Honda Goldwing - opinions?

[Toaster]

One of the few bikes that almost need an HT licence to ride.

I'd love one if I was rich.

[GazzaRuney]

In my 40+ years of riding Ive had 22 or so bikes. In that time Ive had 2 GL1000's which I managed to break using them as comuter bikes. I have a GL1500 1989, which has just had its 20th birthday. Its looking a bit old and tatty like me but still goes beautifully. (The ex Pres of the Gold Wing Club recently turned over 500,000 MILES on his 1500 - check that out - I challenge any other tourer in NZ to do that!)

My 15 fits like an old glove and still makes me smile like an idiot when I ride it. In 120,000 miles, Ive only changed a starter motor and two sets of plugs - it is totally unbreakable. The 1800 is perfect - too perfect for me. Its absolutely seamless without the idiocyncrasies of the 1500 that I enjoy so much.

And they handle! For a big bike they do really well in fast corners and can keep up with lots of other bikes.

As another post said - I will be buried with my Wing!

GazzaRuney

[twotyred]

i must be getting old these beasts are starting to call to me... although I admit I have never tried one out...what I would love to see is a comparison (from experienced wingers,not a bike mag) about the real world differences between the 1200 and the 1500,maybe even a 12 vs 15 vs 18?
that would be interesting...

[Renegade]

the goldwing flys

[wingrider]

Have a mate with an 86 GL1200 aspy.. loves it and wouldnt sell. Has taken 12 months to set it up to his liking. Like any 20+ year old bike, you need to be criticle on maintainance. 3000km oil changes and filter.
Standard checks befor setting off.

I have an 89 GL1500. wouldnt change. 8000km oil changes and filter. just hop on and ride.

Another mate has just changed from a 1500 to a 1800.
Lighter and more powerfull, better handling. Not as good for taller person, cant pack as much gear. Pillion seat not as good for room. 1800 is more a sports tourer.

All are shaft driven so very smooth, all have the bells and whistles, 1200 more of a standard type bike. 1500 ultimate tourer. 1800 sports tourer.

Reliability bullet proof, comfort unequaled. best pillion bikes I know of.
Very stable, not affected by crosswinds. Very dry due to windshields etc