Honda Gold Wing GL1800

The Honda Goldwing GL 1800 was introduced in 2001 as the successor to the already very popular GL 1500. The Gold Wing has undergone many changes and refinements since its first introduction in1975.

Honda’s flagship motorcycle has become the standard for touring motorcycles that all others follow. In 1980 the Gold Wing went from the GL 1000 to the GL 1100 and the GL 1100 Interstate became the first Japanese motorcycle ever mass produced in full tour dress. In 1981 production of the Gold Wing was moved from Japan to Ohio to further their success in a market dominated By Harley Davidson.

In 1988 the GL 1500 was introduced and this model of the Gold Wing showed refinements unprecedented in motorcycles in that day. Full body work covered most of the inner workings and detail to finish was like nothing else on the market at that time. The engine was a total redesign. An opposing 1520 cc six cylinder engine replaced the 4 cylinder of previous years and a reverse gear was added for convenience.

The 2001 model finally rang in the much anticipated GL 1800. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the Honda Gold Wing GL1800 proved to be the greatest Goldwing ever. An all aluminum frame was created for the beast to help maintain weight. It is outfitted with an array of creature comforts never before seen on a motorcycle and is arguably the finest touring motorcycle ever produced. The GL 1800 is world famous for it’s dependability and comfort for long distance touring. As of 2008 options available for the GL 1800 include premium audio, built in navigation system, xm radio, comfort package, abs brakes and is even available with a motorcycling first, an air bag

I have to say I'm probably a little biased when it comes to doing a review on the Gold Wing. I've been riding motorcycles for 30+ years and have owned a variety of different bikes during those years. After discovering the sport bikes that was almost exclusively what I rode for a 10 year period. They delivered exactly what I wanted from a bike, very fast and able to reach extreme lean angles. I had actually road tested a GL 1500 shortly after they were introduced. It felt heavy and awkward and I just wasn't for me. With some slight persuasion from my partner I was convinced to give the GL 1800 a try. All I can say is love at first ride. Maybe I was just getting older or maybe the bike really is that good. i call it my 9oo pound sport bike. Although Honda offered me a nice trade in allowance for my VFR i decided to keep it just in case I had the need to wring something out occasionally. The VFR has sat idle in the garage since I brought the Gold Wing home. The GL 1800 is a testament to Honda's skill and experience at building world class race bikes. The handling of this beast is nothing short of amazing. Aside from some low points that I tend to drag frequently I have nothing bad to say about GL 1800. Comfort for long distance traveling on this machine is second to none. We have made 600 mile days with no problems and minimal fatigue. As far as reliability goes, how many Gold Wings have you seen sitting on the side of the road? With over 35,000 miles racked up in the past 4 years, we have never had a single problem out our Gold Wing