2018 Honda Gold Wing Tour First Ride Review
Vložit
- čas přidán 8. 02. 2018
- The new 2018 Honda Gold Wing Tour lives up to the hype. Its unconventional new front suspension proved to be properly impressive, while its two-up comfort made for happy couples on the ride. Since many Gold Wings owners spend much of their riding time two-up, Honda encouraged attending journalists to bring their spouse or significant other along for this press intro, and many did.
From the conversations around the dinner tables, both the riders and their passengers came away impressed from what could have been a long, boring ride where the participants spent their time cataloging their complaints about the motorcycle.
Read the full review: www.motorcycle.com/manufacture...
Subscribe!
czcams.com/users/subscription_c...
CZcams - / motorcycle
Facebook - / motorcyclecom
Twitter - / motorcyclecom
Web - www.Motorcycle.com
Established in 1994, Motorcycle.com is the premiere online resource for motorcycle and scooter enthusiasts. With hundreds of high quality, detailed video reviews on bikes from Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and just about everybody else, it's the best place to go to learn about the latest and greatest two-wheeled creations. There's simply no better resource if you're planning on buying or if you just want to check out some awesome machines. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Great review. We were on our way to buy a Roadmaster and thought we’d stop by the Honda dealership to give it a test ride so we could say we did our due diligence. Afterall 30k is a lot of money to spend on a motorcycle and you’d be foolish not to do the research. The Indian has WAY too much engine heat and the road glide doesn’t have enough suspension. The Roadmaster has enough power and the Road Glide does not. My wife loved everything about this Goldwing. Super comfortable back seat and tons of power. It handles everything expertly and the DCT transmission shifts smoother and at better points than I would. Sport mode is unruly (we’re old) and Tour mode is about perfect for us. It’s got the power and handling of a sport bike and the comfort of a fully dressed touring bike. It’s checked all the boxes and it’s a payment I don’t mind making every month. I hope that people read this with an open mind and give the bike it’s due.
They really did a great job re-designing the Goldwing. I never hated the way the old Goldwings looked but I never loved it either. I think these new ones look great.
Ever since my back injury, I haven't been able to ride sport bikes or most sport tourers as the riding positions are too aggressive. So I decided to take a 2015 MtR HD Street Glide Special on a day trip. I was in the saddle 4 straight hours before I got off to stretch my legs. I was so happy I was able to ride that distance without having to stop because the pain was so severe. I loved the sound system on that bike, the GPS system, the comfort, and the torque. I was almost completely sold on it, except being a canyon carver for so long, I wasn't so keen on giving that up. Now, I know my back being the way it is that I'll probably never be able to ride an actual sport or super sport again. I was really leaning towards that Street or Road Glide Special, but then this bike came out. The sound system can be heard in the triple digits, it has a GPS, the comfort is wonderful, it has the torque, and last but not least, it can handle a more spirited ride. It's pretty much everything I could ever want with the way things are for me. Its riding position won't kill me, and it can corner better at higher speeds than anything Harley could offer. I mean, what more could you ask for? I'm sold. Now it's just time to save up!
My wife and I just bought (2) of the DCT models. We both ride, and traded in our HD Road Glides CVO's. Not new to Goldwings we both have had them in the past and looking forward to getting back on them.
We're are upgrading the the sound system by adding Honda 220 watt amp and 4 better speakers, also adding the luggage rack w/brake light, fog/driving lights, XM radio antenna, 12V supply plug all before we pick them up. Of course the dealer only had one in stock and had to pick the other up from another dealer. Should have them within days.
Enjoyed you review, and video. Can't wait to pick ours up later in the week. We live in Houston but travel to the Texas Hill Country regularly. Beautiful riding country as anyone can see in you're video. Good Job.
i'm going to do same thing. I have CVO streetglide. This bike is cutting edge
So how is the engine heat compared to the Harley V twins?
How is the torque and acceleration of the GW compared to the CVO?
Rock on mate. Good on you two.
Excellent review, this is the quality that other reviews should be measured against. No swearing, informative, very balanced. Great to get the passenger feedback as well. All the information to help me to gauge if this bike is worth trying out or not (it is now) . Thanks!
Guys, this is an amazing review... We always want to hear a passenger feedback to ensure my wife will be comfortable... Thanks to Nataly. Great review... Keep them coming...
One of the better reviews so far of the 2018 GW and useful insight from passenger perspective.
Great review, I feel you explained it well. I have one and could not have said it better!
Honda never wins with their fans, They made a great redesign but old timers hate the new look. They made the bike lighter but younger people still think it has to much tech. And the made it louder to make it more of a ride and now people want it more quiet...Guys Honda is trying their best please just let the engineers breath. They made an amazing bike that at my age of 19 I love it If I ever pool up the cash after university I'm buying a goldwing and a cb1100ex. Just let honda be they make amazing cars, bikes and lawn equipment.
You said it dude, I'm 34, and I would buy this in a heartbeat if I could afford it. This is THE BIKE for me.
You hit the nail on the head! I own a 2008 GoldWing and a 2014 CB1100!!!! I my have to use your comment in one of my vids on my channel!!!!
This just might be the most intelligent 19 year old I've seen comment on the new GW. Good job young man! Your comment defies your age.
I’m 30 and I have an Indian roadmaster. I never liked the last generation goldwing to much but I love this one! If I got rid of my indian it would be between this, another indian, or a road glide.
NinJayMan Honda 'won't, with THIS particular fan! I'm looking forward to purchasing one.
Nice review. Thorough and informative. Thank you. Well done.
Great review. We demoed a Wing at a rally a couple weeks ago. Two days later we bought one, a leftover new '18 DCT Tour. This is my fourth Wing ('85, '93, and '06) so I'm familiar with them. This latest handles better at low and high speed, the forward and reverse assist is great in the garage, but the Navi sucks. Too hard to program and can't do much while in motion. Cured that with a Garmin Zumo mounted to the front brake reservoir. Added a Show Chrome luggage rack to carry lightweight gear. The DCT is nice, but plan on downshifting with the paddle entering a slow sharp turn (I live in the N. GA Mountains) to make it smoother and the trans will upshift on its own when you accelerate out. My wife rides with me 95% of the time and she likes it. My only complaint is having to juggle the arrangement of my Fulmar modular helmet and her 3/4 Shoei to get them both in the trunk. The helmet lock that slides into the left rear grab rail is a joke, but I added a cable lock to it to lock helmets and/or jackets on the seat if necessary. Coolest feature with the radio is the USB plug already installed in the top shelter compartment. Plug in your phone or Ipod (or bluetooth) and you have some great tunes. I'm 69, fairly tech literate for my age, so the computer type gizmos on board aren't too hard to figure out. So far, so good, I like it!
Please be more succinct next time.
Wonderfully detailed review. Super!
One thing really hit me while watching this review. This bike would be a really good base for the "Akira" bike. :)
Excellent evaluation of this gorgeous redesign. As an former/old time past GoldWing owner, I can appreciate the changes, but am hoping Honda re evaluates those bags and their carrying capacity! 👍
Excellent video! Natalee was a great passenger addiction for those who have a passenger regularly. I had one of the original GoldWing back in the 70’s; the 1000cc 78’ version. It was an awesome bike then, but no comparison to today’s model. And the DCT, I wondered if I’d go for it, it seems you’re video,and others, removed that fear!
I rode for over 10 years, and now thinking about returning to the Honda family; although I’m driving a V6 2015 Accord, which is awesome!
Thanks again...👍
That flat six is soooooo fun. I own a 97 Valkyrie, 91 anniversary GL, 76 GL, 99 super blackbird, 03 VTX 1800R/S, and I love them all.
Nice quiver.
The best review by far !!!
Very nice review, thank you for honest review.. How about it compare to the K1600's BMW? Thank you
Great review, very comprehensive. Thank you!
Wonderful review. Great bike. Maybe one day. . I've said this for 15-years. One day I'll get me a 'golden-wang' (as my southern friend call it). The kind of bike I'd buy and keep for the long term. It'll be stabled with other street bikes for the local rides and will be the distance hauler it was made to be.
Dam. I remember when this was ridiculously priced at $18k back in the day.
My Goldwing is 25 years old and runs like new! Longevity is the word!
I haven’t seen such a nice, detailed review in a long time. My respect to you Sir and your wife. I absolutely love so many things about the new Goldwing BUT a smaller gas tank and not enough storage space for two helmets unfortunately is a huge no no.
Could the latching problem be the compressing of the seals. My 2007 does the same thing. Thanks for the review
Sat on one the other day. Very nice bike. Like the dual clutch too.
Robert MacCready Gear shifting is for kids, I've had my share. Give me that auto.
Darn good review. Perhaps some inclusion as to how the suspension is adjusted for single, dual, loaded would have been good
Excellent review ! I had a 2014 Kawasaki Concourse, but it was to heavy for my liking, so I got a 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000LT !
One more question.... How good are the mirrors? Are they located in a good position? My ST1300 has good rear view mirror positioning but the new replacement for the ST being the CTX1300 has terrible placement of mirrors.
I ride a V twin so I'm really interested in knowing if you have any engine heat issues like the Twins do?
Really comprehensive review. Enjoyed it a lot. Great job, thanks.
Great review. Thank you.
Best review I ever seen of Honda Goldwing. No BS
Excellent review
I had the opportunity to sit on a few Goldwings (2007-2012) and I found that my left ankle was behind my knee, which is a bit uncomfortable. I have concerns about easily being able to reach up to down shift. I'd prefer my foot be directly below my knee. I didn't notice that on any of the Harley Davidsons I sat on. I'm 6'1" and am looking for comfort (besides the cushy seat). Did you find that your foot was behind your knee at all on the new GW?
Very informative video 😎
I wanna try the 2018 Goldwing Tour Airbag DCT with the aftermarket shocks and springs.
Interesting I am not a wing guy as I do ride the HD Tri Glide would be interesting to see any video on the trike conversion. I enjoyed the video
Well done review✅👏✅
Good review, Picked up my 2018 Saturday, 3 hour ride home, no engine drone noticed (6 speed manual) I do wear passive noise cancelling ear buds so all I hear is music, GPS or the purr of the 1800. As for the luggage its a firm push to close but have not had the warning light issue. I look at it as better safe than sorry so not an issue for me.
Nice review.
Delighted that you could hear Howard Stern clearly. I've owned two Gold Wings, and enjoyed them both at the time I rode them. As I got older and more experienced, though (I'm 72), I didn't like the handling when I felt like pushing it--so I moved to sport touring bikes, and would never go back (although sometimes, at the end of a 700-mile scoot, I miss the cushy heft and road stability). Though the GWs can move right along in uncomplicated terrain, they're just too heavy for really sporty riding. I think the market 'sweet spot' for the Gold Wing has really settled on the kind of rider for whom listening to Howard Stern, Sean Hannity, Alex Jones, Rush, Glenn, etc. is a relaxing and fulfilling accompaniment to a 'senior citizen' riding experience (and I don't say that with even a whisper of criticism; who needs cultural critique when discussing a very large, very expensive, very comfortable and ultra-appointed 2-wheeled conveyance?).
Very good review.
Hi, is there a factory defect on the front of the bike or the front bumper is prone to breakage? Is that true?
What about highway bars? So you can have another position for your legs? Can you get that or maybe an after market ones? Great review. I love the bike and want one. Don't know if I'd go for the DCT though.
informative. thanks for the effort and sharing. thumbs up.
Great Review...Thanks JP
Excellent review.
The first unironically cool Goldwing. I can’t wait till they get old enough so I can afford one. I suppose the Triumph Trophy is the bike I’ll be getting until I can afford one :)
Good review! Maybe add an ashtray along with a cup holder lol
The front looks like the 2014 VFR800's. Saw it at a bike rally and I gotta say I was impressed
Hello. Does it have a semi active suspension?
Not sure how long I will wait but this bike is in my future.
Can you put a full sized helmet in each side case? I was surprised to find that I could in my BMW 1200rt with plenty of room to spare, I would not want a touring bike but a sport touring bike is great, in time I may purchase a newer model than mine but I am enjoying learning to ride again, it is just plain too damn much fun being out on a bike, I'm in south Tx
I sat on the new Goldwing today I felt the seat was a little hard and it seemed to be higher to me I couldn't sit on it with my feet flat on the ground. But ti agree with you Memphis Mike I think Honda has nailed it with this new Gold Wing can't wait to ride one This coming Saturday the 17th is an open house at my local Honda dealer and weather permitting he's allowing test rides on the new wing
What kind of com system do you use? Sounds amazing
Rode it, loved it. There needs to be an R or ST version available on the GW model... One with a more aggressive seating position so we sport touring guys can truly enjoy the "sport" that Honda has built into this machine.
how's its acceleration on hilly areas ...where u need real power
Excellent program and summary of the GW - more than the usual first ride.
But the now usual question - would a k1600 be better still for this job?
Gary Walker It will break down before the goldwing would bmws reliability is worse than ducati
Oh dear do not let me start with BMW breakdown experience... Just two words: Never again!
Gary Walker Just be sure to Buy More Warranty. If hate to spend $400 to replace a headlight bulb or replace street bike tires in 4000 miles. But if I was rich...
Guess I'm very lucky. I've had maybe nine or ten BMWs and two Ducatis. Had very little to no problems with the BMWs... have 3 now. As for the Ducatis that was 50-50; one really good and one really bad. However, I won't argue that the Honda will be dead reliable. That being said, after riding my GTL and the new GoldWing, I think I'll still keep the GTL.
tibor t I'm not saying bmw are bad! They make amazing machine's but now they need to make their bikes more reliable because by 2018 a s1000rr should not be getting FI issues or transmission issue their k1600 should not has ecu issues. You see what I mean?
I really like this new style compared to earlier models. It seems to be better suited to the shorter rider, making it easier to handle in tighter turns. And it has everything!
This is a good looking bike and I would consider it when my Victory Cross Country Tour has done its dash. I never considered the older version - the rear taillights just did not sit well with my eyes. I like the info system - top notch. The luggage will never be as good as what I have currently, but we don’t need the kitchen sink these days. I look forward to riding it and comparing it to my positive impressions of the K1600GTL. The DCT is a positive, as I loved that on my old AMG at the track :)
I like the design, my case boxes still do that on that on my 2002 model...
Cool front end. I wonder if they will have a rack & pinion with power assist in the near future? Or just steer by wire. Which would open up a whole new host of electronic rider aid possibilities.
excellant video. Thanks
I just wish people would give Norman Hossack the credit he is due for inventing the front end on the Goldwing and the BMW.
Motorcycle.com Great thorough review!!! The best out there. Thank You!! Does the new bike offer a place for helmet locks? A big concern is ...Does the plastic dash cover reflect any glare back at the rider? Can you see the map in bright sunlight? And lastly is their a way to import data into the gps from external source for route planning?? Thanks.
scott peters I read the owners manual today for it at my local dealer, you can import up to 15 routes via the USB port in the center compartment. It can also make routes on the fly. Additionally, it can track your rides, but also limited to 15. Both routes and tracks can be exported and imported via the USB, but 15 max.
Hi Scott, thanks for the kind words. Yes, you can import routs through the USB, and the screen is great and easy to see/read in all lighting conditions, but it looks most amazing at night.
Just took delivery of 2018 non tour, there is 1 helmet lock on the left side grab rail that pops out, cant speak for the tour version (if it has 2)
This new model looks much better than the last generation
Dude: Say hi Nataly.
Wife: Hi Nataly.
Opportunity lost.
Say goodnight, Raquel
Goodnight, Raquel
@@ACDC267 I'm Nataly, and I approve this message.
excellent review very good prospective
Also I appreciate you have a second rider as my wife is riding more these days. The Goldwing does not seem to have much arm support for the passenger as compared to BMW's GTL. Any comments from your wife on that from the passenger comfort? I know they have an additional small armrest that can be added, but still does not seem long enough to provide support.
Nit picking? The lady in this review said the passenger comfort was perfect with nothing She could think of to improve. She even mentioned She nearly fell asleep twice.
Thinking about selling my Harley ultra to get one I love the red
did u get one?...i have an ultra limited and am also thinking about getting this bike..i figured with riding a harley that engine drone noise he's speaking of wont even be an issue...
My 25 year old Honda Goldwing has more features on it than a new Harley Davidson! Runs quiet and cheap! I would consider a new Goldwing before a Harley because of the new technology that is built in, not bolted on! Honda wins again!
I saw a brand new dark red GW while out riding my Ultra Limited this past weekend. I will admit, it’s very, very tempting to stroll down to the Honda dealer and at least test ride one. I love my Harley, but the new GW is a great looking bike!
Major upgrade. Qaulity and performance not compareable.
I'll never be a bagger guy but this video was very interesting.
I think were all bagger guys somewhere deep down. A stable of different bikes would be incredible.
what will you do in rainy season?
Nice review, looks like it’s a bit small for a person as tall as me (6’4”).
I am 6'3" and that bike is the perfect size. Even the OEM windshield is ok ;-)
How is the visibility during night rides???
Nice job, especially having the passenger review...
How many miles can I get out of a rear tire?
Is the wind protection as good as the old model GW?? I'm wanting a bike to ride in colder weather so it's important to me. I hate to be cold . It doesn't get much better than the older Goldwings for wind protection. Yea I know....drive a car . Well I want to ride in colder weather. These seem to have less of a fairing on them. But I love the new looks!! I see other guys out riding when it's 40 degrees and I can't stand cold wind when it's below 60. I'm a sissy I admit. But I have a thyroid problem that makes me more sensative to cold
Excellent review and thank you for your observations and comments. Question? How is it getting it up on the center stand? What fuel mileage did you get? Does it use regular or require premium fuel? How is the wind protection in general around you, not just helmet buffeting? Any heat issues with the motor? And how much fuel does it hold? What colors are available and what is your opinion of them in comparison and in your opinion of course? I think the red/black combo is only available if you get the air bag model?
I looked at one and sat on one and loved it from my limited observation. I didn't have time to take the dealer up on his offer of a test ride but will be back to do so. Seating position and weight distribution felt very good. It sits lower than my ST1300 does. I am in the market for this kind of bike and will compare it to the new Yamaha and a Harley. I have tried the BMW last year but it didn't appeal too much to me riding it, other than just being fast. I also tried the Harley Road Glide and Street Glide last year, and I liked both of them. I have never been that interested in a Goldwing til now due to heftiness and looks. I love my ST1300 for riding pleasure but could use more comfort for my wife when she rides and luggage room with the trunk. These new GW bags look about the same as my ST1300 bags, but don't require the key to open them!
Probably the best overview I’ve seen yet on the new Gold Wing. Great job! I’d love to see some more focus on the saddle bags and truck, specifically putting items in them to give an idea of size. For example, on my ‘08 Gold Wing I could fit a few gallon containers in the saddle bags. Curious to know if the new one could hold one, two, or even three gallons of milk or tea.
Take a look here for an XL and S Shoei full-face helmets in the trunk. Tight fit, though.
www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/honda/2018-honda-gold-wing-tour-review.html
That is exactly what I have been waiting to see. Everyone talks about the size being smaller, which Honda themselves said it is. I want to know from an item standpoint. I have seen how 2 helmets turned at an angle can fit in the trunk but it was an extremely tight fight, depending on the helmet you use. I haven't seen anyone do a item comparison on the sides yet.
Way better look Honda. Now let’s get with highway peg program so we can stretch out the legs for those long Iron Butt rides, and even on shorter rides the ability to stretch out the legs is a wonderful option. A focus group would have identified that before coming to market. Otherwise looks awesome and better in person.
Amazing motorcycle 😍👍
It does seem like a great bike. Looks amazing without the tail trunk.
Just a shame they wend smaller on the luggage capacity. I've seen other videos saying the top box isn't big enough for two helmets and the side panniers are a bit small for touring. Hopefully they will sort that.
Looks lovely in white! Can't imagine anyone outside the US riding them often though, way too big, even if it's smaller than the older model
Not even in Canada?
May be canada....but .. us..in Europ.. we have not the roads for use it..
Fine for long straight Australian tours
Great review! thanks
How much fully loaded?
I've sat on these and they are super sexy in person! If I was needing a bike to do long term rides this bike would be top on my list.
The one thing that nobody seems to address, on all the reviews that I've watched and that I find to be a huge comfort issue for me when riding from Austin to Big Bend or to Arkansas is the use of Highway pegs. I can't imagine going on a 8 hour ride without them. I don't see anyway for after market pegs to added to this bike, do you?
There built in, they hide nicely. There right at the tip bracket
We want the paniers or bags to be large enough for Arai full face helmets.
Maybe the seals will soften up with time on the panniers and Honda has allowed for that!.
Good, honest review👍.
You and your wife should come to New Zealand and ride here, excellent sport touring roads...just keep to the left.
How was gps? Thanks for review.
Great review, nice bike, beautiful wife. My time was well spent!
Only thing I wished for would be more nighttime Lighting description. Beam pattern, spread. As in Texas New Mexico Deer and elk are a big issue Especially near the center divider or emergency parking side. I test drove Acura at night and discovered the LED lighting totally despicable is was just plain awful! Otherwise, I enjoyed the video bunches! Thank You!
Funny the first thing I do when I buy a wing for myself is to remove the antenna and speakers as I never use the radio, I really wish the option would be to opt out of all the electronics. I just like riding lots of mile with just the wind and scenery and none of the electronic noise.
That new front suspension set up seems to be moving really well.
i can see that as a police motorcycle ... very very nice bike
Great review and nice looking bike. Small question: what gear you are wearing? Looks pretty good and looks like you are feeling comfortable in low 40s . Thank you.
You can see the gear listing near the bottom of the article here:
www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/honda/2018-honda-gold-wing-tour-review.html
Thank you so much and this is what I thought. I am looking to get Hyper DryStar gear and can you share your opinion, fitment and feelings, please? Thank you.
We'll have to wait to see if Sean pops in here to respond. I'm the other rider who was wearing the Spidi gear in the story I linked to.
Vadim, the sizing runs pretty true in the Jackets, but is several sizes off in the pants. When ordering the pants you should go about two sizes larger than you'd normally buy. The gear worked well overall in cool to cold temperatures, but I know from experience that the "Drystar" liners do not breathe effectively and will quickly trap moisture if the rider becomes warm. Real GoreTex works very well, DryStar does not.
What a review should be..
Excellent.
I agree, your wife should have said Hi Natalie..
Lol.
Her input was great though.
Shame they didn't increase the storage.
Was all ready to trade My ST1300 until I saw this Bike at Honda’s Daytona Bike week display. Epic fail for me on the range and storage. I really think Honda is going to have to offer a Grand Tour at some point. Why they never refreshed the ST is really a shame. BMW offers the R1200RT and the K1600GT(L). Both are similar in options with the obvious difference being the engine. The ST would have made a great entry level tourer with just a few minor upgrades/options. With this new Gold Wing offering my ST became my favorite long distance STeed again.
gmcphoto had the ST. Was really a nice bike. Put 22K on the RT. 2014 model year. Outstanding motorcycle period. Will never sell it. It sits next to a 2015 K1300S Motorsport Edition. Not selling that either. Will add this Wing to the stable very soon.
Best review on this so far.
Thanks! Yours, is the FIRST 2018 Gold Wing, GL-1800 video, in which the 'WHITE' Gold Wing, is actually, the '2018' MODEL!
Way too many of the 'other' "review videos", which has shown the riders, on what's supposed to be the 2018 White GL-1800 Gold Wing, are very clearly riding, LAST YEARS model.
The suspension on Goldwings is inadequate, bad designs mean it will have to be fixed or it will be unsafe.
Can you provide a comparison with a BMW 1600 and how would it differ with a BMW that will cost the same amount, not to mention, BMW does cost more to maintain and can not be as reliable as a Honda.
Good review but no mention of fuel mileage??