifting problems. As the plates wear down, they may not fully engage or disengage, leading to jerky shifts.
  • Oil Condition: Old or contaminated engine oil can affect the lubrication of the transmission, making gear changes feel rough.

• Solutions:

  • Clutch Cable Adjustment: Start by adjusting the clutch cable to the correct free play. Refer to the owner's manual for the recommended specifications.
  • Shift Linkage Inspection: Inspect the shift linkage for any looseness or wear. Tighten any loose bolts or replace worn components.
  • Oil Change: A fresh oil change with the correct viscosity can often improve shifting smoothness.
  • Clutch Plate Replacement: If the problem persists, the clutch plates may need to be replaced.

3. The Fuel Gauge Fluctuation Fiasco

Some owners have reported experiencing erratic fuel gauge readings. The gauge may fluctuate wildly or display inaccurate fuel levels, causing unnecessary anxiety.

• Possible Causes:

  • Faulty Fuel Level Sensor: The fuel level sensor, located inside the fuel tank, is responsible for measuring the fuel level. A faulty sensor can send inaccurate readings to the instrument cluster.
  • Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connecting the fuel level sensor to the instrument cluster can also cause erratic readings.
  • Instrument Cluster Malfunction: In rare cases, the instrument cluster itself may be malfunctioning, leading to inaccurate fuel gauge readings.

• Solutions:

  • Fuel Level Sensor Inspection: The fuel level sensor should be inspected for proper function. If it's found to be faulty, replacement is necessary.
  • Wiring Inspection: Inspect the wiring harness connecting the fuel level sensor to the instrument cluster for any damage or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.
  • Instrument Cluster Diagnosis: If the problem persists, the instrument cluster may need to be diagnosed by a qualified technician.

4. The Braking Blues: Squealing and Lack of Bite

While the H'ness CB350 features disc brakes at both ends, some owners have reported issues with brake squealing or a lack of braking bite.

• Possible Causes:

  • Contaminated Brake Pads: Contamination from oil, grease, or dirt can cause brake pads to squeal and reduce their effectiveness.
  • Worn Brake Pads: Worn brake pads will obviously reduce braking performance.
  • Glazed Brake Pads: Overheating can cause brake pads to glaze, resulting in reduced friction and squealing.
  • Contaminated Brake Rotors: Contamination on the brake rotors can also cause squealing and reduced braking performance.

• Solutions:

  • Brake Pad Cleaning: Clean the brake pads with a dedicated brake cleaner to remove any contamination.
  • Brake Pad Replacement: Replace worn brake pads with new ones.
  • Brake Rotor Cleaning: Clean the brake rotors with a dedicated brake cleaner to remove any contamination.
  • Brake Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: If the brake rotors are warped or excessively worn, they may need to be resurfaced or replaced.

5. The Battery Drain Dilemma

A few owners have reported experiencing premature battery drain, particularly when the motorcycle is left unused for extended periods.

• Possible Causes:

  • Parasitic Drain: A parasitic drain occurs when electrical components continue to draw power from the battery even when the motorcycle is switched off. This can be caused by faulty wiring, accessories, or electronic modules.
  • Faulty Charging System: A faulty charging system may not be properly charging the battery while the motorcycle is running.
  • Old Battery: An old or weak battery may not be able to hold a charge for long periods.

• Solutions:

  • Parasitic Drain Test: A parasitic drain test can be performed to identify the source of the drain. A qualified technician can use a multimeter to measure the current draw from the battery when the motorcycle is switched off.
  • Charging System Inspection: The charging system, including the stator, rectifier, and regulator, should be inspected for proper function.
  • Battery Replacement: If the battery is old or weak, it should be replaced with a new one.
  • Battery Tender: If the motorcycle is left unused for extended periods, a battery tender can be used to maintain the battery's charge.

6. Rusting Issues

Some owners have reported instances of rusting, especially in areas prone to water exposure, such as the exhaust system, frame welds, and undercarriage components.

• Prevention and Mitigation:
  • Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning and washing of the motorcycle, especially after riding in wet or salty conditions, is crucial.
  • Protective Coatings: Applying protective coatings, such as anti-rust sprays or waxes, to vulnerable areas can help prevent rust.
  • Garage Storage: Storing the motorcycle in a garage or covered area can protect it from the elements.
  • Addressing Existing Rust: If rust is already present, it should be removed using a wire brush or sandpaper, and the area should be treated with a rust converter and then painted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Why is my H'ness CB350 making a clicking noise from the engine? The clicking noise is likely due to incorrect valve clearances. Have them checked and adjusted by a mechanic.

• My gear shifts feel clunky. What could be the problem? This could be due to a misadjusted clutch cable or worn shift linkage. Adjust the cable and inspect the linkage.

• The fuel gauge on my H'ness is showing incorrect readings. What should I do? This might indicate a faulty fuel level sensor. Have it inspected and replaced if necessary.

• My brakes are squealing. Is this normal? Brake squealing can be caused by contamination or worn pads. Clean or replace the pads as needed.

• My battery keeps draining even when the bike is off. What's going on? This could be a parasitic drain or a faulty charging system. Have a mechanic diagnose the issue.

• How often should I get my H'ness CB350 serviced? Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended service intervals. Typically, it's every 6,000 kilometers or 6 months, whichever comes first.

• What type of engine oil should I use in my H'ness CB350? Honda recommends using a specific viscosity grade oil, typically 10W-30. Consult your owner's manual for the exact specifications.

• Where can I find reliable information and support for my H'ness CB350? Online forums and owner groups are great resources. Also, consult your local Honda service center.

The Takeaway: Proactive Care for a Long-Lasting Ride

While the Honda H'ness CB350 is generally a reliable motorcycle, being aware of these common problems and taking proactive steps to address them can significantly improve your ownership experience. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to unusual noises or behavior, and using quality parts and fluids will help ensure that your H'ness CB350 provides you with years of enjoyable riding. Remember to consult a qualified mechanic for any issues you're unsure about.