Small-displacement retro motorcycles are undeniably having a moment, and Honda’s GB350S is leading the charge with a jaw-dropping makeover that’s turning heads across the globe. Dubbed the “Candy Toffee Apple Red Metallic,” this custom edition from Doble Motorcycles takes the already charming bike to a whole new level of desirability. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the GB350S is the UK’s bestselling modern classic and a favorite among riders, its availability in the U.S. remains a frustrating mystery. Why is such a beloved bike so hard to come by stateside? Let’s dive in.
Published on February 11, 2026, this stunning transformation showcases Doble Motorcycles’ knack for partnering with top-tier designers and paint shops. For this project, they teamed up with Nottingham’s Dream Machine to give the GB350S’s fuel tank a mesmerizing finish. Paired with a toffee-toned leather seat, these upgrades perfectly justify the bike’s mouthwatering name. And this is the part most people miss: despite its custom touches, the bike retains its timeless retro appeal, thanks to its Universal Japanese Motorcycle silhouette, round headlight, and teardrop-shaped tank.
But it’s not just about looks. The GB350S packs more power and tech than you’d expect for its starting price of £3,999 (just under $5,500 USD). Its air-cooled 348cc single-cylinder engine delivers 21 horsepower and 21 ft-lbs of torque, offering a perfect blend of character and performance. Rider-friendly features like an assist/slipper clutch, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), full LED lighting, and ABS make it an approachable ride for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
Here’s the kicker: this custom edition is a one-of-a-kind creation, and its exclusivity mirrors the challenge of finding the standard GB350S in the U.S. While we wait (and hope) for Honda to bring this gem to American shores, riders can turn their attention to the SCL500, a retro scrambler that, much like the Model T, comes in any color you want—as long as it’s black. But the question remains: why are these retro bikes so elusive in the U.S., and is it a missed opportunity for Honda? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
