Is a Honda Gold Wing too big for you? 

You might also like this video explaining 10 reasons why I love my Honda Goldwing. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-FIDLK20iaFE.html

I don’t have a heart give up my 1990 Goldwing… dropped it few times. I went into hospital had 7 hernias surgeries in 3 years period. ( not Goldwing related) Lost 60 lbs. I rode the Goldwing, realize I don’t have strength if I drop it…. Not giving up !!! I invested into tow pac trike… I gone crazy!! Drove 3000 miles since last year. I had to learn the cornering skills. I’m 67. Short legged guy !! Lol

I’m a new rider, 5’5’ / 142lbs. My first bike was a Honda Rebel 1100. Owned it roughly a year and a half then got bored of it. Sold it and bought my first 2022 Goldwing, no regrets. Love my Wing!! Ride it more than my Rebel. Lol.

That changed my mind. Im getting a Goldwing!!!

You really hit it on the head with this video. I'm an old sport bike rider from the 70's, mostly high performance crotch rockets, that while powerful and fast, are also much lighter. After a 10 year break, I just bought my "Wing" this winter, and I admit the weight did bother me a little to start. My slow speed handling is getting better, but after your going 25mph plus, it is such a smooth ride. Smooth on the interstate too, but looking at the tachometer at cruise, I don't think they expected it to go too much faster than that. Big difference I notice is how solid it is, such as on gravel or in the rain. Feels more like driving a car. Even in a bad cross wind, it is still easy to control and feels solid. To me, that is the advantage of the "heavy" bike, it feels very safe. I can take a roll over in a parking lot, but I want to feel safe on the highway.

Picking up a "new to me" 2008 tomorrow. Super excited. Been riding 35 years, but only 15 of those were on street bikes. First a Sportster 883, then a Softtail. This is my first Honda, first Goldwing, first bagger/tour pack. So lot's of firsts. I'm just 5'9" but over 200 pounds. I've dropped other bikes. It's not the end of the world. Kick yourself for whatever dumb thing you did, get over it and don't do it again. Thanks for the videos!

Very much agree with your assessment here. I dropped mine once. I was taking off and a car slammed it's breaks for now reason right after taking off. The abrupt stop made me drop it. Lesson learned, no damage occurred and I lifted it back up quickly. The only thing hurt was my ego.

5’ 11” here, 62 no issues. Practice practice practice, each season I feel like I am starting from scratch…. I practice and practice and after a little while all the slow speed stuff comes back to me…. Stopping and turning, and u turns etc need to be maintained skills.

I had many bikes in my life, from 50cc till 1800cc, from 8 hp till 160 hp, but the Goldwing is the best out of all☺☺

Thanks for the laugh about the IDMGWT, never thought of it in those terms. Been riding for 5 decades now, and since 1975 I have exclusively rode Gold Wings. Everything you said was pretty accurate. It is a large bike and I am 5'8" and started at 175 lbs. , (now I'm heavier) it is a machine that needs to be learned on how to operate it. The biggest drawback for me is the slow speed maneuvering. The Rake and Trail of the bike is the reason why it isn't as easy as a Harley in this activity. But, after riding Wings for decades I know that there hasn't been a Harley Dresser that could catch me in the tight curves. No, it is not a race bike or even close to a crotch rocket, but until you actually have spent some time on it you will never fully appreciate just how good of a twisty machine it can be. Nearly seventy now, and I know that one day in the future I will have to hang up my gloves for the Wing, I might have to go for a smaller lighter bike, but it will never ever replace the fun I have had going from Coast to Coast and all over North America on the very comfortable and very capable Gold Wing. I always hoped that Honda would make a smaller version, like the opposed four that they used to make, and make it a one seater, where the trunk could be the drivers back rest, shedding a great deal of weight in the process, lowering the seat a bit, and then opening the market to smaller guys and a great deal of ladies that cannot handle the big one.

Thanks for making such a relaxing and well informed video about everything I was thinking! I bought a 2003 Honda Goldwing for my 8 year old daughter and I to enjoy together on the weekend. I was raised on sport bikes, so,,, the idea of owning and operating a Wing was a huge leap. In Fact the day I brought It home, I was more scared than any cliff dive or major handgun competition event I've ever been in. I curled up in a chair and shivered like a scared puppy. You were absolutely right! I couldn't stay this way, so I got to work reading online forums and videos. Like you, I invested a lot of time as a weekend parking lot dweller working on my turns, braking and getting familiar with this huge motorcycle until my old in-stinks came back. Now my daughter and I love to catch up with mommy and the rest of the family to game practice, or grab some lunch. Please keep up the great work!

I got hurt on my goldwing 1 time right after I got it last year. i got hurt when I was practicing in a parking lot, my tight turns and slow speeds like you were saying. I am 6ft 2In, 300 pounds. I got hurt by coming to the realization that I was pretty good at maneuvering this thing, and I decided to leave that lot and go put a few miles on my 1998 GL1500A. i rode up to the exit oft he parking lot and decided to stop, I was close to the curb and reverted back to my smaller bike knowledge for just long enough to reach out with size 17 high top and planted my foot on it to finish the stop, at that Time i suddenly remembered i was on a 800+ Pound bike with my 300 pound ass and my knee popped , sounded like a walnut cracked in there. lesson learned! LOL took three weeks to heal that gnarly pain up. luckily nothing super bad happened, just a over momentary over extension slight twist Oh Crap thing. I did notice something a day or so after that, If You jam a Lynyrd Skynyrd Tape in the thing and turn it up pretty far... Everything is much better at any speed. i got this 75k anniversary in Candy spectra red wing for just a bit over 1.00 per cc. :0) it's probably one of the best deals I ever made. currently looking for a new tiny bit taller windshield though, mine has a small crack by the mirror and it;s just a bot short for me. Plus the guy that was selling it got it from his brother inlaw and he put a for sale sign on the windshield. when they removed that tape it took something with it. some kind of film they put on them I guess. those shields are sop high dollar! Yikes!

Coming from a 2021 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT to a 2023 Gold Wing Tour, I like how the Gold Wing feels with the lower center of gravity. Of course it is heavier, but compared to the top heavy AT, this bike is a joy to ride. I have more confidence maneuvering / turning it compared to the AT. Also with walking mode forward/reverse its easy to put the bike where you want it. Before riding the GoldWing for the first time, I was thinking that it was a big heavy looking bike. I was a little apprehensive jumping on it for the first time, but it only took seconds to fall in love with it. I have tipped over riding the 2021 Africa Twin in mud, sand, etc, and its a pain to pick up.

Head up and eyes forward using the rear brake at red lights. Dont look down.

Great video. I ride a BMW RT after years of riding big ADV bikes. I believe that any bike above 500 pounds is "heavy", you cannot muscle a big bike anyways. Still, my RT which is above 600 pounds feels lighter than any top heavy 500 pound ADV bike, but all bikes even the mid sized ones once they lean too much, they go, no way around it. The only time I feel that I am on a heavy touring bike is when I stop on a steep incline because the heavier the bike, the faster they roll back. But as you said, practice makes perfect.

Maybe is but I've had gl1000, gl1100, gl1500, and now my gl1800. Every time I get something different i always go back to the goldwing

Thanks for the insight! As someone that's vertically challenged, some big bikes can seem intimidating but this really changed my perspective. Thanks! 😄

thanks for supporting

I found a really good deal on one and i haven't ridden in a while, but I am working up the courage to get it and start small just around the neighborhood until I work up the courage to get it out on the road. I was getting discourage by other videos that i see making like you need an ungodly amount of time on a smaller bike before you try to size up. Your video gave me some encouragement and I think I am seriously wanting to learn. Thanks for the video.

67 y/o 50 plus years riding, raced motocross, owned all types and sizes of bikes except Hardley. Owned a few 600 lbs sport tour bikes but never anything as heavy as a wing. Test rode a couple wanting the comfort for my wife but I have to admit I was intimidated by the slow speed handleing. I think both bikes have chopped tires on the front so maybe a factor. But I just couldnt pull the trigger. Maybe I will try one again, I like the idea of the DCT and lighter but I sat on a few and none of them seem to compare to 5th gen models??? Maybe a good used one, the prices are right.

Interesting video , Thank you !

5’6 27 165lbs was absolutely blown away with the 05 deluxe trim and my first 600 miles were with no rear brake functionality 😳 I love throwing my weight on the bike to do slow maneuverability and NEVER have done two up on it. Thank you!!!

I just recognized Bedford! Nice work. NS proud!

When you look at the bulk of the Gold Wing it is mostly plastic and fiber glass, which makes it appear much heavier than it actually is. OK so it does weigh over 800 pounds, but much of that is due to the massive engine, but because the engine is mounted low down, the bike has a lower center of gravity than most other bikes. So, don't be intimidated by the size of the bike. If all the plastic and fiber glass were stripped off it, it would look a lot easier to ride.

great video mate and im glad your channel was recommended and i had to subscribe

Wow great advice so positive

Yes. if you're a short dude. I'm 5'8" and I ride a Honda Fury. I tested a 2022 Goldwing and I don't feel confident riding it cuz its too big for me.

2001 First one bought in Tehachapi CA outside of Bakersfield. Rode home non stop to Phoenix AZ. Sidecover was ready to fall off used my knees to keep it on till I could put it in the top case. Fun bike great seating position and I could stand up on the pegs and stretch for the 475 mile ride home!

I was also overwhelmed first time sitting on my 2020 GW DCT Tour. I was like....Are you crazy? its a tank. BUT, once you just start riding.....boy o boy, what a beauty and pleasure to control. Honda did something really good with the COG. No doubt. Superb machine....!!!

I’m 5’8 about 165 lbs. I lost the use of my right arm in a snowmobile accident, I can use my hand with limited use . I decided to buy a motorcycle, I bought a 2015 Harley sportster just to get use to my disability . I decided to buy up, so I bought a 2019 Gold Wing Tour DCT. The one major thing I discovered between the two brands is weight distribution . The Harley was very top heavy even with their smaller bike. The Hondas weight is in the lower part of the bike which I find a whole lot easier at low speed maneuvers. The DCT takes one move out of the equation, no clutch. When your doing low speed maneuvers you just use the back brake while giving it gas, works great. With the weight at the bottom makes it easier when you come to stops. You don’t have to fight to hold it up. If your gonna get a touring bike you owe it to yourself to ride a Gold Wing DCT, I’m pretty sure you’ll love it like I do, hope this helps !😊

Good video! In the spirit of Adventure, it is often thought..."you never know how far you can go, without taking the risk of going too far." I just got an 09 Wing and I haven't dropped it yet. I'll continue pushing it to the limit with drills in a parking lot until I do. It's good to know your limitations.

Thank you, very informative 👍

I am currently considering a 2009 Goldwing. Your videos are so helpful and informative. I think I really need this bike. Currently I am on a 2010 Street Bob, and just typing that makes my back hurt.

Good topic. I agree. Like you I’ve been riding for decades. I started in 1970 as a 10 year old on his first mini-bike. At 5’8”, I don’t find the Wing very challenging, even at slow speed, but I can understand others that do. My bro-in-law who rides a Harley Road Glide is intimidated by the size of the GL1800 and is afraid to take it out. My Harley Electra Glide is like a toy compared to the Wing. I subscribed by the way.

I’m 5’5” n 155 lbs yes the GW is a big machine but if u strip off all the plastic it’s really not that big it’s the heaviness of the engine that intimidates riders… I have a 2012 model n absolutely love it… one thing that helps immeasurably is installing Helibars… that changed the handling at various speeds immensely with way more confidence n riding ability… don’t let the bikes size intimidate u… u just master it instead of it mastering u 😊btw I’ve had mine for over 5 yrs n have never dropped it… so yes u too can ride a full size GW… n the newer ones r even easier to ride n master 👍

After riding big touring bikes for many years, mostly Harleys and BMW. I now have settled on a honda valkyrie rune trike. In my youth I could lift an Electraglide up off its side just by grabbing the bars. 6'3" and 250lbs built like a brick outhouse helped. But at 70 years of age you have to think differently.

Gotta be the most Comfortable Bike I have ever Owned, Big, Comfy and Nimble with Reverse. I am 5'7'"160lbs Anyone can go fast, Go to a parking lot and do slow speed turns and tight city turns using 2 parking stalls lines, practice reverse down ramps both in Gear and Neutral know when to use Reverse, then try uphill. Every parking lot has a ramp, Use the Clutch and Brake and Practice The Bike Does respond, you just need to tell it what to do. Don't let it tell you what to do. If you drop it, just pick it up and try again. Better to learn and know then to not learn and never know.

86 still ride 1800

Great video! I am looking at possibly purchasing a used Goldwing. Have been riding dual sport/adventure bikes for quite a while but am starting to feel the itch to run longer distances more comfortably. I am 5' 6" and tall seat height has been a real issue with the adventure bikes, barely tip toeing is fine off road or when riding .... but when carrying a passenger I grew tired of not feeling in control of the motorcycle at stoplights and parking lots, let alone when passenger gets on and off. I had a Yamaha Super Tenere 1200 for a few years and loved the bike for highway riding 2-up but pulled my inner thigh muscle several time trying to back the thing up while parking, maneuvering on one tip toe ha ha. sold it and downsized for off road and have accepted that I would like a shorter bike for highway ... even if It means giving up ground clearance. They look like such large bikes, I was skeptical if I would be able to touch foot but hearing your height and weight gives me an incentive to go find one to try out.

I think you always have to ask the question: What kind of riding am I going to do. A Wing is a touring bike and gets you many miles down the road in comfort. I don't take mine out unless I'm going to do serious riding. It's not an "around the town" or "commuter" bike. My '08 has been down a couple times with no damage and I have no issues picking it up. I'm 68 so I know the day will come when I may have to let it go. Maybe I'll trike it then. I upgraded from a late 90's Valkyrie so the Wing is about 195 lbs heavier than that bike. It made a difference in riding skills needed. Bottom line is to get a bike that matches how you want to ride. Go to a rally or dealer and take a demo ride first. Big bikes aren't for everyone, just like I'd not buy a sport bike now.

What you guys suggest for 5’5”. 150 pounds, aged 42. Eager to enjoy sometimes like long cruises on GW.

Hey there. Thanks for taking the time to make this video. I'm considering getting a 2009 Goldwing and like you I'm 5'7" tall. It is a big intimidating bike but I'm coming from a K1600gtl. Would you consider this a similar type of rider skill requirement? Thanks.

Same thing goes for a big Harley Davidson touring bike. I dropped my first big bike several times before I realized you could not manhandle these machines it requires finesse. On my second bike an HD road glide limited. It weighs over 900 pounds. Haven't dropped it yet.

At 6'4" tall with long legs the new GL I test rode was too small! Guess I'll stay with my Africa Twin AS with it's 920mm seat height. Fortunately there's a bike for everyone, just need to find what suits.

Mine was going over and I knew that I wasn't going to catch it and it was going to fall on my right leg. So, I jumped off to the right. When My foot hit the grass, I heard a loud pop. Broke the tibia an inch below the knee. Had surgery, got a lot of hardware in there now. Selling the Goldwing. Beautiful bike but I should have got something smaller. So stupid!

No pain, no gain, it’s an opportunity to learn and master new skills and go to the gym. Go big or go home for those that want the experience.

Very Helpful!

👍👊

Just get a 2018+ Gold Wing and be done with it!

I've been riding for 55 years and when the Goldwing first came out in 1975 I was drooling all over them. They have since evolved into everything that I DON'T want in a motorcycle. Too much weight, too complex, too many whistles and bells, and too hard to work on. Although they are very well engineered, incredibly reliable and perfectly suited for their intended purpose, from a mechanics perspective, they're Japans revenge for Hiroshima. BTW. Love the wicked witch reference.

Good as a first bike?

There are bikes too big or too small, there are people who have no idea how to ride even a donkey!!!

Way too big. That's not a gold wing its a gold PIG. What's the point? I'v been riding bikes for 5 decades. What benefit is there to a 900 pound pig? That's not a bike its a leather sofa with 2 wheels. I got a Road King years ago for long trips. I worked but many times I wanted to go out a dirt road to camp. I came close to dropping that Harley on dirt a few times. I'm 6 foot 3 210 pounds and even for a big person like me these modern bikes are over the top. They seem to be in a race to be the first builder to cross the 1000 pound mark. I have had about 30 bikes in the past 50 years. I now have 2 a DRZ 400 and a BMW F800GS. The GS is about 475 pounds. Someone needs to find a way to build a simple ADV bike and keep it under 400.

I am 5 foot 9 200 pounds.

Dont forget age yes age !!!! If you are old like me 70 years then dont even go there for god sake The legs are not what they were neither is the core muscle I know I know a lot will say age has nothing to do with it but let me tell you they are living in cookoo land thats for sure !!!