Since my father (who got me into riding) can‘t ride anymore himself because of some brain shittery we took the previous model on a tour through Switzerland (hairpins and all!), he pillion, I‘m under 30y, around 600kg with both of us and luggage.. was quite a challenge, but trip of a lifetime!! :D Greetings from Frankfurt!
I've got a gl1500 and I'm sixty years old . I spent 40 years on sports bikes and I'm sick of riders flying past me on the straights only to see them going round corners like a geriatric in a car. But at least they look fantastic in their tight fitting branded outfit's on bikes they will never reach the limit's of. Remember we are all bikers from scooter rider's to old farts like me on a goldwing.
I bought a st1300 im 40 years old but look 30 my mates took the piss until they rode with me its not a slow bike and 140 with the screen up is nothing but joy none of that head down with everything shaking crap. Scared the crap out of my mate when i yanked the throttle and the front lifted while he was near me. I want the F6B the st1300 is very warm on hot days you get cooked nuts
I saw a brand spanking new one of these parked here in Townsville, Queensland the other day. Passers by were gawping and taking pictures. Me included. You could have parked a Lambo next to it and nobody would have noticed. The Goldwing is just one of those bikes that everyone wants. BMW or Harley will never make an equal in my book.
I took one of those out a few yrs ago from a dealer in Ruislip....bloody hell what a machine, even back then. Silky smooth power and plenty of go with all the bells and whistles - hustling along can be achieved with planning and I completely get why riders like them, especially in the US where the roads are wider and you have a whole continent to explore. A bit more of a challenge on our country roads, and as you say, you need deep pockets but nevertheless a very accomplished machine.
Glad to see someone understands this bike. It's not for me, but if I was going cross country in North America, I can't think of a better place to be. If you can afford a Gold Wing, you can also afford a smaller bike for in town if you want.
The Honda Goldwing is the "Gold Standard" to which all other touring motorcycles are measured against! You need to do a week tour on this Gold Wing to fully appreciate it's design & engineering!
No compromises, Honda know their target market and have built the ultimate tourer you can’t help but admire this machine although I suspect it’s probably a bit Marmite to most. Not my kind of bike but a good review as always, I think the guy walking the mutt wanted to chat but realised you were quite happy talking to yourself lol 👍
I rode the dct version today.It was absolutely amazing,but I reckon the R1250RT would be more engaging given it’s 100+kg lighter.Great review,as always TMF.Thank you!
Few years back had the old gl1800, amazing machine especially if you do lots of 2up. You can filter, i found cars would move out of the way when you came barging through, it was good at low speed, and it could hustle too. Sold it after a tour to France, when it did seem that i was taking a limo to tesco on daily use. Great review, keep em coming Tmf.
One thing I really like about your reviews is the consistency. It makes them really easy to watch and enjoy. Thanks so much for your efforts. I always learn something
Over the years I've had 4 Wings - 2 1100's, a 1200 and a first gen 1800 and they got better as the years went by. Have been on plenty of 2 up tours on the 1800, including a few days scratching with friends in the Cognac area of France and once you allow for their size, these things can bloody well hustle, they really can. Anyone that thinks otherwise needs to look with bigger eyes and have bigger balls as well. Motorcycling is what you make it and anything can be fun, absolutely anything.
Hi there. What a nice wee change for you then eh! It was nice of the guys to lend you the bike but who wouldn’t. You and Russ (RCN) are the two best reviewers on RUclips in the UK for sure so I’m guessing it’s in their benefit to lend RUclips’s reviewers like yourselves to give them a little bit of an advert. So thank you so much for showing us around and at nearly 47 years old I’m slowly giving in to really wanting one of these massive tourers. Comfort is my first priority and I’m sure you mentioned how comfy it was once or twice so I’ll take that as it’s super comfy lol. I really need to get saving as even a second hand one is expensive. I’ll stick with my ZZR 600 D3 with bar risers just now but I hope soon to at least take a test ride on one. Take it easy and ride safe.
The new "cub" its very much like this Goldwing as it has a lot of new gizzmo's included but at over £3000 its a bit daft of Honda ( or greedy ) oh and comes with a single seat ....
A loverly bike. Did I notice a slight reach for the brake at the site of the constabulary on the hard shoulder. I thought the Wing had an electric centre stand on the older model. Good review. Thanks
I've owned and ridden them all. The 2018 Goldwing is the finest motorcycle I have ever owned hands down. The shortcomings are minuscule compared to the assets.
I bought my dad a 1985 wing as a christmas present a couple of years ago. They're surprisingly cramped inside for such a giant machine. Even the old 1200s are super amazingly smooth. *edit It did take me a few hundred miles to train my hands to just slowly let out the clutch and it would pull itself along. It didn't need any revs to get going. Trying to apply some made you sound like you were about to do a launch from the start of a drag strip.
Oh, I would sure love owning one of those! Especially if the reverse gear is included. Thank you for the review! Funny how the white van was upgraded to a white cargo truck for this review. Very ad hoc.
quite different beast versus many HD except maybe RoadKing. GW is clearly for more comfy cruising and much closer to BMW1600. Better to compare to STRATOLINER (I ride one), but the latter’s torque will leave GW in the dust. Anyway, lovely machine GW!
@@georgem4309 Oh man, I think that is a can or worms statement. If you are talking M8 Harley's I could not disagree more. In fact, I would put the new Road Glide Special up against any sport tourer on the market or any tourer. I own Harley's, KTM's, Yamaha's and have had everything to a point so I am no Harley fan boy. The new Harleys are excellent machines.
It's a great looking bike, but there is too much going on for me with all the gizmos and the price is just crazy. We have enough distractions going on on our daily ride trying to stay safe. Great vlog by the way.
Great review and great styling and that straight 6! But I guess the question is why does it weigh ~100lb more than a BMW 1600GTL. Would’ve thought the other way round. Great review sir!
Great review. After 30 years of road riding I’ve just bought myself a new Gold Wing Bagger 6 speed and I am so chuffed. There are lovely bikes out there and you mentioned some in your vlog, but for me it was only ever going to be a GW.
Talking about filtering. Harping back to my days with Delta Despatch I do remember one of our riders did have a Wing and to see him going down Western Avenue in the rush hour was a sight to behold. He never seemed to have any problems....
Major expense for any slight touch down on our potholed UK road, but lovely, lovely bike thought! Would come into it's own on the American Interstates and would love to ride one on the I-75 from Michigan to Florida!!! (Did this on a fly drive holiday) OCD cleaning nightmare. Thanks for taking us along!
I would like to see you compare this to the previous model. It had a much bigger screen, bigger seat, much more baggage, and heaters coming off of the wider fairing.
Now you're getting the idea! Nice review! My Pre 18 GL1800 Wing can cruise at 30mph in top gear and still pull clean away. My 1200RT struggles, just like your gs in 3rd at 30. The flat 6 has loads of useable torque. Think you'll find too that this Wing can filter, as I do, unlike GSA's with panners which are about 4 inches wider and get stuck, even on motorways. Have to buy TMF t shirt now thag you've reviewed the 'wing. Nice one!
+SPETIKANGEL Must admit, when TMF was talking about 30mph in third, my first thought was 'I'd bet my bottom dollar it would pull 30 in top (gear)'. My normal first choice in colour on a bike is black, but that red just looks gorgeous. At £26K for the manual, I think that can hold it's head up against the likes of the BMW's.
Although this bike is not my cuppa, I enjoyed the review a lot, and it's always good to see what's out there. The review was also the perfect length. Thanks.
The Star Ship Enterprise didn't have an air bag. What an absolutely wonderful touring bike. But what would I do on a dark winters night if I was to drop it in a quite country lane?
Well you've done it again. Every time that I look at changing my bike, you seem to review the ones that I'm considering. Just sold my GSA and Goldwing Bagger ordered, which I hope to collect next week. Going to miss the GSA after a long history of GSs before that - but excited about the new bike. Thanks for another great review...
Best boxer engine in the world! Growing up in an (Asian) motorcycle family, we all had a weak for Honda engineering. I remember my dad working on his old CB’s (but also on Kreidler and Zundapp mopeds) in my early days. These days people say Honda’s are boring, no emotion etc, but one cannot deny the impact they had on modern motorcycles. I always remember those days and I still follow Honda news these days. Anyway, I also remember his reaction, showing up on my first BMW flattwin and the look my dad had, when I put the first gear in.... he was horrified. I guess all BMW riders know what I mean. Still, he cannot appreciate THAT sound even on modern LC flattwins. Hopefully my 1250 takes that away...keep up the great work TMF!
Good review. The first time I rode a wing I was amazed by the handling and the way the weight just disappeared from very low speed. They are great bikes, but very expensive, however I think you will find the bike comes fully loaded, so things like an intercom system is built in and you just need to purchase the headsets. Now the K1600GT exists I really don’t know if I would have a wing over it, the K1600 has a lot more performance for less money (160bhp, if memory serves). Mind you I am not currently in the market for such a bike and have not ridden the new wing and the last K I rode was the K1300GT. Maybe I’ll have to try both at some point to find out.
My DCT Tour was due to be delivered last Saturday. Then the shop shut up because of this bloody virus. Wont now deliver before 14/15/16th April, bugger. Good review mate. Watched so many American reviews makes a nice change to be able to understand what's being said.
I was at Blade Motorcycles Abingdon today and had a look at that very bike. Nice but too pricey. The Harley showroom next door is brilliant too. Great video as always.
There are many kinds of touring... but IMO for slab touring they're on top of the list. Even for some country lane casual riding they're pretty competitive.
Morning. Nice review but think a bike like this needs a long term review with a tour to understand its worth and any shortcomings. However, what an incredible piece of engineering.
I knew someone with one who paired it up with a side-car. You have to keep an eye on the speedo. Friend got booked doing 90kmh in a 60 zone with a passenger in the side-car. Bike is so smooth and quiet, does everything effortlessly.
You are right TMF about planning carefully where you stop or turn when on a very heavy bike, even the chamber of the road or incline condition of road surface. One of my bikes is Triumph Rocket 360kg dry
I bought one in May and have about 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Mine has both forward and reverse creepers that go about 1 mph. Very useful in low speed maneuvers. It is my first big bike, so I cannot make a complete comparison, though I have ridden older Goldwings and big Harleys. Mine is the DCT (automatic) model. Not for everyone, but a lot of people who said “I will always shift” like it. I love mine - smooth, powerful, comfortable. (Filtering is illegal where I Iive.)
A beautiful piece of machinery, but at the end of the day the RT has it all for a lot less money and easier to maneuver and still quite sporty. With my GS and RT in garage, I think I've got it covered! Did I see a review of the new RT1250 coming up soon?
I want one simply because I can't afford One. Presumably most would own a second bike for shorter rides with this so it really is a considered purchase. Thanks for the video as ever!
I've heard we're getting the version without the rear trunk fitted (bagger?) in the UK this spring. £22,300 approximately. To my mind it looks much cooler and the price is better,although still a lot of money. Best engine I've ever experienced,having owned a GL1800 F6C (valkyrie) a couple of years ago.
Thanks for that a very informed review but is it just me but when you see a goldwing on the road with just a rider on it e.g. no pillion it looks like something missing just looks wrong
Great review, would like to here your thoughts on the Standard Gold Wing the one without the top box. Popular bike in Australia as you said a great bike for the big open country
Thank you TMF. " Starship Enterprise", that sums up more than just the dash. I have never ridden one, would love to particularly on a journey its designed for. You know you are on a big bike when you glance at the rear after getting off and see two rear light clusters! Cheers
Fantastic bike and review, it scares me to see you always riding on the wrong side of the road, but, since everyone else seems to be on the wrong side too, I guess it's not that scary. Good job.
Only complaints I've heard about the 2018 and newer GWs is the storage compartments are too small, and the lense over the gauges scratches too easily. The lense is an easy fix, you can just apply a clear stick-on screen cover (much like the screen protector on your iPhone). I don't know if there are any aftermarket replacements for the storage compartments...
Tremendous bike and review! I wonder if all this package really gives you the ultimate riding experience. For the time being I will keep riding my good old Tiger Explorer!
I fully agree with your review of the Wing TMF. Had the chance to ride one, DCT model, and they are an awesome machine. Unfortunately, in Australia, the top spec model is around the $46 grand mark. My wife said NO!! Thanks for the video mate.
Nice Review. Looks better than last model. I’ve seen people drop these because the weight has caught them out. Added weight with luggage plus pillion. Even if I grew a grey beard and money was no object I wouldn’t get one 😬
What a price!! But what a bike. That engine sounds absolutely phenomonal. My brother had an older version, compared to this one it looked archaic, but in the day was again the bees knees. Oh if only I was rich!!
Btw, you missed the little pop up wind diffuser on top of the dash. I think it helps with that suction effect you were describing. Also, fun fact: there’s no starter. The alternator is the starter and also the reverse motor. And in the DCT version I believe it will creep forward as well as backward! This is also what enables the automatic stop/start feature.
This is the exact year and set-up my friend has, but Jim has no budget you might say, and I believe the bike with six helmets(six grandchildren) cost right around $33k. He rides his bikes for ten years and his last bike was also a Goldwing ! I Did have the Harley Ultra Classic for a couple of years…and with all the chrome on the Harley it became an expensive bike, but had the unique Harley sounds👍
Great review as always. Pop into Oxford Harley and see Kevin the Dealer Principle. They are a friendly bunch. It’s where I bought mine from last year. I know Harleys are the marmite of the bike world but you must ride one. I used to hate them until I got into them 10 years ago. Also love my GS though 👍🏻
Great review TMF, what a bike!! I believe there’s a little spoiler ‘thingy’ above the dashboard and behind the windscreen that you can lift up to get rid of that suction effect your were talking about on the motorway. Try it out when Honda lends it to you as a long termer 😁
First off, love the vids, but American chiming in... I love seeing the European comments to a tourer meant for straight Interstates in North America. Over here, the GW costs the same as a BMW RT and GTL when they are on sale at end of year and before add ons. This ride is really for a passenger and rider comfort for an older generation for long miles. That being said, there are some rather heavy European bikes, hello Triumph Explorer, Rocket, etc! The suction effect is cancelled from the button below the windscreen that elevates a windbreak. The windscreen goes that high for passenger comfort BTW. The weight has good COG and it costs and weighs less than the Harley’s of similar design. Price out a BMW 1250 GSA, with better skid plate, Nav, panniers, etc. and it costs more than the GW in America. My last comment it only to have you remember the most important thing of all...Euro 4 and soon 5 is all your fault...spoonful of sugar mates. 😂
It might be the case that Honda builds this bike outside the EU and faces an import tax whereas BMW's are built in the EU and don't when it comes to UK prices. We'll see at 7pm tonight if that's about to change or not!
In Canada a Gold Wing Tour is $31,199 , and the BMW K 1600 GTL is $32,550 ... so they would appear to be very competitive. (I don't know about equipment/options levels on these, but they seem similar). Interestingly, $32,000 Canadian is about 21,000 Euros...
I have owned 5 of them the 1800 is my favorite. As you see we triked it about 3 years ago as you see from our picture. My wife was driving a 1500 Wing with sidecar, and mine was an 1800 Wing which was the one we triked after 19,000 miles.
Check out the Driver Mag review of the bike. The top box struggled to take one full face helmet, never mind two.. should have added keep up the great work!
Personally, if I'm going to spend that sort of money I'd only choose the DCT version - over time you'd really appreciate the smoothness and hassle free riding of not using a clutch, especially around the city. Even touring bikes get plenty of time in congested areas.
I bought an 1800 in 2004 after a big bust up with BWM. My son was 8 and it was the right bike at the right time. It was safe and comfortable for him on a trip to Spain. When he reached 16 though I bought a Rocket 111 and he went off the GW, he preferred 'Harley Baiting' on the Rocket and called them 'Hardly Movingson'. I still have the GW though (I have 5 bikes). Having a KTM1290SAS on order though, I really need to sell a couple so the GW may be out this year along with the Tiger Explorer. I normally find those that mock the GW have never ridden one; they are for sure at one end of the 'scale of compromise' with your Panagale probably being at the other end but they can scratch to a limit and whenever I have have been out with guys on sports bikes, they are always amazed at how well it goes round corners. I'm sure the new one is even better. Mine has been all over Europe from Portugal to Sweden to Greece (inc Boznia, Albania & Serbia). I will be 60 this year so the weight is becoming a bit of a concern and as I only ever tour solo, I find an adventure bike a better tool for me now (especially on dodgy road surfaces). I agree £30k is a lot of money, I paid £14 in 2004 brand new and it's probably worth about £8-9k now so I don't think it's cost me too much over 15 years.
Good question - I think probably not, I would have been too worried about dropping it on the ferries. That said we did see a number of them on the trip....including on the ferry!
Yet another great review, TMF. Can you review the new Honda Cub? I was in my local Honda dealership (Johns of Romford) getting my scooter MOT’d a couple of weeks ago and saw the new Cub in their showroom. It brought back a lot memories as a C90 Cub was my first bike when I was 13yo - I badgered my mum until she gave in and I rode the wheels off that thing on the fields behind my house for the entire summer hols! It would be great to hear your thoughts on the new one. Andy 👍
Blimy what a machine!! The thought of stopping on uneven ground is terrifying!! When you put your left foot down and the ground is lower than expected....big bike like that you'd never keep it upright! Great interesting review though!!!
I have owned and ridden the ‘big body Wing’ ie 2009 model for 9 years and she is great! Test rode the new Goldwing as TMF is doing above and while engine, handling and tech are brilliant it felt so much like a big Pan European. The lack of luggage capacity on a £30K bike makes the BMW K1600 GTLE a more attractive proposition at £25K. Rather than trade mine in, I bought a KTM1290 SA, based on the TMF’s fantastic reviews, so now have the best of both worlds.
How wide is it at the widest point? The GSA LC bars are pretty wide and I filter just fine but much wider and it would be a lot more limited. I do the same thing with regard to parking on my GSA LC as it feels very precarious on even a remote camber. I always park in 1st gear to so it doesn't roll off the stand, which it has done once before, luckily I saw it going and saved it. It really does turn my stomach when I see people park up and not turn the bars fully left, it really helps to stabilise the bike, looks worse when you did it because of the lens distortion. Always loved the the Goldwing and wanted to try one, I still really like the old one. I'm sure I've seen reviews where they couldn't get 2 helmets in the 'boot'.
Great vid thanks. I noticed the old man and his dog seemed impressed as well when you were doing the walk around. Got me thinking, you must have some amusing outtakes up your sleeve when people have interrupted you?
Great review of a beautiful machine. A bit different from the 1978 Gold Wing I used to ride, completely naked bike no touring gear or screen at all. You definitely had to think how you parked that (no reverse gear to help you out), brakes that didn’t work in the wet and tyres that were horrendous. But they were good times.....🤣
Good job on the Goldwing review; awesome bike; however, after much review and comparison, I chose an Indian RoadMaster - another awesome and beautiful bike (burgundy red metallic)! Am interested in your reviewing / comments on the RoadMaster; if they have an Indian dealer I your area, you’d have no problem setting up a test-ride. One very useful item the Goldwing has over most other bikes in its weight range is the reverse mode; very useful! Cheers!
Missenden Great review once again, regarding the Suction Effect I believe the Goldwing has a thing in front (just above the dash) that if you press it deploys a "wind diverter" that makes some of the front wind go to your chest taking the suction from behind away... sorry for the completely non technical terms hehehe
Since my father (who got me into riding) can‘t ride anymore himself because of some brain shittery we took the previous model on a tour through Switzerland (hairpins and all!), he pillion, I‘m under 30y, around 600kg with both of us and luggage.. was quite a challenge, but trip of a lifetime!! :D
Greetings from Frankfurt!
Respekt und gute Besserung an den Papa !
Well done and its nice to read you had some quality time with your Dad.
Fantastic.
Best story ever!!😀👍👏
Good man 👍
I've got a gl1500 and I'm sixty years old . I spent 40 years on sports bikes and I'm sick of riders flying past me on the straights only to see them going round corners like a geriatric in a car. But at least they look fantastic in their tight fitting branded outfit's on bikes they will never reach the limit's of. Remember we are all bikers from scooter rider's to old farts like me on a goldwing.
Agreed...
I bought a st1300 im 40 years old but look 30 my mates took the piss until they rode with me its not a slow bike and 140 with the screen up is nothing but joy none of that head down with everything shaking crap. Scared the crap out of my mate when i yanked the throttle and the front lifted while he was near me. I want the F6B the st1300 is very warm on hot days you get cooked nuts
I saw a brand spanking new one of these parked here in Townsville, Queensland the other day. Passers by were gawping and taking pictures. Me included. You could have parked a Lambo next to it and nobody would have noticed. The Goldwing is just one of those bikes that everyone wants. BMW or Harley will never make an equal in my book.
I took one of those out a few yrs ago from a dealer in Ruislip....bloody hell what a machine, even back then. Silky smooth power and plenty of go with all the bells and whistles - hustling along can be achieved with planning and I completely get why riders like them, especially in the US where the roads are wider and you have a whole continent to explore.
A bit more of a challenge on our country roads, and as you say, you need deep pockets but nevertheless a very accomplished machine.
My thoughts exactly Steve!
Well said.
Glad to see someone understands this bike. It's not for me, but if I was going cross country in North America, I can't think of a better place to be. If you can afford a Gold Wing, you can also afford a smaller bike for in town if you want.
The Honda Goldwing is the "Gold Standard" to which all other touring motorcycles are measured against! You need to do a week tour on this Gold Wing to fully appreciate it's design & engineering!
No compromises, Honda know their target market and have built the ultimate tourer you can’t help but admire this machine although I suspect it’s probably a bit Marmite to most. Not my kind of bike but a good review as always, I think the guy walking the mutt wanted to chat but realised you were quite happy talking to yourself lol 👍
I rode the dct version today.It was absolutely amazing,but I reckon the R1250RT would be more engaging given it’s 100+kg lighter.Great review,as always TMF.Thank you!
Few years back had the old gl1800, amazing machine especially if you do lots of 2up. You can filter, i found cars would move out of the way when you came barging through, it was good at low speed, and it could hustle too. Sold it after a tour to France, when it did seem that i was taking a limo to tesco on daily use. Great review, keep em coming Tmf.
I shall never complain again about the weight of our GSAs! As you say an incredible bike but also an acquired taste.
Excellent review as always TMF!
One thing I really like about your reviews is the consistency. It makes them really easy to watch and enjoy. Thanks so much for your efforts. I always learn something
Glad to hear that Andrew - thank you...
@@TheMissendenFlyer Just passed my Mod 2 today as well so you've helped another biker onto the road... now what to ride,..... :)
Hello! I'm a motovlogger from the Philippines & I'm a big fan of the channel. Awesome reviews of top-notch motorcycles @TheMissendenFlyer. Cheers!
Thanks for watching and for the kind words!
Over the years I've had 4 Wings - 2 1100's, a 1200 and a first gen 1800 and they got better as the years went by.
Have been on plenty of 2 up tours on the 1800, including a few days scratching with friends in the Cognac area of France and once you allow for their size, these things can bloody well hustle, they really can.
Anyone that thinks otherwise needs to look with bigger eyes and have bigger balls as well.
Motorcycling is what you make it and anything can be fun, absolutely anything.
It's a beauty .... I can't wait to see the Goldwing they produce when the fiftieth anniversary comes around.
Hi there. What a nice wee change for you then eh! It was nice of the guys to lend you the bike but who wouldn’t. You and Russ (RCN) are the two best reviewers on RUclips in the UK for sure so I’m guessing it’s in their benefit to lend RUclips’s reviewers like yourselves to give them a little bit of an advert. So thank you so much for showing us around and at nearly 47 years old I’m slowly giving in to really wanting one of these massive tourers. Comfort is my first priority and I’m sure you mentioned how comfy it was once or twice so I’ll take that as it’s super comfy lol. I really need to get saving as even a second hand one is expensive. I’ll stick with my ZZR 600 D3 with bar risers just now but I hope soon to at least take a test ride on one. Take it easy and ride safe.
Thanks Stu!
Please do a review of the new Honda Cub. ❤️🙏
The new "cub" its very much like this Goldwing as it has a lot of new gizzmo's included but at over £3000 its a bit daft of Honda ( or greedy ) oh and comes with a single seat ....
A truly magnificent machine. Definitely the best motorcycle I have ever owned!
A loverly bike. Did I notice a slight reach for the brake at the site of the constabulary on the hard shoulder.
I thought the Wing had an electric centre stand on the older model. Good review. Thanks
I've owned and ridden them all. The 2018 Goldwing is the finest motorcycle I have ever owned hands down. The shortcomings are minuscule compared to the assets.
I bought my dad a 1985 wing as a christmas present a couple of years ago. They're surprisingly cramped inside for such a giant machine. Even the old 1200s are super amazingly smooth.
*edit It did take me a few hundred miles to train my hands to just slowly let out the clutch and it would pull itself along. It didn't need any revs to get going. Trying to apply some made you sound like you were about to do a launch from the start of a drag strip.
Oh, I would sure love owning one of those! Especially if the reverse gear is included. Thank you for the review! Funny how the white van was upgraded to a white cargo truck for this review. Very ad hoc.
There comes a time where every biker flirts with the idea of owning a wing, im one of them ! I'd love one
You are getting closer and close to a Harley test ride. 😎
I hope so!
I'm from the US. I've owned both bikes. The Gold Wing is FAR superior in every way over the Harley. It's not even close.
quite different beast versus many HD except maybe RoadKing. GW is clearly for more comfy cruising and much closer to BMW1600. Better to compare to STRATOLINER (I ride one), but the latter’s torque will leave GW in the dust. Anyway, lovely machine GW!
@@georgem4309 Oh man, I think that is a can or worms statement. If you are talking M8 Harley's I could not disagree more. In fact, I would put the new Road Glide Special up against any sport tourer on the market or any tourer. I own Harley's, KTM's, Yamaha's and have had everything to a point so I am no Harley fan boy. The new Harleys are excellent machines.
Yep, he just has to organise someone to follow him with a bike trailer or breakdown van. Preferably before Hooligan Gayvanson close down.
It's a great looking bike, but there is too much going on for me with all the gizmos and the price is just crazy. We have enough distractions going on on our daily ride trying to stay safe. Great vlog by the way.
Great review and great styling and that straight 6! But I guess the question is why does it weigh ~100lb more than a BMW 1600GTL. Would’ve thought the other way round. Great review sir!
I've paused this just before the walkround to ask whats the odds of you doing the 'how easy to push around the parking bay part' !
Great review. After 30 years of road riding I’ve just bought myself a new Gold Wing Bagger 6 speed and I am so chuffed. There are lovely bikes out there and you mentioned some in your vlog, but for me it was only ever going to be a GW.
Talking about filtering. Harping back to my days with Delta Despatch I do remember one of our riders did have a Wing and to see him going down Western Avenue in the rush hour was a sight to behold. He never seemed to have any problems....
Major expense for any slight touch down on our potholed UK road, but lovely, lovely bike thought!
Would come into it's own on the American Interstates and would love to ride one on the I-75 from Michigan to Florida!!! (Did this on a fly drive holiday)
OCD cleaning nightmare.
Thanks for taking us along!
Agreed all round!
I would like to see you compare this to the previous model. It had a much bigger screen, bigger seat, much more baggage, and heaters coming off of the wider fairing.
Now you're getting the idea!
Nice review!
My Pre 18 GL1800 Wing can cruise at 30mph in top gear and still pull clean away. My 1200RT struggles, just like your gs in 3rd at 30. The flat 6 has loads of useable torque.
Think you'll find too that this Wing can filter, as I do, unlike GSA's with panners which are about 4 inches wider and get stuck, even on motorways.
Have to buy TMF t shirt now thag you've reviewed the 'wing.
Nice one!
Good one - be careful - you'll get a lot of female attention!
+SPETIKANGEL Must admit, when TMF was talking about 30mph in third, my first thought was 'I'd bet my bottom dollar it would pull 30 in top (gear)'. My normal first choice in colour on a bike is black, but that red just looks gorgeous. At £26K for the manual, I think that can hold it's head up against the likes of the BMW's.
“It’s not the same as a Street Triple” - must be one of your best understatements... :))
Although this bike is not my cuppa, I enjoyed the review a lot, and it's always good to see what's out there. The review was also the perfect length. Thanks.
Cheers Richard....
The Star Ship Enterprise didn't have an air bag. What an absolutely wonderful touring bike. But what would I do on a dark winters night if I was to drop it in a quite country lane?
Panic?
Call a tow truck
Jacky Jacky I’m not so sure about the airbag(s)...
“Mr. Sulu, shields up!”
“Aye aye, shields up, Captain.”
'TILT' comes up on the TFT & it phones the nearest pub that does decent food, who in turn call a local garage : )
Phone your butler to come in the Rolls to take you home.
Oh was waiting for you to put her on the center stand.
I own the dct goldwing and it's really easy to get on center stand.
Where would we be without a man and a dog wandering along at random. Excellent. Great review
Cheers Julian!
Well you've done it again. Every time that I look at changing my bike, you seem to review the ones that I'm considering. Just sold my GSA and Goldwing Bagger ordered, which I hope to collect next week. Going to miss the GSA after a long history of GSs before that - but excited about the new bike. Thanks for another great review...
Congratulations!
You missed the chance to do a comparison with the Cub parked beside the Wing at the dealers!
Best boxer engine in the world! Growing up in an (Asian) motorcycle family, we all had a weak for Honda engineering. I remember my dad working on his old CB’s (but also on Kreidler and Zundapp mopeds) in my early days. These days people say Honda’s are boring, no emotion etc, but one cannot deny the impact they had on modern motorcycles. I always remember those days and I still follow Honda news these days. Anyway, I also remember his reaction, showing up on my first BMW flattwin and the look my dad had, when I put the first gear in.... he was horrified. I guess all BMW riders know what I mean. Still, he cannot appreciate THAT sound even on modern LC flattwins. Hopefully my 1250 takes that away...keep up the great work TMF!
Good review. The first time I rode a wing I was amazed by the handling and the way the weight just disappeared from very low speed. They are great bikes, but very expensive, however I think you will find the bike comes fully loaded, so things like an intercom system is built in and you just need to purchase the headsets. Now the K1600GT exists I really don’t know if I would have a wing over it, the K1600 has a lot more performance for less money (160bhp, if memory serves). Mind you I am not currently in the market for such a bike and have not ridden the new wing and the last K I rode was the K1300GT. Maybe I’ll have to try both at some point to find out.
I fancy a go on one of those too. Just a go mind... Honda cub next please.
Did not realise you were a treky TMF......
Graphicry wow it does have everything.
Lovely bike and I commend you for going out on the beast.
So weird watching you ride where I live. Bought my bike from Blade. Love those guys!
My DCT Tour was due to be delivered last Saturday. Then the shop shut up because of this bloody virus. Wont now deliver before 14/15/16th April, bugger.
Good review mate. Watched so many American reviews makes a nice change to be able to understand what's being said.
Congratulations Bob - it'll be worth the wait!
Beautiful bike! I never realized the price difference over a BMW 1600GT!
I was at Blade Motorcycles Abingdon today and had a look at that very bike. Nice but too pricey. The Harley showroom next door is brilliant too. Great video as always.
Got to love the goldwing. Excellent job andy as always
Thank you….
Hi The Goldwing is been around for years ! Its a good bottle of wine, its gets better with age.
There are many kinds of touring... but IMO for slab touring they're on top of the list. Even for some country lane casual riding they're pretty competitive.
Another great video and congratulations on reaching over 100,000 subscribers.
I'm sure Richy Vida will be there soon 👍
Cheers Robbo....
The first thing I would of done is try the reverse gear!!!!!!
Interesting review but a select market for this beast I think!
Morning.
Nice review but think a bike like this needs a long term review with a tour to understand its worth and any shortcomings. However, what an incredible piece of engineering.
Yes I agree! Honda? You listening ;0)
I knew someone with one who paired it up with a side-car. You have to keep an eye on the speedo. Friend got booked doing 90kmh in a 60 zone with a passenger in the side-car. Bike is so smooth and quiet, does everything effortlessly.
You are right TMF about planning carefully where you stop or turn when on a very heavy bike, even the chamber of the road or incline condition of road surface. One of my bikes is Triumph Rocket 360kg dry
I bought one in May and have about 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Mine has both forward and reverse creepers that go about 1 mph. Very useful in low speed maneuvers. It is my first big bike, so I cannot make a complete comparison, though I have ridden older Goldwings and big Harleys. Mine is the DCT (automatic) model. Not for everyone, but a lot of people who said “I will always shift” like it.
I love mine - smooth, powerful, comfortable. (Filtering is illegal where I Iive.)
Certainly an amazing machine - no doubt about that!
Finally a good review of the Goldwing and glad you rode the manual. Would love to own one, but that weight.....
Yes an amazing bike for sure - practical in the UK, maybe not....
A beautiful piece of machinery, but at the end of the day the RT has it all for a lot less money and easier to maneuver and still quite sporty. With my GS and RT in garage, I think I've got it covered! Did I see a review of the new RT1250 coming up soon?
Yep!
I want one simply because I can't afford One. Presumably most would own a second bike for shorter rides with this so it really is a considered purchase.
Thanks for the video as ever!
I've heard we're getting the version without the rear trunk fitted (bagger?) in the UK this spring. £22,300 approximately. To my mind it looks much cooler and the price is better,although still a lot of money. Best engine I've ever experienced,having owned a GL1800 F6C (valkyrie) a couple of years ago.
Thanks for that a very informed review but is it just me but when you see a goldwing on the road with just a rider on it e.g. no pillion it looks like something missing just looks wrong
I know what you mean Paul!
Ye. I agree that it’s really built for two rather than solo.
Honda did a fantastic job on the update! It’s not an old guys bike anymore. With the DCT it’s an absolute spaceship! I really want one.
Yes me too - but £30k!!!!
TheMissendenFlyer They aren’t selling well. Dealers near me have leftover 2018 models for $8000 off.
Great review, would like to here your thoughts on the Standard Gold Wing the one without the top box. Popular bike in Australia as you said a great bike for the big open country
Changing the rear tyre looks like a challenge, as the wheel is so hidden.
Thank you TMF. " Starship Enterprise", that sums up more than just the dash.
I have never ridden one, would love to particularly on a journey its designed for. You know you are on a big bike when you glance at the rear after getting off and see two rear light clusters! Cheers
Exactly!
Fantastic bike and review, it scares me to see you always riding on the wrong side of the road, but, since everyone else seems to be on the wrong side too, I guess it's not that scary. Good job.
Only complaints I've heard about the 2018 and newer GWs is the storage compartments are too small, and the lense over the gauges scratches too easily. The lense is an easy fix, you can just apply a clear stick-on screen cover (much like the screen protector on your iPhone). I don't know if there are any aftermarket replacements for the storage compartments...
Tremendous bike and review! I wonder if all this package really gives you the ultimate riding experience. For the time being I will keep riding my good old Tiger Explorer!
I fully agree with your review of the Wing TMF. Had the chance to ride one, DCT model, and they are an awesome machine. Unfortunately, in Australia, the top spec model is around the $46 grand mark. My wife said NO!! Thanks for the video mate.
Hmm, the fun police eh?
Nice Review. Looks better than last model. I’ve seen people drop these because the weight has caught them out. Added weight with luggage plus pillion. Even if I grew a grey beard and money was no object I wouldn’t get one 😬
Fair enough...
I’m buying a vfr800f and my next bike for retirement will be a gold wing. Will be great for some of the amazing roads here in Australia
Drool, drool, drool. Did I mention drool.
Just the thing for a trip to the local shops here in Australia.
Thanks for sharing.
yes double video in one day thank you very much sir
Not in the U.K. it wasn’t!
@@TheMissendenFlyer hahaha one of the many benefits of living in australia
What a price!! But what a bike. That engine sounds absolutely phenomonal. My brother had an older version, compared to this one it looked archaic, but in the day was again the bees knees. Oh if only I was rich!!
Btw, you missed the little pop up wind diffuser on top of the dash. I think it helps with that suction effect you were describing. Also, fun fact: there’s no starter. The alternator is the starter and also the reverse motor. And in the DCT version I believe it will creep forward as well as backward! This is also what enables the automatic stop/start feature.
Brilliant! Thanks for that...
This is the exact year and set-up my friend has, but Jim has no budget you might say, and I believe the bike with six helmets(six grandchildren) cost right around $33k. He rides his bikes for ten years and his last bike was also a Goldwing ! I Did have the Harley Ultra Classic for a couple of years…and with all the chrome on the Harley it became an expensive bike, but had the unique Harley sounds👍
I see they are around 20,000 US for the 2018 model - so about 17,500 EU
There is an airflow scuttle which pops out the top of the display, which negates the "suction" effect..
Nice! What a bike!!!
Great review as always. Pop into Oxford Harley and see Kevin the Dealer Principle. They are a friendly bunch. It’s where I bought mine from last year. I know Harleys are the marmite of the bike world but you must ride one. I used to hate them until I got into them 10 years ago. Also love my GS though 👍🏻
Great review TMF, what a bike!! I believe there’s a little spoiler ‘thingy’ above the dashboard and behind the windscreen that you can lift up to get rid of that suction effect your were talking about on the motorway. Try it out when Honda lends it to you as a long termer 😁
Yes a few have mentioned that - wish I’d known about it, would have been good to try...
First off, love the vids, but American chiming in... I love seeing the European comments to a tourer meant for straight Interstates in North America. Over here, the GW costs the same as a BMW RT and GTL when they are on sale at end of year and before add ons. This ride is really for a passenger and rider comfort for an older generation for long miles. That being said, there are some rather heavy European bikes, hello Triumph Explorer, Rocket, etc! The suction effect is cancelled from the button below the windscreen that elevates a windbreak. The windscreen goes that high for passenger comfort BTW. The weight has good COG and it costs and weighs less than the Harley’s of similar design. Price out a BMW 1250 GSA, with better skid plate, Nav, panniers, etc. and it costs more than the GW in America. My last comment it only to have you remember the most important thing of all...Euro 4 and soon 5 is all your fault...spoonful of sugar mates. 😂
It might be the case that Honda builds this bike outside the EU and faces an import tax whereas BMW's are built in the EU and don't when it comes to UK prices. We'll see at 7pm tonight if that's about to change or not!
Captain Win oh yeah, the vote...
Captain Win Hard Brexit or soft.....when y'all cut loose of Europe you do a trade deal with USA and Canada and we will all live happily ever after!
Wake up and smell the roses. Most of the things are made in Asia these days, so your partnership will have no effect.
The Goldwing is made in Marysville, Ohio. Fyi
In Canada a Gold Wing Tour is $31,199 , and the BMW K 1600 GTL is $32,550 ... so they would appear to be very competitive. (I don't know about equipment/options levels on these, but they seem similar). Interestingly, $32,000 Canadian is about 21,000 Euros...
Crikey - maybe I should come to Canada and buy one then!
I have owned 5 of them the 1800 is my favorite. As you see we triked it about 3 years ago as you see from our picture. My wife was driving a 1500 Wing with sidecar, and mine was an 1800 Wing which was the one we triked after 19,000 miles.
Blimey. Perfect for over here. I want to dislike it but i cant. Good to see you on another Honda.
Check out the Driver Mag review of the bike. The top box struggled to take one full face helmet, never mind two.. should have added keep up the great work!
Personally, if I'm going to spend that sort of money I'd only choose the DCT version - over time you'd really appreciate the smoothness and hassle free riding of not using a clutch, especially around the city. Even touring bikes get plenty of time in congested areas.
Very true!
Hi there Why didn’t you put it on the centre stand
It goes onto the stand with little effort
What a beast! Great review as always.
I bought an 1800 in 2004 after a big bust up with BWM. My son was 8 and it was the right bike at the right time. It was safe and comfortable for him on a trip to Spain. When he reached 16 though I bought a Rocket 111 and he went off the GW, he preferred 'Harley Baiting' on the Rocket and called them 'Hardly Movingson'. I still have the GW though (I have 5 bikes). Having a KTM1290SAS on order though, I really need to sell a couple so the GW may be out this year along with the Tiger Explorer. I normally find those that mock the GW have never ridden one; they are for sure at one end of the 'scale of compromise' with your Panagale probably being at the other end but they can scratch to a limit and whenever I have have been out with guys on sports bikes, they are always amazed at how well it goes round corners. I'm sure the new one is even better. Mine has been all over Europe from Portugal to Sweden to Greece (inc Boznia, Albania & Serbia). I will be 60 this year so the weight is becoming a bit of a concern and as I only ever tour solo, I find an adventure bike a better tool for me now (especially on dodgy road surfaces). I agree £30k is a lot of money, I paid £14 in 2004 brand new and it's probably worth about £8-9k now so I don't think it's cost me too much over 15 years.
Excellent feedback - thanks Steve....(better residuals than my GS bought in 2014 for £18, now worth about 8!)
Another great video. Would you have taken a GW to the Arctic Circle if it was an option?
Good question - I think probably not, I would have been too worried about dropping it on the ferries. That said we did see a number of them on the trip....including on the ferry!
Yet another great review, TMF.
Can you review the new Honda Cub? I was in my local Honda dealership (Johns of Romford) getting my scooter MOT’d a couple of weeks ago and saw the new Cub in their showroom. It brought back a lot memories as a C90 Cub was my first bike when I was 13yo - I badgered my mum until she gave in and I rode the wheels off that thing on the fields behind my house for the entire summer hols! It would be great to hear your thoughts on the new one.
Andy 👍
I'll see what I can do - stay tuned!
I always am 👍
Blimy what a machine!! The thought of stopping on uneven ground is terrifying!! When you put your left foot down and the ground is lower than expected....big bike like that you'd never keep it upright! Great interesting review though!!!
Exactly - scary biscuits!!
Geoff Capes rides one on knobblies . . .
...I met Geoff Capes many years ago, I remember he drove a gold coloured Pontiac Firebird, quite impressed me as a young lad...
@@TheMissendenFlyer he wouldn't meet to parallel park it either, just pick it up and drop it in the gap!!
I got new one yesterday model 2020 and really wonderful awesome steering
You managed to put any miles on your Wing yet?
I have owned and ridden the ‘big body Wing’ ie 2009 model for 9 years and she is great! Test rode the new Goldwing as TMF is doing above and while engine, handling and tech are brilliant it felt so much like a big Pan European. The lack of luggage capacity on a £30K bike makes the BMW K1600 GTLE a more attractive proposition at £25K. Rather than trade mine in, I bought a KTM1290 SA, based on the TMF’s fantastic reviews, so now have the best of both worlds.
Good man!
I would buy the F6B version which deletes the combo rear pillion backrest and top case.
How wide is it at the widest point? The GSA LC bars are pretty wide and I filter just fine but much wider and it would be a lot more limited. I do the same thing with regard to parking on my GSA LC as it feels very precarious on even a remote camber. I always park in 1st gear to so it doesn't roll off the stand, which it has done once before, luckily I saw it going and saved it. It really does turn my stomach when I see people park up and not turn the bars fully left, it really helps to stabilise the bike, looks worse when you did it because of the lens distortion. Always loved the the Goldwing and wanted to try one, I still really like the old one. I'm sure I've seen reviews where they couldn't get 2 helmets in the 'boot'.
Bought my first bike from blade abingdon after 40 years. Nice people and free delivery. Give them a visit
Great vid thanks. I noticed the old man and his dog seemed impressed as well when you were doing the walk around. Got me thinking, you must have some amusing outtakes up your sleeve when people have interrupted you?
...actually I never have been interrupted...
Great review of a beautiful machine.
A bit different from the 1978 Gold Wing I used to ride, completely naked bike no touring gear or screen at all.
You definitely had to think how you parked that (no reverse gear to help you out), brakes that didn’t work in the wet and tyres that were horrendous.
But they were good times.....🤣
Good job on the Goldwing review; awesome bike; however, after much review and comparison, I chose an Indian RoadMaster - another awesome and beautiful bike (burgundy red metallic)! Am interested in your reviewing / comments on the RoadMaster; if they have an Indian dealer I your area, you’d have no problem setting up a test-ride.
One very useful item the Goldwing has over most other bikes in its weight range is the reverse mode; very useful!
Cheers!
Yes I'd love a ride on an Indian, or a Harley......
Missenden Great review once again, regarding the Suction Effect I believe the Goldwing has a thing in front (just above the dash) that if you press it deploys a "wind diverter" that makes some of the front wind go to your chest taking the suction from behind away... sorry for the completely non technical terms hehehe
Great video again. I seen the Honda cub there will there be a review on that bike keep it up
That would be fun - must get that sorted!