Thought this was Clickbait...found out this was the best Goldwing documentary on RU-vid! Riveting! Thank you so much for this fine video. Goldwing owner.
Thanks so much Michael !, It took almost 2 years to film , but in the end it was a friend that put a deadline on it and I got it done ✔️ Glad you enjoyed it !
I started out on a Honda CL 70 when I was thirteen Years Old. I am now 63 and have had several Honda’s along the way. I switched to Harley Davidson.in 2004 and was in Love with My 2017 Rode Glide. I couldn’t imagine ever riding anything else, Then I saw the 2018 Goldwing . The technology that is packed into this bike is simply unbelievable. A single sided swing arm, new front end design.7 speed DCT transmission. Electric controlled Wind Screen, Shaft driven ,Water cooled 6 cylinder engine that produces more power and speed than You will ever grow tired of.And last but not least The RIDE. The ride simply needs to be experienced to be believed. Sport bike handling in the twist’s and luxury car comfort on the highway. I could never see myself ever riding the previous model goldwing, However I cant see me ever riding anything but the new.
I never had a GW. However, after reading so many blogs and articles on how many miles these bikes do and how low of maintenance/repairs they require, I went and got a 2020 GW DCT Tour. Not even a moment of regrets....period.
@@edgardomatos6923 I have only 1500 on her but she runs super smooth. Can't wait for a warm up so we can start putting some miles on her. I did read that the new GW learns your riding habits and adjust the DCT.
Excellent video!!! The new GoldWing is an example of fine industrial art, advanced engineering, and technology for the rider. A truly spectacular motorcycle!!!
15 year Valkyrie rider here...this was so much more than the title suggested. A gripping watch and very informative about the flat Honda motor family that, incredibly, so many people are still ignorant about, to their own detriment. Great video...thanks.
Absolutely love the history of the GoldWing and the way you have shown it. I've learned so much from this video about the history of the Wing I own. The video is very detailed and you did an excellent job putting all this together.
Im 46. I had a Fat Bob for 6 months.. upgraded to Indian Chieftain as I was more inclined towards performance /Cruise luxury. Guess what after owning it for over 2 yrs, test rode 2022 DCT and was completely sold Out! Now I have this GL18 DCT for lil over 6 months and already crossed 1100 miles. THIS IS THE BIKE!
I have had a '79, '97 and '10 Goldwing with almost 400K on them. I now have a '19 DCT Tour and looking for at least another 150K in the next few years. Loved them all.
My first wing was a 1980 and my 2007 was the best tourer ever. I keep looking at the new ones, fascinated by the DCT, but just can't pull another trigger at 74!!! Enjoyed your review.
Have ridden one and they are awesome but the storage space is tiny. The trunk will not even hold 1 helmet, much less 2. I will have to stick with the one I got because my wife and I do long hauls. However, if you want a sport bike, the new wing is it
@@ericscott1895 I agree. My wife and I do weeks long trips. Our 07 works great but we've agreed that the latest version is way too small in the way of luggage space. I may update,but it will be a 17.
@@davidgiles5030 I just found out that they made the necessary changes to the 2021. They listened and now the trunk accommodates two full face helmets. I'd love to get a new one but my '02 is still in pristine condition and running strong. We just returned from a 500 mile jaunt around parts of the Texas coast this past weekend. It's still tempting as the black and red color scheme for 2021 is pretty sweet!
In addition to the history of the GoldWing you touched on American Motorcycling in general from the mid seventies until now. I have been on bikes thru this period. You got it right! The wind up was quite touching as well. The Final GoldWing. Thanks!
@@RideThis You should do more of this because you very, very good at it. Your comments are accurate and hit deep. I'm close to 69 years old. I try to ride safe and get it done most of the time. But! Every once in a while I still gotta let it rip. Old habits die hard. Thanks again for a very nice and moving video!
Great Video. I’m a Gen X’r and just bought my first GoldWing. Been an adventure rider, still have my Adventure bike. But the tech and comfort when 2 up, got me to commit. It rides beautifully and I can’t wait to rack up the miles and smiles.
My husband & I love our 2004 GW with the trike kit. Great ride. It's that beautiful Candy Apple Red color...we get compliments on it everywhere we go! I also have the 2008 Honda 1300VTX in the similar red color that I love riding. I am going to be 66 & my husband turns 67 this year. Very much enjoying our retirement years...plus, we are in our local Amvets Riders Club (Post 91 Monticello, IN).
The Wing is an absolute marvel. Purchased new all of my Wings. From the first, an 86 GL1200 Interstate, then a 96 GL1500, a 15 GL1800 and now my 20 DCT Tour, my 4th. I am absolutely smitten with what Honda has done with this newest generation. Lighter, quicker, angular/good looking with much needed and asked-for technology. I can fathom Honda going electric. By then it should be rock solid and so cool too. Meeting more stringent EPA regs will be the impetus. In 7 years I hope to be riding one. Much thanks for the historical. Peace.
The WING never dies!!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 32 and on my 2015 40th anniversary F6B Deluxe! Wonderful motorcycle! I get compliments everywhere I go! And my fiancé can often be found sleeping on the back! Awesome documentary! After seeing this video, I’ll never sell it!
I have recently acquired a 1998 Valkyrie and I love it. After seeing this wonderfull video detailing its history I feel proud to have played a small part in promoting these fabulous machines and look forward to many years of enjoyment. I love the new 2020 Gold Wing DCT version too and with any luck will end up on one. I hope!
I've always thought that GL's were for old guys. Then the new non-touring version came out and I got my first glimpse of it at the INTERMOT in Cologne, Germany in 2018. I've wanted one ever since! Just simply amazing in every aspect!
I bought a 1975 that came in as a trade while I working as a mechanic at a Honda dealership.....it ran perfect until the day I sold it (it had a kick-starter if the electric didn't work!!...)... I now have a naked '81 I bought with 17k miles and has been flawless since the day I bought it.....going on 37k!! Balance the carbs every few years, and still runs like new.
This is a phenomenal video. I had a 2006 Goldwing. I know have a 2015 Harley ultra classic Limited. I told my wife when I get older, currently 57, I get a 3 wheel new Goldwing , but I will never stop riding.
The most excellently presented video. I live in England. I have owned about six Wings, including a 2019. This is undoubtedly the most enjoyable you tube video I have watched. Totally individual. Well done !
As always, informative, in-depth where it was needed and future-looking - thanks for keeping us two-wheeled enthusiasts interested in the changes and the future #ridethis
Classy video! ‘Never even sat on a Goldwing but perhaps its time! I started riding at 56 on a Yamaha Roadstar which was a great bike but the rear seat was not comfy enough for my Bride for long trips. Upgraded to a Harley Ultra Classic in ‘09 and a CVO Limited in ‘15. I enjoy them immensely but you make the Wing sound like it’s the way to go. When the snow goes away in April, I’ll search one out for the “big test”! Thanks again for the “Top Drawer” presentation!
My wife just bought a new Jeep GC and she is overwhelmed by its excessive functionality. My Jeep GC is 18 years old, looks great, comfortable as an old leather shoe, has real knobs, buttons, and switches and that suits me just fine.
Enjoyed this video very much! I always wanted to buy a Wing since I saw the first one in 1975 at my local dealership. I finally bought a new White 2018 DCT Tour 3 months ago. Best bike I have ever ridden and I enjoy the DCT much more than I thought I ever would. Fantastic bike!
The final edition, sets an ominous tone for the freedom of the road, as though everyone will be subject to strictly automonous transportation, where we only travel for purpose, with the last ounce of enjoyment squeezed from the road for ever
Thanks Joseph , Imagine seeing the first small loud rickety car go by a 120 years ago, standing out side a horse and buggy shop getting the wheel spokes fixed . And the owner of the shop laughs , “ that will never catch on “ ..... 50 years later the horse was gone to a ranch or riding school . Towed by a truck to events where you could race them or ride for fun. We will see the change that’s coming within 10 years or less. It’s just changing at a pace so fast, that transportation as a service will be the norm, and to “ ride or enjoy our bikes “ we will be Off road adventure bikes or track day fun rides.
Great video, Jeff .. You were ahead of the media and much better informed when I first chatted with you in late 2017 to buy one of these marvelous DCT machines. Now 30,000 km later, I have no regrets on my 6th Wing. That conversation sold me and from it, I know you have a lot more big-picture material that would be of interest to many. Best ..
Don't let all that metal steer you to write a check to HD. Having said that, I do believe you will go no wrong with Triumph. HD is losing ground day by day.
@@alp3781 actually it's not the steel that charms me. I have had a triumph 2007 and I wouldn't trade for any bike made today! However the pure joy in riding comes from the connection between rider and machine not technology and electronic control modules. Add to this a price of 30 large and I just can't get into it. Also what has given the motor company complete success has been the truest connection to what once was, and for that I respect HD.
Kudos on a great video of the history of the Goldwing. I got my first one at 30 years old and now on my third wing closing in on 60 years old, a 2008 GL1800. I ride 2 up 95% of the time and have heard many gripes about the new model being smaller and less comfortable. I am intrigued by the tech on the newer model and would love to try the DCT model out. It makes me remember the several times when stuck in traffic at a snails pace how my clutch hand was in pain from the in and out movement. Unless my better half divorces me or leaves me alone on this earth my current ride will probably be my last. I've loved being a Wing rider even when it wasn't cool.
Still riding my '99 Valkyrie Interstate. I still love her. Just got a Garmin Zumo XT GPS for my latest upgrade. In fact I haven't upgraded anything since I bought her new. Doesn't shake my fillings loose, doesn't leak all over my garage floor and will do 85 all day long. New Goldwing, naw I don't need a new computer. Great video. You meet the nicest people on a Honda!
I'm on board - mid-40's and loving my 2018 Wing (non-Tour) manual transmission! What a bike! Some HD riders look down their noses at me when I pull up, but I'm much more comfortable, cooler, and loving every single mile.
CB & CBR RR Street guy here , and CR & DR dirt guy, Love my Harley too, But as for my daily, I wing it . Old school style Aspencade 20 anniversary edition. Purple w purple seat. All bugs worked out and rocking screaming eagle slip ons , Cam 2 is the fuel I use .
Dear Mr Lowe. This is epic ! This truly was a Masterpiece video. I am 65, knew when the 'Wing debuted, and have 2 motorcycles. One is a 2003 Nighthawk 250. Owning a GoldWing is impractical in my country, and impossible financially. Surely, I would have liked to own one, the impossible dream ! But again, I must commend you for this video. It could not have been better. Trinidad & Tobago.
@@donniem6191 Most definitely. 100k miles will scare the tattoos off a H-D rider but there are a ton of good used Wings out there. Don't be afraid of mileage if it's been maintained.
Yep , sorry I should have mentioned the motor size of the Aspencade model . It did have the 1182 cc size motor added. And it brought in the full fairing look , which I did talk about just a bit. There’s a 1200 in our shop now for storage. Still running great
I started my love affair with the goldwing in 1976...i was 17 years of age. I've had a few bikes since then, currently still have my 01 candy red cbr1100xx super blackbird. But I also have 3 Goldwings I am attempting to restore and rebuild. A 75, 81 and 83 Aspencade. Sadly there are no bikes coming thru from Honda... Or anyone else that excites me like my blackbird does.... But my old Goldwings... I love em. They are from a truly magical time in motorcling. So much innovations from all the manufacturers. So many engine configurations, turbos, V twins, 6 cylinders(cbx, z1300) cbx6 being the sexiest engine ever built I think... To prove Honda's ability to really push the limits.. The Honda NR750... A lot of its technology flowed down to and can still be seen in bikes today. Now a lot of what we see coming thru as pointed out is tech.... Software. And quite well said.. Guys like myself who had started riding in the 80s or earlier are guys who are mechanical minded... The legacy of the goldwing is huge... Not matched by too many others. Long live the King... The goldwing.
Thanks Greg , That was a fantastic comment! The CB 6 was the bike that I first saw my neighbour start everyday and it got me into this first love ! Long live the king !
Bravo… very enjoyable 20-minute review from past to present. Riding 51 yrs. straight and considering a change with my ’11 HD Ultra Limited. I enjoyed my two Wing’s very much, loved how aggressive I could corner on a 900 lb. bike. A CVO would simply be a step up from status quo. I’m now thinking change, like the mid 70’s going from Honda 350 to CB750 or ’89 with my first 1500 GW. I said no way to shiftless but I’m now reconsidering. Your video pushed me to test drive a Tour Airbag DCT - Thank You! But… what about all my Harley shirts / jackets?
Thanks Douglas , Glad you enjoyed it! I’d keep the Harley stuff just incase it becomes collectable ! Honda needs to put out much more gear and take a lesson from HD
I have had two goldwings and liked them very much. I put nearly 450,000 miles on the two bikes total. I am right now the owner of a BMW R1250RT and like this a bit more than the wings. The newest gold wings are a step up from the last two years. It is hard to find a better bike than a goldwing, there are some as good and a bit different.
@@RideThis Africa twin is not even in the discussion being a dual purpose bike. The RT is in many ways like the goldwing but with better cornering, fuel economy and power. The BMW actually has better weather protection than the wing, going from great to outstanding by comparison. I would rank the wing as better for two people traveling but for solo use the BMW is much better for me although I have had to get used to not having reverse. I ride every day and the bike is my primary transportation, with that as a requirement a goldwing is always in the top choices.
Something tells me the Goldwing will be like Harley. As long as you can get parts for them, people will be riding them. Well past 2027. The Goldwing is a marvel.
Like a Harley?....LOL.....no, you put the key in, hit the start button and ride away without a puddle left behind.....and they do that for tens of thousands of miles.
At 60 years old, I'm still on the fence, love my 1976 CB750, & 1995 Harley Davidson. Easy to work on. The new Goldwing looks awesome but I just think its more electronics to go south on you when you least expect it. I lean towards pure mechanics and horsepower. Not Apps and software. Course that's just my generation. nice video !!
Excellent production value! Though I have watched countless vids on RU-vid that cover the analytical / technical evolution of the new GW, your video captured the emotional / irrational side of the GW equation. BTW I imported a 2016 F6B from Canada to Colorado because I wanted ABS on an 800+ lb motorcycle (and my wife agreed;-). Once the 2018 GW came out I was amazed (and a bit disappointed that I had not waited to buy;-) ! Honda, and the Japanese manufactures for that matter are not "leapfrog" thinkers. The methodically "evolve" their products...... But then, BOOM I sold the F6B, bought a 2018 tour DCT, and as I solo ride the Colorado twisties, I feel they have a platform w the torque of a freight train, agility of a sport-touring bike (had an ST1300 ABS before the F6B) and tech (both mechanical, electronic / software) that operates in the background, allowing the most enjoyable riding experience of my 40+ years of riding. Bravo to you and Honda! I am 61, and my advise to all is exercise / stretch.....take an advanced-riders course every year or two to keep your skills up, and enjoy getting out into the wind......
@@RideThis true. But they say young people don't like Harleys either. I also think that's wrong. They like Harleys a lot...they just can't afford them. When I was 19 my first bike was a Harley. 6000 dollars for a brand new sportster in 2003. Now even sportsters are high!
@@kpnomad7 I purchased a left over 2018 in the fall of 2020. Got a GREAT deal on the Tour DCT airbag model. Great advice and I couldn't agree more. There are deals to be had but a bit of effort and perhaps some travel are in order to get those deals.
Thank you for this documentary, well done. We will see what the future will bring. In my perspective, there will be something on 2 wheels that will take you anywhere. Just for the fun, and the pleasure of exploring your part of this marvellous planet. An ST-1100 Driver.
I am planning on trading/selling my Harley TriGlide in a few years and upgrading to the Goldwing in a trike configuration. I have always loved Honda. My first bike was a Honda Trail 70, followed by a Honda Hawk Automatic 400. After I retired I bought a used Honda SilverWing 500 Interstate and then quickly upgraded to a 2003 Honda VTX 1800/ and then bought my Harley TriGlide. Every time I pull up next to any GoldWing, regardless of the year or CC, I am always impressed by how smooth the engine sounds. They do sound like sewing machines they are so smooth and quiet. Honda clearly has a better motor on any level than Harley because Honda embraces the future and Harley keeps producing the past.
I had an '04 before I bought my '19. 106k miles on it when I sold it and it took a guy "upgrading" from a GL1500 to understand that kind of mileage was nothing on a Wing. Every year I'd look at the new Wings coming out and there never seemed to be any significant changes to what I already had. The 2018+ introduced "most" of everything I was looking for. LED lighting, bluetooth integration, electric windshield, 6th gear (7 on my DCT). BMW was years ahead on technology and I almost went that route. I probably would have if there had been a dealership closer to where I lived for service, etc.
Thanks, a great video. I have loved the Wing from its first release, just can’t afford it. Plus no garage. It is and will always be, for me, the one that got away....
Back in the 1970s, we considered the original GL1000 was ridiculously heavy. Today it would be a mid-weight. My favourite of them all is the F6 Valkyrie. Just enough screen and lots of chrome. They later spoiled it with the Rune.
I just have a feeling in 10 years from now the manual goldwing will be an oddity and hence a collectible when they decide to go all electric. Great content and excellent presentation style. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Rajesh , We will see if batteries that small will make the range work as Harley is seeing that once the ride is cool , that they want to ride longer ! And a small boxy battery just can’t hold the range . Not yet anyway. Let’s see what comes out in ten years .
@@viarnay Honda has stated that Japan will be fully electric by 2040 as part of the national plan. This will effect the bike side greatly. As gas engines will be banned by then .
Your video is right on track when it comes to the "aging" issue now faced by all motorcycle manufacturers. Perhaps, someone at H-D should get with Honda .... I recently purchased a used 2004 Wing with only 26,000 miles. It is an incredible machine to say the least. The improvements on the new model are impressive, especially the new engine, technology and styling. I just don't get why luggage and fuel capacity was reduced. Yes, the new engine is more efficient, but it is a long distance touring bike, so this was a step backwards in my opinion.
Thanks Billy , Honda is I believe, going after the rich and influential age of let’s say 35+ Hundreds of wing riders don’t share their adventures, and Honda wanted to make it cool again to take trips . Now , with the coming of electric, I wonder if this is Honda’s last kick at the can for the ICE wing As they know in future we will be going off road . See my video deal or no deal regarding the future of motorcycles
Great video, I really enjoyed the little journey you took us on. Here in Australia the top model is around $47000, which is a little rich, I see very few on the roads compared to previous models, a Honda salesman told me that they don’t sell well in Australia but I know that earlier models did !!! The new model does not come up for sale often as a second hand bike and most dealers don’t carry stock let alone a demo. So I’m yet to ride one but that DCT has me at 51 quite interested. I recently sold my Road King and bought a BMW but I’d love to ride a Wing and see if it was for me.
Thank You ! Glad you enjoyed it! I hope you can get a chance to definitely try the dct . It’s now coming to the rebel 1100 cruiser, so see if your dealer has one you can try . Here in Ontario our numbers for the Wing this year are scary low so we will see how it does . 2021 updates include a way larger trunk !! And it looks a bit like she’s been sitting on her butt a lot , and got fat !! Check out the pictures on Honda.com Cheers !
I’m on my third Goldwing since 2012 !!! They have never let me down 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 are they perfect no!!! About as close as you can get I imagine . I have never downed any other bike out there . I’ve ridden a lot in my life time and I can’t think of one i didn’t like.I’m 65 now and it looks like I’am going have to switch to a 3 wheel motorcycle . Hopefully I will like what ever I buy 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼 be safe and enjoy the ride 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thank you so much for the very informative video. From Canada i have the fifth 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT off the assembly line.The dealership ordered it as soon as they were eligible to . Traded 2006 Harley Davidson ultra glide screaming eagle.
@@RideThis the forklift was not running and it took 5 of us to take it off the Pickup. Just think, there were CB & CL's in the showroom from 100 to 500cc. The 70's were great.
@@josephreisinger33 That’s so true of the day , My first bike was a 73 KX 90 duel sport. I rode that till I seized it!! I know we all wish we could find all our first bikes !
First time viewer here...and a BMW, Harley guy, but I have to say that the video was well done! Great job...almost makes me think of adding a GoldWing to my collection!
My first wing was a 1100 aspencade with vetter fairing and bags. Lots of space side bags came off with ignition key. Newer Bikes have smaller bags. And they suck. Would love a goldwing without the electronics.
I realised @54 my 2019 Goldwing would probably be the last bike I ever buy, quite a depressing thought when you think about it, but I suppose we all have to come to terms with our mortality, final edition for the Wing maybe, but what comes next will be Hybrid or Electric, I don't want either, so that's when I hang up my boots, I guess.
Thanks for the comment Anthony, Having been to Honda’s head office and seeing the wing there before it came out , They told me that they will only electrify a dirt bike in the future . The DCT however makes me think they are preparing for a shiftless future ....
I purchased my new 2012 when I was 60 and thought it would be my last bike I ever buy...... but now I'm seriously thinking about getting a new 2021 Goldwing at 69. My last two cars are hybrids (2019 Honda Insight & now 2021 Rav4 Hybrid) and if Honda would have gone with a hybrid Goldwing in 2021 I'd be ALL over it in a second without any hesitation. As far as electric.....NOT SO MUCH!!! Enjoy your new 2019 Goldwing, it will give you endless trouble free riding.....
Bought a Harley Davidson when I retired 12 years ago...bought the Road King because I wanted simplicity...no gauges, no radio, no fairing etc. Love my RK today with 90,000 + klm!
I'm with you, I have my 2007 Heritage Classic Softail and love every minute, easy to work on not like GW takes 2 hrs just to change an air filter, and 1 hour to change spark plugs due to everything you have to take off and put back together insuring (I've work on motorcycles here in Saudi Arabia, and focus just on Harley). Plus my Harley I can customize with chrome where as GW only thing is maybe a custom paint job. RIDE SAFE AND RIDE HARD.
I had a GL1000 right after owning a Z1 Kaw. The Original Goldwing was scary fast. You would be rowing along, thinking everything was right with the world and some cop would come along and give you a ticket for 85 in a 70. Wow! Smooth, strong run forever engine. I once did a weekend trip from Shreveport to El Paso and back. No problem other than a tornado and gettin a ticket going into El Paso and another coming out! Bummer
Enjoyed the video very much, even though I know the history well. I had the K1 GL1000, the 83 GL1100 Intersrate 1986 GL1200 Interstate, AND FINALLY MY FINAL ADDITION 2002 GL1800. Thank you for the great storyline imaginatively presented. Cheers Paul young 74.
I’ve always wanted a Wing since I was a young kid in the 1970’s. The in 1981 I was paralyzed from the neck down. Couple years ago I was given an opportunity to buy a 2005 BMW K1200LT with a Hanigan sidecar for cheap. Thought my friends would take me out for freedom from my wheelchair rides more often a\than the 4 time in 2 years. It is the therapy when riding a bike, I’ve always loved them. I’ve always loved the GoldWing the most but could never afford the Honda Wing. I would be able to ride more with the automatic transmission, love this idea. Someday hopefully I’ll find an automatic transmission Honda Wing to hook to my sidecar. Then I’ll get rid of the other bike. Thanks for the great Wing information. Love it.
It's taken many years to work my way up to such a large motorcycle. Once I spend several years with the new adventure bike, I may look at a Goldwing. It's all about what you want to do. Long highway tours? Definitely Goldwing. Back road gravel and camping tours? Enduro.
Terrific video. I’m a soon to be new GW owner, attracted by the make over. Last model too massive for me. Maybe this will be my last petrol engined bike then?
Thanks Jon , We will see , but I’m worried about battery size and not having the range that we are use to or want . A car can have a floor of batteries and a bike can have only one or two in a group that restricts its range. I see Harley Davidson is trying but discovering this fact . So we will see if future changes to battery tech will change this .
I owned a bare 1982 1100 and added a Vetter fairing, now own a Gold Wings "baby brother" an ST1300 (not a lot of tech, but a joy to ride). I checked my piggy bank & I'm a bit short on cash to upgrade (damn). Thanks for the very informative video.
Thanks Glenn , Thank you for watching and yes the ST1300 was also due for a change and they tried in the form of the CTX 1300 ,, but it was not popular to much at all here in Canada .
