2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT Review | MC Commute
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- čas přidán 28. 06. 2021
- Honda’s Gold Wing is the zenith of motorcycle touring. Whether you’re running to the local convenience store for a Slurpee, or traveling across the American Southwest for a getaway weekend, few streetbikes are as capable as the Gold Wing Tour DCT ($29,300 as tested).
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Radically overhauling it for the 2018 model year, Big Red went in a leaner and meaner direction with its Wing. So much so that it skimped on cargo capacity inside the 13.2-gallon top case. Owners complained, and Honda answered by increasing the capacity by nearly 3 gallons.
It may not seem like a huge change, but the compartment now easily swallows two full-face helmets, of any make. The case would accept two helmets before, but they had to be of a certain model and size, and you had to insert them just right.
Additional fixed hard luggage is located on either side of the rear fender, though they are oddly shaped (rectangular and not very wide). The cases are opened via subtle push-buttons and are locked electronically via a nice-looking rectangular shaped electronic key fob. Hydraulic action makes for smoother operation. Our only gripe is that the cases are finicky to close. A dashboard-mounted indicator lets you know if they are fully shut. In total, the Hold Wing Tour offers nearly 32-gallons of cargo capacity.
The redesigned top case also allowed engineers to tweak the passenger backrest. It’s nearly 2 inches taller, a tad thicker, and positioned at a more relaxed angle. Both rider and passenger seats have nice-looking and more grippy suede covers. Both seats have electronically adjustable heaters. This along with the rider’s heated grips make riding in chilly weather more comfortable.
Pair that with the generously sized and electronically adjustable windscreen, and the Gold Wing elevates itself to one of the most cozy rides for short and long-distance trips. Other creature comforts include a more powerful 45-watt four-speaker stereo. An XM radio antenna is now standard too. Apple and Android smartphone compatible carry over as does Bluetooth. There’s also an AM/FM tuner.
Keeping tabs on everything is a 7-inch color dash display that integrates GPS-enabled navigation and vehicle and audio settings. It’s manipulated by a series of buttons on the raised clip-on-style handlebar and a joystick wheel on the center console.
The display is bright and easy to read, day and night. However, we wish it offered a traditional “dark mode” like modern iOS-powered devices. Menu navigation is clunky and the system could offer faster boot time when the engine is started. All modern Honda motorcycles (2018-plus Gold Wing, 2020-plus Africa Twin, 2021 CBR1000RR-R) could benefit from more well-thought-out and intuitive user interfaces.
Twist the throttle however and our nit-picky gripes fade away as quickly as the objects in the nice sized rearview mirrors. With upward of 100 pound-feet torque from 1,300 rpm, the Wing accelerates in a hurry-especially for a bike that weighs 838 pounds. The cockpit fills with a rowdy roar and the exhaust note purr is equally pleasing, sounding like a six-cylinder Porsche. Horsepower-wise the 1,836cc flat six pumps out 90 hp at 5,400 rpm.
It’s a downright hoot to run up through the seven-speed gearbox-especially in DCT trim ($1,000 upcharge). This option replaces the manual six-speed transmission with a fully automated seven-speed version that eliminates the traditional clutch lever. This makes the Wing as easy to ride as a scooter.
Riders can still shift manually via finger-actuated and trigger-like buttons. However, the transmission shifts gears so quickly, especially in Sport mode, that you’ll never shift more quickly than the machine.
The other three riding modes (Tour, Econ, and Rain) offer different shift maps. Overall, the Tour setting is our favorite as it is paired with more moderate throttle response. We wish Honda offered the ability to tune engine power, throttle response, and the shift maps independently. Easy-to-use push-button electronic reverse is also standard, which helps you maneuver in and out of tight parking spots. A manual cable-actuated parking brake keeps it from rolling when parked.
Even during high-speed rides, we consistently record around 38 mpg, impressive based on average speed and size. We also appreciate that the engine runs on regular 87-octane pump fuel. We do yearn for a larger-capacity fuel tank.
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Video/edit: @AdamWaheed
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Anybody else think that after that red sports car flew past him on the canyon highway he would come upon it a few minutes later crashed or broken down on the side of the road? And as for all the haters on Adam's narration speed, I happen to like it. I am able to relax with my coffee, and hear each word he is saying clearly as opposed to some reviews that talk so fast you miss some of what they are saying. Keep up the great work Adam, I watch all your content.
I agree
My brain does not run that slow. My mind wanders when a speaker … talks … one … word … at … a … time.
omg calm down, congrats on getting the award for kindest brown noser, people are allowed to criticize others and make suggestions without being labeled by agreeable feminine men
Red Corvette @ 36:36
Heck, I'm not native English speaker. It's actually third language and I can certainly appreciate well and bit slower spoken English, but even to me this is waaayyy toooo slooooow 😊
Excellent review. I have had my '19 DCT Tour for almost 4 yrs now and just got to 30K on it. After 3 previous GWs (manual of course) and about 350K total miles on the 3, my DCT is the best of the 4 I have had. I'm 70 now and this will be my last bike. Look for 70K on this one before I quit 2 wheels.
I have had my 2022 for 8 months 7500 miles and I can assure you I can easily get 250 to 300 miles on that little tanks . By that time I like to get a drink of something in me . I could keep going but need fluids in the body . Great review 👍
I bought a Goldwing Tour DCT earlier this month. It’s the most amazing motorcycle I’ve owned in some 50 years of motorcycling. It’s like riding a Porsche motorcycle with the flat-six engine and PDK transmission. I don’t know how it does what it does but it’s always in the correct gear at the correct moment. Great bike!
100%!
Sounds fantastic. I prefer the Bagger model.
I also bought a DCT Tour recently. My main complaint: GEAR WHINE and excessive driveline lash. Also, the front tire "sings" and will give you a high-ptiched whine up until about 65-70 MPH. So, if you buy the DCT, expect a LOT of mechanical gear noise and other mechanical noises. I came off of a 2015 BMW r1200RT, so am obviously very fussy. But the 'Wing does NOT compare to the BMW in terms of real-world quiet for long distance. In spite of the hype of the Honda, the BMW beats it hands down on cruise speed quietness and stress-free riding.
This Honda has a very comfortable riding position, low CG, and lack of handlebar vibration, but the footpeg vibes are no better than my BMW...just a higher frequency buzz. The navigation on this bike sucks compared to Garmin. NO comparison. Honda needs to simply adopt the Garmin nav system, and quit pissing around. SO...if you don't like gear whine and driveline lash, buy the MANUAL transmission 'Wing, or better yet, a BMW latest edition r1250RT, overall a much better motorcycle for the real world rider. My biggest regret: NOT buying the manual tranny version of this bike. OH well, live and learn: it's just money. Life goes on. GLTA.
@@geraldfrieberg7921
Very interesting. I don’t sense any of this. Zero.
@@geraldfrieberg7921 Interesting. Not my experience at all. In my opinion the Goldwing is as good or better than the R1200LT and K1600GTL that I owned.
I rode my ‘21 DCT on The Dragon, Cherahola Skyway, and many other North Carolina twisties and was amazed at how perfectly the computer chose the proper gear. Butter smooth shifts. Awesome bike !
Adam shares so much about the bike and mentions the pros and the cons while casually riding through the twisties. Sounds like an outstanding motorcycle. Awesome review.
No one can give such an in depth, detailed, comprehensive review as Adam does, he spoke non stop for 49 minutes and enjoyed all of it. Some reviewers specialize in specific categories i.e. :Sport, adventure, cruiser, tour etc., but Adam appreciates, understands and rates them all fair based on their intended usage. Well done Sir, and can't wait for next review, no matter what bike it is!
Hard to ride through traffic and talk professionally.
Can't wait to try one.i had an 88 that I loved. This is a great incentive to go riding again. Honda. Continues. To dominate. Smoooth.
Thanks man.
I feel like I just rode this bike myself for hours. I’m actually enjoying this amount of dialogue. Usually, other reviewing riders sound like they’re sales persons.
Adam great job.
Absolutely spot on and first rate review with both content and delivery!👍
I am blessed to have one of these incredible machines and it brings a smile to my face every time I ride.
Purchased 2022 DCT, so smooth, really fun to drive in traffic. I love I can hear the radio clearly on the highway with a full face helmet entirely closed, almost as good as listening to it in the GARAGE. Awesome
Congrats. Which color? Love hearing about the radio being loud enough.
@@roadglide 2 tone blue metallic.
Whats the difference between the 2021 and 2022?
@@JUFFAIR101 Just color
Probably the best review of any bike I've seen on YT! Had almost all major brands and models including HD and Indian...loved them all but I'm looking forward to purchasing this one (hopefully it's the last one!!)! Technology, comfort and performance...the riding trifecta!!
It doesn't matter if you're reviewing a pogo-stick or a rocket-ship, the reviews are always comprehensive and well-considered; count me in!
Thanks man.
I came from a sport bike to a 23 tour DCT. I said I would never own a tour bike. I was soooooo wrong on not doing this earlier. I commute 260 miles a day and this was the best purchase I've made. Trust me sport bike guys. Try it out!
I'm very impressed with your analyzation speed. You don't say any "filler" words and it speaks to your intelligence. Plus, keeping focus on the road while dictating a full blown analysis of that Goldwing while traversing the hillside was dope! You nailed it brah! Well done.
And "yes!" I totally expected that Ferrari (I think it's a Ferrari) to be crumpled up into the guardrail or pulled over by the cops. Adam was so composed in thought and then he said "Hey, I like the way that guy drives his car!" .... classic!
Super review !!! Good job. I absolutely loveeeee my 2020. I just cant see myself getting anything else in the future, so far. This bike is addicting . I feel so relaxed riding it and find any chance to do so. This is my summer commute to work 2 wheeler. The power and smoothness is like no other. I could do 40 MPH going on a slight hill and she will stays in 7th gear in Econ, no problem. Sport mode, is magical in my book. Honda surly needs to listen to all of us to improve future productions. No bike is perfect. For me, this one is close to it. I have been riding for 30 years now and it is my first Goldwing ever. Happy riding, boss.
Excellent review Adam. Your ability to ride the canyons like it's nothing, while talking effortlessly, is quite impressive. Keep up the excellent work.
Great review, Adam is articulate and knowledgable. He addresses all the questions you may have without the usual ah's and um's. The production quality is excellent. My wife and I are in the market for a Goldwing and this peace filled in a lot of the blanks.
Can't do anything without your wife approval huh? Cringe 😬
I used to live in this area and recognized all these roads. Now I’m jonesing for the bike and the weather.
That was a very well 49 minutes spent. Beautiful scenery, gorgeous bike. Thank you!
There’s no better two up riding, trailer hauling, dealer network, reliable tourer than the Honda Goldwing!
Great job Adam! - keep doin what you do... amazing work!
Definitely a dream of mine to own one of these Goldwing DCT’s. Got to test drive one at one of the Honda Demo Days and fell in love with it. Now if only I could afford the price tag. 😔. THE best ride I’ve ever had on a motorcycle. We’ll done Honda!
Great Review Adam! Your comments at the end spoke volumes for this bike! I thoroughly trust your opinions so when you said you may just buy one, that said it all!
Thanks man.
The want for this is strong. Thanks Adam for the rundown.
Thank you Adam for an outstanding review. I have a 2007 Wing the wife and I love and have been thinking about an upgrade to the newer version but was on the fence regarding the DCT. You sold me with your review! If we decide on a newer bike I will definitely consider the DCT. One area of the new bike is the storage capacity. We normally pack for 6 days but I am sure that would not be possible on the new version. I wish Honda would have kept at least the same amount of storage. Thanks again for the review---you're the best!
If honda didnt change the storage and gas capacity. I would have one in the garage. I have a 2018 bmw k1600 instead.
I really like your reviews! I have watch this several times. I am a ride coordinator for chapter f GWRRA. Planning on purchasing a new gold wing. The model that interest me is the DCT without the air bag. I don’t care for the looks of the blacked out and I have 2 friends that have the red & black. So I hope Honda can bring some new colors to the table! Also I agree that the Cardo unit is the way to go! However our group still uses cb’s that no longer come installed on the bike as they did in past. See what choices we have in 2022. Thanks for the great reviews.
Best review I've seen so far man. Thanks!
Nice review. Awesome to see the video by where I live. That road after the exit is what I take to work everyday.
I really enjoy this man’s reviews. Keep up the good works my good man.
Thanks man.
@@AdamWaheed I would prefer you to talk a little bit faster (1,5x speed) but I'm from Czech republic and we generally talk faster so for the others it would be probably too fast. Otherwise the review was loaded with information. You should take this bake and make a trip through Europe, it would be a ride of your life, I'm pretty sure of that.
Adam knows his stuff
Such a beautiful landscape filled with just amazing scenery. You folks are super lucky.
This is an amazing video. Jeeze- you've almost convinced me to cancel my Spyder demo Saturday! Good lord this bike seems amazing.
I can't wait until Honda enters the Goldwing in Motoamerica's King of Baggers!...I can dream....
They would be too afraid to allow it.
Well, if the bmw came in with the k1600 it would decimate them all
There never gonna have the lean angle of a V-Twin just look at how high they allowed the bags to be mounted
perfect review , congrats ! I can't wait to give it a test ride
Awesome video, thanks. Got my new wing about four weeks ago. Gotta say, I'm in love with this bike. I agree with everything you said in your review. The only thing I found that was different, for me, was the millage I got and I'm not talking about the readout. I've filled the tank about four times since I got it and I'm getting 46 to 48 MPG and I ain't what ya might call a layback kinda rider. I am thrilled with this bike and I've been riding for a long time. Think Honda nailed it with this one!
It's liters not gallons
I enjoyed the ride so much. What a beautiful day. Awesome Goldwing!
Adam keep up the amazing work. You’re thorough and very knowledgeable. God bless.
I'm not nearly old enough nor have enough grandkids to be looking at this motorcycle, but something about it is so intriguing
This was a great review!!!!! Very thorough and detailed. I wish there was more information on the rider ergonomics for taller riders.
Not gonna lie, Adam has me pondering my moto-ethos with the review of this Goldwing...
sippin on a diet coke in a traffic jam is why i want the DCT and im buying one when laser cruise gets added for the ultimate in comfort. ill leave my 2021 super duke r for the playtime.
Another great review Adam. King regards from Barcelona!
Great ride review and a great machine. I really enjoyed revisiting the PCH and Hwy 33 north out of Ojai! World class rides.
Great review, great style, great content, well done that man
Adam love the video..right to the point,no b.s or dumb music playing anytime..very informative I learned alot.keep up the good work!
Thanks man. Yep. That's what's up.
Awesome motorcycle and review. You rock Adam!
I really enjoy this man's review. So I bought a same black GW tour in China for twice the price of US😁
my next dream bike is Multistrada V4S.
What a great reviewer - Hi from the UK 👍😊
I just bought the new 2023 all black Goldwing DCT Touring model and I purchased the 60 month extended warranty. That was the longest warranty offered.
Thank you, you just made this GW my next bike!!
A W, really good article. Your word carries weight. After downsizing from a GS, then LT a few years back it may time to up-size again.
THAT was a good review of the Goldwing 💯👏🏽👏🏽👍
Thank you so much for your invaluable information, highly appreciate it, keep it up the outstanding job, have a great day.
My first motorcycle was a 1975 Honda Goldwing 1000. I remember going up Highway 1 on the coast with my wife, greatest trip I've ever been on. Since then I've owned a few other motorcycles and nothing compares to the Goldwing about five years ago I bought another Goldwing and I absolutely love it
Founded in 1977, GWRRA has grown to more than 72,000 U.S., Canadian and international Members in 53 foreign countries in just 35 years. Over 800 active Chapters are managed by 4,000 volunteer leaders working with members to foster safe, enjoyable riding while also working to improve the public image of motorcycling.
Great video and tons of information. Thanks for making it. Currently riding a Piaggio MP3 500, but I'd upgrade to a Gold Wing. Very cool bike.
Thanks for an excellent review Adam. As a current owner of a 2021 GW, I would agree with most of your review. One thing you mentioned that isn't accurate is the fuel mileage . I have been getting around 250 miles (400k} per tank using 87 octane consistently. My best friend owns the same bike and is getting about the same. Continue the great reviews!!
150-160 miles per tank sounded extremely low and I am not even sure where he got that number cause they made sure it was still comparable to their older models before the 2018 version. I do hate that they made the tank smaller but there is no way they were going to go smaller and not have comparable distance riding.
I get at least 200 miles per tank. I think my mileage has been improving on my ‘21 model. I have about 8k miles on it now.
same here, I get 250 out of every tank
Good to know because that was my biggest concern on determining if I should go from my 2009 GW which I easily get 200+ to a 2020 GW. Thanks!
Thanks Adam, a really great review!
2011 Adam, okay now on the new super bike shootout we are going to break this down into track and street!
2021 Adam,,,,, Gold Wing,,,,ooooohhhh yeah!!!
Adam and Michael Neeves have been my go to reviews for when I changed motorcycles.
Years later moving from RSV4, BMW GSA and now maybe a Gold Wing for next year.
Great review.
Thanks man.
Excellent audio again! I'd like Sport Mode and the BAM BAM!!! I'm gonna test ride this big beast. Great review!
I like to see this bike on your channel and like to see some modifications on this beast
Why? You going to start a bagger smackdown series?
You should ride one here, lol.
Yo ib, I told a coworker to sub to your channel today
@@CobraCommanderX Thanks Bro!
I’m still a novice driver (about 15,000 miles so far) and I got tense as he’s riding through the canyons and talking and pointing at the controls etc. lol. Hopefully, I’ll get that relaxed and confident in time. Anyway, I loved the video.
Another great review Adam. Just a note not all new Goldwings include the navigation. The domestic model in Japan has no navigation and countries that are shipped that version in Asia also lack navigation unfortunately.
I ordered the 2023 basic Goldwing. (First week of November, 2022) I won't get it until it arrives in March of 2023. I'm excited. It has 125 horsepower now and I believe 125 foot lbs of torque.
This was a FANTASTIC review. Thank you. Honda should pay you a commission because I think I’m gonna go get one, or at least test drive one tomorrow.
It’s funny though, as you get up to higher speeds the cadence of your voice slows down… As if you take a breath every fourth word. Kept my attention though. LOL
Again, great review.
I've been riding myself since UI was 14, I'm 63 now, bikes off and on throughout out my with always wanting a Gold Wing. You seem to like the DCT transmission, I just don't know if I could get use to it, but that 7th gear does seems to make a big difference. Thank you for a great review sir.
Dale, I own a 2016, test drove the dct this summer, I’m 56, been riding for many years also. I had the same feelings as you, and it took me literally 10 minutes, to fall in love with it. Y concern was that it would free wheel, coming to s stop sign, or a quick stop, Nope! The faster you slow down the quicker it shifts, and it’s so so smooth. This is going to be my next bike . You really need to ride one.
Great video Adam 👌
My man!! That hair's lookin good dude!👍Another great review!! Thanks
I love watching Side Show Bob do bike reviews! 👍🏻
Great review Adam! And Because of your thorough review, I just purchased a 21 base model with the manual transmission. Two thumbs up!!!!
Hey Adam, always enjoy your review. I have a 2012 Goldwing and wanted to buy and upgrade at the time a 2018. However, after test riding it and the 2018 BMW K1600, I bought the BMW instead. But I still look and like the new Goldwing. Maybe one day, I will get a new Goldwing.
Damn you! Now I have to test ride and buy this dream (for me) bike!
Probably the best review on this bike on the web! bought a GW Tour DCT Airbag 2021, and it is hard to imagine a better bike to be honest, the engine and trany are smooth as butter and the bike is ultra maneuverable and so comfortable!, it's design is also extraordinary!...I had doubt when I bought it! that is no longer the case! Somewhat pricy but worth every pennies! my only complain is the seat! not comfortable after 1 hr of riding! why build the best touring bike and miss on the seat? I have fix the problem with a $50.00 sheep skin!
100%. Agree.
Who are you people? 👽
@@robertpolkamp experienced Riders who knows what they are talking about!
So is the airbag version like airbags for suspension or does it have an actual airbag for impacts?
@@FinanceMan It is an actual airbag for frontal impact, in the owner manual it does mention that if the suspension hit something hard, like a pot-hole the Airbag could deploy!
Outstanding review. Thankyou
I’ve ridden so many times past Pepperdine I’ve lost count, one of my favorite times was on a 50 cc scooter from Orange County all the way to Ventura Fair Grounds and back.
Great review!
Incredible piece of technic
Hope you have long arms mate give yourself a pat on the back fantastic review the best ive seen ever i have a old 1500 interstate which i love and a k1600 exclusive so i have an idea wot your saying well done top dude from the uk
Best all around review, period. Thanks Adam!
I just wish I would be sitting on such a machine one day in my life...
I'm determined to buy a goldwing even if I trade my bass tracker in on it and still need to add a little too it . To me this is the ultimate motorcycle . I always loved the goldwing I should have bought one years ago
Best overall test I've seen, Thankyou. I ordered the 22 DCT Tour in Blue and now I have to some how wait for 6 weeks to get it..I really dont know how I will manage it.
At this point you should be almost there. If it helps, I'll have to wait 2 years to pay off my jeep before I can even afford to window shop for one...
Here for Adam’s hair! Gold wing bonus!
When the salesman informs me he took my clutch away I would immediately walk out the door
Awesome review and awesome bike.
I hope you healthy and ok! Stay positive
Never been a fan.. but listening to this description, I'm kinda interested in DCTs on a bike now!
Thank you dear friend❤ I love the gold wing dct
I own a 2022 road glide limited and love it but I’m hoping to also pick one of these up in the next few years.
Once again just a great review Adam. I have a GS now, but I’ll definitely on this bike someday soon.
Trying to decide between the two right now!
Don't forget about the Hondamatic early automatic motorcycles. Honda has been at it for a long time.
Absolute beauty of a bike 💯👌
Wow! Great review! I’ll stick with my Victory Vision for now…but this is tempting
I went from a 16 vision to this, in my opinion, this wing is so so much better, if you rode one, I would be shocked if you didn’t agree. But, each to their own.
Great bike, I'll try it next Saturday ✌✌✌
Bro very understandable review great info on target. Indeapth and spot on . i presently ride a 2002 honda goldwing. Getting alittle big for me im 65 now but still a very strong guy but im eying this bike or the bagger version from 21 or 22 year up i think i can get on at a decent price. I ride with harley guys in my biker misitery thats well known so im a little alone on my goldwing but ive always been an original when it comes down to it. God bless you brother! And see you out there
Thanks Adam. Saving Savings half way there. UK
Awesome review good job.
Thanks man.
I’ve been riding GWs since 1994 and am now on my 4th. I have never once been left at the roadside with an issue. My 2018 is a superb bike only issue I had was solved with a day long. To all the commenters referring the DTC model as a scooter do some research. There is a 6 speed manual. To all the nay sayers get off your asses and ride one and if it isn’t for you good enough but don’t dis any bike just because it doesn’t fit your needs wants and riding style.
Great review, thanks. A few points surprise me. For a grand touring bike, you would think side storage was better designed and more spacious. A Honda Civic has wireless CarPlay, why not this bike ? Adjustable handlebars pullback for shorter armed riders would be an asset. A few more touring model colour options would be more convincing to buy. White was a stunner last year, red is nice, silver would be sharp.
I think Gold Wing has Carplay already...btw, I like silver or gray
What ? 85hp? You reviewing the wrong machine my friend. Those specs for a different bike - not this one.
He was only 40hp out. 😂
And only 150 miles on a tank?? How about 280!
He said 85 to the rear tire, but that still 40hp loss 🤷
Some say he talks that slow so the HD riders aren't left behind. Some can only read at the same pace their machines run.
Play at 1.5X for a much better listening experience.
Nice review. I bought the 6sp so can ride in sport all the time but change gear when I want to. For me it’s a great package.
Isn't it great that Honda provides options for every preference? FWIW The DCT allows manual shifting on the fly in auto using shifter paddles on the left switch gear. Sport in auto is as precise as if you were initiating the shift points yourself with a manual. Either preference the bike is phenomenal.
@@miket9399 Hi Mike. Yea DCT is excellent, I have owned one and it does have advantages over a manual no doubt about it. I wanted to step back though from the tech towards a more traditional ride/experience this time but I know many will love the DCT.