2018 Honda Goldwing Long-Term Review
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- čas přidán 30. 07. 2024
- Cruiseman gives his review of the 2018 Goldwing after 1 year of ownership and 8,000 miles of riding.
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Good job Chris. I agree 100% with your assessment. Fix the POS Nav system, and go back to helmet hangers off the trunk. Then it would be perfect IMHO. As an iPhone user, the nav choices there are really not much better. They work, but routing out of the way routes are quite spotty. I too like my Garmin. Own both your pre-18 and 18+ videos. Thanks for your good work. Guys, buy the vids. You won’t be sorry, and WILL save lots of $.
Thanks for the plug! And for your patronage.
Good job Chris for critiquing the bike. Three advantages of the 2018+ generation that you didn't touch on. 1) The engine powered parking lot walking mode for forward and reverse. Such a thing didn't exist in previous models.
2) The amenity that you didn't talk about, is The Slope Assist model. My gate is on a relatively steep slope. I stop to let the gate open. The Slope Assist is wonderful to let me go forward without rolling back.
3) The digital TPMS, Tire Pressure Management System. Here we get a definitive distinct number for either wheel. We see immediately if we are under inflated. We can also watch the pressure variation based on temperature & different road surfaces.
Thanks
Rod
Those are a couple of features that I'm sure many folks are applauding!!!
I use Waze all the time... Not real impressed with iPhone Maps...
The DCT is much easier in slow traffic especially with a passenger. Sport mode rips! Trail braking in Sport Mode does set off unexpected down shifts mid turn. Parking assist and parking brake are a plus. I have the DCT A (red and black) and receive compliments on the styling from both riders and non riders. Backrest and cruise pegs are a must. The lower weight is another plus. So far, the best model that I have owned.
Thanks for all the great content Cruiseman! I have been watching your channel for a few weeks now and all the great info really helped me make my decision to finally buy a 2018 DCT. I saw this video as soon as I got home from from the dealer today from completing the purchase. I can’t wait to take delivery when the weather gets better here in chicago and get your maintenance videos so I can get to work on it.
Chris, what a great overview. Most appreciated. Like you, I am a solo rider, so I can live with the smaller storage capacity. I can strap a good sized duffle on the back seat, and I'm good to go. This summer will be my third Run For The Wall, 7,500 miles in 2 1/2 weeks. Last two trips were on my Road Glide with a trunk, so it will be interesting to see if there's any major difference in convenience. Overall, this is the most amazing motorcycle I've ever ridden, from Ninjas to Harleys. It puts a smile on my face every time I take it out.
And, as you said, working on this yourself, at least for some tasks, is going to be a must unless you want to start giving your kids' college tuition to the dealership. I have purchased your videos, and I am more than pleased. Money well spent, by a mile.
Clay Nicolsen
You got that absolutely right Clay.
My DCT goldwing is also just about 1 year old. That's about the same length of time I have been following your videos. you have earned my respect I agree totally with your comments they very much mimic my own experience. Well done!.
I enjoy your honest reviews of this bike and appreciate the details you give to certain aspects and features.
I agree with your conclusion I love this bike, this summer I did 16000 miles with it , I don’t like the seat and really hate the side cover under the seat .... but for the rest I love it. Thanks you very for the time to do all the video you make
thanks for taking the time to do this video. I really appreciate getting a thorough long term review, much more insightful than first ride reviews from motorcycle publications that need to keep cosy relationships with the manufacturers, rather than live with the bike.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Well - there you have it; the mans in-love with his 2018 Goldwing!
Nice review about the Goldwing 2018 👌. I drive for 32 years with the motor and for the first time in my life I bought a Honda Goldwing model 2018. And after 4 months of driving I can say what a pleasure and comfort this engine has, I have never had this feeling, I am very satisfied with this motorcycle. And there are always fewer and good points on every bike, but the bad points are nothing compared to the good points that this engine has, but that is my opinion.
For me, this is the best motorcycle I have ever driven.
You hit some really key points as I look to upgrade from a VFR1200XD. Thank you.
Great review of the 2018 Goldwing. I have had mine for about 6 months now, and have over 5,000 miles on it. I absolutely love it. Just like you, it fits me just right. I feel more confident in the twisties and in slow speed turns. Yes, there are some things that I don't like, just as you do. One big problem I was surprised is the seat. I have owned a 1200, 1500 and a 05 GL1800 and never had a problem with the stock seats. I could ride all day and have no problems. This one, I ride 2 hours and it is time to get off. I bought one of those air hawk type air cushions to help with that. However, if I were asked if I would go back to an older Goldwing......No...not a chance. Thanks again for your videos.
How does it feel to ride a dct vs a 6 speed touring?
Well done, CM. Great information thank you.
Excellent review Cruiseman. I will definitely be buying a new Goldwing as I love the look and all the new modern gizmos and gadgets. However for now I’ll keep enjoying my 08 Goldwing. Thanks for posting
I agree with everything you’ve stated. However my fuel mileage with the tall F4 wind screen has been averaging around 36-38 mpg commuting. I haven’t had a decent long trip without a bunch of wind to get an accurate highway mpg. With the stock screen, I got as high as 50 mpg on one tank, but averaged 45 mpg on the highway, and 41 mpg commuting.
With the stock screen, and my height at 6’1” I was getting unwanted buffeting and with the screen fully extended, the top was right in my line of sight. With the tall F4 shield, buffeting is almost nonexistent and no longer in my line of site.
I also added the Honda lower wind deflectors, and all I can say is they work great. For some, in the summer months, you might want to leave them off but for cold weather and in the rain... They work!!!
I also added the Gold Strike adjustable Highway pegs. They look great and function very well. I wish I could position them a little more forward, and I might tinker around with them down the road eventually to attempt a different approach with the position adjustment, but they work just fine for me.
The seat sucks, and will be sending my stuff out to WingSoft to solve that problem.
Only gripe i have is the bike will sometimes jerk or surge a few times as I come off the throttle slowing down. Not sure what is causing this to happen, but I suspect slack in the drive shaft gears. I haven’t dug into it, and I have noticed that the rear differential fluid isn’t quite at its full mark. I have also noticed that the bike shifts much smoother with fresh oil. I changed the oil twice so far. Once at 1,000 miles and again at around 4,500 miles. I’m creeping up on 8,000 miles here in another few hundred miles, and will do another full oil change.
The only issue I have found is recently when I activated Apple CarPlay, the screen is all scrambled. Again not sure if the issue is the latest IOS update or a combination of IOS update and still running the factory infotainment update version.
I also have a 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra CVO. The Honda Goldwing Tour DCT has me spoiled to the point I don’t care for riding the Harley anymore.
What a great review. Glad to hear about the suspensions I noticed many saying it was harsh over big bumps. Looking forward to being able to try one, comfort is the main reason I'm looking at this bike.
Nice review, I’m at about 8000 coming up on one year. My bikes still basically 100% stock, with fingers crossed for the WingSoft seat work at the end of 2019.
Well'done! What I love of this video (and this happens for all your videos) is that the fact you are a goldwing 18+ owner does not affect your rewiew. You make an objective judgment. And this is very important. And thanks for the big amount of info you put in this review
Excellent review sir. I'm not a goldwing rider but I did have 2009 goldwing. That was me when you said to heavy and a little much to handle in tight places. That helmet storage and the extra wind buffeting was my deal killer. It is very easy to handle compared to the 2017. Everything else you said I agree with 100 percent. Ride safe
Great honest review, as with your servicing and instillation vlogs very comprehensive, I just wish you had a ST1300 instead as I would feel more confident working on my own bike after watching your vlogs , Big thumbs up from UK
Great review. I had a thought as I heard your critiques of the nav, fit n finish, trunk, air filter issues. Wouldn't it be great if Honda itself popped up in the comment section and acknowledged them, thanked you for pointing out the issues, and indicated they would look to address them. If I saw that, I would seriously consider making their product my next purchase. You just never really know if they watch these.
Well stated and honest. The bike is such a big upgrade over my old 2005. I thought the ‘05 was great until I got on the ‘18. Nimble, fun, packed full of goodies and less buttons. I got the GOLDWING emblems for the saddlebags just so people could see what it was without having to come up on it. I can’t wait for the Ohio weather to finally change and I can ride again!
Good stuff Cruise man! Yeah in the beginning it's like you had a little bit of buyer's remorse on your first review, upset about the paint and whatnot, it's funny how when you're with something for a while it starts getting better. My wife just replace my living room chair recliner, so I'm kind of breaking in something new to right now! Keep up the good work Buddy. I will never count out moving into the 18 Goldwing, as I've said it before, the full dress now handles every bit as good as my F6B, in my opinion there's no comparison on the handling between the F6B in the pre 2018, F6B is so much more maneuverable friendly
Great comparison my 1st Goldwing is the 2018, I loved it in the beginning and still do, agree with the Cruiseman on almost every point my single biggest complaint is the trunk capacity and inability to store two helmets
Nice write up (uum video). I bought a 2001 Yellow ABS new and sold it in 2011 with 65,000 on it. Loved it. This time I got a 2014 Valkyrie(love that engine,). Put a wind screen on it, some blutooth speakers, ram mount for my phone and a charging port, Sissy bar, and saddle bags. I'm happy it's super light, and fast. someday I'll get a new wing again as well.
Wow, I’m impressed. As a Canadian motorcycle rider I’m presently in stuck in snow bank mode; way too much time looking at bike reviews. However, I’ve been riding long and hard on all kinds of bikes for about 50 years and a Goldwing is starting to look like a possible replacement to my beloved fully farkled VFR. So, this review got me at “Tail of the Dragon” which I’ve ridden literally hundreds of times over the past fifteen years. I’m also lucky enough to have other bikes, so a behemoth in the garage doesn’t petrify me as much as it use to do. Yep, I’ll lose a few buddies but the heck with ‘em.
If only you could do a comparison as high quality (and open-minded) as this between the new ‘Wing and the BMW 1600 GTL. Between that and my wife, I’d hardly have to think for myself at all.
Thanks for the honest review and the fact that the new Goldwing is NOT the best solution for everyone who wants to tour.
I own a fully loaded, including airbag, 2009 Wing which my wife adores. It accommodates all our gear and EASILY holds 2 full face helmets in the truck along with a bunch of smaller items. Like you, the first time I sat on the new wing I thought "these seats are junk compared to our bike". I was also quite surprised that even though the new bike is lighter, it was actually more difficult to pull up off the sidestand than our 2009 model. My wife couldn't stand the grab handles for the passenger. With the negatives piling up pretty quickly in the showroom, we didn't even bother to take a test ride.
Instead, I purchased a 2017 Honda CB1100EX for my solo riding jollies. My wife has ridden on this machine exactly once! That bike is an absolute blast from the past while also being totally modern. It's fuel economy is mind blowing, in fact the best of any motorcycle I've ever owned, including those in the 450cc range. The fuel injection calibration is spot on, unlike the Wing which can stumble when not fully warmed up and that can be very disconcerting when coming out of a sharp corner, especially with the wife onboard. Also, I have not been able to fault the fit & finish on the CB1100EX in any way. The welds are a work of art, the paint is flawless, and the chrome is gorgeous. This bike turns heads everywhere I park it.
So: A lovely low mileage Goldwing for touring with my wife, and a toy to remind me what motorcycling is all about. They're both keepers!
I ride a 2014 Yamaha FJR 1300, but I love to watch your videos as I always have appreciated the Goldwing.
Love those FJRs
I had a 2013 FJR and loved it. Until the 2018 Goldwing DCT came out. The GW does everything the FJR could do and more, like comfortably pull my pop-up camper!
FJR IS A FAR BETTER all rounder...
Thank you for the video by the way! I had to pause it at 11:26 regarding the apple car play and then previously the GPS. I have built in GPS in my car and there is no substitute for a self contained unit that doesn’t rely on cell signals when you are in the middle of nowhere but I give it a thumbs down for day to day use, it’s last minute notification and not really detailed then there is traffic or road closures or changes and I have to keep it updated, I have the BMW navigator on my R1150RT which is just a rebranded garmin and again it’s good when you don’t have any cell phone signal but again it’s not always up to date, and current on road conditions. BUT most of the time you have cell signal, not always, but most of the time you do and I’ve found in my newer Toyota Camry with apple car play, the mapping interface is amazing, it’s useful, it’s just miles away from the built in GPS on anything and it’s detailed, it works well, it’s up to date with everything from accidents to updated routes, construction, and changes in the maps. So I would think, I don’t have a goldwing, yet, but I would think if you got an apple device and could use more of the built in features on apple car play, you might enjoy that tech a little more. It’s also quite nice to have the Siri assistant, she understands you better than the built in unit sometimes when you give it a voice command. You own the bike, so I would like to know your input on it, please, I am considering a goldwing.
Ditto...on everything. I really love my 2018 DCT. Very happy with it.
I purchased a 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT about 7 months after you did. In September 2018 did a 3,800 mile ride with a bunch of BMW riders, four GS bikes and two RT bikes. The Wing not only kept up with them in the twisties but excelled by putting the suspension in two up and luggage mode during those sessions to stiffen it. Regarding the seat, since my bike was later off the production line maybe Honda had already made some changes because I found the seat the most comfortable my booty ever perched on. Like you I am a little taller at 6'-3" and skinny so my booty is missing some cushioning.
Great presentation. It was very easy to follow along and comprehend your delivery. I was also eager to advance to each stage of the video and my attention was held from beginning to end.
That being said, unlike your verdict that this is the best bike “for you,” the negatives you listed still keep me away. Even what you considered a great improvement, the size and weight, those were, and are still, negatives for me.
Thanks for your in-depth critique on the 7th generation Gold Wing.
Excellent job.
Ride Safely!
You're certainly not alone. Many people prefer the larger platform of the previous generation. It certainly has an appeal for long-distance touring.
Just completed a 5 day tour of Scotland with my wife which included a full tour Isle of Skye, Applecross, Highlands. Very challenging roads with multiple up and down U-turns, single rough roads, motorways, city traffic. We encountered high wind, rain, sleet and snow plus temperatures as low as freezing with a trip average of 7 degrees. I can’t fault the 2018 Goldwing and in fact we both fell in love with it. It’s a manual bike and I’ve really needed the clutch because of the roads and the brakes are the best I’ve ever had. We also survived with the luggage space and I recommend the standard bags. Fill them to the limit and they still fit. I used the Nav the entire trip and it worked to perfection. Honestly I love this bike.
Sounds like a great trip
Thanks for the video!
One thing that kind of irked me about my new DCT Tour was the foglights. Yes, the dealer told me they were backordered, with no delivery date promised, but Honda sold them to me anyway on my new bike. It took FOREVER for them to come in. My only other peeve is the fact than I have to make a phone call (just dial the number then hang up once the dash display registers the call) in order to get my phone to play thru the stereo. My phone is a Pixel2.
I had an ST1300 with an electric w/s and the back of the screen got almost as buggy as the front. In heavy rain water ran under the screen over the dash and right into my lap. My legs and shoulders would get drenched. I put the accessory wind guards on and they helped my hands and legs. I like my 2015 GW and won’t be changing. At 72 I think I have my last bike.
On the door alignment, is there any adjustability in the hinges? I’ve done that on my cars before because door gaps drove me nuts. Call me OCD but it did adjust after some initial struggles.
I enjoyed your year-end review...I ride an old but great 2005 GL 1800...I was surprised by your comments on the front suspension as I recall
an episode where you upgraded to a TRAXX front end suspension, saying the stock front end was lacking...are your comments about the stock
front end or your glowing review of the TRAXX system?...Keep up the great work...wish I could get out of town as easy as you do...
I had Traxxion Full Monty installed on my 2007, and it really made a big difference. I have no doubt that the Traxxion upgrade for the 2018+ would also be an improvement. When it comes to suspension, nobody knows more than Max, IMO. But, for ME, the stock suspension is doing a good job. When it comes time to replace the factory suspension, I would definitely look at a Traxxion upgrade.
Great job Chris! I greatly appreciate your assessment of the machine and you obviously put great effort into it! For now, I shall keep my 12’ as I’m getting close to trike age, however, if it were practical I would love to own the DCT model!
CHARLES H CARRUTH Get a sidecar instead of a trike. Think of all the storage space + another passenger or two lol. They’re easy to get used to and very fun to ride.
I grew up with my old man’s sidecar on his 03 goldwing, it was great! We took that car off and put it on his 05 wing. The 03 is now mine haha. I have a 79 Kawasaki kz1300 with a Russian euro sidecar and that thing is a blast.
I test road an 18 and I really liked it with the exception of most of what you said. When it came to the various modes, I found Sport mode to be absolutely useless in the city. It is too aggressive when starting out and can get you into trouble real quick in traffic. I had an 08 but lost it to an insurance company when a woman ran a red light in an SUV. Turns out she was texting and driving. I really did like my 08 but it was a bit of a pig weight wise for me (I'm 5'7" and 180 pounds) but with Traxxion front and rear it handled like a Porsche. One thing I have heard about the 18 with a manual shift that is a bit of a bummer is the shifter design itself. While the shifter works great, the boss where it goes into the engine is prone to damage from underneath and can break off the engine. This will not be fixed under warrantee and requires new engine cases to fix it. I am sure that someone is working on a guard of some kind but you might want to keep that in mind should you buy an 18 with a manual tranny.
Excellent review! I agree with most of your points. I haven’t added the fog lights and probably soon will. The reason is that I hope it will help address the headlights when riding at night (mainly while turning sharp turns) the headlights (high or low beam) put a line across the road ‘trees on the left or right - road 10 feet in front of the bike on the road’ there very little lighted vision down around the corners!!! I think this is almost bordering on ‘unsafe’ - I don’t do much night riding and even less on tight curves after dusk.. - so I’ll leave it at that.
The headlight "line" to which you refer is a symptom of the way Honda focused the LED lights. That's what I don't like about LEDs, if you don't focus them, the light just scatters everywhere. An LED simply throws light forward, where it then rapidly dissipates in all directions, whereas a Halogen light is a bulb that throws light in many directions and can be harnessed and directed with a reflector. IMO, Halogen and HID is simply "better" light. LEDs are a gimmick that everyone has bought into, so this is the world we live in.
Just took delivery of my 2019 Goldwing DCT finished in red and black colour scheme. After watching your video regarding the fit and finish issues you had reported on your new bike my first thoughts were to go over the paintwork on my bike to look for any issues. I am glad to report that the finish of the paint is up to the standards that I expect from Honda. I have also looked very closely at the fit and operation of the trunk and saddlebags - again absolutely no issues at all, they all open and close perfectly. Not tried out the Bluetooth capabilities yet, just has a Sena system fitted to my Shoei Neotec 2 helmet so will be trying this out over the weekend. At the moment I have nothing negative to say about my new Goldwing, it is certainly that bit lighter than my old 2016 model, this is particularly noticeable when placing the bike on its centre stand.
Congrats on the new bike!
It's great to hear these details reporting the stated improvements!!!!!!!!
I've had mine for almost a year also. I concur with your findings!
First off the ones saying the suspension is bad are also the people who sell aftermarket suspension systems. I don't own one yet however I have one in the shop and I am so impressed with this new bike. I think it is the prettiest motorcycle ever produced. Very good assessment and you are spot on with your report. The DCT is really the only option as a 6 speed manual on this wide torque range engine is a mistake. On a trike the DCT is perfection.
They are a magnificent machine to work on. A little intimidating at first but simple after u get the hang of it.
Endeavor Trikes why would you say the manual 6 is a mistake? I am buying one and while DCT is very interesting I want a clutch l.
@@Kickstart500 The usable torque range of the 1800 spans almost 5000 rpm. The main reason for more gears is to compensate for a narrow usable torque range like that which exists on most V-twins due to severe shaking at low rpm. The GL would actually do well with a 4 speed and a 5 speed is almost overkill. The 6 speed simply means one must shift more than needed or skip shift. Some owners of the older wing even skip 1st just to limit the number of gear shifts. The DCT is a 7 speed but the rider is not shifting so that is perfectly fine. While I think the 6 speed is a mistake I am sure one will be just fine using this and one does adjust. There is no way I would not buy the DCT as it is a real pleasure to ride. And it's about time motorcycle transmissions adapted the change brought to cars 80 years ago. How many people buy cars with manual transmissions? I doubt you can even buy manuals in most cars and for good reason. In a recent economy test of the 4 major transmission type (manual, standard automatic, DCT and CVT) the manual faired by far the worst followed by standard than DCT and CVT being the most efficient. The tester rated manual as the worst as no human can shift as efficiently as a computer, this is true.
The 12th Fret thanks for the great explanation. I put 80k miles on my 2008 wing. I often wished for a 6th gear on the hiway but I see your point
I also made the mistake of trading that bike for an Indian Roadmaster. Great bike but so not a wing. If I was more open minded and the Maintenence wasn’t so high I’d consider dct
Cruiseman, Great video, coming up on a year and 9800 miles, have the non tour 6 speed manual. My only complaints grab rails, helmet lock and dip stick and process for checking oil. Got lucky with the seat, I have shelved the air hawk (first factory seat that works for me) I use the GPS so little can't really comment, apple car play maps solves the issue and with our new Cardo's the operation is seamless. I wear passive noise cancelling ear buds and never have noticed any drone maybe its the buds or could it be DCT related?? Fit and finish on the bike is flawless according the VIN I got the 53rd one off the line. Only technical issue was an intermittent problem with the hill stop assist it would flash a fault condition but apparently fixed itself as it hasn't happened in months. The is my first wing so I'm sure I have a difference reference point than previous model owners but it is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Tks keep the vids coming
There's nothing better than a good Garmin zumo.
I have a 2004 and my engine is super smooth without any hesitation. However you are getting better milage.
The one and only thing that you said that surprised me was, that your mileage during this most recent year totaled up to being only in the 8,000 range. For whatever reason, I had thought that you were riding 1,000 per month on average, 50% more than what your actual average is. As to all your findings and opinions, I submit that we're all grateful for your detailed commentary on the collection of sub-topics that you address in this video. The Devil Is In The Details, and you've uncloaked "him". I'm Happy For You, that you've determined that the transition into the 6th generation of the GW was the right choice o make. May you have countless miles of wonderful riding on your now one-year-old!!!!!!!
I feel the same way. I had a 2005, 2010 and a 2017 GL1800 and I wouldn’t trade my 2018 for any of them. I love this bike. Is it perfect? Hell no! But even with its few shortcomings it’s still the best motorcycle I’ve ever owned
u touched on it briefly but i rode a 2013 wing and it was just way to hot as it kept all the air off of me..i'm looking at an 18 wing and was wondering if it will be to hot? i have other bikes and will use the wing as my highway bike specifically for longer road trips but want to be able to feel some air.
Walking mode seems sluggish in reverse. I did the clutch reset. When I initially press the reverse button the bike moves then it immediate acts as if I'm pulling in a clutch and almost stops. If I let off the button and press it again it goes again then slows to a snail's pace or completely stops.
Chris, nice review. I would have hoped the a new version of a motorcycle or anything would be an improvement over previous models. The biggest problem of upgrading to the new model is cost. Many people have thousands of dollars invested in accessories on there current Goldwings. These old bikes will run for a very long time.
I remember the purchase date of my 2018 GW Tour DCT (red) because it was Star Wars day (May the 4th be with you!). Now, I've passed the 8000 mile mark and need to change my oil. Fortunately for me, this time I'm going to avoid the expensive shop time for an oil change by watching your maintenance video on how to change the oil myself. This alone will pay for the maintenance video series. Thank you! As for your one-year-later impressions on the bike, I still love it and think the DCT is phenomenal. Now, nearly a year after Star Wars day, there is one thing about the bike I truly hate, and one thing about the bike that doesn't peg the hate meter but is a constant annoyance. First the annoyance; the auto-cancelling turn signals are not timed right. Especially for the right turn signal. I have to be on top of the turn to the right (unless there's a turn lane to switch to first) to start my signal or it will time out before I get to the turn. It's just 10 blinks long. Period. I could keep renewing the right signal or I can go fully manual turn signals. Renewing the turn signal is more work than simply turning off the auto-cancelling and signaling manually. The only drawback there is that I sometimes forget that my turn signal is still on. I get ribbed by the people behind me in a group ride. I'm getting better, but either way, the turn signals shouldn't be claiming so much of my attention. Now, for the thing I hate; The 4-way-plus-center-button selector pad on the left handlebar! I traded in a 2018 Indian Chieftain for the Goldwing (still the best V-twin in my opinion) and it had a 4-way-plus-center selector on the left handlebar that was far, far better. You could say I'm spoiled because I know the feel of a far better selector and I want it back. The GW selector, being a flat design with a center button, requires my full attention to operate. I would make many accidental choices if I didn't look at my gloved left hand and watch it to see that it presses the right-arrow button without triggering the center button first. I cannot clearly feel where I am on the selector pad and I have to concentrate to detect where my thumb is on the pad when I need to keep my eyes on the road. My Chieftain had a design that was a joystick instead of a flat pad but it accomplished the same five functions by your thumb finding just one thing; the top of the joystick. Talk about easy to detect through the thickest glove! The tip of that joystick was the only thing I had to find by feel so no searching for a different button for different functions and just rock it left, right, up and down, or press down on it for center button functions. Ahhhhh... what a relief it would be if Honda ditched the abomination of that flat pad in exchange for a joystick. But, to be clear, in the final accounting, I think my 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT is just the best and I would choose it again.
I guess I am used to turn signal issue you describe, because every Goldwing I have owned has had the same issue. I wish Honda would employ a "double-click" on the turn signal switch. Click once for Auto Cancel, click twice to have the turn signal remain on with manual cancel. Or double-click to double the time the signal stays on, triple-click to triple the time and so on. I would prefer a joystick too, but I have never experienced that, so I don't know what I am missing!
@@cruisemansgarage Actually, my Indian Chieftain also had better turn signal programming. No double-clicking involved. I loved it. Auto if you push the lever to signal left or to signal right and release. However, if you HOLD the lever either left or right for more than once second, then the signal would cancel on release of the turn signal lever. Perfect for signaling to change lanes and immediately cancel on release of the turn signal lever after you're established in the new lane.
@@mrdonsmith I like that system.
A good critique Chris. You’ve covered every technical and engineering possibility! One thing you didn’t touch on... how does it make you feel when you ride it? That’s the most important thing to me.
Maybe I left out the most important part? From the very first time I did a test ride, it felt "right". The bike fits my needs perfectly and is the most comfortable bike I have ever owned, all things considered.
Great Video 👍🏿
I had a 2002 goldwing and a 1992 goldwing. I find my 2018 wing engine nevery bit as smooth if not more so. Around town low rpm fuel economy is due to 4 valves per cylinder with better fuel mix circulation in the cylinder. I agree on the nav. Honda dropped the ball on this miserably and it is still poor after the 2019 update. Pearl stallion brown unit I have has flawless paint. Not a blemish anywhere. No orange peel at all. Fit and finish on mine is perfect.
Honda is so close with this bike, a little more storage which could have been done with trunk lid and making side bag lids flush with inside of bag would have looked better too. Could have great range if tank was still 6.6 gallons or even 6 gallons- 250 to 300 miles between stops would be great-like bmw. Honda could do a LD (long distance) tourer with more storage, more range, touring seat etc Missed mark with most Goldwing owners.
Just took delivery on my 2018 today. Rides 3 times better than my 2004 Goldwing. I do like the weight difference from the old one. The dealer took $6300 off to move it out. Thanks for the videos...
Hi Cruiseman’s garage Mike from Ohio March 31 2012 goldwing still in storage. I would I’ve to upgrade to 2020 gold wing. Is cruiseman upgrade to?
great video!
Great video !
I agree with the daytime head lights not easyly seen. I would like to see a amber or orange foglight option. Maybe you could find that ?
Thanks
Have not seen the amber yet. I think Electrical Connection is offering one.
I’m at a little over 1 year and 10k miles and I pretty much agree 100% with your assessment. I spoke with Honda corporate last year about the navigation system and was told that the negative issues would be addressed - obviously they have a different idea of what needs to be addressed. So far, the 2 updates have been bandaids to a patient with a terminal disease. I just tried to use the Honda Trip Planner and upload a route - total disaster. I’ve now come to the conclusion that you did awhile ago - buy an external GPS. This system is an embarrassment! I’m amazed that my friends with Harley’s and Indians have a much better navigation system than what Honda threw together. Also, the sound system is really pathetic. The good news is that I ended up getting an iPhone and the integration and Car Play is great. Thanks for the great review!
Chris I just came across this item regarding the new 1800 you may wish to address. On prior goldwings one can have a near dead battery which will just barley crank the engine over yet it will start and after just a short period be just fine for rapid starting. However on this new wing which uses a unitized starter/alternator even with a moderately charged battery the starter will simply grunt and then all the electronicas will reset. This new wing will absolutely not start unless the battery is good and strong. This could be a real issue if one does not keep the battery fully charged at all times.
I don't know how you can be TOO nit picky about fit and finish on a $30K bike. Those things you pointed out, just shouldn't be.
Cruiseman, Question If the pre 2018 had the same upgrades aside from the re-designed body contours. Do you think You'd also like that. I love Bulky?
Absolutely. If Honda had added the tech, the DCT and the electric windscreen to the previous platform, I would have bought that instead.
I have just done a test ride on the 2018 DCT Goldwing. I must say I loved it. The only thing I did not like was that the bike always is in a gear when going around corners and roundabout. I usually clutch my GL1800 and let the bike glide around turns in idle. I guess this is something you will get used to. Great bike, I would love to have one.
that is nothing
it is always in the right gear
my 2020 is divine
I really appreciate your videos. I have been thinking about moving from HD to the Goldwing. Your videos are puff pieces like most. Or ones by people that thing a liter bike is big. I also like that you are in my back yard, I live Highland Village in Denton Co.
I have posted a few videos that are FAR from puff pieces. Watch "10 Things Honda Needs To Fix On The 2018 Goldwing". Still a great bike and I hope you end up getting one.
Hi why instead of the horrible garmin do you not connect an iPhone and run Waze for your nav ? This also gives you full CarPlay and music streaming!,
Ps love the blogs and love my DCT as well 👍
Setting the air filter and building the motorcycle all around it 😩. Great review.
I really enjoy your videos very informative. I currently own a 2018 Kawasaki Z900 and am now looking at a 2018 Goldwing or Star Venture for me and my wife to be able to tour on. I keep seeing videos about the tie rods on the Goldwing needing adjustment after just a few thousand miles and this is a concern for me if so could you shed some insight about this I would greatly appreciate any information you have to offer thank you.
Tie rods have never been an issue on my bike, nor any of my friends with 2018s.
Get to riding, man. Have had my F6B now for just about 7.5 months and have over 13,500 miles.
(Swapped the windshield, added a trunk and USB power ports, and love every mile.)
Rich R.
Got that right Rich!
I think, the balance is very different on the 18. In the show room, when I sat on both, the 17 felt lighter; I know, that it is actually heavier, but it did not feel that way. Maybe, it is the gas tank. Did you notice this?
Guys how do you attach a phone holder, cup holder or alternate GPS to the LEFT handgrip on a DCT?
I have cobbled together a mount but it is not as secure as it needs to be. The portion I attached to is tapered and has wiring coming out from the bottom.
Watch my video on installing the Garmin 595 LM and it shows how I installed on he left side and a link to the item.
Iv got a question
On the previous gw model you had to manually lift the front screen. There was no gap between the screen and the front body( where front head light is) it was flush together with no air gap at the bottom of the windscreen. I took a demo ride on the new gw I noticed On the new gw when you raise the wind shield there is an air gap at the bottom of the shield.. where it meet with the body.
So big that You can slide your fingers through the new gap. Highway winds get into that gap and it create a wind tunnel humming effect. That new noise makes it harder to hear the radio at highway riding.
I think the solution would be to close that gap like the previous Goldwing. So no air goes through the bottom of the screen. Just Up and around.
This should quiet the wind noise down on highway rides.
Someone should come up with a rubber or plastic adapter to close that gap when the wind shield is in the up position.
This is a pretty typical design for electric windscreens, especially on adventure bikes and sport touring bikes. I am sure Honda designed it this way to save on weight
Hi. I would like to know from you if buying a gold wing is best when in comparison to other touring bikes like a BMW gtl k1600 or a Harley davidson Road glide etc. After owning it for an year what's your suggestion? I am looking to buy a gold wing. Need your suggestion. Thank you.
Tough question. For me, personally, I prefer the Goldwing for its reliability, smoothness, performance and ease of self-maintenance. I also prefer the looks. But, the BMWs are also great machines and Harley's have their huge following as well.
The new Honda Goldwinglette, that should be the real name. They took a two up cross country touring motorcycle and reduced it by almost 10% to give their customers a solo rider weekender that you can’t put a helmet in. If I wanted a lighter bike with less storage, less wind protection and more vibration, I would buy a Vespa. It seems to me like Honda knew they got it wrong on release and started trying to give deals to anyone that would market their pile of crap in a better light to boost sales. If Honda is going to sell me a New Goldwinglette with 10% less and then I have to put the rest on it after purchase, something is wrong. I will stick with the 2017 version or better yet purchase a BMW K1600GTL, that has storage I can put 4 helmets in and imo is considered a cross country touring motorcycle right out of the crate.
How does the ride compare to my 1500..
Took a test ride on a 2019 today. I was surprised that I felt so high on it compared to my 1995 GL1500. It sure was fun to drive. I walked away with a few questions the salesman couldn't answer. The handlebars seemed far forward to me. Can they be moved back? I'm interested in one with an airbag. Where does Honda move the USB connector to with the airbag? Either I sat higher or the seat is wider taking my feet farther from the ground. Is it possible to lower them a little bit? I'm 5'8"...
Handlebars can be moved back. There are aftermarket solutions for that. The Airbag USB connector is in the trunk, another can be added in the left saddlebag. Seat may be slightly wider, not sure. Talk to John at BikeSolutions.com. He may be able to modify the seat to get you lower.
Cruiseman's Garage Thanks!
My only suggestion to other folks taking a test ride is to make sure it’s not in Sport mode to start out. The salesman left it in Sport when I climbed on it and the throttle was incredible responsive... :-)
Took me a few minutes before I noticed it...
Chris, could you please say something about RANGE in your review?
How do you feel about the airbag option. I like the blacked out version but airbag is only available in red. Also can you take off your pack and seat for local driving and out in for long rides? I am looking at one tomorrow
Airbag model is fine, but less storage. There is method for removing the trunk, but it is a pain in the A$$. Takes more than an hour.
Long time R1200GS rider and starting to research the Gold Wing. This was vid very insightful. I split my time in DFW and Hill Country and would be interested in your experience riding the GW in the Texas heat. How much heat does it throw off on hottest days? Thanks!
Honestly, I have never owned a Goldwing that had a problem with "throwing off" heat from the engine. The new Goldwing does not have as much wind protection as the previous Wing, so it is actually a better summer bike, IMO.
Chris, totally concur with your assessment of the 2018 DCT Goldwing. Had mine for one year and have put a little over 23000 miles on it. One thing... I believe the lack of Android support is on Google, not Honda. I remember reading that Honda would be happy to allow Android Auto on the Goldwing if Google would support it. I have an iPhone and love the Carplay function.
There has to be a way to support Android Auto as most new cars now support both Apple and Android.
That's a lame excuse..... my 2019 Honda Insight has BOTH Apple Car Play & Android Auto. That's another black mark against Honda for me not purchasing a new 2018/19 Goldwing & keeping my 2012 instead.
@@henryhonda8408 ,again.. It's Google's decision to not allow Android Auto on the Goldwing, not Honda. From an article by the The Verge:"It doesn’t have everything, though; after all, Android Auto is missing. The blame for that goes to Google, at least according to Honda via Road Show." ... and from an article from CNET: "Bad news for Android Auto users however, according to CNET Google doesn’t have any plans to allow for Android Auto integration into motorcycles at this time." Pretty sure the car division of Honda has nothing to do with the Honda motorcycle division.
If that's the case then..........SHAME on Google & Honda, probably a licensing issue then between the two companies which is likely ALL about MONEY. Something like this by itself will not affect my decision of not purchasing a 2018 but add it to other little irritants (smaller trunk & saddlebags, GPS sucks etc) and it probably makes it a deal breaker. I've been tossing the idea of maybe going to a Spyder RT as I'm getting up there in age and this is pointing me more & more in that direction.
@@henryhonda8408 , yep, probably a money issue. Ride what ya like and like what ya ride. Wishing you many happy miles!
How is buffeting? I've had '97, '01, and '15. With each new one the buffeting was reduced. Now with less wind protection on the 6th gen., How's the buffeting?
Even with the stock OEM windshield, buffeting was not bad. But it all depends on your height.
Good review. The one exception is the talk on suspension. At 180lbs, you're almost Japanese, but this bike was built to haul beef luvin Murikens ;)
Murica, USA USA USA
I enjoy your videos and just got my new 2018 wing yesterday. I have a tough question for you. Back many years ago, the automotive industry begin using aluminum cylinder block with great failure. I know technology has improved but I'm still leary of a piston moving up and down on aluminum cylinder walls. Honda it touting their new high strength aluminum cylinder sleeves. Just wondering what Honda did to make this work with the durability that is expected from this engine. Older Goldwings have been known to got 200,000+ miles. Can we expect the same service from this engine with Aluminum sleeve? Even for a few more pounds, I would feel more comfortable with case steel sleeves in an aluminum block. Thanks in advance if you can shed some light here.
I guess the jury is still out, but, Honda is offering up to an 8 year factory extended warranty.
great review........i have a 2014 goldwing f6c valkyrie and i agree on the seat, the stock sucked
Chris, have you heard any rumors about when Honda will announce the 2020 goldwings? I’m interested to see what going to be new on the 2020 models...
The fuel mileage at 41 is bad as fast as I am concerned. I get 37 pulling a 700+ lb trailer ( rollahome packed with a gen. AC ,food for r 3 weeks and deep cycle batt.52 quart cooler Clothes for a month and extra fuel. In Yellowstone no trailer I was getting 47 mpg. I was shocked but I keep detailed mog records . As bad as 31 but that was really hard riding in the mountaina. Would love to know how the dct does pulling a trailer. The new Goldwing your just didn't seem to have that lazyboy comfort I have on my 2010. I rode 9000 miles in 18 days first tDay was 18.5 hours in the saddle and I was ready to keep riding and I just didn't feel the 2018 would be good for more than 4-5 hours. I have the Corbin seat in my 2010.
I pulled my Bushtec trailer from Dallas to Knoxville for Wing Ding 40. It pulled fine, but you cannot use Econ mode. Tour Mode is required. The Hill Start Assist is a lifesaver with the trailer on a hill.
Cruiseman I told that about a year that I can from a Ninja ZX14. But, I've been riding Goldwings for a few years. I drove the 18 Goldwing for a few months which my Cousin owns. It's a very good bike. BUT! I'm 6'2" 285lbs. So, with my girlfriend and myself was a tough ride. I went out and purchased the 2018 Yamaha Star Venture, not sure if I was making a mistake. Man, that's the best bike that I've owned so far. I thought that it would be extremely hot. But it's working out very well, when riding it for a long time it get hot but I open or close the vents when needed I love it. More torque than my Goldwing by far. I love your videos, keep up the great work.
That Star Venture is a BIG bike. I looked at one on the showroom floor and was shocked at how big the trunk was! They are beautiful bikes, and a good choice for someone your size. I am 6'2" and 180 and the new Wing is just right. But, I used to weight 250 and I think it might have been to small for me back then. Ride safe.
thank you 🌼🌼🌼
Cruiseman, are you aware or heard of any issues with PGM-FI issues with the 2018 Honda Goldwing DCT Touring?
Have not
I am happy for you that you like what you have but for me I will be keeping my '08 wing. In my opinion there is no such thing as a GoldWing after '17. The '18 doesn't even look like a wing it looks like and rides like a sport bike. I hear you say you have accepted and adapted to many things well for the cost that is not what you should have to do. If someone gave me one of them for free all I would do is put a for sale sign on it. What they should have done was keep the size of the bike and just added the electronics to it. Ride safe and once again I am glad you like it.
I understand. Like I said in the video, the new platform is not for everyone. It is a shame that Honda did not apply all of the new tech to the previous generation and give buyers a choice. But, the market just is not big enough to support it.
Chris do you have a rough estimate of what it cost to make this bike perfect for you? Talking about aftermarket parts and accessories
An interesting question. Wingsoft was about $440, F4 Customs +4 costs about $400, Fuse Block $120, HomeLink, Fog Lights, Upper Deflectors probably another $750. I am guessing around $2,000. BUT, I had close to $4,500 in add-ons on my 2012.
Yeah I was just curious. I personally don’t like the smaller but that’s just opinion I have not rode one but I’m sure if it’s made by Honda it will hold up good. I have the 2015 and I’m sure I probably have a couple thousand dollars in accessories
Agree. This is a great motorcycle. Fun to ride. With the electronics it is like getting a fast and nimble sport tour bike or a comfortable long distance tour with the push of s button. I love the DCT transmission and manual mode. The bike just looks beautiful, sleek and modern.
Least favorite has to be the finish of the wheels, the rough texture looks dirty after a few miles and is difficult to clean. My BMW’s have much better wheels. I have never owned an iPhone so most of phone integration is useless for me. I am sure Honda will fix this some day unless Apple owns them.
Chris, how do you handle the bike in strong wind, I found myself scared as heck, the wind was almost to much and I had my wife on the bike with me?
I have not found the strong winds to affect the bike any worse than on my 2012 Goldwing. Strong cross winds are just scary period. I remember one ride from the Grand Canyon to Sedona where we were getting pummeled by 50mph gusts that kept blowing us across the center line of the two lane highway. That was on my 2007 pulling a Bushtec.
@@cruisemansgarage Thank you, just don't like them winds.
Cruise do you know Kevin in D-F as mcrider? He just got the same bike.
I don't know Kevin, but know his channel. I saw his video on the new Goldwing. Pretty cool. Love his videos.
Hi. Any issues with the rider triangle? Do your hips or knees have discomfort?
Honestly, I was expecting to feel cramped on this bike and was shocked when the riding position was almost identical to the previous Goldwing. I have a 33" inseam. If I had 34 or longer, it might start feeling cramped.
About the same as me. I have a 1998 Valkyrie and feel a bit cramped. When I sit on the new Wing it seems to feel a bit better.
I'm surprised he only has 8,000 miles on it. I live in Michigan and I put 6,500 miles on my BMW last riding season.
Ya, I agree.
So much truth for one day! 😵 Well said💐😘
Cruiseman's Garage,
I've not only watched the whole video, but spent a lot more time, following the comments.
Now, having done that, I'm sure I missed a few things, from the video.
Anyway, here it goes:
I understand that:
You love this bike.
You wouldn't go back to an earlier gen. But kind of wished they included some bigger luggage
space, and fuel space.
For me, they would be the same bummers, along with being a $30K bike, for which Honda has only seen fit to "downscale" the bike, except that it fits really well. With a nav system, with a lackluster navigation offering.
I tend to hate the fact that you can no longer fit (except for how you, or someone else showed us) to fit 2 full face helmets in the trunk.
Another bummer is about the clutch, if you wanted on, on this bike. The fact that the foot shifter can be broken off, requiring a half an engine dissassemby, and, if I understand correctly, not under warranty.
To that, I MUST SAY:
COME ON HONDA: YOU'RE TOO BIG A COMPANY FOR THAT NOW.
(actually, I hope nobody at Honda Japan reads this and commits hiri-kiri over it.)
Another thing, and this is going back to previous demos here, on CZcams, by Revzilla:
Question for you, CRUISEMAN:
Has the new front fork assembly addressed the "head shake" issue of previous models?
(If you're riding down a straight road, and momentarily let go of the handlebar?)
I am in no way slamming this wonderful bike (2018 Goldwing), but it's these few things that I'd've expected Honda would have more fully addressed, at engineering time, I guess especially the headshake issue which you didn't claim if it had been solved or not.
Then the lack of trunk space, as it once had.
Then, the thing you said about seeing a 2018 coming down the road.
BUT never forgetting that the 2018 hauls butt. OK?
Still, the other things need to be fixed, even the ones that you claimed you were nit-picking on.
I'd expect it be a stellar bike from Honda.
I MEAN WHY NOT?
(Are they starting to get bored over there?)
I just expect better from Honda, for this pricey machine. We are not all on the pay scale of the Engineers over there, who can afford daily lunches for around $30 or $40 per day at their local Macdonald's. (I own a jap bike, just not anywhere near on par with the Goldwing.)
I'm nowhere on par with the others in this forum, who have owned multiple GW bikes.
OK? But, In the past, I was the 3rd owner of a Honda Magna, which ran exceptionally well, AND made me ask myself: Why? Why would Honda make a bike this powerful?
Anyway, I will try to follow your videos.
But wish you continued fun with your bike.
How many kilometres do you get on your radial tires?
I ride 35,000km a season (in 5-6months) and I’m worried I’ll have to buy 3-4sets of tires a season. Could get very pricey.
Darkside
I have 8,700 on my Dunlops that came with the bike and they look to be in pretty good shape. I think I can get 12k out of them, but will have to wait and see.
On my 2012 I got as high as 37,000km on my back tire and 29,000 on my front tire. I live in northern Ontario in cold temps and I don't cruise any higher then 110 kph (usually 90 to 100) so my tires last way longer then Goldwing tires from the hot temps of southern USA (with higher speed limits I may add).
HenryHonda
I have never heard of any motorcycle Radial tire lasting 29-37,000KM. What tire are you using?
Dunlop E3's.... now have E4's on but haven't changed them yet. A couple of my Goldwing friends have had about same mileage out of their Dunlops. Are you in Canada?
2008 solid 40 mpg with 2 up.
Way too expensive here in Canada at $34K for a motorcycle! No way. I can buy a lightly used pre 18 wing for $10K and it will do everything you need and gives you a smoother engine, more storage, and better wind protection. Sure I could put a duffle bag on the passenger seat on an 18 but somehow that defeats the purpose of having fixed luggage carriers and means something that can be stolen or soaked in the rain, etc. Honda fail.
Honda went after the younger crowd on this gold wing. The more sportier look. Unfortunately thats where the loss of a comfortable seat, good luggage room , etc comes into play. Are people not smart enough to create comfort and style at the same time? And I do agree, at 30,000 dollars the gps should be good if not great. But at least good. With apple car play, I would be using the gps from my phone though. You not having an iphone, you weren’t able to really iterate about that? Overall great in depth review. I would love to see you do one of the 2019 model goldwing. If theres any major changes at all.