2018 Honda Gold Wing Review 

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I have been riding motorcycles for over 22 years and have been riding many big bikes, from Hondas, Harleys, BMW, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, two Ducatis etc and I can tell you confidently that none of your nit-pickings valid. When I test drove the 2019 Gold Wing, I instantly knew this is the ultimate cruising cross country motorcycle for me or any experienced rider. Gold Wing has a silky-smooth suspension with a powerful engine. The ride is nimble in the winding roads, yet comfortable and exciting too. I got mine last week with a huge discount from a local Honda dealer and I couldn't be happier. I especially love the cockpit and the instrumentation with the latest state of the art technologies. You want computer customizations, go get a Tesla, true motorcycle riders they don't need more than what Gold WIng has already to offer, they just focus on the road while enjoying the beautiful ride of their GW.

Best review I've seen yet on the new wing. Thank you, that was just easy to watch and listen to.

I went to look at Indians this week and left in love with a Goldwing. Sat on a new 2020 and all I could say was wow wow and WOW! Never dreamed id want a GW. My big twin cruiser days may be over .

By far the best illustration I've seen. I'm so close to buying one of these. You bring up some very good points. Thanks.

Rode the bike yesterday and had the same thoughts as you. I rode the automatic and I really liked it. Thought that was the best part of the bike. It took a little bit to get use to tho. Thanks enjoyed the review.

Excellent video, nice to be able to see and hear what your talking about. Thanks!

Hi, Iam riding the dct version in Switzerland for the last 4 months with about 9000 km on the clock. I have been riding it in the mountains, with sharp turns and the dct in manual mode is excellent. Sport mode was a bit "scary" at start as i happened to have wheelies in 1st or 2nd gear, with a 345 kg bike it's not so usual, but now I manage it better. This is my 3rd Goldwing and no doubt the best I ever had. Thanks for your review and like you, I am expecting some sort of software upgrade ! So Long

One of the best reviews I've seen! Excellent review of bike features and ride qualities along with the passengers point of view. Very good video with excellent sound quality and no annoying music. Keep up the great work! Liked and subscribed

Good points about the lack of customization to the digital display. Thank you

nice to see someone who actually does some research on the bike their testing, & is then able to confidently inform the viewers

As usual a very well put together review that not only was informative but intriguing. Regarding luggage capacity on this new Goldwing, it’s worth noting I have a ‘16 Super Tenere with SW Motech Adventure cases and I have more storage capacity than the new Goldwing plus it’s all quick release and comes off the bike in seconds unlike the Goldwing. Love the ADV bikes however I could see a long cross country 2 up trip where the Goldwings other amenities would come into play. Thank you for sharing!

Thank you for that unbiased review. I have a feeling if Honda doesn't improve that suspension max mccalister at traaxon dynamics will get a lot of business.

excellent review - really effects my decision to spend so much on a bike :) thanks for posting

best review so far. great job 2 wheeled rider.

Best detailed review on a gold wing best looking and sounding sport touring motorcycle'😻🤗😉

Nice video, very useful info- much better than other reviews..

I’m in love with this bike, on the hunt for the exact same one.. love your thoughts on the screen ideas! Too bad they missed the mark on that.. over Harleys... on a CTX 1300 now and loving it, but ready for my last one. Wish me luck! In love with the white.. really want the DCT and sport option! Was going to settle for F6B. I’m a female 5’5” and shrinking I hope I can make it work! Thanks for the great review!

This is the best review I have seen yet. Thanks brother

This was a very good video. I enjoyed listening to the info or data regarding the tech side of the bike.

Great review. Love the info you presented about the display. I fully agree with you. The display should be customisable.

Honda always offers innovative products. And it's cool.

Great review, I appreciate your criticisms of the motorcycle, they are very important to know

This is why I appreciate my Indian info system screen. It has tons of customization and I can customize it the way I want and see the information I want.

Very nice review, thank you and God bless you and your love ones.

Great review, I really like your comments about screen customization.

5 August 2020 YOUR EXPRESSION. . . YOUR SAD AND NOSTALGIC FACE IS WHAT TRANSMITS THE TRUTH TO ME AND IT TELLS ME THAT YOUR HEART FEELS THAT THE STURDY AND STUNNING GOLDWING 1500 IS STILL SUPERIOR TODAY (MAYBE STILL THE EARLY 1800) Rafael from 🇲🇽Mexico City🇲🇽

Thanks really good review , A good point made about the dash , just a shame you can’t do more on the screen to you .

Excellent Review and full of good information, thanks for posting it! I just subscribed too!

I am more into sport and super sport bikes but I have to admit that it was a great review. Honda has a great product and reputation and the negatives found are not that bad in my opinion. The quality of the product alone would put this motorcycle at the top of my list.

I have to tell you Thank you for this review it was really cool to include the passenger feed back and i especially liked your cons , I will be purchasing my DTC model soon . I have a s1000RR sports bike and when i want to clutch it i will jump on it . lol Thanks again .

Really enjoyed the review and thought that you did an overall great evaluation of the bike . I have owned the 2018 GW with dct for about two months and have about 1300 miles on it . Previous bike that I have owned include F6b , BMW RT and GS , NC700 dct ,SV650, Grom ,Concurs, sport bikes and scooters. I'm 60 years old and feeling it . My likes : power / torque , wind protection , smooth motor , dct , handling and smooth suspension . My dislikes : weight , bags could be a little bigger , would have liked more fuel . A lot of my riding is on back roads and I feel the handling is better than the Concurs and definitely in the ball park with the big BMWs and the reliability will be better , Had 6 BMWs and gave up on them due to the weirdness and expense . Compared to the F6b that I owned the suspension is smoother without reducing handling . I really enjoy this bike and I can ride it for hours without the usual aches that I would typically get . Priorities change as you age . To address some of your concerns , it would be nice to be able to program the large screen , but as it is I put the GPS on it . The information to the left I do not find it too small and have gotten use to the readout the more I use the bike . Again , thanks for the review . It was fair and informative.

Well presented - thanks!

Best GW review I've seen. Thanks a bunch. Subscribed. Can you do a review of a BMW R1200RT?

I have the DCT version with 2500 miles so far. Overall the bike does exactly what I bought it for. I was surprised with the handling and even enjoyed it in the mountains. The wife now goes along anytime which was the goal. When I want to play I jump on the KTM or the Grom.

very good info. thanks

Getting ready to buy a Goldwing and appreciate the good review.

Really well done review thank you

great job

a heads up display would be great for this friendly giant.

Traxxion Dynamics has the answer for soft suspensions. The 7 speed DCT model is absolutely slick. Agree on some small refinements here and there and that big screen should have digital read out of question. I do like the styling of this bike, and all in all, the GoldWing is moving in the right direction.

Really really good review, so am gonna sub. ✌

Really a good review and I absolutely agree with you about gauge flexibility and placement. The only review that had some constructive criticism.

Nice review.

Best review on this bike I have seen...

Great review!! You deserve so many more subscribers!

This is a great review. The screen comments are absolutely spot on. Why these manufacturers don’t talk to riders is beyond me. The fact that they think they have to lock a rider out for their own safety is really irritating. (Cars too). I would like to be able to set my own choices for the dash and I would like to be able to do something with a map while moving. Being able to set up settings and have them carry over from ride to ride would be nice as well. Last comment. By the time a person gets to these larger bikes wether a KTM 1290, Yamaha Super Tenere, BMW GS or Goldwing, they are generally very experienced riders....Let us have control over the motorcycle instead of restricting us.

I liked the pillion perspective. Very useful.

I liked your observations on the lack of digital data as a separate page on the big screen dash panel, your seeing that totally customisation feature on new cars nowadays, so come on Honda. Something very few reviewers ever do it is to ride at night to see what the dash, controls, and in particular the headlights work like, please people being seen at night and being able to have good coverage with the low and high beams is paramount for safety, that being said I do like the tail light configuration on the GW.

Nice fair review

Interesting comments about the suspension, not at all surprised. Honda's tendency towards being seriously under sprung is a constant point of discussion across their MC models. I liked their DCT system, logged tons of miles on it but it wasn't enough to keep me from straying over to another brand like KTM or BMW. There are too many things that frustrated me about Honda cutting corners on usability. One point of interest I thought was worth mentioning is that their key fob system at least in their (push button start) accord sedan that I used to own will work in the event the battery in the key dies. Apparently their bike fob systems do not permit that. That is an issue on other brand key fob systems as well. I'd love to get a hands on comparison of this and my K1600 GT, the GT has endless torque and will pass most traffic effortlessly even in 6th gear (way above 90!). If the wing is built like my other Honda bike was, it will run out of useable torque as soon as you start pushing the top end (80+ or north of 4k rpms). The wing's 1800cc of displacement left plenty for Honda's engineers to play with, I had hoped Honda would put out more torque and HP than it does, pairing that with an anemic gas tank size hasn't done them any favors. It is what i've come to expect from Honda MC's unfortunately.

Hi Mario, Great review. One of the guys I ride with has a goldwing(he's owned about 10 in his time) in the twisties not many of us can keep up with him, its unbelievable how these can corner when in the hands of an expert rider. That said they are not for me!

Good review thank you

Agree with your assessment. Owned this bike for several months and yes...the left info screen is way to small. One day, I couldn’t tell whether my front or rear tire was under inflated. I had to take a picture on my phone and blow it up. Really! I would like the suspension to be a bit firmer. When I ride 1up, I use the 1 and luggage setting. BUT, all in all, this is my first Goldwing. I came from ST bikes..ST1300, Concourse, and I’m having a blast on this bike and think it’s great...a bit expensive...but great. Lol. I’m hoping Honda will do some software updates soon. Thanks for the review

Great/honest review. I would prefer a 2017 model over the "improved" model for a number of reasons. I'm gonna buy a large touring bike in the future, and my pick is the Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager. It's around $10k less than other big touring bikes, and it's been around awhile. Time tested. I wonder if Honda reached out to existing Gold Wing owners to get ideas on the new model? Sorry Honda, no sale here....😸

Great review,thank you.Have you ridden the BMW R1250RT?If so,how do they compare?

another idea, try doing a "heads-up" display, for all the info, that windscreen is like a 50" t.v. heaps of space for it, Nissan cars, and others have it, OR try a heads up helmet, like in a chopper, no better place for all that data, and you don't have to shift your gaze of the road.

Hey did you feel that that there is a flat spot on the torque curve just on the second gear? Mine did. It pulls and tappers off then pulls hard again up top. But i didnt notice it on 1 3 4 5 6 7 gears. Only second gear... Helpp

How is the noise in various screen position. I have a 2015 GW and came from ST1300. The STs are very noisy, the last gen GW not so much and at high screen position are very good. That said I really liked being able to move the screen up if it started raining.

Maybe I want to ride with my blinker on for 20 miles like we had to in the old days lol. Love the new tech but also love my bike with just a speedometer and odometer.

so the DCT version can be ridden like a maxi scoot????

Mario, great review. The suspension is a huge negative as you and Kristen noted. Did you notice a weird low frequency hum around 3500 rpm? I noticed one and it almost unleashed the Hulk it was so annoying. The concept for the front suspension is nice, but the execution was not as good. The demo I rode had a lot of play in the handlebars. I 100% agree, straight line, smooth, highways? It’s a champ. But not as versatile as the prior GW for the purposes of all the aftermarket adds (Traxxion suspension, new seat, fog lights, a gps that actually works proper, seat, etc.) you need to do with a $30k Honda. For that price, the BMW K1600GTL looks the victor in a comparison. Neither are for me yet, KTM or Duc still has my heart, although the Africa Twin ADV Sport is excellent. Recommend a review. It’s worth it and try the DCT offroad, it’s awesome.

Now for the reality check - why doesn't the rear storage case have enough room for 2 helmets ? Why does the front suspension have 3/4" travel before it contacts the rubber limiter ? Why does the rear suspension have some presets that have the same result ? Just asking ...

The Goldwing is a niche market. I am very surprised that she didn't like the ride! That sounds bad for the GW ,I've known people who's wife went to sleep on the earlier model 1800. Great review.

What did you mean when you said you cannot use the screen with your phone? That's a huge deal for me, I want to be able to access google maps on my phone and have it show on that screen. It clearly says 'phone' I was assuming that would allow you to mirror your phone and navigation through it using the handlebar joystick, switch between maps and music, etc. Are you saying you cannot do that? Can you do it while you are stopped at a traffic light?

How does it handle in the wind, and when you blow-by 18 wheels? Is it stable?

👍

I like the fridge body

Algo sencillo , mostrar como se cambia los frenó o las gomas .

Good review, especially having Kristen giving her thoughts. With all the riding she's done on the back of your KTM, she's exceptionally qualified to give her opinions. Had a deposit down on the 18 Goldwing which was cancelled for pretty much the same items you observed. Was expecting a whole lot more from the updated electronic dash than what Honda delivered. Granted, there have been updates, but at the time what was done with the dash was underwhelming. For instance, one has to connect the iPhone to a cable in the center pocket which is not lockable (thanks Max McAllister for producing a lock). But, you can only use CarPlay if you have a bluetooth headset. What? Why didn't they allow the iPhone to connect to CarPlay via bluetooth? Seriously? As always, a good review. Ended up with a KTM 1290 SAS which I took from Philadelphia to Key West and back in March.

In thinking about changing my 2003 to the new Wing, I recently took a 2021 for a test ride. Conclusions overall, for me....not worth changing and money is no issue. Loved the front suspension; hated the hard seat; loved the fact it is more sporty overall, but the lack of storage space is a negative. Also wind resistance is terrible compared to the older versions. So....$40K Canadian out the door for a new one, or keep the old 2003 one (worth $7K resale, set up up with a custom seat, barbacks, and floorboards......).... a "no brainer". I have to think there are a load of real bargain Wings out there for anyone looking for a good touring bike at not much money. I honestly wish the new one would do it for me...I would love to buy it, but no sale unfortunately. Besides, with 80K miles on it, it will likely outlast me at 78 years old. Thanks for the review

Yamaha,Suzuki, are really doing a number on HD ...and GWing. Reverse is spreading. All kinds of audio is getting even better. Yamaha Ventura is nearly the same bike as GWing. But cheaper.

Great review 👍 not sure if I’d be able to get the best of this in the uk 🇬🇧 those roads and countryside looked very picturesque.. where do you live?

90 minutes on mine and I have to get off it for a while. A question - what is the top speed of the MT version? Anyone know? Just curious. No - I'm not going to try it for my self - I'm too scared - there it is - brutal honesty. But if any of you other complete crazy people tried it please let me (us) know. Thanks.

I am not even interested in the bike, but since I came across this chanel because of your really really great 1290 GT review, I had to watch this review and I was not disapointed :-)

Do they still Come with a automatic transmission please let me know

knick knacks!!

This is gonna be my starter bike. Never ridden before, take some training...I'll be ok. Thoughts?

This bike has no competition

Price for this bike

Bike needs 1 full inch lower seat height for me, I did feel it was an objective review though

What I don't like is the 'Apple Carplay' software. I would no more buy an 'Apple' anything than I would gouge out both eyes with a hot screwdriver. But since I'd bet that display is probably Java based tech I'll bet it wouldn't be that difficult to reprogram it. Might even be able to create a panel with some of the features you described. Still most folks are lazy and wouldn't go to that much trouble. I just wish Manufacturers wouldn't listen to the Apple marketing department when the majority of the market uses Android phones.

Funny, I thought you were at 8,000 rpm too. Odd tachometer set up

Dam, I looked for the DCT review since this review came out 5 or so months ago and.....?? Nothing!! ?? Will their be one? Please??

3:27 I cant seem to find the outside air temp on mine. Just inside air temp. Help please

How is it compare to the BMW K1600 GTL?

Well... what bike would you take on your next cross country tour?

Great looking bike! But why have they put all that tech on it and yet with all the speed cameras about not got a bloody great Big Digital speedometer right in front of your face on screen ??? Also why have they limited the luggage space on such a large bike should have had room for two helmets? its such an expensive bike more than buying most mid range new cars! they should have got it right by now!

$30,000 ? I hope it’s comfy. Hell that motor could make 300 hp

The biggest complaint is the rear trunk is too small to hold two full face helmets....

Great Video.

Well, this should be interesting! Lets see...

Girl states suspension a little too harsh 11:29 but during the road test you can see the driver is in sport mode 12:44.

IHAVE AFTER BUY HONDA MOTOR CICLE GOLDWING 2020 AND STILL MESSES TO ASTRA HONDA IN JAKARTA

BTW. I appreciate your honest review. I wouldn't ride this bike. I prefer to drive my car. This bike doesn't have any sense of bike. Its a transportation machine.

get on and ride it

no android auto?

the biggest thing for me is the phone. i'm pretty stupid when it comes to technology so how hard is it to answer and talk on the phone?

What is the price?

kristen should ask '' politely '' honda to make everything youd like theyll be scared and theyll fix them...