Hondanews Online Newsroom

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:10:00 -0700

2012 Honda Gold Wing

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing Accessories

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:07:00 -0800

CATEGORY	DESCRIPTION	PART #	Audio Comfort	Audio Comfort Navi	Audio Comfort Navi ABS	Audio Comfort Navi ABS Airbag	SRP
Audio	Deluxe Headsets (Full Face)	08B80-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	218.95
Audio	Deluxe Headsets (Open Face)	08B82-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	218.95
Audio	Replacement Headset Coil Cord	08118-KM10A01	•	•	•	•	36.95
Audio	Replacement Headset Hardware Kit	08118-ML80A15	•	•	•	•	15.95
Audio	Replacement Boom Mike Windsock	08118-MN5604	•	•	•	•	4.95
Audio	40 Channel CB Radio Kit	08E95-MCA-100B	•	•	•	•	799.95
Audio	CB Antenna Kit	08E96-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	137.95
Audio	Push to Talk Switch	08E96-MCA-101B	•	•	•	•	39.95

Cargo	Trunk Inner Light	08E75-MCA-100H	•	•	•	•	72.95
Cargo	Trunk Inner Light Harness	08E75-MCA-100K	•	•	•	•	40.95
Cargo	Chrome Trunk Rack	08L42-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	133.95
Cargo	Fairing Pouch with GL Logo	08L56-MCA-100A	•	•	•	•	49.95
Cargo	Inner Trunk Pouch	08L56-MCA-100C	•	•	•	•	24.95
Cargo	Saddlebag Cooler with Honda Logo	08L56-MCA-100E	•	•	•	•	59.95
Cargo	Trunk Net	08L63-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	27.95
Cargo	Coin Holder	08U08-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	19.95
Cargo	Gold Wing Owners Manual Folio	A1770-MCA-FOLIO	•	•	•	•	24.95
Cargo	Deluxe Saddlebag / Trunk Mat Set	08P11-MCA-100D	•	•	•	•	109.95
Cargo	Saddlebag Lid Organizer with GL Logo	08L63-MCA-100C	•	•	•	•	34.95
Cargo	Deluxe Saddlebag / Trunk Liner Set	08L56-MCA-200	•	•	•	•	189.95

Chrome	Chrome Exhaust Tips with GL Logo	08F53-MCA-100K	•	•	•	•	259.95
Chrome	Chrome Swingarm Pivot Covers with GL Logo	08F68-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	89.95
Chrome	Chrome Bar Ends	08F69-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	45.95
Chrome	Chrome GL Icon Fender Ornament	08F85-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	54.95
Chrome	Gold Cylinder Head Cover Emblem Set	08F85-MCA-100F	•	•	•	•	149.95
Chrome	Silver Cylinder Head Cover Emblem Set	08F85-MCA-100J	•	•	•	•	159.95
Chrome	Chrome Front Fender Emblem	08F85-MCA-100L	•	•	•	•	52.95
Chrome	Chrome Front Fender Ornament	08F85-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	121.95
Chrome	Chrome Passenger Floorboard Lower Cover	08F86-MCA-100G	•	•	•	•	81.95
Chrome	Chrome Rear Spoiler Accent	08L42-MCA-100A	•	•	•	•	119.95
Chrome	Chrome Sidestand	08M50-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	65.95
Chrome	Chrome Front Fender Extension	08P08-MCA-100	•	•	•		86.95
Chrome	Chrome License Plate Frame with GL Logo	08P26-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	67.95
Chrome	Chrome Front Fender Rail	08P50-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	137.95
Chrome	Chrome Front Disc Covers	08P54-MCA-100	•	•			279.95
Chrome	Chrome Trunk Handle with GL Logo	08U94-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	49.95

Convenience	Passenger Armrests	08R32-MCA-100	•	•	•	•	199.95
Convenience	Tall Vented Windscreen	08R80-MCA-100J	•	•	•	•	219.95
Convenience	12V DC Accessory Socket Kit	08U55-MCA-101	•	•	•	•	36.95
Convenience	Foglight Kit (LED)	08V31-MCA-100E	•	•	•	•	429.95

Protection	Cycle Cover with GL Logo	08P34-MCA-200	•	•	•	•	139.95
Protection	Half Cover	08F64-MCA-200A	•	•	•	•	79.95
Protection	Front Nose Mask	TBD	•	•	•	•	TBD

Color Match	Rear Spoiler with Brake Light (Pearl White)	08F64-MCA-181C	•	•	•	•	299.95
Color Match	Rear Spoiler with Brake Light (Candy Red)	08F64-MCA-171C	•	•	•	•	299.95
Color Match	Rear Spoiler with Brake Light (Black)	08F64-MCA-161C	•	•	•	•	299.95
Color Match	Rear Spoiler with Brake Light (Ultra Blue Metallic)	08F64-MCA-191C	•	•	•	•	299.95

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing Features & Benefits

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

Long acknowledged as the pinnacle of two-up motorcycling, the 2012 Gold Wing® continues this legacy. Its travel-oriented creds include the latest generation of sophisticated electronic amenities, starting with an innovative user-friendly navigation system with the capability to share favorite ride routes with friends and other riders. The Gold Wing also incorporates a new built-in MP3/iPod® interface and a SRS CS Auto™ technology surround-sound system for a premium listening experience. In addition to its renowned power-laden yet refined drivetrain, delightfully sporty handling and unparalleled comfort for both rider and passenger, the 2012 Gold Wing also brings upgraded styling, increased luggage capacity, greater protection from wind and weather, and revised suspension settings for enhanced ride compliance. In addition, optional features ranging from Navi, ABS and the world's first motorcycle airbag do much to further the Gold Wing's reputation as the most celebrated two-up machine in motorcycle history.

New for 2012

Fresh styling cues produce a more integrated appearance along with a sporting edge, adding to the premium touring visage.
Redesigned fairing adds extra wind protection, especially to the lower body and leg areas.
Larger saddlebags add approximately 7 liters of additional storage space, upping total capacity to well over 150 liters.
Handy central storage pocket added to models without airbag.
Revised suspension settings front and rear yield added compliance for a better ride and more comfort.
Urethane seat material and cover material give added comfort.
Re-shaped taillight adds a distinctive appearance and aids visibility.
Updated instrumentation styling lends a high-performance touch.
Next-Generation Premium Audio System offers direct MP3/i-Pod connectivity plus access to the device functions through handlebar controls.
SRS CS Auto™ technology surround-sound system brings the latest in sound system technology to the Gold Wing.
Wheels are now clear-coated for easier cleaning and a great, long-lasting look.

Unique Features

80-watt-per-channel power amplifier provides clear, crisp sound at all highway speeds.
Six-element speaker system includes two rear speakers, a pair of front speakers and two tweeters for a rich, full surround sound quality.
Tuner features auto bass control combined with auto volume control.
Five-position heated grips for cold-weather riding.
Five-position heated seat/backrest combination with individual rider and passenger controls for optimum comfort.
Foot-warming system channels engine-heated air over the rider's feet and is controlled by a fairing-mounted lever.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors pressure in both tires while riding. When a significantly underinflated tire pressure is detected, a warning light will display below the tachometer.
Slow-speed, electric Reverse system is engaged with the simple push of the thumb control on the right handlebar.
Lightweight electronic cruise-control system utilizes a 16-bit ECU-based, motor-actuated throttle mechanism.
A simple yet ingenious ratcheting windscreen-adjustment system provides six settings over nearly 4.0 inches of travel. Operated manually, the mechanism eliminates the weight and complexity of electric motors.
Adjustable and closeable windscreen vent routes fresh air to the rider's face or chest.
The Gold Wing trunk provides 60 liters of storage capacity. Two full-face helmets fit easily in the trunk. Overall, the Gold Wing has a total of more than 150 liters of storage space between trunk, saddlebags and fairing pockets.
Specially designed luggage features a remote-control key lock, permitting pop-open rear trunk operation; remote lock/unlock for the trunk and saddlebags; and horn-actuated bike locator. If remote locking is attempted while a lid is open, the turn signals flash to alert the rider.
Instrument displays for speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature and fuel level, plus adjustable backlighting and high-luminescence white pointers. Indicator/warning lights are provided for Reverse, Neutral, Overdrive, oil pressure, fuel injection, high beam, sidestand, cruise on, cruise set, low tire pressure and low fuel. A high-resolution LCD housed in a separate module is visible in all lighting conditions and displays the odometer, A/B tripmeter, ambient temperature, audio modes, CB, rear-suspension setting, trunk/saddlebag-open indicators and clock.
Motorized headlight-aiming system is operated by a rocker switch and provides 2.5 degrees of adjustment from level.
Large 6.7-gallon fuel tank houses the PGM-FI fuel pump and provides excellent long-distance cruising range.
20-amp YTX maintenance-free battery.

Next-Generation Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System™:

New, fully integrated navigation system with new, brighter color screen.
Next-generation receiver gives quicker satellite connection.
3-D terrain view, lane assist with junction view and more.
Complete United States and Canada mapping with points of interest installed.
Points-of-interest information includes Honda dealers, fuel stations, restaurants, lodging, attractions, transportation, government and emergency information and saved rider's input with home function.
Voice prompting through headsets or speakers.
On-screen text guidance and pop-up menus.
Easy-to-use handlebar and fairing-mounted controls.
Navigation available on select Gold Wing models.

XM Radio:

XM Radio offers 170 channels from coast to coast, including commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming.

XM NavTraffic:

XM NavTraffic is the nation's leading real-time traffic information service, combining up-to-the-minute information on accidents and incidents with the ability to re-route riders around trouble spots as displayed on the navigation system screen.

XM NavWeather:

The XM NavWeather service uses sophisticated Threat Matrix™ technology to track nationwide weather information for more than 20 different weather conditions, then scales and customizes this detail to the rider's specific location and route. XM NavWeather can alert riders to severe conditions before they ride into them. The service works with the Navigation System to display information via color weather icons or warning signals on the navigation screen, and can give the rider the option to easily re-route around a storm's path. The service also provides multi-day forecasts based on weather monitoring stations across the United States.
XM available on Navi package model only.

Airbag:

Industry-first fully integrated rider airbag on a motorcycle.
The airbag module contains the airbag and inflator and is positioned in front of the rider.
The ECU positioned to the right of the module detects changes in acceleration based on information it receives from the two crash sensors (one positioned on each of the front fork legs), to determine whether or not to inflate the airbag in certain frontal impacts.
Airbag available only on full-featured version.
Transferable three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

Engine/Drivetrain

Powerful, fuel-injected 1832cc six-cylinder engine produces smooth, effortless power.
Parallel two-valve cylinder-head design utilizes direct shim-under-bucket valve actuation which allows the first valve clearance inspection service to be at 32,000 miles.
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) (see 2011 Technology Section).
Two 40mm-diameter throttle bodies deliver air to six specially designed Keihin 50-psi high-pressure programmed fuel injectors. Fuel is delivered through four nozzle holes in each injector, producing an atomized fuel mixture that is highly combustible for optimum efficiency and power.
The ECU provides two digital 3-D fuel-injection maps for each cylinder, creating ideal fuel mixture and spark advance settings for superb rideability. Unique knock-control sensors monitor ignition advance to improve performance throughout the entire rpm range.
ECU closed-loop emissions system utilizes two oxygen sensors to constantly deliver a precise air/fuel mixture, while two exhaust catalyzers further reduce emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides.
Two side-mounted radiators enhance cooling efficiency and use low-air-pressure areas created by side cowls to draw cooling air through the radiators and beyond the rider at highway speeds.
Efficient stainless-steel 6-into-2 exhaust system produces a pleasing, aggressive sound.
Precise-shifting five-speed transmission includes Overdrive Fifth.

Chassis/Suspension

Twin-Spar Aluminum Frame (see 2011 Technology Section).
Unique Pro Arm® Rear Suspension (see 2011 Technology Section).
Dual full-floating 296mm front discs with Combined Braking System (CBS) three-piston calipers and a single ventilated 316mm rear disc with one CBS three-piston caliper provide excellent braking power.
Combined Braking System (CBS) with optional Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) (see 2011 Technology Section).
Model equipped with ABS features an electric-motor-driven modulator that provides rapid and precise braking-pressure adjustments, resulting in smooth ABS operation. The system incorporates an integrated ECU, self-diagnostics with an interactive ECU test function and automatic protection against system failure.
Massive 45mm front fork with revised settings for improved suspension compliance houses a cartridge damper in the right leg with 4.8 inches of travel for a smooth yet superb ride in all road conditions.
Anti-dive system minimizes front fork dive when braking. The system utilizes brake-fluid pressure generated in the secondary CBS master cylinder mounted on the left fork leg and is activated by input from either the front-brake lever or the rear-brake pedal.
Pro-Link® Rear Suspension incorporates a new shock with revised suspension settings for enhanced ride compliance (see 2011 Technology Section).
Computer-controlled adjustable hydraulic rear suspension preload is easily set by the rider with push-button controls, and features a two-position memory.
Cast-aluminum 18 x 3.5-inch front and 16 x 5.0-inch rear wheels are lightweight, strong and clear-coated to ease cleaning. Radial touring tires are specifically engineered for the Gold Wing.

Honda Genuine Accessories*

Audio Accessories

40-Channel CB Radio Kit, CB Antenna Kit, Deluxe Headsets (for open-face and full-face helmets), Push-to-Talk Switch, Replacement Headset Coil Cord, Replacement Headset Hardware Kit, Replacement Boom Mike Windsock

Cargo Accessories

Saddlebag/Trunk Liner Set, Deluxe Saddlebag/Trunk Mat Set, Saddlebag Lid Organizer with GL Logo, Trunk Inner Light, Trunk Inner Light Harness, Chrome Trunk Rack, Inner Trunk Pouch, Fairing Pouch with GL Logo, Saddlebag Cooler with Honda Logo, Trunk Net, Coin Holder, Gold Wing Owner's Manual Folio

Convenience Accessories

Passenger Armrests, Tall Vented Windscreen, 12-Volt DC Accessory Socket Kit, Foglight Kit (LED)

Protection Accessories

Cycle Cover with GL Logo, Half Cover

Color Match Accessories

Rear Spoiler with Brake Light

Chrome Appearance Accessories

Front Fender Ornament, GL Icon Fender Ornament, Front Fender Emblem, Front Fender Extension, Front Fender Rail, Front Disc Covers, Chrome Bar Ends, Gold Cylinder Head Cover Emblem Set, Silver Cylinder Head Cover Emblem Set, Passenger Floorboard Lower Covers, Swingarm Pivot Covers with GL Logo, Chrome Sidestand, Rear Spoiler Accent, Trunk Handle with GL Logo, License-Plate Frame with GL Logo, Exhaust Tips with GL Logo

* WARRANTY: Because we're so confident in the quality of each of our Honda Genuine Accessories, we're pleased to offer one of the best warranties in the industry. Three-year warranty begins on the day accessories are purchased by the customer.

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing Tech

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

2012 Honda Gold Wing Tech

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing Product Introduction

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

2012 Honda Gold Wing Product Introduction

Touring: 2012 Honda Gold Wing Specifications

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

Model:	GL1800
Engine Type:	1832cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder
Bore and Stroke:	74mm x 71mm
Compression Ratio:	9.8:1
Valve Train:	SOHC; two valves per cylinder
Induction:	PGM-FI
Ignition:	Computer-controlled digital with 3-D mapping
Transmission:	Five-speed including Overdrive, plus electric Reverse
Final drive:	Shaft
Suspension	Front: 45mm cartridge fork with anti-dive system; 4.8 inches travel Rear: Pro Arm single-side swingarm with Pro-Link single shock with computer-controlled spring preload adjustment with two memory presets; 4.1 inches travel
Brakes	Front: Dual full-floating 296mm discs with CBS three-piston calipers; optional ABS Rear: Single ventilated 316mm disc with CBS three-piston caliper; optional ABS
Tires	Front: 130/70R-18 Rear: 180/60R-16
Wheelbase:	66.5 inches
Rake (Caster Angle):	29.15^o
Trail:	109mm (4.3 inches)
Seat Height:	29.1 inches
Fuel Capacity:	6.7 gallons
Estimated Fuel Economy:**	35 MPG
Colors:	Pearl White, Candy Red, Ultra Blue Metallic, Black
*Curb Weight:**	904 - 933 pounds, depending on option packages selected
*Honda's fuel-economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission measurement test procedures and are intended for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride; how you maintain your vehicle; weather; road conditions; tire pressure; installation of accessories; cargo, rider and passenger weight; and other factors. Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride. Meets current CARB and EPA standards. SRS CS Auto is a trademark of SRS Labs, Inc. CS Auto technology is incorporated under license from SRS Labs, Inc. ©2011 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Touring: Honda Gold Wing Timeline

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

In the world of motorcycling, technology presses forward at such a furious pace that very few models survive a span of a couple dozen years. But for more than three-and-a-half decades, the Gold Wing® has done much more than merely survive: This remarkable machine has continued to create and define an entire segment of the motorcycling experience, raising standards and expectations time and time again. The following timeline provides a glimpse into the many milestones that have made the Gold Wing the icon it is today.

1972
M1
A design team is established, led by Soichiro Irimajiri, who headed up design of the five- and six-cylinder road racing engines of the 1960s. The team develops the M1, a top-secret prototype designed to explore the outer limits of the Grand Touring concept. The super-fast M1 features a liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine with shaft drive—features that surface in the Gold Wing line in years to come.

1975
GL1000 GOLD WING
The original Gold Wing was much, much more than just a new motorcycle. Powered by a revolutionary 999cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, the Gold Wing opened new possibilities never before considered by the experts in the enthusiast press, much less the consumer public in general. What to make of this open-class machine with world-class power and cross-country capabilities? Gold Wing customers took to the open road in droves, and helped inspire an industry-wide paradigm shift toward long-distance motorcycling.

1976
GL1000 GOLD WING LTD
A new model marks the Gold Wing's second year as Honda graces the GL1000 Limited Edition with an assortment of special features, including gold striping, special LTD sidecover badges, chromed radiator shroud and screen, quilt-patterned seat, plus gold wheels and spokes.

1979
With more than 80 percent of Gold Wing production being exported to North America, a vital need arose to build a production plant in the U.S. Although Honda had been building overseas plants for more than 25 years, the move to America in the 1970s was risky. To most consumers, Honda's quality was its strongest selling point, and building in America could jeopardize this hard-earned reputation—not just for the Gold Wing, but for all Honda products for decades to come. Nevertheless, Honda forged ahead, and on September 10, 1979, the first Honda of America Manufacturing (HAM) plant begins production as a group of 64 associates completes the first 10 Honda motorcycles built in Marysville, Ohio. Within three months, Honda's top managers had sufficient confidence in HAM's capabilities to proceed with building an automobile plant in 1979—the first Japanese car builder to do so in the U.S.

1980
GL1100 GOLD WING
Five years of continuous consumer input culminate in the introduction of the GL1100. More than a rehashed GL1000 with 10 percent greater displacement, the new Wing incorporates deliberately planned modifications that guide it away from the superbike realm and place it squarely into the touring category. The new 1085cc engine now favors torque rather than horsepower, a longer wheelbase provides more room for both pilot and passenger, and a new air-assisted suspension system gives the Gold Wing its most supple, comfortable ride to date.

GL1100 GOLD WING INTERSTATE
The GL1100 also introduced another innovation that was arguably more important than its mechanical changes. Since the Gold Wing's long-distance prowess had inspired the creation of an entire aftermarket of bolt-on touring accessories, Honda's engineers clearly envisioned a new direction toward a turnkey, fully dressed luxury machine. In 1980, the innovative Interstate fulfilled that vision as the first Gold Wing available fully equipped with factory-installed fairing, saddlebags and trunk, plus the option of a stereo sound system. Turnkey touring, Gold Wing style, is born.

1982
GL1100 GOLD WING ASPENCADE
In quick succession, Honda introduces the concept of luxury touring with the Aspencade. Amenities abound in standard trim, including LCD instrumentation, stereo, CB, on-board air-compressor and thoughtful touches such as the handy storage pouches in the passenger backrest. At the same time, through the use of Redpages in its advertising, Honda underscores its technological edge.

1984
GL1200 GOLD WING ASPENCADE
The GL1200 brought the Gold Wing to the outer limits of the four-cylinder engine's performance and sophistication. The added power and torque of the larger 1182cc engine made the Gold Wing the king of its class in 1984, with a combination of smoothness and low-rpm acceleration that couldn't be matched. The addition of hydraulic valve adjustment now made the Wing virtually maintenance-free. At the same time, chassis improvements made the big Wing feel amazingly agile, and open-road comfort was superlative.

1985
GL1200 LIMITED EDITION
Honda marks the Wing's 10th anniversary in two significant ways. First, with the Gold Wing so firmly entrenched within the touring realm, Honda decides to drop the standard, unfaired GL1200. Second, an ultra-luxurious Limited Edition arrives, complete with computerized fuel injection, four-speaker sound system, cruise control, auto-leveling rear suspension, a comprehensive electronic travel computer and special two-tone metallic gold paint.

Following the success of its Marysville Motorcycle Plant, Honda constructs an engine plant in nearby Anna, Ohio, to build Gold Wing engines. Just as Marysville's success paved the way for Honda's auto manufacturing in America, the Anna Engine Plant moved from manufacturing GL engines alone to building powerplants for Civics and Accords. At Anna, all the casting, forging, machining and heat-treating processes necessary to turn raw materials into finished, sophisticated engines reside under one roof. As one associate proudly observes, "We do what seven Honda plants do in Japan."

1988
GL1500 GOLD WING
In 1984 a new design team began planning the next Wing. The new machine had to be superior in every aspect: extremely quiet and silky smooth, yet extremely powerful with superior handling. The GL1500 got there—the hard way. Thousands of hours were spent in testing 15 different machines in 60 prototype stages—the most comprehensive model development project in Honda's history. These efforts culminated in a six-cylinder luxury motorcycle of such surpassing excellence it would establish a touring benchmark that would dominate motorcycling for more than a decade.

1993
The next-generation GL begins to take shape under the guidance of Masanori Aoki, a sportbike enthusiast who has already headed up development of high-performance bikes including the CBR250RR, CBR400RR and the CBR®600F3. "We set out to keep 80 percent of the Gold Wing's touring capability," Aoki said. But he also added, "My job is to add more fun factor, to build a Gold Wing with the kind of acceleration and handling people normally associate with sporting machines." After considering flat-four, flat-six and flat-eight engine configurations and displacements up to 2000cc, customer response overwhelmingly points to a flat-six of about 1800cc displacement. In 1998, a full-scale model is created.

1996
The one-millionth Honda motorcycle made in America rolls off the Marysville assembly line. Appropriately enough, the millionth model is a Gold Wing; this commemoration is altogether fitting, since the success of the Gold Wing and that of Honda in America are inextricably intertwined.

2000
In January 2000, the Marysville Motorcycle Plant is thoroughly redesigned to build the new Gold Wing. As part of this process, the engine production line is transferred from Anna to Marysville to facilitate the new Gold Wing production. The Gold Wing's new era officially begins when the first complete GL1800 rolls off the Marysville assembly line on October 10, 2000.

2001
GL1800 GOLD WING
The word "new" cannot do justice to the GL1800. Two numbers alone tell a big story: 118 bhp and 125 lb./ft. of torque. Don't try to find other bikes that compare, because there aren't any. In terms of power, the new Gold Wing is literally in a class of one. Likewise, the list of long-legged mounts offering a box-section aluminum frame begins with the word "Gold" and ends with "Wing." And that's only the beginning. Before the GL1800 was completed, Honda would patent no less than 20 technological innovations that were incorporated into this amazing high-performance luxury motorcycle.

2005
GL1800 GOLD WING
The 30th anniversary Gold Wing comes in a slew of colors, including Pearl Yellow, White, Metallic Silver, Dark Gray Metallic, Bright Blue Metallic and Candy Black Cherry. Special 30th anniversary color-matched badging on the front fairing, rear trunk and dash cover also distinguish the '05 model, as does a 30th anniversary color-matched key, 30th anniversary opening ceremony on the LCD display, and unique carbon-fiber seat pattern on pearl yellow and metallic silver colors. To date, more than 500,000 Gold Wings have been produced.

2006
GL1800 GOLD WING
In 2006, the most potent Gold Wing ever produced now elevates luxury motorcycling to unprecedented highs. A six-speaker premium audio system with 80 watts per channel comes standard on every new GL1800, and riders may also opt for a satellite navigation system with color screen, a Cold-Weather Comfort Package and an industry-first fully integrated motorcycle airbag.

2012
Manufacture of the Gold Wing shifts to the ultra-modern facility in Kumamoto, Japan, where production on a gigantic scale will see as many as 1800 motorcycles produced in a single day. The new 2012 Gold Wing brings upgraded styling along with a dazzling array of sophisticated electronic amenities including a next-generation GPS navigation system with user-friendly programmability for sharing favorite ride routes, which can be accessed online via computer, plus a built-in MP3/iPod® interface for the new SRS CS Auto™ technology surround-sound system. The 2012 Gold Wing also boasts increased luggage capacity, greater protection from wind and weather, revised suspension settings for enhanced ride compliance, and unparalleled comfort for both rider and passenger. In addition to its power-laden yet refined drivetrain and delightfully sporty handling, packages for ABS and airbag do much to further the Gold Wing's reputation as the most celebrated touring machine in motorcycle history.

Touring: Honda Gold Wing: A Legend In Its Own Time

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800

It's a beloved motorcycle that has earned many titles, awards and nicknames over the decades: icon, legend, superstar, best-in-class, the definitive yardstick among touring motorcycles—and so much more. Year in and year out, such acclaim flows freely and rightly so; for more than 35 seasons, the Honda Gold Wing® first defined, then re-defined over and over again just how much performance and comfort a motorcycle can deliver to two people, whether the plan is a weekend ride or a cross-country adventure. Three-and-a-half decades represents an eternity for most motorized products, yet as the Gold Wing enters its 36th year of production, it not only continues to lead all would-be challengers, it also continues to evolve. And so we see that the 2012 Gold Wing once again establishes a new and higher standard for what the good life should truly be at the cutting edge of long-distance two-wheeled motoring.

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:21:00 -0800

2012 Honda Gold Wing