The new chassis features an aluminium beam frame, double wishbone front suspension and single-sided Pro-Arm – damping is electrically adjustable, as is rear spring preload. An electric screen, Smart Key and Apple CarPlay are also standard equipment. An entirely new, third generation of Honda’s dual clutch transmission (DCT) - with seven speeds - will also be available.
The new Gold Wing’s appeal is said to be broader, reaching out to a younger generation of motorcyclists that may have overlooked – or simply not been aware of – the previous design.
Yutaka Nakanishi, large project leader (LPL) 18YM GL1800 Gold Wing says: “We wanted our new Gold Wing to maintain its luxury but to be a much more ‘rounded’ motorcycle. A machine as useful to its owner around the city as it is out on tour. And more exciting to ride than ever. So we started from a blank piece of paper and made the Gold Wing sharper and lighter, and added all the technological hardware and software the modern rider could wish for. Now, just as in 1975, it remains a flagship model for Honda – and we are very proud to start this new chapter for such an important name.”
Sharing a common engine and chassis platform, the new 'Wing' will be available as the base model GL1800 Gold Wing, and as a ‘Tour’ edition with top box, which will also offer a version equipped with DCT and airbag. Depending on the variant, up to 48kg has been saved compared to the previous model.
The four rider modes are Tour, Sport, Econ, and Rain. Honda selectable torque control (HSTC) maintains rear wheel traction while the suspension damping and combined brake system (CBS) alter depending on the mode selected. Hill start assist (HSA) and idling stop add ease of use and improve fuel efficiency.
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Other new features include a smart key system, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity.
