I have this bike and love it, your review was spot on. I’m 6’2 and added a slightly larger screen and now its whisper quite in the riding position. It is fantastic for long trips and I travelled from Scotland all the way down to London very comfortable and not needing any more comfort breaks than i would have had in my car. The luggage could be slightly bigger for the helmets but not a big issue. Thanks for the review.
I own an FJR1300AE with Yamaha’s YCC-S clutch. It is a fantastic similarity to the DCT. I will not go back to a standard clutch bike. Never! Great review!! The FJR still holds that “Sport Bike” reputation, and does not have all of the “infotainment” ammenities. I like that! But I am a 56 year old youngster. A used DCT Goldwing is on my radar, at a reduced cost, in the next few years.
Just recently bought a 2019 leftover 6-speed manual. I opted for the 6-speed manual, rode a DCT and was always used to shifting. I Do not mind shifting on this bike. Besides that you can pretty much leave it in 3rd gear and go from 15 mile per hour to 70mph with ease. Nice review
I've been riding motorcycles for 50 years, and currently have a 2015 Gold Wing 40th Anniversary. I've had Wings for 44 years starting with the GL1000. Quite simply, there is not a better touring bike the Wing. I have not ridden the new Wing but I don't like some of the changes Honda made from mine. I particularly don't like the smaller bags and trunk, the smaller fairing, and the smaller gas tank. Also, why doesn't Honda have Android Auto on it. The very low center of gravity makes it easier to handle than many smaller bikes even though it weighs about 900 lbs. The flat fours were very smooth on the early Wings and the sixes are even better. My idea of the best touring bike would have the GL1500 bags, trunk, and fairing, and the last generation frame and suspension, and the current bike's engine and transmission and electronics with Android Auto added.
I agree. I have an 07 and looked at the 2020 at the Vancouver bike show a few weeks ago. Not impressed by the lack of luggage space. My wife and I have been around the world with a carry on each,but I think we would be doing a lot of laundry on our cross continent trips. I'll keep the 07,it's only got 130,000 km's on it.
@@davidgiles5030 The 2018 and newer models are so much better then the previous models, they are well worth the very few shortcomings they may have. If the extra room is a must, I'd suggest getting one of these: www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200692633_200692633
Thank you, MotoBob. This is the best made, most concise review of the GL18 on RUclips. I’ve seen videos twice as long that didn’t have all the information you presented. Well done! I own a 2018 DCT Tour and would like to add two minor points. While, the aerodynamic envelope for the rider is the best I’ve experienced on any motorcycle (been riding for 40 years and owned eight bikes), the passenger gets buffeted quite a bit at freeway speeds. Also, the on-board navigation system is, to be diplomatic, utter crap. Using Apple CarPlay or an aftermarket navigation device will be a necessity for the serious long-distance cruiser. These points are, for me, minor and I wouldn’t trade my Wing for anything. Thanks again for the excellent vid.
Thanks very much! Glad you enjoyed it. I used the built in nav a couple of times and it got me where I wanted to go which can be a feat in London. But I agree that I’d always prefer to use CarPlay with Waze or Google Maps
That's a really well done round up of your time with the GW. Factual and simplified and easy to follow.well done. I'm sure it's the best at what it's for .
I owned the last generation of goldwing and loved it,but I bought the dct when it came out in 2018 and never regretted it, done 650 miles in one day no problem.
I've got the 2014 Goldwing Valkyrie F6B. It's just a naked goldwing - no windscreen or faring, no bags, no electronics, rider aids, radio, manual gearbox, etc. Nothing. It's the 1800cc engine and wheels and a seat. I love it. At 90+lbs lighter it looks and handles like a streamliner locomotive. It goes great and turns well enough but it's still a big beast. Good video!
I have a 2003 Honda Shadow VLX 600 cruiser and love it. I did put a gas tank with a tank mounted speedometer from a 750 Honda on it and have an extra gallon of gasoline (petrol as called in the UK) , a solo seat with springs under the rear and a hinge in the front. Since my wife's seat was to small and rather stiff, I added more foam layers on her seat and made a cover for it. If anything, I do like Hondas. Mine is 17 years old and still runs great.
I have a GL 1800. I know of two people so far that bought 2018 gold wings and traded them in on leftover 2017s..One guy said he just didn’t like it as much as his 2012 he sold to buy the 2018, the second guy said that his wife just did not like it as much as his old gl1800..So he also traded his 2018 in on a leftover 2017.. what is up with that? I remember selling my Yamaha venture to buy a BMW K 1200 LT with that weird front end that is similar to the Honda front end on the newer gold wings.. that front end did not compress under braking on the bmw..That made the machine fuel top-heavy and like it wanted to get away for me in parking lot maneuvers when I would dab the brakes. I’ve had to ventures with a combined 18 years on Venture’s, I never even came close to dropping either one of them. I dropped that BMW two times in parking lots because of that strange front end that the fork springs do not absorb/dissipate braking energy..I never felt comfortable coming to a stop on that BMW and I ended up selling it after just a year and a half. I wonder if the front end on the 2018 and newer gold wings is giving the same uneasy feedback to its rider..I certainly hope not, because I’m in the market to upgrade, but now I’m gonna wait and see, I am definitely going to take a test ride and it’s not just gonna be Once around the block on billiard table smooth roads, which won’t be difficult because I live in Pennsylvania where there are not-too-many billiard table smooth roads, which is why I ride a gold wing. To smooth them out which my wing does very nicely,Especially now that I have upgraded to progressive brand fork springs and shock Spring.I never realized how dead the old springs were until I wrote on the new ones. It’s a completely different motorcycle now. My Dunlop elite three tire was cupping. that is a sign that the front forks need rebuilt. While I was changing the springs and the fork oil and the fork seals, I installed a set of Dunlop elite four tires. I forgot to weigh the front tire before I installed it, but the new Dunlop elite four rear tire weighed almost 6 pounds less than the used Dunlop elite three I removed. That is a massive removal of unsprung weight. that the suspension has to cope with. Unsprung weight is so critical, that Porsche uses titanium Lugnuts on their car wheels to save a few ounces. I saved almost 6 pounds just switching tires, and my bike feels it. 6 pounds in the saddle bags doesn’t mean as much as 6 pounds of unsprung weight..
I bought my very first DCT 2018 Goldwing in August of 2019. I only gripe i do have is that the compartments have been reduced dramatically. I really enjoy its light weight in comparison with the 2016 Goldwing I had before.
2020 Goldwing probably best bike ever made, an that's outrageous statement to make, but I'm thinking from 70+ years of riding an can't think of make or model that comes close?
@@7316bobe Great advice, we're all getting older! I'll look into weight comparisons to my current HD so I can judge! It's a wonder! It even has side bumpers so Honda might be worried about that?
@@7316bobe as I got older I had to consider size an weight moving around my 22ft Duckworth aluminum boat to 16ft fishing boat! We're talking same thing with motorcycles! Too bad, I really like that new Goldwing!
I'm growing to love your reviews...and I'm not even a biker - yet! Love your calm presentation and rather interesting contents. Only thing for me was I wanted you to walk through all the knobs, buttons, bells and whistles a bit more. Lovely review though! (The baby must be here by now too - can you fit a sidecar??)
I like the brakes on this Goldwing they work very well . The DCT makes touring much more enjoyable. Nice video 👍 . The suspension is a week point . I have to put the settings at 2 riders for solo riding to prevent the suspension from bottoming out . I am spending $3,000 U.S. on a new suspension in Atlanta from Traxion Dynamics. The inventor is Max McCalister he’s on RUclips too.
My dad has a 1975 Honda GoldWing with the Pacifico speaker attachment.. It's dying to be restored to its Glory days ... The original red paint is still in decent shape
I have owned 2 of them...but I have also owned 5 Hayabusa's....There's a reason why all 7 bikes got sold...because as good as they were they didn't get used enough to warrant their running costs, thus, the best bike I have ever owned has been a Honda NC750DCT....still got it after 4 years and use it regularly....
Hey Bob, on the GPS is that Blackheath in south London? If so I use to work for Myers Motors in forest Hill , I know peter that owns the hot dog stand there, my parents live in Eltham, and I grew up in Lee on the red brick estate. I live in Chicago now and have done for 20 years, I miss that place , good luck with the channel.
Not my kinda bike, but you have to appreciate the luxury and tech. Plus I think it's a great looking bike, almost beautiful, in a typically Japanese car way. Looks a little like an NSX!
Cheers Pete! There was talk of them making a lighter tourer with the 1100 Africa twin motor - they filed some patents around this idea, as well as a naked bike with that motor. But no official word yet...
The 2019 Goldwing standard could be viewed similarity to the ST1300. I have a 2019 standard DCT and so far it’s more like a large sport tourer than a luxury tourer. Hard to view the standard as a world class tourer with such limited storage space.
You really do a good job when reviewing your motorcycles. I'm a tried and true BMW Kbike fan and would really welcome your opinion and/or comparison. I'm not too stuck so as to not be able to accept feedback whether good or bad on one being better then the other, I just like to see what is in fact being compared.
I really like the Gold Wings, indeed, I have owned two of them over the years. Problem is I (like I suspect most owners) never used them for what they were truly best at, and as such eventually swapped them for far more practical bikes. Thus the Wing ends up as a statement: "I used to own a Gold Wing".....
OvertravelX , I agree , I don’t hate any bikes but there are ones that suit my taste better . After all manufacturers only make bikes if there is a market . The Gold Wing isn’t for me but it is a fantastic piece of engineering .
I've been riding since 1976 and currently have a high-mileage 2005 BMW R1200RT. My wife and I have taken many vacations on that bike, some for as long as 10 days, so we are a veteran 2-up touring couple. As soon as Honda puts Android Auto on the Gold Wing Tour DCT, we are going to get one. Until then, we'll keep enjoying our RT. But also, a better touring range would be nice on the Gold Wing. We are used to taking breaks every 125-150 miles and getting fuel every other break so any bike that can't comfortably go at least 250 miles between fuel stops doesn't really seem like a touring bike.
I bought my first Goldwing 1800 in 2006 brand new i still got it and i can see no reason to part with it. i did a Sponsored ride from Alfreton Derbyshire to the top of stelvio pass northern Italy in under 24 hours (which i did 980 miles in 22.06 hours she as now done over 58000 miles with no problems.
My 2010 GL1800 wins hands down. Been riding 48 years now. Had from monkey bikes, XL185's, XL500's, Yammys as well, Bol D'or 900's, a few 500cc other bikes, Honda Fireblades (2), Harleys, and of course 3 x 1000cc Honda VF1000 F2F's. For pure fun and enjoyment - yeah the Fireblades for sure (but they have a target on the back for cops). The GL 1800's thought, great for touring without a doubt. Cannot see any benefit in spending over $50,000 for a bike that does what I already have (excluding DCT).
A motorcycle is a tool. To commute, to cover long distance, to profile on bike night, whatever. If it suits your needs then it’s a good choice. Having ridden an Indian Roadmaster, Harley Ultra and the previous generation Gold wing I like all three but none fit my needs. I prefer a middleweight that can do long miles but can maneuver through traffic.
I’d love to see the rocket motor in a bike like this. It’s got the power and I thought it was pretty smooth considering it’s 2.5l. The current accessories don’t really cut it for full on touring
Great video as always mate. Appreciate the detail you go into. Would love to try one of these big boys. Doubt I'll ever be able to afford one mind you. Your mate looks like another RUclipsr. You should tell him.
Given most nakedbikes nowadays have headlights mounted to the frame, i wonder how huge a fairing could get that you'd mount somewhere on a nakedbike. Strictly for weather protection . Winter practicality with no thought spend on aerodynamics or aesthetics. Going above your head maybe. Winter suit basically
Hi! Nice video, guys! i'm wondering if you recommend this motorbike for a beginner rider with the DCT mode. If not, what would you recommend to do before riding the Goldwing? A course for motobikers a week or two, would it be ok? What about starting with Honda Integra DCT or Africa Tween DCT? Would it be worthy to by any of those before when the real dream is the Goldwing? Thx again and Best rgds, from ALC, Spain!
JAG Motor play it safe and buy a used Honda nc700 or Nc750 DCT, You’ll likely have more fun on this 200 pound lighter machine than a giant gold wing. My Africa Twin is a top heavy beast, i would not recommend it either for a beginner. Buy near new but used and save money until you figure out your ultimate ride.
CTX700 DCT is an even closer GW precursor bike than the NC700-lower to the ground, cheaper deals available. Less DCT modes in the CTX vs the NC, however, but sport and auto drive are all you need.
Very well mate, I have just had purchased this bike righthere in my country Indonesia and it was cost me for a extra double prices compare to the pricetag to your country thou .. I got the Godwing DCT full specs pricetag of 105.000 pounds UK here due to the tax regulation is more than 300 % ... 😭 so silly thou.. anyway nice review mate👍👍✅😎
The new one is a great machine but if one is to be completely honest, the older models are more comfortable (especially the seat) and have much better wind coverage. Pluses and minuses for each generation
Honda is about the only Company I would trust putting all that tech into a bike. My 08 wing freaked me out with all the tech at the time. Never had any problem after 65,000.
Have you rode an Indian road master? That's the other type of high end touring bike that people raved over. It would make an interesting comparison by someone as unbiased as you. I wouldn't buy a touring bike though, just too big and expensive. It might be because I'm getting old, but if I REALLY wanted something for serious touring (I can't believe I'm going to admit to this) but I'd be tempted to buy a big super scooter like a t-max 😮
But is it actually a really great motorcycle to really ride? A motorcycle isn't for me a car. If I want a car like experience I will drive one. Silky smoothness ... drive a car. I have owned a great Honda and fast yes but not tactile, not ultimately all that rewarding to ride. And sorry you can't have a love affair with cheap plastic. Brilliant engines but... But that's okay unquestionably brilliant technically but can you really love one? My ride an Indian Springfield, absolutely technically inferior but utterly tactile and fabulous character. And a magnificent touring machine. So many great bikes for different people. Great video as always
No, IMHO, if for resale value if nothing else. I wanted to buy a last year's (2020) black/red bagger version, but all I could find left over in dealer showrooms were the manuals. Then I read the DCT sells 6 to 1 over the manuals. This is my 3rd GW and I've come to love the DCT. It makes shifting my FJR1300 seem rather crude by comparison.
I haven’t tried one of those yet but I’ll try to get around to it. The GW handled pretty damn well considering it’s weight - so much so that it tempts you to carry a bit of corner speed but you still have to remember that 380kg+rider will still want to go in a straight line if you’re going too quick 😂
Kudos to Bob for not posing this as one of those Politically Correct, apologetic questions, he makes the statement like man. ...and it is so true, I don't own one, and BMW's are nice , but there really is no rival to this beautiful and powerful Bike. I have a smaller cruiser which is nice, but Gold Wings are exceptional. In my view, the Honda FJR, followed by the Yamaha ST1300, as lighter bikes are the 'best' value and best looking cruiser bikes if you need something a tad smaller and or lighter.
FM radio will give you much better sound quality than DAB and is a damn sight more reliable, reception wise than DAB too. That is assuming you listen to Radio 3 & 4.
@Earl James No Honda Tattoo. That's why I like Honda. It's about the ride/bike not some cult lifestyle. When u buy a bike based on looks or cult status u lose out of the gate.
I was in the market for a touring bike, I looked at BMW, but spoke to a guy who had recently left a BMW dealer, and he told me to steer clear, because the K1600 had gearbox seizing issues, also the boxer twins had water pump and the new shift cam engine problems. So looked at a an electra glide, which felt a bit dated as did, the Indian roadmaster. I went to Dobles for a test drive, and I was hooked, it is by far, thr best bike I have ever ridden. So I bought one.
I think my 2016 F6B is the most luxurious bike, but wait, my 2014 m109R is the most luxurious, no wait, my 2020 Rocket 3 is....everyone has their opinions. Enjoy what you ride!
380Kg , that's almost my Speed Twin and Street Triple all rolled into one. HUGE ! To me, bikes are about agility, acceleration and getting through gaps. Not something that springs to mind with the Gold Wing. If I had the cash, I would probably have a Rocket 3 ( as a third bike ), not quite as heavy as this (although it's engine is bigger ), that too is a silly bike, not the most agile, but I just really like the look. The Goldwing's look just doesn't do it for me. I'd like a ride, doubt I'd ever buy one and that's even if I had the cash. The bike Honda might flog me is the CB1000R or CB650R. I need a 4 cylinder bike in my life too. Assuming Covid 19 doesn't get me first :)
KarlosH that’s the typical mindset on gold wings from people who have never ridden. The pre 18 and new 18’s, rock through the twisties, remember they are built on a sport bike frame, at least the pre 18’s. Everybody that rides mine is way impressed with the handling.
Im just a beginner & i've always wanted to buy my own bike.But im quite hesitant coz of d thought that what if i get caught in a sudden strong rain while driving & my bike gets rained on.What happens to d bike, especially to a hi-tech bike like this if it gets rained on?Do i kiss d electronics system goodbye?Hope somebody could give me a proper answer.
I dislike watching videos like this because I am a Harley Davidson owner. :) (keep reading before you go all postal on me) I have the 2018 Road glide and, other than the looks and sound, I have nothing to argue with you. HD does NOT have a sliding windshield, reverse, crawl gear, auto cancel turn signals, heated seats (front/ rear), DCT, alerts for saddle and kick stands and quite frankly for the size of the engine it is slow. (even with the aftermarket torque cam I installed with the tuner). ALL I can say is I tend to think the GW has a lot of plastic parts and looks cheap (which it is not) and no real aftermarket parts ( ok, before you people jump on me for that comment, I am comparing it to Harley aftermarket) . I also paid 5k more for my HD over the GW. So my sole ammo against GW is my HD (opinion) looks and sounds better and has more aftermarket parts to personalize,,, that is all I have,, GW is an incredible bike ( great review by the way). I am 46, bought this bike 8 months ago Perhaps my next bike shall be the Honda GW (in red please), :)
trouble is I killed my harley quickly with the amount of riding I do. Oddly I found the 1500 the most reliable bile I ever owned and its almost as old as I am.
I bought a brand new twincam ultra in 2004. i put ten thousand dollars in the bike chasing horsepower. now im constantly annoyed by the loud constant ticking noise in the rocker boxes. its a harley thing. harley made twincam motors with what they call acceptable run out on the flywheel. they correct it by using cam chains instead of cam gears. i found this out when i wanted to do a cam upgrade. my flywheel had too much ti runout. so i agree with you that harley has a lot more after market gadgets . its just sad that a company turns out a motorcycle that was under powered for my year (2004)but willing to take 5000 for a big bore upgrade that caused nothing but problems for me. i cant trust this motorcycle any longer. i just know its going to leave me stranded some where. so next week iv made an appointment to testride the 2020 wing. hopefully ill get something for this harley boat anchor i have sitting in my garage. hopefully you will have good luck with your m8 motor. word of advice/ DO NOT TOUCH THAT MOTOR. leave it stock. you will get more for your trade in value.
So, as a side note, my buddy just purchased a 2020 HD Electra glide LIMITED last weekend. I am very very disappointed with HD and the stuff the bike DOES NOT come with. And the reasoning behind each. For example ( and mind you this is a limited so it was about 32K. ONE key fob ( used to get two) NO heel shifter anymore (used to be standard), No automatic locking tour pack or saddle bags, No CB (used to be standard,, and the is still not confirmed yet) ONE headset (for a bike meant for two), heated grips are standard ( he lives in Miami, but not heated seat. Eh, that's not a big deal but still. HD says, according to the article released by HD, {well we found some people are not using the second key fob, and some do not like the heel shifter}. Come on. do not BS us. You are cutting corners and cost. If some do not like the heel shifter, that means SOME DO. And the 2nd key fob, Yeah wait until you loose one, then you will need it. Anyway, I know it is hard times right now but I am still a little disappointed. Again I love my HD despite the lack of HP and lack of options, but as I get older (46) I am looking more and more towards the HG.
fare video, but honestly , if you want real luxury, you have to go back to the GL1500. The 1500 wieghs less , has good power, a softer sadlle, and can be upgraded to provide all the media comforts of a modern goldwing. The biggest difference is the mods. the 1500 is easily modified to the be the highest of all luxury touring motorcycles , i know i built mine ....
Only way it could get better is if the made it a trike like the can-am so that everyone could ride it . It's way too big for me to ever think about riding .
I'm sorry I completely dissagree. I have ridden both the GL1500 and GL1800 Goldwings, I wasn't happy when they reduced my luggage space on the original 1800 but I put up with it, but now that they have take everything away that I loved, large fuel tank, reduced storage, no native android support, I dunno. This is a VERY expensive bike, i'm happier with the older ones.
I will only disagree with you on the practicality side i think honda's over all other motorbikes are quite practical take it from the smaller capacity to the large ones,rest a very good video.
Android Auto is now ready on the 2020 model and backward compatible to the 2018 version. You just need to update the firmware of the bike which takes about 1 hour. And most exciting, it's free!
Problem with the GoldWing is the Same issue with the Harley. Too tall for vertically challenged people. Yamaha venture transcontinental has more features for less money
I have this bike and love it, your review was spot on. I’m 6’2 and added a slightly larger screen and now its whisper quite in the riding position. It is fantastic for long trips and I travelled from Scotland all the way down to London very comfortable and not needing any more comfort breaks than i would have had in my car. The luggage could be slightly bigger for the helmets but not a big issue. Thanks for the review.
I have that exact bike. I've had it for about 6 months and have put just over 8k miles on it. You are dead right in your review. This bike is amazing.
Yep, this is why I traded my Harley RGU in for a new Goldwing DCT. It's simply the best touring bike I've ever owned or ridden.
I own an FJR1300AE with Yamaha’s YCC-S clutch. It is a fantastic similarity to the DCT. I will not go back to a standard clutch bike. Never! Great review!! The FJR still holds that “Sport Bike” reputation, and does not have all of the “infotainment” ammenities. I like that! But I am a 56 year old youngster. A used DCT Goldwing is on my radar, at a reduced cost, in the next few years.
Just recently bought a 2019 leftover 6-speed manual.
I opted for the 6-speed manual, rode a DCT and was always used to shifting.
I Do not mind shifting on this bike. Besides that you can pretty much leave it in 3rd gear and go from 15 mile per hour to 70mph with ease.
Nice review
I've been riding motorcycles for 50 years, and currently have a 2015 Gold Wing 40th Anniversary. I've had Wings for 44 years starting with the GL1000. Quite simply, there is not a better touring bike the Wing. I have not ridden the new Wing but I don't like some of the changes Honda made from mine. I particularly don't like the smaller bags and trunk, the smaller fairing, and the smaller gas tank. Also, why doesn't Honda have Android Auto on it.
The very low center of gravity makes it easier to handle than many smaller bikes even though it weighs about 900 lbs. The flat fours were very smooth on the early Wings and the sixes are even better. My idea of the best touring bike would have the GL1500 bags, trunk, and fairing, and the last generation frame and suspension, and the current bike's engine and transmission and electronics with Android Auto added.
James Bondeson they shoulda have either Apple Bikeplay or Android Motorcycle...lol
I agree. I have an 07 and looked at the 2020 at the Vancouver bike show a few weeks ago. Not impressed by the lack of luggage space. My wife and I have been around the world with a carry on each,but I think we would be doing a lot of laundry on our cross continent trips. I'll keep the 07,it's only got 130,000 km's on it.
@@davidgiles5030 The 2018 and newer models are so much better then the previous models, they are well worth the very few shortcomings they may have. If the extra room is a must, I'd suggest getting one of these: www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200692633_200692633
David Giles do you have highway pegs or fog lights on yours? I’ve got a 2016 and want to add a couple things
they have Android auto now. Took my wing in for an update, and 10min later, I have android auto. Thank you Honda
Thank you, MotoBob. This is the best made, most concise review of the GL18 on RUclips. I’ve seen videos twice as long that didn’t have all the information you presented. Well done! I own a 2018 DCT Tour and would like to add two minor points. While, the aerodynamic envelope for the rider is the best I’ve experienced on any motorcycle (been riding for 40 years and owned eight bikes), the passenger gets buffeted quite a bit at freeway speeds. Also, the on-board navigation system is, to be diplomatic, utter crap. Using Apple CarPlay or an aftermarket navigation device will be a necessity for the serious long-distance cruiser. These points are, for me, minor and I wouldn’t trade my Wing for anything. Thanks again for the excellent vid.
Thanks very much! Glad you enjoyed it. I used the built in nav a couple of times and it got me where I wanted to go which can be a feat in London. But I agree that I’d always prefer to use CarPlay with Waze or Google Maps
That's a really well done round up of your time with the GW. Factual and simplified and easy to follow.well done. I'm sure it's the best at what it's for .
Cheers Steve. Not everyone’s cup of tea but at very least there’s a lot of well thought out stuff to marvel at
I owned the last generation of goldwing and loved it,but I bought the dct when it came out in 2018 and never regretted it, done 650 miles in one day no problem.
I can imagine! I did a day of about 250-300 and it felt like my 40 minute commute through town in terms of rider fatigue
On your 650 mile ride in one day the new GW seat didn't numb your fanny? I've heard from a lot of people that the seat is uncomfortable.
@@BarryonPiano yes it did, just take a few minutes to stretch every couple of hrs.
@@BarryonPiano Russell Daylong. Or even just a Beadrider.
I've got the 2014 Goldwing Valkyrie F6B. It's just a naked goldwing - no windscreen or faring, no bags, no electronics, rider aids, radio, manual gearbox, etc. Nothing. It's the 1800cc engine and wheels and a seat. I love it. At 90+lbs lighter it looks and handles like a streamliner locomotive. It goes great and turns well enough but it's still a big beast. Good video!
Just stumbled across this channel and this is easily one of the better reviews I’ve seen! You’re very well spoken and informative. Be safe out there!
I just got this bike and it is the world's best bike I,ve ever riden. Very smooth. Love everything about it.
I have a 2003 Honda Shadow VLX 600 cruiser and love it. I did put a gas tank with a tank mounted speedometer from a 750 Honda on it and have an extra gallon of gasoline (petrol as called in the UK) , a solo seat with springs under the rear and a hinge in the front. Since my wife's seat was to small and rather stiff, I added more foam layers on her seat and made a cover for it. If anything, I do like Hondas. Mine is 17 years old and still runs great.
Mine is an airbag model just like the one here, but after a while, I had to have my seat redone. Much more comfortable now.
I have a GL 1800. I know of two people so far that bought 2018 gold wings and traded them in on leftover 2017s..One guy said he just didn’t like it as much as his 2012 he sold to buy the 2018, the second guy said that his wife just did not like it as much as his old gl1800..So he also traded his 2018 in on a leftover 2017.. what is up with that?
I remember selling my Yamaha venture to buy a BMW K 1200 LT with that weird front end that is similar to the Honda front end on the newer gold wings.. that front end did not compress under braking on the bmw..That made the machine fuel top-heavy and like it wanted to get away for me in parking lot maneuvers when I would dab the brakes. I’ve had to ventures with a combined 18 years on Venture’s, I never even came close to dropping either one of them. I dropped that BMW two times in parking lots because of that strange front end that the fork springs do not absorb/dissipate braking energy..I never felt comfortable coming to a stop on that BMW and I ended up selling it after just a year and a half. I wonder if the front end on the 2018 and newer gold wings is giving the same uneasy feedback to its rider..I certainly hope not, because I’m in the market to upgrade, but now I’m gonna wait and see, I am definitely going to take a test ride and it’s not just gonna be Once around the block on billiard table smooth roads, which won’t be difficult because I live in Pennsylvania where there are not-too-many billiard table smooth roads, which is why I ride a gold wing. To smooth them out which my wing does very nicely,Especially now that I have upgraded to progressive brand fork springs and shock Spring.I never realized how dead the old springs were until I wrote on the new ones. It’s a completely different motorcycle now. My Dunlop elite three tire was cupping. that is a sign that the front forks need rebuilt. While I was changing the springs and the fork oil and the fork seals, I installed a set of Dunlop elite four tires. I forgot to weigh the front tire before I installed it, but the new Dunlop elite four rear tire weighed almost 6 pounds less than the used Dunlop elite three I removed. That is a massive removal of unsprung weight. that the suspension has to cope with. Unsprung weight is so critical, that Porsche uses titanium Lugnuts on their car wheels to save a few ounces. I saved almost 6 pounds just switching tires, and my bike feels it. 6 pounds in the saddle bags doesn’t mean as much as 6 pounds of unsprung weight..
I bought my very first DCT 2018 Goldwing in August of 2019. I only gripe i do have is that the compartments have been reduced dramatically. I really enjoy its light weight in comparison with the 2016 Goldwing I had before.
I'm a Harley rider but I respect and love Honda
Abdulrehman Alyafei I ride a Honda but I respect Harley riders
I own both; I only need one. I can't decide which one to sell.
@@stephensmith1034 Keep a bike that has no breakdowns and that you feel will not make you lose big money
Goodluck
@@stephensmith1034 O k Now I am really jealous as
Love all bikes , ride and enjoy the freedom 👍✌️
2020 Goldwing probably best bike ever made, an that's outrageous statement to make, but I'm thinking from 70+ years of riding an can't think of make or model that comes close?
@@7316bobe Great advice, we're all getting older! I'll look into weight comparisons to my current HD so I can judge! It's a wonder! It even has side bumpers so Honda might be worried about that?
@@7316bobe as I got older I had to consider size an weight moving around my 22ft Duckworth aluminum boat to 16ft fishing boat! We're talking same thing with motorcycles! Too bad, I really like that new Goldwing!
I took a test ride on the new Goldwing last summer and couldn't believe it. Weight is so low it feels like a much lighter bike. Sport like in fact.
BMW R1250RT !
Although I no longer ride, or drive, I think this bike is awesome, thanks for the great review. Regards, Bob M. South Wales
Cheers Bob! Hope you’re keeping well and healthy 👍
I'm growing to love your reviews...and I'm not even a biker - yet! Love your calm presentation and rather interesting contents. Only thing for me was I wanted you to walk through all the knobs, buttons, bells and whistles a bit more. Lovely review though! (The baby must be here by now too - can you fit a sidecar??)
JUust traded my HD Ultra Limited for a Goldwing DCT. Incredible bike, and wow, what a difference in ride and performance.
Will definitely own one of these some day...
I'm 50,that thing has so many feature I'd have learn how ride again. My bikes always had hill hold,me..lol
I like the brakes on this Goldwing they work very well . The DCT makes touring much more enjoyable. Nice video 👍 . The suspension is a week point . I have to put the settings at 2 riders for solo riding to prevent the suspension from bottoming out . I am spending $3,000 U.S. on a new suspension in Atlanta from Traxion Dynamics. The inventor is Max McCalister he’s on RUclips too.
My dad has a 1975 Honda GoldWing with the Pacifico speaker attachment..
It's dying to be restored to its Glory days ...
The original red paint is still in decent shape
Enjoyed your video and complete, concise information / opinion. Wishing you lots of fun and safe miles ahead.
About the price, here in Italy it's cheaper than a hd road glide which is a far worse bike. It's a unique bike, I hope to own one in the next years.
I've had 4 Goldwing's and an array of other bikes so its says it all really amazing motorcycle
I have owned 2 of them...but I have also owned 5 Hayabusa's....There's a reason why all 7 bikes got sold...because as good as they were they didn't get used enough to warrant their running costs, thus, the best bike I have ever owned has been a Honda NC750DCT....still got it after 4 years and use it regularly....
I appreciate fancy gadgets and driver aids when driving.
When I go motorcycling I want to experience just that. Motorcycling.
Look at the "new" Valkyrie. It's the Goldwing platform without all the Goldwing all over it.
@@bikerbobcat sport bikes for me :)
I call my CBR a goldwing650R when taking a trip :D
Hey Bob, on the GPS is that Blackheath in south London?
If so I use to work for Myers Motors in forest Hill , I know peter that owns the hot dog stand there, my parents live in Eltham, and I grew up in Lee on the red brick estate.
I live in Chicago now and have done for 20 years, I miss that place , good luck with the channel.
Yes indeed it is! That’s quite a change... Lee to Chicago!
@@motobob Yep moved to NYC first then Chicago another 6 years here then Thailand lol was a real trip down memory lane thanks
Not my kinda bike, but you have to appreciate the luxury and tech. Plus I think it's a great looking bike, almost beautiful, in a typically Japanese car way. Looks a little like an NSX!
What a pity Honda stopped making the ST1300 Pan; or the NT700 Deauville for that matter. Good review, thank you.
Cheers Pete! There was talk of them making a lighter tourer with the 1100 Africa twin motor - they filed some patents around this idea, as well as a naked bike with that motor. But no official word yet...
The 2019 Goldwing standard could be viewed similarity to the ST1300. I have a 2019 standard DCT and so far it’s more like a large sport tourer than a luxury tourer. Hard to view the standard as a world class tourer with such limited storage space.
You really do a good job when reviewing your motorcycles. I'm a tried and true BMW Kbike fan and would really welcome your opinion and/or comparison. I'm not too stuck so as to not be able to accept feedback whether good or bad on one being better then the other, I just like to see what is in fact being compared.
I really like the Gold Wings, indeed, I have owned two of them over the years. Problem is I (like I suspect most owners) never used them for what they were truly best at, and as such eventually swapped them for far more practical bikes. Thus the Wing ends up as a statement: "I used to own a Gold Wing".....
Absolute, top of the line...period.
I hate the gold wing but watch your because you manage to bring the interesting bits out well with great production quality
Thanks Phil! Appreciate it
There's no reason to hate it. It's designed absolutely perfectly for what it's meant to do.
OvertravelX , I agree , I don’t hate any bikes but there are ones that suit my taste better . After all manufacturers only make bikes if there is a market . The Gold Wing isn’t for me but it is a fantastic piece of engineering .
I've been riding since 1976 and currently have a high-mileage 2005 BMW R1200RT. My wife and I have taken many vacations on that bike, some for as long as 10 days, so we are a veteran 2-up touring couple. As soon as Honda puts Android Auto on the Gold Wing Tour DCT, we are going to get one. Until then, we'll keep enjoying our RT. But also, a better touring range would be nice on the Gold Wing. We are used to taking breaks every 125-150 miles and getting fuel every other break so any bike that can't comfortably go at least 250 miles between fuel stops doesn't really seem like a touring bike.
Gorgeous bike, great reviews. Can’t wait for your Africa Twin vid.
Awesome bike. I also have the DCT model.
I bought my first Goldwing 1800 in 2006 brand new i still got it and i can see no reason to part with it.
i did a Sponsored ride from Alfreton Derbyshire to the top of stelvio pass northern Italy in under 24 hours (which i did 980 miles in 22.06 hours she as now done over 58000 miles with no problems.
I purchased a 2020 Indian Roadmaster 2 months ago but I wish I would have know about the god wing before. It will be my next bike
My 2010 GL1800 wins hands down. Been riding 48 years now. Had from monkey bikes, XL185's, XL500's, Yammys as well, Bol D'or 900's, a few 500cc other bikes, Honda Fireblades (2), Harleys, and of course 3 x 1000cc Honda VF1000 F2F's. For pure fun and enjoyment - yeah the Fireblades for sure (but they have a target on the back for cops). The GL 1800's thought, great for touring without a doubt. Cannot see any benefit in spending over $50,000 for a bike that does what I already have (excluding DCT).
I'm in the market for a BMW Grand America but would definitely take this new Wing for a ride.
You forgot 1 thing it's a Honda . They make the best quality vehicles.
A motorcycle is a tool. To commute, to cover long distance, to profile on bike night, whatever. If it suits your needs then it’s a good choice. Having ridden an Indian Roadmaster, Harley Ultra and the previous generation Gold wing I like all three but none fit my needs. I prefer a middleweight that can do long miles but can maneuver through traffic.
For the price of a decent new car would hope it's got some Luxury.
Oh it does! It's the original. It's in the reputation.
Comprehensive review. If I was going for a bike of more than 300 kg, it would be the Rocket lll.
I’d love to see the rocket motor in a bike like this. It’s got the power and I thought it was pretty smooth considering it’s 2.5l. The current accessories don’t really cut it for full on touring
Like the number plate as well as the bike.
Brilliant isn’t it. I was hoping all their press bikes would have plates like that but alas no
Great video as always mate. Appreciate the detail you go into. Would love to try one of these big boys. Doubt I'll ever be able to afford one mind you. Your mate looks like another RUclipsr. You should tell him.
Haha I will 😉
Which is the tire used in goldwing.
Given most nakedbikes nowadays have headlights mounted to the frame, i wonder how huge a fairing could get that you'd mount somewhere on a nakedbike. Strictly for weather protection . Winter practicality with no thought spend on aerodynamics or aesthetics. Going above your head maybe. Winter suit basically
Nice...would give anything to have a trike version....bikes have come light years from the older models....
I think this is the first bike you’ve tested where the UK license plate looks properly proportioned on the back of the bike 😆😆🤪
Loooool. That’s fair
I would prefer speed limiter rather than cruise control far more useful especially in 30/40 speed limits.
Hi! Nice video, guys! i'm wondering if you recommend this motorbike for a beginner rider with the DCT mode. If not, what would you recommend to do before riding the Goldwing? A course for motobikers a week or two, would it be ok? What about starting with Honda Integra DCT or Africa Tween DCT? Would it be worthy to by any of those before when the real dream is the Goldwing? Thx again and Best rgds, from ALC, Spain!
JAG Motor play it safe and buy a used Honda nc700 or Nc750 DCT, You’ll likely have more fun on this 200 pound lighter machine than a giant gold wing. My Africa Twin is a top heavy beast, i would not recommend it either for a beginner. Buy near new but used and save money until you figure out your ultimate ride.
CTX700 DCT is an even closer GW precursor bike than the NC700-lower to the ground, cheaper deals available. Less DCT modes in the CTX vs the NC, however, but sport and auto drive are all you need.
Very well mate, I have just had purchased this bike righthere in my country Indonesia and it was cost me for a extra double prices compare to the pricetag to your country thou .. I got the Godwing DCT full specs pricetag of 105.000 pounds UK here due to the tax regulation is more than 300 % ... 😭 so silly thou.. anyway nice review mate👍👍✅😎
Oh wow! That’s crazy. In Canada it works out at about £20k I believe
The new one is a great machine but if one is to be completely honest, the older models are more comfortable (especially the seat) and have much better wind coverage. Pluses and minuses for each generation
I test rode a 19 Gold Wing DCT last fall but ended up with a dealer holdover 2018 BMW K1600 GTL that I bought in early Feb.
Why mate?
Good vid....as usual. When will you do the Africa Twin review?
This week!
MOTOBOB still waiting.........!
For pure fun that gets your heart pumping ! > K1600 all the way.
Awesome review! What MPG were you getting?
Thanks a lot!
And congrats on the newborn.
depends on rider.....30 to 54 mpg...average about 42. 19DCT with 24,500 miles on her
Great video, thanks for sharing.
My 18 1800b is a Harley killer in even in tour mode.
I have had 2 Goldwings and enjoyed . They both were comfy for long trips and fast when needed . It was a motorcycle not a electronic nightmare .
Honda is about the only Company I would trust putting all that tech into a bike. My 08 wing freaked me out with all the tech at the time. Never had any problem after 65,000.
Have you rode an Indian road master? That's the other type of high end touring bike that people raved over. It would make an interesting comparison by someone as unbiased as you. I wouldn't buy a touring bike though, just too big and expensive. It might be because I'm getting old, but if I REALLY wanted something for serious touring (I can't believe I'm going to admit to this) but I'd be tempted to buy a big super scooter like a t-max 😮
I’ll definitely get out on one of the big Indian tourers soon but I reckon it’ll be the Challenger first
Ok, put this up against the BMW R1250RT and see where the chips fall!
Are the buttons on the handlebar backlit for nighttime convenience?
Yes, one of my favorite features on my 2019
Trading my Valkyrie cause may brain just exploded
But is it actually a really great motorcycle to really ride? A motorcycle isn't for me a car. If I want a car like experience I will drive one. Silky smoothness ... drive a car. I have owned a great Honda and fast yes but not tactile, not ultimately all that rewarding to ride. And sorry you can't have a love affair with cheap plastic. Brilliant engines but... But that's okay unquestionably brilliant technically but can you really love one? My ride an Indian Springfield, absolutely technically inferior but utterly tactile and fabulous character. And a magnificent touring machine. So many great bikes for different people. Great video as always
This version isn't available in the US, more's the pity.
Do you think the normal geared (non DCT) version is worth buying?
No, IMHO, if for resale value if nothing else. I wanted to buy a last year's (2020) black/red bagger version, but all I could find left over in dealer showrooms were the manuals. Then I read the DCT sells 6 to 1 over the manuals. This is my 3rd GW and I've come to love the DCT. It makes shifting my FJR1300 seem rather crude by comparison.
Superb review.....
Cheers TF!
Brilliant, is your mate the guy from Rarefied road?
Yes indeed! We do a podcast together - Full Tank
@@motobob I will look for it, his channel and insta is good too I dont understand why he doesnt have more followers
Ok does the bike handle as good as the bmw 1600 gtl or k1600 just wondering if you know thanks
I haven’t tried one of those yet but I’ll try to get around to it. The GW handled pretty damn well considering it’s weight - so much so that it tempts you to carry a bit of corner speed but you still have to remember that 380kg+rider will still want to go in a straight line if you’re going too quick 😂
MOTOBOB waiting for your comparison with K1600. It’s been 5 months...
No other bike company has ever attempted to take it on, which I find is unusual.
K1600b??
Jethro X I think that the Harley Ultra Limited is a very comfy bike.
You obviously have never tested out the BMW K1600GTL. The drive is superior.
Kudos to Bob for not posing this as one of those Politically
Correct, apologetic questions, he makes the statement like man.
...and it is so true, I don't own one, and BMW's are nice , but there
really is no rival to this beautiful and powerful Bike. I have a smaller
cruiser which is nice, but Gold Wings are exceptional. In my view, the
Honda FJR, followed by the Yamaha ST1300, as lighter bikes are the
'best' value and best looking cruiser bikes if you need something a tad
smaller and or lighter.
Good video very nice bike but to heavy and pricey for me.
Super sweet.
The headlights look like wings, I see what they did there.
whoa i never would have caught that. nice.
FM radio will give you much better sound quality than DAB and is a damn sight more reliable, reception wise than DAB too. That is assuming you listen to Radio 3 & 4.
Radio 2 is great too.
If you pick a Harley over this bike your smoking dope.
@Earl James Nuff said with your comment, typical HD response. Leave the finer things in life to the GW crowd.
@Earl James No Honda Tattoo. That's why I like Honda. It's about the ride/bike not some cult lifestyle. When u buy a bike based on looks or cult status u lose out of the gate.
I was in the market for a touring bike, I looked at BMW, but spoke to a guy who had recently left a BMW dealer, and he told me to steer clear, because the K1600 had gearbox seizing issues, also the boxer twins had water pump and the new shift cam engine problems. So looked at a an electra glide, which felt a bit dated as did, the Indian roadmaster. I went to Dobles for a test drive, and I was hooked, it is by far, thr best bike I have ever ridden. So I bought one.
I’ve heard a lot of reports of K1600 problems too... nothing about the GW so far though.
I think my 2016 F6B is the most luxurious bike, but wait, my 2014 m109R is the most luxurious, no wait, my 2020 Rocket 3 is....everyone has their opinions. Enjoy what you ride!
My 2016 F6B Delux has 20,000 miles love it at 67 yrs young it will be my last and ultimate bike ❤️ Ride to live, live to Ride.
380Kg , that's almost my Speed Twin and Street Triple all rolled into one. HUGE !
To me, bikes are about agility, acceleration and getting through gaps. Not something that springs to mind with the Gold Wing.
If I had the cash, I would probably have a Rocket 3 ( as a third bike ), not quite as heavy as this (although it's engine is bigger ), that too is a silly bike, not the most agile, but I just really like the look. The Goldwing's look just doesn't do it for me.
I'd like a ride, doubt I'd ever buy one and that's even if I had the cash. The bike Honda might flog me is the CB1000R or CB650R. I need a 4 cylinder bike in my life too. Assuming Covid 19 doesn't get me first :)
KarlosH that’s the typical mindset on gold wings from people who have never ridden. The pre 18 and new 18’s, rock through the twisties, remember they are built on a sport bike frame, at least the pre 18’s. Everybody that rides mine is way impressed with the handling.
Im just a beginner & i've always wanted to buy my own bike.But im quite hesitant coz of d thought that what if i get caught in a sudden strong rain while driving & my bike gets rained on.What happens to d bike, especially to a hi-tech bike like this if it gets rained on?Do i kiss d electronics system goodbye?Hope somebody could give me a proper answer.
You can wash the bike or ride it under rain with music on. No problem at all as the components are made water-proof.
Is that Tim from Rarefied Road? 🤔
Yes!
I dislike watching videos like this because I am a Harley Davidson owner. :) (keep reading before you go all postal on me) I have the 2018 Road glide and, other than the looks and sound, I have nothing to argue with you. HD does NOT have a sliding windshield, reverse, crawl gear, auto cancel turn signals, heated seats (front/ rear), DCT, alerts for saddle and kick stands and quite frankly for the size of the engine it is slow. (even with the aftermarket torque cam I installed with the tuner). ALL I can say is I tend to think the GW has a lot of plastic parts and looks cheap (which it is not) and no real aftermarket parts ( ok, before you people jump on me for that comment, I am comparing it to Harley aftermarket) . I also paid 5k more for my HD over the GW. So my sole ammo against GW is my HD (opinion) looks and sounds better and has more aftermarket parts to personalize,,, that is all I have,, GW is an incredible bike ( great review by the way). I am 46, bought this bike 8 months ago Perhaps my next bike shall be the Honda GW (in red please), :)
angelo iezzi aint gonna hate on you but there’s a lot of ( ) bro
angelo iezzi and i mean offcourse my panhead looks a lot more beautiful than that plastic looks bike
trouble is I killed my harley quickly with the amount of riding I do. Oddly I found the 1500 the most reliable bile I ever owned and its almost as old as I am.
I bought a brand new twincam ultra in 2004. i put ten thousand dollars in the bike chasing horsepower. now im constantly annoyed by the loud constant ticking noise in the rocker boxes. its a harley thing. harley made twincam motors with what they call acceptable run out on the flywheel. they correct it by using cam chains instead of cam gears. i found this out when i wanted to do a cam upgrade. my flywheel had too much ti runout. so i agree with you that harley has a lot more after market gadgets . its just sad that a company turns out a motorcycle that was under powered for my year (2004)but willing to take 5000 for a big bore upgrade that caused nothing but problems for me. i cant trust this motorcycle any longer. i just know its going to leave me stranded some where. so next week iv made an appointment to testride the 2020 wing. hopefully ill get something for this harley boat anchor i have sitting in my garage. hopefully you will have good luck with your m8 motor. word of advice/ DO NOT TOUCH THAT MOTOR. leave it stock. you will get more for your trade in value.
So, as a side note, my buddy just purchased a 2020 HD Electra glide LIMITED last weekend. I am very very disappointed with HD and the stuff the bike DOES NOT come with. And the reasoning behind each. For example ( and mind you this is a limited so it was about 32K. ONE key fob ( used to get two) NO heel shifter anymore (used to be standard), No automatic locking tour pack or saddle bags, No CB (used to be standard,, and the is still not confirmed yet) ONE headset (for a bike meant for two), heated grips are standard ( he lives in Miami, but not heated seat. Eh, that's not a big deal but still. HD says, according to the article released by HD, {well we found some people are not using the second key fob, and some do not like the heel shifter}. Come on. do not BS us. You are cutting corners and cost. If some do not like the heel shifter, that means SOME DO. And the 2nd key fob, Yeah wait until you loose one, then you will need it. Anyway, I know it is hard times right now but I am still a little disappointed. Again I love my HD despite the lack of HP and lack of options, but as I get older (46) I am looking more and more towards the HG.
waiting for the gl1800 2020
fare video, but honestly , if you want real luxury, you have to go back to the GL1500. The 1500 wieghs less , has good power, a softer sadlle, and can be upgraded to provide all the media comforts of a modern goldwing. The biggest difference is the mods. the 1500 is easily modified to the be the highest of all luxury touring motorcycles , i know i built mine ....
Only way it could get better is if the made it a trike like the can-am so that everyone could ride it . It's way too big for me to ever think about riding .
I'm sorry I completely dissagree. I have ridden both the GL1500 and GL1800 Goldwings, I wasn't happy when they reduced my luggage space on the original 1800 but I put up with it, but now that they have take everything away that I loved, large fuel tank, reduced storage, no native android support, I dunno. This is a VERY expensive bike, i'm happier with the older ones.
Yep Blackheath like a walk down memory lane lol
I will only disagree with you on the practicality side i think honda's over all other motorbikes are quite practical take it from the smaller capacity to the large ones,rest a very good video.
380 kilogrammes!?!? JESUS. and here i thought the 1250GSA was heavy! how is this better than that?
What I would really like to know is why the freaking freckles they force Apple car play? Why not Android compatible, like seriously?
Android Auto is now ready on the 2020 model and backward compatible to the 2018 version. You just need to update the firmware of the bike which takes about 1 hour. And most exciting, it's free!
@@goldwingadventures6996 Wow! Finally! Great news, thanks for the information 👍👍
Stop Start? I hope not.... 4:37
Europe models only I believe - my 2019 here is the states does not have it
HONDA WAS, IS , ALWAYS WILL BE THE BEST ON PLANET EARTH. PERIOD
are you wearing Pando Moto Jeans? :)
The next model should come with air-condition, a sunroof and 2 doors
Problem with the GoldWing is the Same issue with the Harley. Too tall for vertically challenged people. Yamaha venture transcontinental has more features for less money