Honda Gold Wing Tour Review at RevZilla.com
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- čas přidán 16. 02. 2018
- 2018 Honda Gold Wing Tour Review
www.revzilla.com/common-tread...
Comin' to ya on a dusty road, it’s Lemmy, the Gold Wing Tour, and the beautiful Lone Star State, all rolled up into one long-awaited First Ride Review. Honda’s latest redesign means lots of questions, and Lemmy puts the Gold Wing Tour through its paces in search of answers (and some tasty lunch). What he finds is a lighter, smarter, and more modern machine that’ll carry the mighty Gold Wing badge into its next era. Ride along for Lem’s thoughts on his first encounter with Honda’s highway king. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
This is such a beautifully shot video. The cuts, editing, music - whoever does your videography is a quiet genius. Bike is pleasant to look at too, and I am probably a very long term potential buyer.
I was dreading that Lemmy would touch the bike with his sticky barbecue hands, but he seems to have resisted doing so.
I'm a new owner of a 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT (red). I've been through Harley's and Indians and this is, by far, the best bike for me. You have to understand that it's a different style of motorcycle in that Harley's and Indians are V-Twins that make a lot of noise and some people think that to have any other style is to not be a true motorcycle rider. I disagree but that's what some people think. I've graduated to the smooth class of the Goldwing. If I had to go back to vroom vroom it would be on an Indian. Great V-twin bike. But, I've graduated to the smooth power and low center-of-gravity of the Honda flat-six and I'll never go back. That, along with incredible styling and the DCT makes an unbeatable package. I've never owned a Goldwing before because it was styled too fat for my liking, but I never doubted it's smooth, powerful ride. Now, it's the Goldilocks Goldwing; it's just right. I can't wait to ride it every day.
I wonder if this one does the nickel test like the old engine. I'd imagine it is as smooth.
Damn Lemmy, what an absolute natural in front of the camera and so wicked efficient at laying down hard information mixed with opinions and personal anecdotes. Well done on the review to you and your camera team!
I learned to ride on my dad's 1975 turquois Goldwing that he still has.
YES YES YES YES. I've been waiting ages for this! Best weekend ever :) cheers Lem
ZLA Lemmy No way! Lemmy replied haha made my day!
Had a chance to demo a DCT model last week at a local dealer. In touring mode the throttle is a bit lazy and the transmission seems in a big hurry to up shift. Not very impressive. Switch to sport mode and the thing rips! Between the various automatic modes and the manual mode there should be something to everyone's liking. After 40 years of big street bikes I was prepared to write off the DCT as something I just wouldn't own. The problem is it's executed so well that even old school riders like myself should give it a test ride.
Doesn't it have a sports mode which holds the gears longer
I just test rode a 6 speed yesterday. I used to have a 2007 I sold last year. Since then I have been waffling between bmw 1200rt and FJR. After the test ride I’m going back to the Wing. The front suspension is amazing compared to the 2007 I had. I rode my friends 2005 right before riding the new wing and the weight loss is very apparent. I can see myself doing the 500-800 Miles a day I used to. I took it into a parking lot to practice some tight turns. Much better since 1st gear is taller and the fly by wire took out the surge. The low speed handling was easier than past models for me. I can handle not having the same luggage capacity and gas loss. All in all if you can ride a demo go for it.
Saving for this, my next bike. Look forward to lemmy's reviews
Lemmy, you are the quintessential professional! Love the videos. I'm a Harley guy riding an 86 fxrs and looking to a road glide, but enjoy the videos you do on all brands! Keep up the great work and ride safely brother!
I always look forward to your reviews no matter what bike you are reviewing I'm gonna learn something.
what about air flow to the legs?... guess been narrower this gen in cold weather you will feel it harder
I went down to my dealer yesterday and made him a deal to trade in my 2018 BMW K1600GTL for a new 2018 Gold Wing Tour DCT. I got the BMW last July and admittedly it has incredible power and speed. For me it was a little cramped in the riding position, forcing me to fold my knees up a little too much for a top of the line touring bike. After riding a new Wing a couple of weeks ago I was basically sold on the bike and the DCT trans. The shift assist on the Beemer was good but with this DCT Honda has really raised the bar as far as I'm concerned. Changing over from a bike with 160 HP to one with 125 HP will be a good thing for me personally. The BMW runs so darn good that it was difficult for me to resist goosing that throttle just for the sheer kicks. The Gold Wing has enough power but not so much that you're going to risk a ticket every time you ride. I was very lucky that I didn't get any tickets on that BMW. I'll be taking delivery of the new Wing in less than 2 weeks and I have to admit I'm jazzed. Obviously I had to take a significant loss on the new BMW with less than 2,500 miles on the clock, but to me it's worth it and the way I see it, you only live once.
so how did it work out? i am a k1600b rider and i love the bike ... but curious how your switch went?
You can also move parts around on the beemer to change how your legs rest on the bike so there was more than that that caused you to change bikes, the cramped bit can always be adjusted on any bike.
Bill, I traded in my 18 Grand America with 12k on it with a 2020 GW DCT Tour. I took the red/black. I loved the K1600. Wonderful and sexy machine to ride, however I started to have many electrical issues. The bike shut down on me few times while at 50 - 60 MPH. I literally got tired and said, enough !!! This GW is a pleasure to ride. I just got it and tried the SPORT mode first time, holy moly !!! The GW called me cause it was pretty close to the size of the K. And, I am not a heavy chrome bike guy and not an HD type bike. The fact that the motor on the GW is so low, once you start riding it, it feels like a scooter.....LOL.
I rode one of these recently and was really surprised on how quickly it would dive into a turn. It doesn't feel like a big fat touring bike at all. All in all I was very impressed with the overall quality of this bike. I would definitely consider purchasing one.
Your review was completely different than all of the others.. nice job. It’s exactly why you guys have over 400,000 subscribers
Great review guys! Lemmy chomped on that BBQ like a pro!!!! 👍
I think the best motorcycle update ever by any motorcycle company. They updated everything gold wing riders were asking for.
They made storage capacity worse so ill stick to the 5th gen
This is one of the best video reviews out there on this gem of a bike. I purchased that same bike in red and couldn't be happier. Once I get the seat worked on at Wingsoft, I'll be even happier.
I read that on the new goldwing tour the trunk and passenger backrest is can be removed for shorter rides. I have seen a demo on the ride mode options you have options for luggage and no luggage but I can't find any info on how to remove the trunk and put it back on. Can you please do a short video on that and some of the package differences between the standard gl1800 and the tour.
Lemmy I always enjoy your reviews. I feel the way you do about the Goldwing I know they are a great bike but I will never own one just not my style. Hope you had fun in the Texas hill country Ride Safe!
Excellent review Lemmy! You really did some homework about a lot of things just about all other reviewers miss (i.e. steering head bearings, original wings, linked brakes, etc...) thanks!!
It looks like they slimmed down the front fairing too and I like it! The fairing on my bike is so bulky that it blocks most wind flow and it is nice on the freeway when it's cool out but miserable in the summer. The vents don't provide enough air flow when it's 100*+. This new setup looks like it will block most of the wind so you don't feel like a parachute at 65 mph while allowing you to actually get some airflow.
What are your thoughts on the engine performance? Is increased output and decreased weight enough to allow it to hang with the competition?
Excellent detailed review. What a great job....thank you for your efforts.
I rode a new Gold Wing a few years ago a huge bike I was nervous about dropping it but once on the move it was surprisingly nimble..I'm not a big mileage tourer though , and they are very expensive..for me just too big a bike.
Always enjoy your candid remarks. I agree the front end will prove to be the Achilles heel of this model! Only time will tell.
So, they took 100 pounds out and stuck another whole Ninja 250's worth of horsepower and an airplane tug's worth of torque in it? I think their goal to target new riders is probably going to work. Newcomers are already used to 5-ish gallon fuel tanks and the luggage space is still impressive, but the extensive integration of electronics in an ever more increasingly connected world will likely be a big seller to people who don't want one now but probably will in 5 to 10 years
I wish I could agree. I miss my GL1800 and have been thinking about a new one... but the smaller fuel tank gives me pause. Honda says fuel economy is better and makes up for the lost gallon but I don't think so; 260 miles max per tank seems to be it. All of a sudden the 7 gallon tank in my BMW K1600 is looking pretty good.
@@user-cx2bk6pm2f I would not make a decision on a bike like this based on a gallon of fuel. I mean their is so much more to this bike. I own a k1600b and I am seriously looking at trading in on this. My beemer does not have half the tech this thing has, and they both priced similar.
Finally someone got their strategy
Lemmy! I did your work! Another SUPER production from the team at RevZilla!!!! Love the work your crew put into your videos! Cheers! I am not ready for a Goldwing, I love my sporty bikes and am getting in to cruisers (used ones) I know it makes no sense! BUT that price tag is way to high for this guy!
Other than the riding portion of the audio, great review. I like what Honda did with the front suspension, I think that alone is going to put the bike into a class of its own. And yeah I agree about the DCT option, it just makes sense given the nature of the experience that someone is going to be looking for on a touring vehicle. Again, great review.
I concur!!
Great post....
What Honda did with the front suspension is very similar to the Hossack inspired design of the Duo-Lever that the Wing's direct competitor the K1600B utilizes; so more in a class of two in this segment.
kmg501 >luilliluul4r to do get done beforea p3 r34748j9jj3ojgjjthue to 4
kmg501 xewzn
this suspension sucks FYI
Great review Lem. You didn't mention a few of its USP's though: Apple Car Play; Homelink option; Forward (as well as reverse) starter-crawl on the 7-speed DCT model.
Excellent review! Well done RevZilla
Nice review Lenny. I also wondered about the tie rods. Maybe it will be apart of the dealer service when someone brings it in .
His name is Lemmy... with "m's".
Can it pick itself up when it falls over?
Great review. I agree with you regarding having the front brake linked to the rear pedal. With a bike this size, you really need the control of a rear brake only to control weight at low speeds. I also liked your comment about the front end may need monitoring for alignment issues, something I wouldn’t have considered.
I hear the nav system is an issue with this. Anybody have feedback?
these kinds of videos help subside the cabin fever here in new england, thanks
Great review and video Revzilla/Lemmy.
That bike is in a league all its' own.
One of these days.....
I’m 35 currently riding a Harley dyna low rider s. In the market for a bagger I was looking at the new 2021 Harley RGS but after a test ride on the new 2021 Honda GW I was sold and ended up ordering one. Can’t wait !
Great Review Lemmy! Keep up the great work.
I've never owned a Gold wing before either, but this new iteration is very inticing. I would very much like Honda to produce a sidecar version of this bike.
I will most likely never own one as it just doesn't fit my life style but even I'm amazed at how much is put into them. Love the reviews. Great job.
Younger guy here who really fits non of the 3 categories. I want the biggest, fattest Goldwing with 154 buttons in front of me. That is part of why I have always wanted one.
How about a head to head with a BMW K1600GT? How do these (two) touring bikes compare to Harley-Davidson and Indian touring bikes? If that’s even comparible?
I have one and I love it
Great job on your review
Great review as always, Lem! I am 6 foot 3 and have a similar profile to you. I have heard that it sits a little cramped for us taller guys. Can you shed any light?
That meal's enough for an entire family. :) I owned a GL1100 Gold Wing Interstate in the early 90s, would be keen to get one of these.
Thank-you for the thorough review. I also enjoy the guitar music. Reviews like this have me wanting to take the new Goldwing for a test ride. I have had my sights set on a BMW K1600GT for the incredible engine or more aggressive seating position but I am prepared to give the Goldwing a chance. My wife who has started riding on the back of my BMW K1200S likes the seating on the Goldwing but prefers the extra luggage capacity of the K1600GT.
Any chance to ride 2-up? Just wondering if the passenger comfort has changed.
Most def! Lemmy took Mrs. Lemmy down to Texas to ride the Wing for the press launch. He had a few thoughts about it in his article - www.revzilla.com/common-tread/2018-honda-gold-wing-tour-first-ride-motorcycle-review
We recently bought an '18 DCT Tour, our 4th Gold Wing. We ride mostly 2 up. My wife has ridden with me for the past 49 years, from scooters to Harleys and now this new Wing. She said the passenger comfort is about the same as on our '06 1800 but not as comfortable as the '93 1500. Plenty of room for her, but the reduced luggage capacity is noticeable, especially if she wants to take her bigger hair dryer! Honda could have done a better job making a more comfortable seat for this bike. Wind protection is reduced due to the narrower windshield and fairing, but fuel mileage is better than the previous 1800. From around 42 on the '06, now getting 48 mpg, two up with luggage.
I'm a type 2 -- retired, sun-belt, lots of touring -- had an '05 Wing, but moved on to RT's for better suspension and lower weight. I might consider returning to a Wing, but it's going to have to be pretty good, and comfortable. I might be interested in the DCT; I could see it working pretty well on a heavy tourer.
Great review, Thanks!
I guess I'm the 3rd group Honda was looking for. Never owned a touring bike until I bought the Gold Wing DCT in early February. I was able to ride an F6B a few years ago but this bike is so much better! It handles and takes the corners amazingly well for such a big bike. I had to learn to trust the DCT to do it''s thing. Especially when coming to a stop. I waited a long time to buy something like this. Thanks Honda. But if I feel like I want to "experience" an old and less refined motorcycle, I can still ride my 94 Magna.
Luggage capacity (lack of) and the weird rear brake took this off my list of touring bikes. I know they can't make them how everyone wants them but there are certain things a tourer should have.
Previous gen wasn't ugly or anything, but this is a whole heap more attractive.
I like the look of the twin halogen headlights of the previous gen. I hope the new LED headlights are a step up in terms of beam throw and spread.
I never really liked the previous 1800's. I have a 1500, tha I still enjoy riding and looking at. This new 1800 does have me thinking of a new Gold Wing.
Me, too. The old Goldwing was ugly. Took a 2007 Goldwing for a test ride after the wife’s urging and it was boring, lacking of character, nothing more than a highway couch. I am hoping the new Goldwing feels sportier, more exciting. Sure prefer the slimmed down look.
OH YEAH. Been a while since I saw a Lemmy review. Brilliant again!
Since there was no mention, I assume the swing-arm and shaft-drive are unchanged... which would be a good thing.
Another great video Lemmy. I always enjoy your and Spurg’s videos. I also caught your feedback on the MOTOR podcast with Jensen, Adam, and the others. Not like you guys need (want) more to do, but have you and Spurg ever considered putting out a podcast?
It wasn't hard for me to part with my Road King once I test drove the 2018 Goldwing. Switching between sport and tour was the game changer. All the extras on the Goldwing are just bonuses.
I am debating between THE HARLEY ROAD KING and THE HONDA GOLD WING. Keep the compares coming. IT IS EXTREMELY HELPFUL
Hey Lem, I see your a big guy like me, who's your favorite for riding gear, especially pants, I'm having a hard time finding for us bigger guys? Even on your website.
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.
Great
Thanks Lemmy. Nice review. How would you rate this against the Harley Ultra Limited?
How was the suspension in the corners and the low speed handling vs other touring motorcycles like the BMW? Great video by the way
Comparing the DCT Tour to my BMW K1600GTL I found the Gold Wing to have surprisingly great manners at both slow speed and high speed. You really don't feel the weight quite as much on the Honda.
Just purchased a 2018 dct...I didn't think I'd like the dct until I rode it. The sport mode is insane. It's like Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde. It's not super sport bike fast, but it seriously surprised me. Nice having a bike that has such versatility.
Hi! What do you think it is a better bike? Goldwing 2018 or BMW K1600 GTL? I think Honda touth the ground at 30º and BMW only at 45º. Can you confirm?Thanks
It really depends what you value. Here's what Lemmy said in his written review: _"The engine doesn’t feel very different than the last iteration, and I think that’s a great thing. In some respects, riding the Wing is like riding a very small cheapy sport bike. If you can carry corner speed, stay off the brakes, and not upset the chassis, it will perform admirably. The only downsides I can see to this are the folks who want hyperactive touring speeds, in which case the BMW K 1600 GTL will likely be the bike you want instead."_ It's probably best if you can take both for a test ride. Hope this helps! -DrewZilla
I do concur with your comment concerning the rear brake in parking lot areas. Linked braking can be a lifesaver in a panic situation, but slow speed situations it isn't the best choice. Maybe Honda can electricly seporate the two types of braking systems say under 15mph?
Love this motorcycle...DCT is the only way to go on this beauty.
Great review!
Beautiful bike. An absolute mile cruncher, I just wish it had a bit more power considering the weight. Look at the BMW 1600 Bagger, has 160bhp. I'd be happy to do a coast to coast on the Honda. Lovely bike
You don't need 160 hp to cruise at high speeds all day. Ride one and you will see how smooth and torquey they are.
Front end of the GW is just beauty with the jewel eye headlights, remind me off the 2018 honda accord, heck even the acura nsx
2:32 - "we need to get out and actually ride this bike". And cross the double yellow. Lol
็How is it compare to K1600's BMW, Ride quality, and usability? thank you very much
Well they are catching up....... but you cant take the panniers off for security overnight...you still have to wind a knob behind a side cover to adjust suspension (rather than using a button on the fly to change it like the BMW) the headlight does not swivel on a gimbal like the BMW ( which is outstanding feature not much talked about) it has a thousand buttons like a 1990 accord instead of an easy little wheel to scroll and adjust everything... I guess if they keep copying the BMW they might just get there....
Mahila Maseli I agree. The new Wing has most of the features of my 2007 BMW K1200LT, whose design dates to 1999. So, other than electronics and DCT, the Wing is 20 years behind BMW. Compared to the K1600, the Wing is heavier, has less power, less range, less luggage capacity, less capable suspension and less sophisticated controls (no whiz wheel). It may have better reliability, but that remains to be seen. And Honda has a far better dealer network. So, it all depends on what you value. I am waiting to see the head-to-head comparisons, but I suspect the seven year-old K1600 design will exceed the new Wing in almost every area.
I just made a deal yesterday to trade my 2018 K1600 GTL for a new DCT Tour. One big plus for me is the DCT trans (My hands and wrists are all messed up). While it's truly a blast to goose the throttle on the Beemer, I don't need 160HP on a touring bike. I'm very lucky that I didn't get any tickets on that thing because it flies. I do believe I'll be very happy with the Gold Wing. The K1600 just didn't have enough leg room for me. Germans must have shorter legs. Also the BMW doesn't have much cornering clearance at all. Much of a lean and you start dragging hard parts in a hurry.
Bill Anderson The DCT is cool technology and great for those who have trouble shifting. However, I don't think the Wing has the lean angle of a K1600, unless the suspension on the K is on the wrong load setting and completely worn out.
Congratulation on your new bike, DCT is a plus really, surprised to know that BMW doesn't' have much cornering clearance, i thought they are better than GW 2018
Hi Lemme. A few years ago, you showed me how to do a 3 hole change on my hog, thanks! I live in the San Antonio area and have done those same roads many times . I don't , however, know what cabin rental that was . If this is a public business, I would appreciate the name/contact info . Keep up the great content!
Overall a huge update for the Wing. I am sure many are disappointed by the fuel and luggage capacity loss - I would think Honda could have maintained those without compromising weight and design goals.
I have also doubts about aerodynamics, specialy air flow in cold days hitting your hands an legs due to narrower diseign. I feel shielded on my gl1800 in this regard
I like most things about the redesign, but fuel capacity didn't have to be reduced so much. 6.0 gal for cross country tourer is minimum since this thing will deliver only 40 - 45 mpg typically.
I currently get 42mpg with pillion and loaded luggage on my '03. That would mean I'm going to have to get almost 50mpg for the same range on my newly purchased bike. We'll see, but doubtful.
This review just raised the bar.
may you please please please win review on the 2018 Indian Roadmaster
nice review , thank you
I'm 36 and LOVE the new Goldwing!! I just wish I could afford even a used one 🤐
Great review. I would love to see a video on how you guys make these videos.
Must be amazing to travel the country in a motorcycle like this!
the first seconds of the clip got me thinking that honda wantwd to name the goldwing the longhorn lol
Add some storage, hydraulic lifters, and a little more seat room and . . . . wait a second. That would be my ’93 SE. And to think I waited for this new model. Thank you, Honda for preserving my checkbook.
I know huh..... I ride an '89... I even added a bluetooth kit to the stock stereo.. I rough it tho... No heated seats or grip.... or electric windshield... Oh well--- But hey, I don't have a payment either...
as a young guy who recently bought his first bike, I'm already planning for the future. Where will i go next? I would love something to make longer trips more comfortable as my skill set grows. I have to say between all the improvements in the bike, as well as the looks, this bike is now very appealing.
Nice review. I am that third customer you referred to. I am looking for my first tour bike. I currently ride a Diavel but I am either going to trade into the Goldwing, BMW Bagger, or the Eluder. When will you review the Yamaha?
This is my next bike.....After I burn out my 2017 CRF1000 Africa Twin DCT. BTW anyone considering the DCT transmission, I found mine in the CRF1000 to be absolutely amazing, once I understood all the options and how it worked.
I could see myself riding a DCT models in the near future with my left hand having bit of issue with an on and off pain, whenever my hand muscles aren’t warmed up. Not sure why but if it gets worse, DCT will give me painless rides while enjoying one less need to do stuff. I still think GL1800 looks better but I need to check this out in real life.
Dat gut to body proportion doe.
Great review regardless, I'm tempted.
Alot of weight will always cause parts to wear down relatively quick but regardless the Goldwing rider knows that already. The question here is what can you really put on that thing with accessories from the aftermarket other than a cupholder. With that said this bike is already well equipped from the factory, however the smaller bags come with a "tiny" bitter after taste. I really like their modular approach from the Standard to the Tour and personally would prefer the Standard over the Tour. Nice review Lemmy.
Lemmy, i went back in time as far as the goldwing goes, i have the Stripped no luggage just the F6C Valkyrie, all the Power and smooth ride of the Goldwing and even lighter than the new gen 6 wings.
Nice video! Come out to Colorado sometime! Lot's of great roads!
great vid!!
I wonder who will be first to fit a car tyre on the rear and claim it handles better?
That's not why people do it. You don't put a car tire on for cornering. It's because replacing tires twice or three times a year is fucking stupid expensive. It's a Goldwing. They go straight for days, and rack up thousands of miles.
We have a winner! :-)
A stupid and dangerous idea that some "experts" claim is the way to go. They are much smarter than the engineers who designed it.
grandpa5x Pulliam Bike tires use softer compounds for good cornering traction. For bikes like yours that can't really corner well due to lack of lean angle and lousy suspension, the benefits of bike tires are not realized. Cars tires may well be better for the straight line riding and 20 degree and less lean angles. A car tire on my BMW would really suck.
grandpa5x Pulliam. Once again? This was my first post here. I wasn't comparing anything to anything. I was replying to your erroneous claim that motorcycle tire maker's are ripping us off. They are not. I was explaining to you why motorcycle tires wear out faster. They are made under the assumption that riders will actually corner to the full capability of their bike and thus need good traction around the full profile of the tire.
2:49 - Epic moment! :D I am so jealous right now...
I've been riding Harley's since 1982 but because of the sticker prices and choice of paint jobs I'm looking to switch manufacturers. So far it's down to the BMW Grand America and Gold Wing Tour. Although I started riding on a Honda I kinda made fun of Gold Wing riders however I very well be one of them soon. The BMW is lacking in some areas of creature comforts the Wing Thing gains. I agree about their brake system like trail braking with the rear brake on hairpin switchbacks which you can't do on the Wing. Thank you for a great review.
These new style bikes are perfect
¿Habra una traducion de este canal en español?.
I am nearing 250K cumulative miles in a Goldwing saddle; travelling coast to coast several times. After taking a demo ride on the 2018 at launch, I placed my order for a DCT Tour. I've benefited from the tweaks between a few GL generations, but the ride of the 2018 is an absolute game changer. Your review fails to touch on a couple of points: the infotainment system includes Apple Carplay, but not Android Auto. I am an Android user & hope to clarify for all that I can still use my phone (receiving & originating calls) while travelling. If Honda made available Android Auto, I'd consider the update. The only real concern I have on the infotainment is the ability of the on-board nav system to support motorcycling route planning. The system is fine for basic nav ... I'm here & want to go to a destination. As a plus, the nav system integrates XM weather & traffic. But, I plan multi-day trips; touring the more scenic secondary routes. The on-board nav lacks some basic capabilities to accommodate such route planning for a motorcycle. I remain hopeful Honda will update the nav software, but I am poised to add an external GPS if necessary. However, I know there are many that are happy with the GPS. Even though there are some things I would have done differently if I had been on the design team, I love riding this bike! Everyone should at least experience a demo ride ...
Bought my first Gold Wing two years back. An 82 GL1100 standard. Even that bike handles better, is faster and smoother than most anything I've ridden. (Way better than a new Shadow, that's for sure.) I'm still waiting for Honda to release an actual "Naked" GL. The factory could probably pull another 50-100lbs of plastic and electronics off the bike. Then we'd have something!
Wish they kept the bigger tank and get more distance. I also wish they kept the bigger storage. I wonder as well how long the tie rods for the steering will last before they start to get play. Other than that, I am happy with the improvements. I wonder how they would have done if they had put in the nice electronics and power window on the older 1800 and save the r and d cost for a totally new bike. I think they want a sport touring machine instead of a pure touring as before. it looks like direct competition to the K1600. Lighter, a bit more power from before, about the same baggage as the 1600 and the electric too dads everyone wants now.
I bought a 2015 GW in 2016, love it. I’ll give this iteration 3 or 4 years and take another look. Have no love for Honda’s navigation and this many changes need a shake down before I step up to that money. However at 72, I may already have my last bike.
I did have a couple of ST1300s and they were getting to be too topheavy for me though their speed was tough to beat. Speed was always there if you needed a quick pass. The GW doesn’t have that and hasn’t since 1979.
Joe Burnside I’ve had my GW up to 115 once with a back tire in the back seat and saw no shimmy. Here in E Tennessee there aren’t a lot of straight roads so I don’t worry about it. I used to ride ST1300s who were famous for the Same problem. From what I’ve seen, it’s caused by turbulence at speed from wind over the windscreen at speed hitting the trunk or passenger, hence the tire.
The only mod I ever made was a Progressive shock but I haven’t done that to the GW. One thing I did do that a lot of people don’t is change the fork oil every other year along with all the other fluids. It says to do this in the manual but I’ve met guys with GWs and ST1300s that never bother. It’s a little expensive. My appointment with Terry’s in Crossville cost me $850 and took a fair piece of the day but it’s necessary
One thing about Honda owners that I don’t get: they praise the engineering for its rock solid reliability and won’t use their lubricants. They don’t run the tires Honda specs. They piss and moan about roll on performance. I do those things for the same reason; Honda says it works.
That’s my take. I hope it makes sense to you. Good tires, good fluids and you rarely have to do anything else to a Honda
DTC totally makes sense on a touring bike.
As a Zero rider I can say you don't really miss the shifting.
I've always been curious about the Zero... what's the riding position like, etc. I ride the biggest of the big in the gold wing world, an old 1500. They were pretty much the heaviest of the wings, and the largest dimensions wise. It's just a huge ass bike... One of the guys at work, rides an Ultra Classic and he calls my bike "The School Bus".... Oh well, I like the old girl, but she's a heavy old girl. The zero, if the riding position is like the Japaneses standard riding postion, I could imagine it would be like the perfect downtown, urban bike. Small Nimble and comfortable.
Subjective. I grew up with scooters and dreaded not being able to shift. Been riding a manual bike for 4 years now and never once have I wanted to have an automatic, even when I was getting cramps in my left hand in traffic.
Lenny? (Lemmy?) I hearby give you THE OSCAR🥇🏆👑 of MOTORCYCLE REVIEWS. YOU COVER EVERYTHING, Answering ALL my questions, you put me on the bike with you. Wishing u and everyone all the best..👍🏽🤝🤝🙌🏽
There is no toe adjustment with a one wheel front end.. "Toe" is a adjustment that is all about having the 2 wheels and their relationship on how close to parallel they are from front to back. "Toe in" vs "Toe out" or Neutral measured in degrees.
That blue is gorgeous