When I test road the new style when it came out, I took it straight to the backroads and curves I would ride. I took out the DCT...I NEVER used the Paddle Shifters....I blistered the curves in Sport Mode on the DCT model...YES...I felt IN CONTROL of the bike at all times. The Bike shifted and down shifted exactly when I would! These old school guys just do not want to see change and they think on the street they are Valentino Rossi and say they like "Controlling" their bike. I would probably get a DCT version if I brought new style Wiung. I still enjoy shifting and that is why I would keep a 2nd Bike that would be manual!
I viewed that video when it came out, I believe it was titled SPORT MODE if i'm not mistaken. I will say that for me it's taken thousands of miles for me and the DCT to gel and now I "GET IT". And i'm glad that I did, You know Technology really wants the user to forgo previous ideas and to learn how to use what's in front of them and to learn it THE WAY IT WANTS YOU TO USE IT. Unfortunately for many that's nearly impossible.
Road Glide i’m a sport bike guy that also owns a goldwing that pulls a trailer. i think the DCT Makes sense for a couch on wheels. I wouldn’t have a problem owning one. But for me i’m bit skeptical on Anything new as far as Upkeep, costs of repair and longevity is concerned. I think I’ll just wait and see how they turn out once people start racking up some serious miles on them and if they hold up to pulling trailers then Weigh out the pros and cons. if all works out heck yeah i’d love to own a DCT goldwing👍
Owning both new Goldwings does give me a unique opportunity to evaluate both and it is a not much of stretch, but I beieve this DCT has won my heart. I have been riding for over 55 years and the standard is second nature to me so it took a while riding the DCT for me to really appreciate this marvelous technology. What impressed me most about the DCT was the way it shifts. No human can shift quicker or smother no matter what some purists might say. Another thing is how positive the shifting is with NO hesitation. The fact that you can “shift” with the paddle shifter, both up and down, if you want to is a great addition, however I seldom us it. In addition the forward and backward “walking” feature of the DCT is priceless. I love it. I know the standard has a reverse, but honestly, there is no comparison. If you have ever been stuck in a traffic jam you know that a clutch will ware your ass out in a hurry. Enter the DCT with no clutch and the argument ends. They did do a good job on the standard transmission this year by adding that 6th gear. You no longer are “searching” for that higher gear. Also, the old Goldwing transmissions “clunked” badly between 1st and 2nd and had a very long throw. I know because I had a 2010 model. The new 2018 Goldwing standard has a short throw and is smooth as silk shift so there is a wonderful difference. I suspect that as the future closes in on us old clutch users, you will see the DCT come into it’s own in a hurry. I bought the standard Tour primarily for my son as he is still into clutches, and he has yet to ride my DCT. When he rides it a few times, I’m sure that pendulum will swing the other way. I’ll probably end up trading in the standard on another DCT, but for now, that’s just the way it is. Another thing to consider about the DCT is resell value. I suspect that in the future, the DCT’s will be in much greater demand and command a higher price eventually closing out the era of the clutch. How many people do you know today that drive a standard car? Finally, there is not that much difference in price between the standard Goldwing and the DCT model. So,.....I would advocate strongly for the DCT and not look back. My opinion
Don Stout The secret is getting out. And considering that Honda has been developing this technology for motorcycles for over a decade now its coming into its own. And in the upcoming years we will be the motorcyclists who have ownership experiences with a DCT motorcycle after many years of riding the old clutch style motorcycles. Like I tell my buddies now “ I can ride your bike and I can ride my bike with confidence, CAN YOU SAY THE SAME” Their answers will overwhelmingly be no for many reasons. I’ve made the decision that my lifetime motorcycle experience will be inclusive of all she has to offer. Pioneers...Ride forever.
Absolute best take on this I've seen. Very thoughtful and understanding of someone else's opinion. I test rode the dct and I initially had that out of control feeling. By the end of the ride, I was enjoying it. I have no doubt I could adapt quickly, but I like to shift. Nothing against dct, I just like the act of shifting. Great video G. Thanks
I love my DCT transmission it does an amazing job in all kinds of riding conditions city Hwy and curves I use tour mode most of the time for city and Hwy riding but in the curves sport mode is awesome! Keeping the gears low and rpms up for superior control during the ride.
What up G, I enjoyed the video as always. I understand it's your opinion from your perspective which is very much appreciated. The only way to get facts is to rent or buy and ride. Your opinions and others have me looking at a 2019/2020 Wing this spring. Keep posting them videos.
2Wheel4Fun Yup. Just sharing my opinion, and we are all different, such is life and I’m glad of it as it sure would be boring if we all thought the same way. Ride forever.
Thanks for watching and commenting. I just uploaded a video today where I rode behind a fellow on a previous generation Goldwing. He was moving that bike. I like the older ones as well, however DCT has spoiled me for touring bikes.
First off, it was great meeting you at the NYC motorcycle show. I really enjoyed this video and you hit the nail on the head that many people are resistant to change. I love manual transmission cars and bikes, however, I also love the advancement in technology that makes automatics superior to my manuals. Will anybody argue with Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini for making their top cars automatic? I didn’t think so. Keep churning out these videos as I’m enjoying them.
You have a great voice for broadcasting if you ever wanted to do that! Also, the intelligent, informative nature of your verbal rhythm is ideal for such a format. I know, seems off-topic but it was one reason I just subscribed. Aloha!
A year ago, I began looking for a new motorcycle. I owned a cruiser (2012 Victory High Ball) and took a look at a new BMW bagger. I liked the style but didn’t care for the weight of the bike. I then switched my interest to Honda and started my research on a Goldwing bagger. When I visited my local Honda Dealer in Melbourne, FL, the salesman asked if I was interested in the manual or DCT. I immediately said manual transmission but said I was not ready to make a purchase until March or April. I walked out of the dealership intrigued with the DCT and with the touring model...... I said to myself, “why not go all out for the touring model?” For the next few months, I immersed myself into watching as many videos about the DCT touring model and I became convinced that this is what I wanted. I watched many of the videos from Memphis Mike as well as Cruiseman’s Garage. I also learned about the Honda Wing Ding event in Nashville. Before I made my purchase, I made hotel and event reservations without yet owning my Goldwing. When it came time to test ride my very first DCT, I was nervous yet excited about finally climbing aboard and finally riding this machine. After my nervous start, I started to acclimate myself and fell in love with the new Goldwing. I made my purchase on April 5, 2019 (one day before my birthday) and by far, this is the best motorcycle I’ve ever owned! I’ve been riding since 1973 and have owned several motorcycles throughout the years (Honda, Yamaha, BMW, Victory) and without hesitation, my 2019 DCT Tour is the best. This is the only motorcycle that I look forward to getting back on every time I get off it. I ride it to work frequently and really enjoy the ride to and from work.
Great commentary. Spot on. I think it's really more about change. I would have to think the DCT does better with the 7th gear to a small degree with fuel on longer rides and has to be better in stop and go traffic.
Nice video. One point that my play a part in this is price. The DCT is more expensive to start with and I’m will to bet more expensive to repair. I’m 57 and come from the sport touring side of the house ( FJR, C14, RT, ect). I got a ‘19 DCT and loving it. I also have a’18 Versys 1000 for when I want to play. 😇
Cool! Glad you’re enjoying this wonderful machine we ride👍🏾. Thanks for watching and commenting. Enjoy your Thanksgiving and stay tuned for more videos.
Thanks. I just picked up a Stablemate for the DCT. It’s a 6 speed manual CB1000R. I will vlog aboard that motorcycle as well. Thanks again for watching.
G-I'm your age. Just bought my first bike last fall. Glad I did. I had a scooter years ago for short time. It was fun to ride that automatic. I would go for GW dct since I think I understand the automatic feel. Since I'm new to manual shift. I'd probably keep a second bike for fun
I agree with your thinking. I need to experience the DCT Goldwing. So coming up for 202 I will let go of my 2014 wing 74000 miles on her and get the new bike. I tour. 10 yea5s older then you. I'm a dirt and street rider. Love riding.
Ghost Pepper Rides Thanks for watching. We’re fortunate to have access to new technologies that offer different choices now, so why may as well take advantage while we can.
Great video, but the dealership is offering me a screaming deal on a holdover 2018 manual. Trading in a Harley for it...did I say Honda is offering .99%? Haha, they offered me a deal I can't refuse. I have ridden a DCT, and I think I would be happy either way. Thanks for the video, sir!
Hi Al. You are not alone! Getting my new Bagger 6 speed in about a week. I have owned DCT before and yes it’s excellent BUT at the end of the day it is not quite the same as riding a bike manually. Just isn’t. You ride a manual, pilot a DCT.
I have to say, I rode a brand new, not even ridden before demo DCT goldwing and it didn't change gear in any mode coming up to junctions in a way I felt comfortable with with our UK roads with steep cambers and stop start traffic, I've been riding for 30+ years and have to say in my riding a fair bit in towns it left me feeling a bit nervous, because it wasnt ready to pull away as I approached a junction, causing me to have to dab my foot hard down to stop me dropping( a brand new bike with only 12 miles on!) I guess in the states you have wider roads than in Europe and you don't have the cambers we have in the UK, so a DCT is probably a better bet, I liked the idea of an auto bike, I've had a big scooter for a while and loved it, but that was a lot lighter and and didnt have gears just a CVT so no dramers! I think forget DCT or manual , the Goldwing now, whichever model you prefer is the best bike you can buy today, Honda have updated the Goldwing to such a perfect bike, I cant see anything that comes close, and I cant see anyone other than Honda that could, they make the most reliable cars and Motorcycles. Ride safe.
Anthony Price I agree any bike that you love and that you are committed to learning how to operate confidently and skillfully is the best bike for you. Thanks for watching and ride forever.
To each their own, I restore, own and ride many classic bikes, so buying a new bike every year or couple bikes is something I would never do. My current long distance bike (restored in 2011) is now 21 years old, and is not even a touring /cruiser bike, I have no intention of ever changing or upgrading it to something else.
Hi my friend ! Yes its hard to change! Maybe you will feel the same when all the new gold wings are electric? But the fun is just the same, riding out in the fresh air is still Riding its freedom!!! Have. A great day! Pete!
I have guys that pick with me on my decision to go from Harley Davidson to the Goldwing. Then they laughed at me more when they found out that I got the DCT version. However, they weren’t laughing much when we were lane splitting in Southern California for like 60 miles one day and they were begging for a break because their clutch hand was cramping up so much and I was walking away as I could make speed adjustments much quicker not to mention the Goldwing is much more nimble due to its lower center of gravity. 🤷♂️
I think the same guys that are resistant to the DCT are the same guys that scoffed at Fuel Injection. Some people just stupidly resist progress and positive change. I've got a '16 F6B Deluxe. She's paid for, and I plan on keeping her for many years - but I would have no issue with going with a DCT if I ever got into a new ride. And I'm old. But I can embrace technology and understand that the advancement of technology can bring great things to our lives when it's good.
Well stated...We both have ride manual bikes and will not be purchasing a DCT soon, and control is not an issues. Think about it... When you first learn to ride, none of us had "control". As we developed our skills, we learned to "control" our bikes better. Haters just need a reason to hate the new wings and refuse to move forward. IE: Not enough storage, seat too hard, only 5 gallon gas tank, I like to be in control of my bike, BLA BLA BLA...etc. Just as we learned to control the clutch, shift, throttle, breaking, ect. We can learn the DTC. DCT isn't new, just new (and different) to the majority. Yes dct WILL be the two wheel riding wave of the future and many WILL be left behind, technology MUST be embraced. We (Rich & KAke) don't currently ride a dct only because we are not in the market for a new bike. But when we are...MAN O MAN DCT here we come.
Boots and Jeans Riders You said it! It always surprises me the lengths one would go to disguise their fear of “The Known”. Ride forever and thanks for watching.
After 30 years of riding and million times of shifting, I will say to Honda, you did something magical to this 6th gen Wing. I rode them both, when I took the DCT for 1/2 an hour ride, I was sold like a blind man. This smart tranny is so smooth, so quite, learns your riding habits, its a no brainer for me. I have had one for 2 years now, the more I ride, the more I want to ride more. If I have the need for power, I put her on Sport Mode and WOW !!!!!!!! The paddle shifting is superb. As of now, I can't see myself riding anything else. I am sold till the next few years when Honda will add more good options on future models.
At 65 and having raced motocross and owned countless street motorcycles I’ve shifted a bazillion times and have nothing to prove. The DCT is no threat to my man card. A great Honda salesman and friend told me there’s no reason to even consider the manual for the GW, get the DCT. The motorcycle the GW represents lends it self to the DCT perhaps better than any other; when I purchased my FJR1300 an auto was on offer. I didn’t even consider it based on my riding style, looking to purchase the 2021 base GW and wouldn’t even consider the manual version. I love shifting and have a number of motorcycles where shifting is integral to their enjoyment (FJR, ZX14, Triumph T120 Bonneville), part of their character. For me personally the DCT and the GW is a no brainer, no need to defend your choice my friend as you’ve made an excellent decision. Ride long and well. Ciao.
That’s a sweet ride. You’ll enjoy that for years to come. I love the new road king and can see one in my future. Please subscribe to my RU-vid channel and enjoy the upcoming videos. Thanks for again for watching.
Slow speed maneuvering and working the Gray area is more accurate and precise on the manual. If you are riding in a straight line, the DCT is much easier, however slow speed cone work and tight u-turns are way more sloppy and uncontrolled on the DCT. Slow is smooth and smooth is fast.🤷♂️
I’ve been riding fifty years, many miles, many bikes, and the only reason I’d choose a manual over (this latest generation) DCT are the results of pure hard wired muscle memory. Literally, if you asked me the shift pattern or which hand controls the clutch I’d have to stop and think about it; shifting gears has become an involuntary response to a constellation of external conditions. After millions of manual gear shifts, how much more automatic could it possibly get?
I think the anti DCT is a testosterone issue. Some think the automatic DCT isn't manly enough. I'm ok with that for them. Mixing it up is an educational discussion, usually.
Wingin' It with John I tend to agree with you on this. The reality is those who ride a DCT transmission are being exposed to and learning new ways of riding and enjoying a motorcycle. We can do what they(no. DCT riders) can’t. I tell you low testosterone is a killer. Lol.
Guys I don’t agree with this concept. I am a big advocate for doing the cone course. MC rider and Jerry Palladio both agree that the clutch makes it more maneuverable at slow speeds. I also own another clutch motorcycle and transitioning between two different bikes might prove challenging. So in my case it have nothing to do with testosterone but muscle memory and instincts. I get the opportunity to drive lots of sports cars and they are all automatic.
Funny i had to look for this video as im stuck... dct or clutch 😳 what goes on in my mind is exactly what you said im worried about change, what if i dont like it ,what will other think ..i test rode the clutch version and loved it.im wondering will i like the dct more or less, will it feel odd taking corners 🤔 ect ect..
You will regret not having known and learned the many ways you could manually shift a DCT transmission. I own and ride a manual motorcycle as well and will say it’s made me a smoother rider. I say do it and don’t look back.
So do scooters have automatic no shifting too! Nothing really new. G.L. 1800 have all the torque in the world so no matter what gear your in it will still pull out in front. I like Manuel because I like the feel of brake horsepower under-control in rain or snow. I know it has different mod settings. Like on highway speed going on and off ramps or catching up to speed in a controlled congested traffic pattern may be DCT is already in 5th gear when maybe manually you need 3rd or 4th to get in traffic and 4th or 5th to get around where as DCT is still stuck in 5th gear and to roll on (accelerate), may lag some....(make sense)?
Henry Xavier Thanks for watching. After 10,000 miles DCT is learning my habits and to answer your question depending on what mode I’m in and how I’m riding at that time DCT does not get stuck in a higher gear, not to mention I have access to paddle shifters to make adjustments. It’s a whole different set of skills to learn and I can understand the apprehension one might have. Ride forever.
Somebody other than Jerry Paladino needs to show me how I can maneuver the DCT in low speed situations as well as a manual clutch working in the friction zone before I would feel comfortable switching over from a life of habit with manual motorcycle transmissions. For your next video lay down some tight figure eights in a parking lot to convince me. If you can do that I am sold.
Here’s a tip. Throw her in rain mode and use a little rear brake, also shifting weight to outside of bike helps. I can crawl with this bike, do tight figures 8’s and balance her with a passenger better and with more confidence than any manual transmission motorcycle I’ve ever had. Practice practice practice. Your experience may vary. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I love the DCT! It is the future of motorcycling! The DCT is just another Safety Feature just like the Quick Shifter, Slipper Clutch, Traction Control and ABS. It makes a Motorcycle Safer and Easier to Ride! The Automatic Transmission made the Car Safer and Easier to Drive and the DCT makes the Motorcycle Safer and Easier to Ride.
Big mistake. Now looking for DCT GW. I suspect the 2020 Base Models (simply know as Gold Wing's without "Tour" in name or Trunk on back) Have Reverse just like only the Tours have had. I hope that is accurate.
The regular DCT Goldwings without the trunk have a reverse, however it's powered by the starter motor unlike the Tour model with the truck that have a true reverse Gear in the transmisson. I believe it to be more powerful and use it daily to power up and over curbs and ramps in reverse with my passenger aboard.
Another video about one's personal choice. I want to know fuel milage compared to the 5 speed wing. My mind is made on manual because in the long run, relays, servos and whatever software it takes to run the dct is a big concern for me. So I want to know is how the 6 speed stacks up against the old 5 speed. That's all. I don't care about Apple, sirus contracts and all the digital display. That's all forced on me.
I hear you loud and clear. I love riding all bikes. Even vlog aboard my CB1000R(please check my playlist). Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you. 👍🏾
If this video is any indication of the conditions you ride in, I see why you might prefer a DCT.... For me, as life long motorcyclist and avid off-road rider I would NEVER consider riding with an automatic transmission or clutch. These are some of the most important connections a rider can have to their machine. In order to ride well we have to be in touch with what the bike's condition is from all points and controls. I personally would not never give one or more of those points up.
I hear you. The commute is more engaging when on my Manual Adventure bike the mighty R 1250 GSA . see link to yesterday's upload. thanks for watching. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-yuUgzJNhfA0.html
I wanted to see the difference in the two, not some one talking about there feelings or his feelings and how they under stand or don't under stand each other , sorry but this was very disappointing, I wanted to now about the bikes not how people feel about them. And as far as shifting if you have ridden any amount of time, there is something wrong if you have to think about shifting, I would think the DCT would be for some one who has never driven a manual car or used a gear shift. DcT would also be great for some one with joint problems. or lack of hand foot control Or who just dose not want to shift. like on a scooter. But that is obvious, Things I wanted to know is there a difference in pick up, gas millage, or handling, Another thing is how many miles or km you get per tank of gas. My biggest worry is how far between fill ups, I like to hit the back roads and gas can be hard to find on these roads. It is not like the old days when there were mom an pop gas stations all over the place, most of them are long gone.
It’s great and can be applied to so many applications. From full on manual to auto. That’s the beauty of the dual transmission. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Nice blog, I test rode both versions and honestly prefered the manual at the time.....HOWEVER I found a much better deal on a used DCT and as I found the option to fit a foot changer, (which I liked on the BMW) decided to opt for the DCT. That was in July and can I say I have no intention of fitting a foot changer whatsoever. The bike adapts to your riding style and the paddle shifts work brilliantly although I very rarely use them as auto riding is just so good. I have never once reached for the none existing clutch lever although do admit to once and once only tried to change gear with my foot and started laughing so much. Part of my reasoning for opting for the DCT was I have drove auto cars for donkeys years and love them so OK not normal for bikes but why not !! All I would say to the guys who say they prefer manuals....have you actually tried for more than an hour test ride. If not and thinking of going for a new wing get an extended test ride before deciding an hour is just not long enough to make an informed decision.
Mike Jacks That’s incredible. I’m coming off a slew of BMW’s as well. GSA’s, and Touring K bikes. Guess I wanted something different. Ride forever and thanks for watching.
@@GBeWinginIt welcome, it is interesting how many riders dismiss a DCT without ever having rode one yet the majority of reviews rave about just how good they are
@@mikejacks1939 hiya Mike. Just bought a new 6sp manual Bagger. I have owned a DCT before and really liked it but just because something exists it doesn’t mean we have to choose it. Does Led Zeppelin sound better on vinyl or CD? I’d say vinyl. DCT is a terrific system but there’s nothing like the satisfaction of well timed and smooth gear changes being done by yourself, on your bike. That’s my 2 cents anyway.
@@jfro5867 I get it is not for everybody, as I said on my first impression I preferred the manual but got a better deal on the DCT and gambled it would be easier to move the DCT on if I could not get used to it. I don't think I ever said the DCT was better than the manual, my point was you can't make an informed decision on a short test ride which one youtuber I had seen dismissing the DCT after a test ride of 20 minutes. For a massive change from years of ingrained clutch use you need a lot more time. You have been there and still prefer the manual nothing wrong with that in my book. I still drive manual and automatic vehicles every day and would never say one is better than the other but autos have been around in many vehicles for many years so why not bikes. I do love mine, not perfect but pretty near..... for me and the type of bike it is. The custom bike I build when I retire won't be automatic.... Or will it
@@mikejacks1939 LOL fair enough Mike. Everything will be electric anyway (probably) so even DCT will be obsolete! Thanks for the reply though appreciate it.
I can understand the control argument, considering, most feel ( I was one myself) that without a clutch, you can't do tight maneuvers. Well, I believe this to be incorrect, after riding the DCT for 500 miles, I love it, I am able to do most turns easily and believe that I will have little trouble or time invested in learning to do tight maneuvers with a DCT. Ride safe
I apologize as my mic picked up more than I had expected during this vlog. Thanks for watching and commenting. I hope you enjoyed some of my other offerings.
My 3rd Goldwing is a 2021 DCT Tour and I love the DCT. It can be put in manual mode which requires paddle shifting only for those that need to “control” their bike. I like led vs. incandescent also. I like electric start vs. kick start. I like satellite radio vs. FM. See where I’m goin with this ?
Buying a DCT is like buying a Porsche with an automatic. If lazy is your thing, great but a manual in any vehicle makes you more involved. The 6m is a magnificent transmission and I’m very happy with it.
frank Only if you want to be lazy. I have and use the F1 paddle shifters extensively when I ride. That’s manual. For me buying and owning a DCT has been a revelation. Thanks for watching. And ride forever.
QuidEst Nunc The music was coming from the bikes external speakers and was picked up by the microphone. Guess I’m so used to it that it doesn’t affect me when I’m blogging. I will take that into consideration moving forward. Thanks for watching and commenting I appreciate the feedback.
