Honda has unveiled the latest Gold Wing in California recently, with the addition of a new performance model for the masses.
If you’ve always been a fan of big bikes (that aren’t Harley’s), then Honda’s Gold Wing might be the better alternative for your riding pleasure. The new 2018 Gold Wing comes in two trims, the standard level Gold Wing and the newly-added performance Gold Wing Tour.
The two-wheel tourer gets its design cues from the GL, the legendary model that came prior to the new one.
CarPlay on two wheels
The Gold Wing now features Apple CarPlay, a first for motorcycles. It connects the bike to the rider’s iPhone via USB and allows for multiple uses such as the maps, music and contacts which are then controlled via the central 7-inch LCD display.
Apple requires you to use a Bluetooth headset, for safety reasons, so you’ll simply need to pair your headset and the CarPlay interface will appear on the display.
Gold-standard gear
Also, the Gold Wing now features a throttle-by-wire system which means that riders can choose one of four different riding modes (Tour, Sport, Econ, Rain). It also has the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), hill start assist (HSA) and a re-tuned cruise control system.
The Gold Wing Tour model comes in three versions. The Gold Wing Tour, Gold Wing Tour DCT and the Gold Wing Tour DCT Airbag. These models are what Honda calls the ultimate long-distance tourer, with performance enhancements for better usability.
Each Tour model will come with saddlebags with a top-case, electrically adjustable front windscreen, front and rear speakers as well as a electrically adjustable suspension.
Honda says the all-new Gold Wing is able to be as good as the original GL whilst maximizing potential through a lightweight, technologically advanced and fun package. It also packs a new engine, chassis and electronic components.
Speaking of the engine, the new Gold Wing comes with Honda’s liquid cooled, horizontally opposed inline six engine, which is the main key character of the Gold Wing. The powertrain itself is now more compact, freeing up more space and thus making the bike lighter and also more fuel efficient.
With the six speed manual transmission fitted to the bike, the engine would only weigh 13.7lbs (6.2kg). As for the mechanical changes, the 2018 model year benefits from a smaller 73mm cylinder bore, updated crankshaft as well as a Unicam valve train layout which has been proven on the award-winning Honda CBR450R motocrosser. Other changes include a new intake system for better responsiveness and pulling-power as well as an updated exhaust for a more potent note.
In terms of gearbox options, there is a six speed manual and a new seven speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) which features a walking mode for reversing and moving forward. The suspension of the new Gold Wing consists of a new double-wishbone setup at the front and Showa shock absorbers at the back. The Gold Wing comes with ABS and EBD as standard.
Prices for the new Gold Wing are as follows:
- Gold Wing: USD23,500 – USD23,800 (MYR99,487 – MYR100,757)
- Gold Wing DCT: USD24,700 – USD25,000 (MYR104,567 – MYR105,837)
Prices for the new Gold Wing Tour are as follows:
- Gold Wing Tour: $26,700 – $27,200 (MYR113,034 – MYR115,151)
- Gold Wing Tour DCT: $27,700 – $28,200 (MYR117,267 – MYR119,384)
- Gold Wing Tour DCT Airbag: $31,500 (MYR133,335)
Both models are slated for a February 2018 release.
Source: Business Wire Cnet
