Honda Gold Wing ? Touring Motorcycle: Detailed Specs, Performance, and More

1. 2023 Honda Gold Wing

The Honda Gold Wing is one of Honda’s most remarkable innovations with loads of modern features that assure a safe and exciting riding experience. If you love long-distance touring and sports bike looks, this motorcycle provides a perfect combination of both. Its power comes from the iconic six-cylinder engine with its powerful and smooth performance. It has a fully-equipped multimedia system that provides entertainment and navigation. Despite being a sporty tourer, it is designed to provide a laid-back riding experience on long-distance rides. The Honda Gold Wing is the first motorcycle to come with an airbag. This article explores the specs, performance, and features of the Honda Gold Wing in detail.

Also Read: HONDA GOLD WING VS. HARLEY DAVIDSON ROAD GLIDE

2. 2023 Honda Gold Wing Trims

The 2023 Honda Gold Wing is available in four different trims/models. All the Honda Gold Wing models are almost identical to each other with only a few differences. The Honda Gold Wing models include:

2.1 Honda Gold Wing Automatic DCT

The Honda Gold Wing Automatic DCT is the base model, the lightest without a trunk and passenger seat installed, and is only available in a matte gray color scheme with a matte black finish. It has a curb weight of 804 lbs and comes with the Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission with reverse and walking modes.

2.2 Honda Gold Wing Tour

The Honda Gold Wing Tour is the only model with a manual six-speed transmission that includes an overdrive and reverse function. It has a curb weight of 845 lbs, and it also comes with a rear trunk and an integrated sofa-like passenger seat.

2.3 Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT

The Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT has a seven-speed automatic DCT with reverse and walking modes. It also comes with an airbag and a rear trunk and has a curb weight of 845 lbs.

2.4 Honda Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT

The Honda Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT is similar to the Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT, except it does not have an airbag. It is slightly heavier than the other models as it weighs 853 lbs.

3. 2023 Honda Gold Wing Price

2023 Honda Gold Wing Price

4. Honda Gold Wing History

Honda introduced its first six-cylinder motorcycle in 1965, a model suited for track racing known as the Honda RC165. However, the Fourth-Generation Honda Gold Wing was introduced in 1988, powered by a 1,520 cc engine capable of a horsepower of 100 hp and a torque of 150 Nm. The development process for the Honda Gold Wing was in 60 stages to ensure a high-power output, smooth torque delivery, and a smooth, quiet riding experience. Despite being built from plastic, the 1988 Honda Gold Wing was so heavy that the engineers had to introduce a reverse gear along with the manual five-speed transmission.

In 2001, Honda introduced the upgraded Honda Gold Wing with a bigger 1,832 engine, an ABS, an airbag, and a fuel injection system. The next upgrade came in 2012 with only minor changes. In 2013, Honda made various changes to the Gold Wing, including removing the heavy parts like the rear trunk and passenger seat to give it a more lightweight bagger look. In 2018, the Sixth-Generation Honda Gold Wing was introduced with a compact design, a sportier look, and a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).

Honda Gold Wing Upgrades with Time
Year	Model	Generation	Updates and Modifications
1988	Honda Gold Wing GL1500	4th Generation	Developed in 60 stages 1,520 cc engine Horsepower: 100 hp Torque: 150 Nm Manual Five-Speed with Electric Reverse Plastic Framework Heavyweight
2001	Honda Gold Wing GL1800	5th Generation	1,832 cc engine Airbag Fuel Injection System ABS Horsepower: 118 hp Torque: 167 Nm Heated Seats and Grips GPS Speakers Headset Attachment
2012	Honda Gold Wing GL1800	5th Generation	Production was transferred to Japan Received minor upgrades Extended fairing to cover rider’s legs Updated Audio System
2013	Honda Gold Wing F6B	5th Generation	Received major updates Also known as the “Bagger” The trunk and passenger seat were removed Lightweight
2018	Honda Gold Wing GL1800	6th Generation	Completely redesigned Automatic Dual Clutch Transmission Four valves per cylinder Sporty look Compact design Four riding modes Traction control

Also Read: 6 CYLINDER HONDA MOTORCYCLES - FROM HONDA RC165 TO GOLD WING

5. Honda Gold Wing Specs

Honda Gold Wing
Identification
Maker	Honda
Model	Gold Wing
Year Model	2023
Motorcycle Type	Touring Bike / Sports Tourer
Model ID	GL1800B
Base Price	$25,600
Engine and Performance
Engine Type	Horizontally Opposed Six-Cylinder Four-Stroke
Engine Displacement	1,833 cc
Cooling System	Liquid-Cooled
Valve Train	Unicam® SOHC; Four Valves Per Cylinder
Horsepower	124.67 hp at 5,500 rpm
Torque	170 Nm at 4,500 rpm
Stroke	73 mm
Bore	73 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Fuel Delivery System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI); 50 mm Throttle Body
Fuel Mileage	42 mpg
No. of Cylinders	Six
Valves Per Cylinder	Four
Exhaust System	Dual Separate Three-Into-One Double-Wall Exhaust Pipes System
Mufflers	Separate Dual Mufflers on Both Sides
Starter	Electric with Integrated Starter Generator System (ISG)
Fairing Style	Full-Coverage Fairings
Windshield	Electronically Adjustable Windscreen
Frame	Aluminum Die-Cast, Twin-Tube
Drivetrain
Transmission	Seven-Speed Automatic DCT; Plus Reverse And Walking Mode: Gold Wing Automatic DCT Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT Airbag Six-Speed Including Overdrive and Reverse Function: Gold Wing Tour
Final Drive	Shaft
Clutch	Multiplate Wet Clutch
Brakes
Front	Nissin, Radially-Mounted Calipers with Dual 320 mm Discs
Rare	Nissin, Single 316 mm Disc
ABS	Standard, Electronically Controlled Combined ABS
Electronically Linked Braking	Yes
Suspension
Front Suspension	Double Wishbone
Front Wheel Travel	Pro Arm® Single-Side Swing Arm with Pro-Link® Single Shock
Rear Suspension	4.3 in
Rear Wheel Travel	4.1 in
Wheels and Tires
Wheels	Blacked-Out Cast Aluminum Ten-Spoke Wheels
Tires	Front: Dunlop® Sportsman 130/70-18 Rear: Dunlop® Sportsman 200/55-16
Dimensions
Overall Height	52.8 in
Overall Length	97.6 in
Overall Width	35.6 in
Ground Clearance	5.1 in
Wheelbase	66.9 in
Seat Height	29.3 in
Wet Weight	Honda Gold Wing Automatic DCT: 804 lbs Honda Gold Wing Tour: 845 lbs Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT: 845 lbs Honda Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT: 853 lbs
Rake	30.5°
Trail	4.3 in
Fuel Capacity	5.5 gal
Luggage Capacity (Saddlebags)	2.12 cu ft

6. Honda Gold Wing Performance

6.1 Honda Gold Wing Engine

Honda Gold Wing Engine

Photo Credit: @ultimatemotorcycling

The 2023 Honda Gold Wing is fitted with a large 1,832 cc liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine capable of a torque of 170 Nm at 4,500 rpm and a horsepower of 124.67 hp at 5,500 rpm. The 1,832 cc six-cylinder engine produces smooth power and torque delivery at all gear levels.

The latest engine design used lightweight components, including high-strength aluminum cylinder sleeves that help shed 13 lbs of weight and shorten the engine’s length. The Unicam® SOHC design not only helped reduce the weight but has also contributed to its better power and performance. The Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with its 50 mm throttle body and the four valves per cylinder design helped improve the Honda Gold Wing’s fuel efficiency. It has a fuel economy of 42 mpg that can increase by using Eco-Ride mode.

The 2023 Honda Gold Wing is loaded with modern ride-assist and safety features that ensure a safer riding experience. The Hill Start Assist feature allows the rider to comfortably start the motorcycle and accelerate without applying the brakes and rolling backward on an inclined surface.

6.2 Honda Gold Wing Transmission

The Honda Gold Wing also has revolutionary Seven-Speed Automatic DCT technology to ensure stress-free and smooth rides. It also comes with reverse and walking modes. However, if you prefer a manual transmission, the Honda Gold Wing Tour model comes with a six-speed transmission including an overdrive and reverse function that connects to the rear wheel via a cleaner and low-maintenance shaft drive.

6.3 Honda Gold Wing Braking

The Honda Gold Wing also features a standard electronically-controlled combined ABS and Electronic Linked Braking that allows the rider to apply both the front and rear brakes at the same time. It also has 320 mm dual front discs with radially-mounted Nissin calipers and a 316 mm rear disc for reliable braking.

6.4 Honda Gold Wing Suspension

Instead of a conventional front fork assembly, the Honda Gold Wing has a double-wishbone front suspension that reduces unwanted nose dives when the brakes are applied. The double-wishbone structure is ideal for comfortable long-distance rides as the Honda Gold Wing’s weight is mainly distributed towards the front end.

Despite being a heavier motorcycle, the Honda Gold Wing ensures good handling due to its low center of gravity and being fitted with a Pro-Link single rear shock. The double-wishbone suspension has a wheel travel of 4.3 inches, while the Pro-Link single rear shock has a wheel travel of 4.1 inches.

6.5 Honda Gold Wing Top Speed

The Honda Gold Wing can attain a top speed of 140 mph and accelerate from 0-60 mpg in just 3.4 secs.

7. Honda Gold Wing Design and Look

The Honda Gold Wing is a sports-touring bike with a bagger look. It has a sporty front end with its sports-style fairing, front fender, and low-mounted, clip-on handlebars. The 2023 Honda Gold Wing models are available in only three simple color schemes. The matte gray and black color schemes come with a matte black finish, while the candy ardent red color scheme comes with a silver and blacked-out finish.

The Honda Gold Wing also comes with an electronically-adjustable, fairing-mounted windscreen, and a single-piece wide saddle capable of two-up riding. The front turn signals are integrated into the back of the side mirrors attached to the fairing. The large trunk comes with an integrated passenger seat and has a storage capacity of 2.15 cu ft.

Also Read: BEST TOURING MOTORCYCLES MADE BY BMW

8. Honda Gold Wing Ergonomics and Comfort

The Honda Gold Wing is a comfortable touring bike suited for long-distance rides. However, it also has a sporty touch and slightly sportier ergonomics. Unlike ideal cruisers and touring bikes, it comes with mid-mounted foot controls, ensuring adequate legroom for shorter and average riders. However, the legroom is slightly uncomfortable and compact for taller long-distance riders. Despite the sporty-style clip-on style handlebars, riders can comfortably reach the handlebars. The position of the handlebars and seat height of 29.3 inches ensures an upright back position.

9. Honda Gold Wing Features and Technology

2023 Honda Gold Wing Features and Technology
Modern Features and Technology
ABS	Standard
Riding Modes	Four Riding Modes (Eco, Tour, Rain, and Sport)
Cruise Control	Standard
Hill Start Assist	✓
Throttle By Wire	✓
Electronic Linked Braking (ELB)	✓
Heated Grips	✓
Heated Seats	✓
Fairing	✓
Windscreen	Electronically Adjustable
Saddlebags	Standard
Rear Trunk	Included (Except the Honda Gold Wing Automatic DCT)
Passenger Seat	Integrated Sofa-Like Seat with Back and Armrests
Instrumentation
Gauges	Fairing-Mounted
Speedometer	✓
Gear Indicator	✓
Tachometer	✓
Clock	✓
Fuel Gauge	✓
Odometer	✓
Low Fuel Warning	✓
Infotainment System
LCD Color Display Screen	7 in TFT Color Display
Speakers	55 Watts Speakers
Navigation	✓
USB Connection	✓
Bluetooth	✓
Android and Apple Car Play Connectivity	✓

10. Honda Gold Wing Pros and Cons

Honda Gold Wing Pros	Honda Gold Wing Cons
Powerful six-cylinder engine	Mid-mounted foot controls
Standard ABS	Slightly uncomfortable for taller riders on long-distance rides
Comes with several modern features	Difficult to maintain
Stock infotainment system	Starter issues
Stock saddlebags and trunk	Heated grips can malfunction
Electronically adjustable windscreen	Charging issues
Ideal touring bike	Heavier for short and novice riders
Comfortable ergonomics
Ensures upright back position
Comes with airbag
Standard Hill Start Assist
Low center of gravity
Smooth handling
Heated seat and grips
Four riding modes
Fuel efficient

Also Read: TOP 5 ADVENTUROUS TOURING MOTORCYCLES

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

11.1 Are Honda Gold Wings Good for Beginners?

The Honda Gold Wing is not a beginner-friendly bike due to being heavyweight and powerful. It is fitted with a 1,838 cc six-cylinder engine that may be too powerful for beginners. A rider with no prior riding experience should start with a manageable motorcycle with a smaller engine.

11.2 Why is the Honda Gold Wing So Popular?

The Honda Gold Wing has remained in production for more than four decades.

It received several updates over time, including a bigger engine, an automatic transmission, a lightweight design, and an infotainment system. The Honda Gold Wing is popular due to its reliability, longevity, and comfort. It is also one of the most luxurious sports-touring bikes out there.

12. Final Words

The Honda Gold Wing is one of the longest-running production motorcycles and a popular choice for those who love long-distance riding and touring. It is also the most expensive motorcycle in the Honda lineup. The Honda Gold Wing has a long history dating back to 1974. The engineers at Honda Research Department kept experimenting with ways to make this motorbike more comfortable, safer, and better suited for long-distance rides. The latest Honda Gold Wing model comes with a powerful six-cylinder engine, standard ABS, airbag, Hill Start Assist, automatic DCT system, and an infotainment system.

It is possible to modify your motorbike to make it suitable for long-distance rides. Viking Bags has a wide range of aftermarket parts available you can use to transform your motorcycle into a touring bike. If you are looking for more comfortable handlebars, a new seat, crash bars, fairings, and sissy bars to mount a backrest and luggage bags, Viking Bags has what you need. There are also different luggage options available at Viking Bags, including sissy bar bags and saddlebags.