2027 Honda SH350i

Honda’s range-topping SH powers into 27YM wearing a range of updated colours and a substantial tech update.

25YM saw the classic SH styling updated with the addition of LED lighting. Standard specification includes a 4.2” TFT with Roadsync connectivity Smart Key operation, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), USB-C socket in the front pocket, and an internal compartment light. New colour options for 27YM elevate the SH350i again, ensuring it continues to cut its unique path through every European city.

1. Introduction

Look around Europe’s capital cities and two letters will be constantly, obviously, on the move around you: SH. Over a million SH scooters have been sold in Europe over the last 42 years, earning the SH tag the status of a brand-within-a-brand, underpinned by Honda’s famed build quality and reliability.

The SH300i, with its compact, flat-floored step-through design and 16-inch front and rear wheels carried all the SH signature touches and packed something extra – a powerful engine delivering maximum response for both city and highway use.

It became the first Honda to gain EURO4 compliance back in 15YM; at the same time its engine got a boost in torque output and fuel efficiency. Its look, too, was made more muscular while the chassis received revisions to expand storage space and maintain its razor-sharp handling.

In 19YM it gained Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Smart Key operation, and, in 21YM, the story continued: the SH350i grew cubic capacity, thus power and torque, and received an elegant re-style further cementing its position as the perfect all-round flat floor urban scooter.

With a family that also includes the ever-popular SH125i and SH150i, for 25YM the range-topping SH350i added to its desirability through a design refresh that overhauled the front end. New colours and increased onboard tech for 27YM ensure the head of the SH family maintains its status as one of Europe’s favourite scooters.

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2. Model Overview

The SH350i has won legions of fans throughout Europe thanks to its tough core, and desirable spec list. Its eSP+ engine makes peak power of 21.5Kw and is strong all the way through the rev-range, delivering the fast acceleration for which it is justifiably famous. The mainframe is a durable, lightweight steel underbone layout; 16-inch wheels roll smoothly while the suspension – telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks – delivers a compliant ride.

A thorough 25YM update delivered revised ECU settings, catalyser and muffler layout, as well as an additional O2 sensor. The 25YM overhaul also saw the SH350i gain sleek new styling, built around an updated ‘face’ and LED light unit. Practicality was also boosted through the addition of an internal luggage light to the under-seat compartment which, as ever, takes a full-face helmet. A USB-C socket can also be found in the front storage pocket, and the dash is attractive LCD.

For 27YM the SH350i receives further revision to its spec list, gaining the 4.2” full colour TFT screen with Roadsync compatibility, bringing the scooter right up to date and increasing its desirability amongst modern commuters.

The 27YM SH350i will be available in the following colour options:

• Mat Coal Black Metallic
• Pearl Nebbia White
• Pearl Falcon Grey
• Pearl Hawkseye Blue
• Mat Rock Gray
• Mat Pearl Diaspro Red

3. Key Features
    3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Unmistakable, sophisticated SH style includes signature flat floor
• 4.2” full colour TFT with Roadsync and Bluetooth compatibility
• USB-C in the front storage pocket; under seat storage gains internal light
• Smart Key operation
• Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function warns other road users of sudden braking

The SH350i is a scooter that instantly defines its presence on the road, marking out its premium SH lineage. Its 25YM update saw the scooter undergo a design evolution, gaining a redesigned headlight, side lights and reprofiled indicators for a sleek frontal signature. The rear lights were also reprofiled, and made LED all round for increased visibility and safety.

Of course, as an SH, function is as important as form. The riding position supports a wide range of rider sizes and delivers a relaxed, upright stance and great all-round vision. Total machine length is 2160mm, with width of 742mm and height of 1,177mm. Minimum ground clearance is 130mm.

There’s room for a full-face helmet under the seat – with a useful internal light – and seat height itself is an easy-to-manage 805mm (just 6mm more than the SH125/150). Additional storage can be found in the glovebox that can take everyday items and valuables. There’s also a USB-C socket for easy charging of a mobile device. The standard SH flat floor (435mm wide) makes loads easy to carry as well as aiding the rider step on and off. A foldable utility hook on the front panel adds bag-carrying convenience.

For 27YM, the centrepiece of the new riding experience is a brand new, full colour 4.2-inch TFT display that includes a fuel gauge and clock. It also incorporates Bluetooth, while the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync is also an upgrade. This feature allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. Owners just need to download the Honda RoadSync app, connect to their SH350i, and they’re ready to go. For convenient smartphone charging, a USB-C socket is included.

The front and rear indicators have an auto-cancelling Emergency Stop Signal feature. Once the ABS recognises hard braking is in process, the hazard lights flash to warn other road users.

Adding to the convenience of a busy life on the move is the Smart Key which – as well as controlling the main ignition switch knob and storage compartment locking – can also manage the optional 35L top box. With the Smart Key in the rider’s pocket the Smart Top Box is unlocked, and automatically locks when the rider walks away. It can also be locked from the key.

3.2 Engine

• 330cc engine produces 21.5Kw peak power with 31.5Nm torque
• eSP+ technology ensures fuel economy of 28.6km/L (WMTC mode)
• Useful everyday performance whilst complying with stringent emissions targets for Euro5+

The SH350i’s enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) engine achieves both high environmental performance and strong output characteristics through comprehensive adoption of technologies for friction reduction.

Liquid-cooled, the fuel-injected SOHC four-valve unit produces peak power of 21.5kW @ 7,500rpm, with maximum torque of 31.5Nm @ 5,250rpm. From a standing start, the SH350i will hit 200m in 10.2s.

Bore is 77mm with 70.8mm stroke; compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. Roller-type rocker arm, plain journal crank bearings and sealed crankcases deliver long-term reliability together with strong performance. To enhance piston cooling, an oil jet, as used on the CRF450R, sprays oil right to the back of the piston, advancing ignition timing and improving combustion performance. Oil capacity is 1.85 litres.

Air is supplied via a 5.5 litre airbox. A 36mm throttle body feeds 28mm inlet valves with maximum efficiency. The intake port also draws air efficiently, utilising a ‘tumble’ flow within the cylinder for consistent fuel combustion. Exhaust gases are expelled via a straight exhaust port.

Internal friction is reduced through a 5mm offset cylinder, a hydraulic cam chain adjuster and a scavenger pump. Used on high-performance machines, the pump lowers the internal pressure within the engine, reduces oil agitation and decreases pumping losses and internal rotational friction. A balancer shaft further reduces vibration and contributes to a smooth enjoyable ride.

An automatic centrifugal clutch works a V-Matic transmission (with ratios set for fast low speed reaction and smart acceleration) and belt final drive.

The engine is equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The system detects any difference between the front and rear wheel speeds, calculates the slip ratio and then controls engine torque via the fuel injection to regain rear wheel traction. HSTC can be switched ON-OFF via a switch on the left handlebar. A ‘T’ indicator in the digital display flickers when the system is working to manage grip.

Fuel economy is a frugal 30.03km/L (WMTC mode); the 9.1L tank capacity gives a potential 270km+ range.

3.3 Chassis

• Lightweight steel underbone frame 
• 35mm telescopic forks and twin rear shock absorbers
• Stability from 16-inch front and rear wheels; new Pirelli Angel scooter tyres

The well-proven chassis is designed to deliver agility and composure in all riding situations and each component of the steel underbone frame is optimised for high-speed stability and comfort. Caster Angle and trail are set at 27.5° and 99mm respectively, with wheelbase set at 1450mm. For maximum control and nimbleness, the handlebars feature a 45° turn radius from centre, whilst kerb weight is just 172kg (175kg FOP).

Supple suspension response is provided by 35mm telescopic forks, twin rear shock absorbers, cast aluminium swingarm (with new 25YM muffler mounting shape) and an Oleo link system mounted underneath the engine to assist handling feel and bump absorption.

Tyres are sized 110/70-16 front and 130/70R16 rear and, for 25YM, are Pirelli Angel (from Pirelli FEELFREE). Two-channel ABS manages the 256mm disc brakes front and 240mm rear.

4. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the SH350i. An Urban Pack enhances practicality and provides added peace of mind by equipping comfort and security accessories, all without losing any of the SH’s iconic style cues. The curated pack includes:

• Alarm Kit with Security Buzzer
• Adjustable Heated Grips

All accessories are available individually. Also available:

• U-Lock
• 35L Colour-matching Smart Top Box (standard in some markets)
• 35L Top Box with manual opening and Honda One-key system
• Clear Knuckle-visors
• Windshield

5. Technical Specifications

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

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About Honda Motorcycles
Honda is the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda. The company is known for producing reliable, high-quality motorcycles and is the world’s largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines. Honda’s early focus on reliable four-stroke engines and innovative designs, like the highly successful Super Cub, helped it become a global leader in the industry.

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