Honda Gold Wings
The Honda Gold Wing is one of the most iconic and renowned touring motorcycles in the world, known for its unmatched comfort, advanced technology, and long-distance touring capabilities. First introduced in 1975, the Gold Wing has evolved over the years into a symbol of luxury and performance for serious riders who demand both style and substance. It is often regarded as the benchmark in the touring motorcycle segment.
Key Features
Engine and Performance:
Engine Type: The Honda Gold Wing is powered by a 6-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine. It’s one of the few motorcycles that utilize this type of engine, known for its smoothness and low center of gravity.
- The latest models (2018 and beyond) feature a 1,833cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, 24-valve Flat 6 (Boxer) engine, providing an exceptional balance of power and refinement.
Power Output: The engine produces 125 horsepower (93 kW) and around 125 lb-ft (169 Nm) of torque, which offers more than enough power for long highway rides, mountain roads, and even heavy highway passing.
Transmission: The Gold Wing comes with a 6-speed gearbox and offers an option for Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which allows for seamless shifting and smoother operation, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The DCT option is a key selling point for many riders who prefer an automatic shifting experience.
Fuel Economy: The latest Gold Wing models offer a fuel economy of around 40-45 mpg (5.9-6.3 L/100 km), which translates to a range of about 200-250 miles (320-400 km) on a full tank, depending on riding conditions.
Top Speed: The top speed of the Gold Wing is around 125 mph (200 km/h), though it’s designed for comfort and cruising rather than top-end racing.
Chassis and Suspension
Frame: The frame is made of aluminum, which is lightweight and strong, contributing to better handling and overall durability. The newer Gold Wings also use a double wishbone front suspension for improved ride quality and stability.
Suspension: The Gold Wing comes equipped with electronically adjustable suspension to allow riders to tailor the ride for different conditions, road types, and loads.
- Front Suspension: Double-wishbone front fork with independent suspension for a smoother ride and reduced fork dive under braking.
- Rear Suspension: Pro-Arm rear swingarm with an adjustable shock that ensures a plush ride, whether you’re riding solo or with a passenger and luggage.
Brakes: The Gold Wing features dual disc brakes in the front and a single disc in the rear, equipped with Honda’s Combined Braking System (CBS) and ABS for superior safety and braking performance, especially under heavy loads or on wet roads.
Comfort and Features:
Seating: The Gold Wing offers a luxurious, ergonomically designed seat for both the rider and passenger. The seat is well-padded and designed for long-distance comfort, with options for heated seats and heated grips.
Ergonomics: The Gold Wing is known for its adjustable ergonomics. Riders can customize the seat height, handlebars, and foot pegs to achieve a comfortable position suited to long-distance touring.
Wind Protection: The adjustable windshield provides excellent wind protection, and newer models feature a larger and more aerodynamic windscreen, which can be adjusted electronically.
Passenger Comfort: The passenger seat is equally comfortable, with ample legroom and additional features like grab handles and footrests. Some models also offer a backrest for added comfort during long rides.
Luggage Capacity: The Gold Wing comes with integrated saddlebags and topcase options, providing ample storage space for long trips. These bags are easy to remove and lock, offering both functionality and security.
Technology & Instruments:
Honda’s Smart Technology: The latest Gold Wing (2018 and onwards) features a 7-inch TFT touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, smartphone integration (via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and entertainment controls. The display is large, easy to use, and offers a wide range of customizable options for the rider.
Bluetooth and Audio System: The Gold Wing comes with an integrated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to stream music, take calls, or listen to navigation prompts via their helmet communication system or the bike’s speakers.
Adaptive Cruise Control: The Gold Wing is equipped with adaptive cruise control, which uses radar to adjust the speed based on the vehicle in front, making long rides more comfortable and less fatiguing.
Navigation: The built-in navigation system is one of the most reliable features of the Gold Wing, offering clear and accurate directions that can be controlled via the touchscreen or voice commands.
Heated Grips and Seats: The latest models feature heated grips and heated seats, which provide comfort even during colder weather.
Reverse Gear: The Gold Wing has an electric reverse gear, making it easier for riders to maneuver the large motorcycle in tight spaces or when parking.
Design & Styling:
Appearance: The Gold Wing has a sleek and streamlined design, with its signature front fairing, large saddle bags, and luxurious chrome accents. It is built to look as comfortable as it is to ride.
Lighting: The bike comes with LED headlights, which offer superior illumination, and features adaptive lighting, where the headlights adjust to lean angles during turns, improving night-time visibility.
Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS is standard on the Gold Wing, helping prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking, especially on wet or slippery roads.
Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC): This system adjusts the power delivery to maintain traction, especially in slippery conditions or on uneven surfaces.
Hill Start Assist: Hill Start Assist prevents the Gold Wing from rolling backward on inclines, making it easier to start on steep roads.
LED Lighting: The latest Gold Wing features LED headlights, turn signals, and brake lights for better visibility and modern aesthetics.
Dimensions and Weight:
- Length: Approximately 2,590 mm (102.0 inches).
- Width: About 1,010 mm (39.8 inches).
- Height: Around 1,460 mm (57.5 inches).
- Wheelbase: 1,695 mm (66.7 inches).
- Curb Weight: The Gold Wing weighs approximately 380-390 kg (835-860 lbs), depending on the model and options.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 6.6 gallons (25 liters), offering a good range for long-distance touring.
Pricing:
- Base Model: Generally, starts around ₹39 lakh in India.
- Tour Model: The fully loaded Gold Wing Tour can go up to ₹45 lakh or more, depending on features.
Conclusion:
The Honda Gold Wing is the ultimate touring motorcycle, combining luxury, comfort, advanced technology, and impressive performance. Whether you’re cruising on highways or tackling winding mountain roads, the Gold Wing is designed to provide a smooth, comfortable, and high-tech riding experience. With its advanced safety features, exceptional storage capacity, and world-class amenities, the Gold Wing continues to set the standard for long-distance touring motorcycles.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or someone looking for the best in touring, the Gold Wing delivers one of the most refined and enjoyable rides in the motorcycle world.