I have older models of both brands. Both are beautiful! I have a Harley Davidson Electra Glide Stage 1 & 2 and an Honda GoldWing GL1800. I liken the Harley to the classic muscle car that turns heads and roars down the street. The Wing is like a Ferrari on two-wheels with luggage space. I love them both and will never let either one go.
I used to be a diehard Road Glide Ultra rider, I loved that bike. Then I test rode a 2018 Goldwing DCT. The Wing just rode so much better, I couldn't believe how bad the Harley rode by comparison. it was so undeniable that I had to trade my RGU in for it, best decision I ever made. Sorry Harley. 🙁
My Street glide special is leaving soon as well. I want a soft ride. I wont do the DCT. My harley is brutal on bumps. Also under powered in my opinion.
Same here! I test drove a Gw and just couldn’t deny how good it rides! Bought a dct tour and have no regrets! Still think Harleys are cool bikes but, you can’t match a Gw….safe rides!
I’ve had two or three gold wings, mostly always Harley baggers with the exception of a couple dynas . Just purchased the 21 Goldwing tour. I only have about 100 miles on it. Cannot imagine getting back on a Harley Davidson.
Both are great bikes...But unfortunately in order to have more power on the Harley's you must spend money having them upgraded with the stages. Not so for the Gold Wings. We ride 2015 Wings and they are very powerful...stocked. I (Rich) raced bikes (Not professionally) and I am very familiar with speed shifting. But the DCT is a game changer for big bikes. We will always be Gold Wing riders because of its reliability and comfort.
Well said, that is the major flaw with HD, you end up spending money that for the price, should've come on the bike in the first place. Engine upgrades, suspension upgrades etc. I have a friend that bought a CVO Road Glide and spent money to upgrade the suspension because it rode like crap. For the price of a CVO, its inexcusable IMO. HD needs to do better. I love my "chrome couches" and own two a 2012 Electra Glide, and an 07 Yamaha Royal Star tour deluxe, both are paid for and getting up there in mileage. I'm starting to look at a third bike as a retirement bike since I'm 2 years from it. I'm keeping the other bikes but I'd like a new one for when I retire I want to do some cross country riding . I've never owned a Goldwing but have test rode one and loved it. I think its going to be a Goldwing for cross country touring. I don't want a DCT though. If I don't I will probably take the Yamaha Royal Star on the trip even though it is the highest mileage of the two. And yeah, like you, I don't care what you ride or care to be a part of the HD club. I'm out there to ride and don't care what I or others do it on.
I agree with most everything you said, I also have a Harley and my Goldwing, I love them both. Depending on the mood I am in is the one I ride. They both have their pros and cons in my humble opinion. I was forced into buying metric when you couldn't buy a new Harley 25 years ago, they were not available, so I bought a new Honda VTX 1800, that bike was bigger than any Harley and it was drop dead gorgeous, my Harley friends could not keep theirs eyes off it. In 2006 I bought my Harley Heritage, later I sold the VTX for my Goldwing. I am older now retired and happy.
So many bikes, so little room to store them. LOL. I miss my big cruiser every once in a while, not because it was a HD persay. The times I miss it the most is when it is windy, the Ultra was big and heavy, didn't move around much in the wind. They all have their pluses and minuses. In the eye of the beholder I suppose. Ride safe.
I recently wrecked my ‘15 Ultra Limited but before I did, I was plenty pleased with the power of it’s 103 with Stage 1. I replaced it with a 2017 RoadGlide Ultra with the 107 and was really impressed with the power increase. Those must of been some steep grades and heavy luggage when you were in Wyoming with your M8 Ultra. Wow Ride safe
Yeah, I think the main issue on that trip was the lack of air getting to the engine. I bet if I had done a Stage One kit, it would have made a difference. I had a similar problem in 07 with my RK on a Sturgis trip, but then I was hauling a trailer behind the bike. It is hard to say. I would be interested in putting a Stage 1 bike next to a stock bike in the same circumstance and see what the differences are. May have been the bag on the tour pack acting like a sail. LOL
@@moose3971 When anyone rides a Wing especially the DCT technology, there’s an undeniable response of it smoothness, power and speed. You just can’t out shift a DCT. But the Wing’s ethos is not for everyone. Understood. But from pure performance. The Gold Wing is at the very top of the food chain for the money. No question.
Yeah, the two are not exactly comparable. They are different setups, different seating positions, different riding styles. They are just different, LOL. Ride safe
I ride a 2019 Harley Road Glide Special and lately been interested in a Gen 6 Gold Wing but had never rode one. Last week I test rode a 2018 GW DCT Tour, after about a 10 mile test ride I came to the conclusion I will still with my Harley. I did not like the riding position on the GW, felt I was perched on top of it rather than in it on my Harley, also didn't like how the GW felt when stopping, never felt in proper control. The DCT was fun but would need an extended ride before deciding if it was for me. But the storage and nav sucks compared to the Harley so thats a big pill to swallow
That’s interesting, I recall having a lot of the same thoughts when I rode my buddies GW when I had my Ultra. The second time did grow on me tho. You are correct about the seating position. I really only changed because I wanted more power and better performance in the curves. I wanted more lean. But you have to do what feels right. They are both great bikes!
Just saw your video, and from watch M7’s videos in the past heard your name several times. I am just like both of you, and have owned Harley touring bikes in the past and still do. Had a 2012 Ultra Classic Electra Glide CVO that I traded for a 2016 Road Glide Ultra CVO, that I still have. Then I purchased the 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT. From a motorcycle perspective, there are only really 3 huge differences that cannot really be compared. The first is the rider seating geometry. With the Harley touring line the rider has “forward” foot controls vs the Goldwing’s “center” controls. The second is the type of engine. Harley run a V-Twin mainly air cooled engine vs the Goldwing 6 cylinder water cooled boxer engine. And the third is the suspension setup. The Harley has the traditional twin tube front forks and dual rear shocks vs the Goldwing with the electronic adjustable suspension with front double wishbone front suspension and single sided swing arm with mono shock on the rear. And that’s where the comparisons cannot be made because of the difference in major component design. Now where the comparisons can start to be made. Engine displacement/HP/Torque. Harley engines: 107ci = 1753cc 110ci = 1802cc 114ci = 1868cc 117ci = 1917cc The Goldwing engine 1833cc = 111ci The Goldwing produces more HP and Torque STOCK, than what most stage 4 Harley engines can produce even after spending thousands of dollars more on the Harley engines. Suspension: Here is where the Goldwing really shines is is far superior to any Harley. There is not a Harley out there that can compare to the smoothness of the Goldwing ‘s suspension. Even if a person gets the best aftermarket suspension for a Harley, the smooth ride of the Goldwing can’t be beat. And there is an aftermarket suspension upgrade for the Goldwing that makes the already superior suspension even better. Fit and finish: This is an area that Harley Davidson has perfected. Harley’s quality of paint and and plastics are superior to that of the Goldwing. No denying that. Both Harley Touring bikes and the Goldwing are “sexy” in their own ways and a personal preference when appearance comes into play. Sound System: Harley Davidson beats out the Goldwing when it comes to the sound system in the clean, crisp, and loud department of speakers. However the Goldwing doesn’t really need as loud of a sound system because the engine and wind noise is soo much less. But the Goldwing’s speakers are less than desirable. Infotainment System: This is a difficult one because both Harley and the Goldwing’s infotainment systems are very comparable. They both have navigation, satellite radio, am/fm, Bluetooth, auxiliary, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and optional CB radio. I think Harley’s navigation program is better and more user friendly than the Goldwing, however this is where the comparisons end and the Goldwing begins to straight up out perform the Harley infotainment system. The Goldwing doesn’t need anything extra to connect Bluetooth headsets. Harley requires a WHIM and harness to connect with a Bluetooth headset. In addition to that, to get full stereo sound out of the headset, Harley requires you purchase the Harley branded Sena headsets to have full stereo, sound out both left and right headset speakers. Also requires those headsets in order to have full compatibility with the Harley infotainment system, voice commands, CB radio push to talk, etc. because the infotainment system doesn’t have the Bluetooth headset protocol, this is who the WHIM is required. On the Goldwing, the infotainment system has the Bluetooth headset protocol already programmed into the system and is compatible with any Bluetooth headset. Suspension adjustment: Harley touring bikes have manual suspension adjustments, whereas the Goldwing’s have electronic suspension adjustments on their tour models. The bagger models have a manual rear suspension system and electronic front suspension. Locks/Security Harley’s have manual locks, or a button that is pressed on the key fob to lock and unlock the bike. The Goldwing has all electronic locks. The key fob is the key. When you close the saddle bags or top case, they are already locked. There is a push button that you press to open the bags. But once the key fob is out of range, the bags will not open and bike cannot start. Also the steering lock is electronic. Full lock handlebars left or right, and turn ignition switch counter clockwise when bike is off to lock the handlebars with key fob in range. Turn switch clockwise to unlock handlebars with key fob present. Heated seats and grips come standard on the Goldwing tour models, but only heated grips on the bagger. Only the CVOs come standard with heated grips, seats, and electronic locks. The Goldwing comes standard with TPMS, where only available on the CVOs and some specials. However the Harley TPMS is a bit better as it displays the tire pressure once the bikes electrical system is on. The Goldwing has to travel at least 16 mph for 30 seconds before the TPMS displays tire pressure. Wind protection: There are multiple brands and styles if windscreens for both brands. However, Harleys only have a fixed screen whereas the Goldwing has an electronic adjustable windscreen to either block wind or allow the rider to get more wind as the rider pleases. Maintenance: Harley motorcycles require a lot more maintenance vs the Goldwing. However, to change the air filter on a Goldwing is going to take about 2 - 3 hours by someone who is skilled at removing and replacing the plastics. But all the Goldwing really needs for maintenance is regular oil changes. Handling: Harley’s are kinda heavy and clunky. A skilled rider can throw it around and maneuver quite well but doesn’t have the lean angle due to the low sitting floor boards. The Goldwing however has a much lower center of gravity and with its center controls, allowing for greater lean angles, the Goldwing is a breeze to maneuver and throw around. Transmission options: Harley only has a manual 6 speed transmission. Goldwing has the option for a manual 6 speed or 7 speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The DCT doesn’t have a clutch lever and shifts automatically or can shift manually via paddle shifters on the left handlebar. No more clutch hand cramps in traffic. Overall, the Goldwing Tour DCT is a far superior motorcycle over any Harley Davidson motorcycle, to include their CVO line on a motorcycle perspective. As for personal taste and preferences, that will be debated till the end of time. My preference is if I had sell either my Harley Road Glide Ultra CVO or my Goldwing Tour DCT, I would sell the Harley in a heartbeat.
@@rzellmer219 I don’t think you will be disappointed at all with the Goldwing’s performance and handling. The seat may be another story, but with most motorcycles, the seat and windscreen are usually the first items to be replaced.
I had a 2017 ultra limited. I had it at stage 2 full exhaust with auto tuner.it finally made decent power. It was a torque monster. Over 5k invested. I loved it. Wrecked it 2 months ago, it is a total loss. Looking for my next bike, I am a v twin guy, so I'm looking at indian and HD. My car is a honda, I'll keep it at that.
That’s a hard choice, both HD and Indian are great bikes. I’m more bias toward the HD. I like the finish. But the Indian has some cool features that I don’t think HD’s have yet. It’s a tough choice for sure. Sorry that you wrecked the One you had, good that you came out alive and able to still ride tho.
@@moose3971 I test rode the new roadmaster limited. I really like how light and nimble it felt compared to the ultra. As a short rider it sits lower and the footing feels better for me. Now just convincing the wife it's comfortable two up. She liked the ultra, but as you know it's a handful.
Great bike at one third the price. 500 lbs, 68mpg, dct smoother than wing's. I traded mine for a 2021 goldwing dct bagger just because, still miss the NC.
That was an excellent point. The two are very different. I have an ultra which I very much enjoy. Just like any other Harley owner I’ve put my personal touches on it and it’s a keeper. I took a GW DCT Out last week and loved the heck outta that too and plan on putting it right next to my HD. Best of both worlds! Great video!
Funny you talking about having owned a Triumph Trophy. I own a Honda st1300 that I’ve put 75,000 miles on in the last 4 years. So far the bike has been completely reliable. I’m researching the Triumph like crazy so you’re a great person to ask. Did you have any issues with that bike?
Well, I had a few issues with the ECU, it was a recall before I got the bike, however, even though it was fixed prior I had issues after a service. The dealer put in the wrong firmware, which caused the bike to power down and restart going down the road intermittently, (according to the other dealer I took it to). Even though this was corrected by the other dealer, I still experienced this issue on a long trip. I traded it in the next riding season. Not sure this is a problem, probably not an issue a person would experience. I think I was just lucky, lol. Other than that the bike ran good, had the inline 3 cylinder. Shifted good too.
Moose you started to mention your seat upgrade. I think I’m a similar size to you. What one did you go with? I have 2018 duct tour I’m 6’ 2” 215 lbs. Thanks.
Funny how the algorithm works. I own a '23 Road King Special, and am trading my '21 Street Bob for a '24 Gold Wing next week. In keeping with your (and other commenters') view, I'll be doing the "Best of Both Worlds" thing lol. I watched this video and immediately subscribed - great content - thank you! ✌🤘
It’s been a good bike. The paint is not nearly as good as the HD. The handling is superior, along with the power. Both great bikes, but so different from one another. I still enjoy riding mine. Good luck on your upcoming purchase. Hope you have a great riding experience on the new wing!
The difference is the same .... I love my own.... leave me alone .... each to his own .... apples to oranges ... beauty is in the eyes of the beholder ....the proverbial never ending story.... lol
Good review a GW has plenty of torque all the way threw the power band with out shifting even the 5 generation GW, I have three GW and a 2021 Revival but the truth is the truth, and both of these bikes are made for two totally different styles of riding, if you want to look cool and you need the attention from other telling how great your bike looks get a HD but if your going to ride heavy hard miles and you want less maintenance the GW may fit the bill, and all those charging problems HD has from compensators.
I find that just about any bike can get boring. Jumping on something different can be rejuvenating. But in the end, even more boring: too much power, too smooth, put me to sleep. And then back to the evo I go. Rigid mount, unbalanced. Tingle my feet right off the highway pegs.
lol I own both Harley and my 2018 Goldwing..I recently posted on FB Group ' I love my Harley" a photo of my 2010 Streetglide that also had the Wing Stting beside it.. The photo disappeared..Thinking I did something wrong post wise I re posted it and 5 min.s later was banned from the group. I can't believe a Harley Group could be so Shallow....
As long as you on 2 wheels it shouldn't matter what you ride. This tribalism crap is annoying and only pushes to new riders away from motorcycles. My friends got Harley Softtail, Indian Challenger Darkhorse, Harley 48, and I got a Honda Shadow vlx600. This is my first bike but I'm looking at that GW bagger DCT for 2nd bike. Yeah the lack of power is annoying on long trips, especially with front wind gust. Hows the wind protection on your legs with the Goldwing, does it have cruise control? My right hand goes numb on long rides.
You feel like flying, buy a plane. Not fair to try and compare a 6 cylinder to a V twin. Ya, unfair. I don't think cruising happens at 85 mph. 60 to 70 is more comfy. When the telephone poles look like a picket fence your just racing. Harley helps attitude with the feel and sound of riding. Honda has no feel or sound. Considering what the V twin does, it's really out performing the 6. Just imagine 3 twins powering a Harley. Then compare.
I never said anything about wanting to fly in regards to speeding. If memory serves, in this video I was speaking to a motorcycle that was unable to conform to a posted speed when loaded down for a 2 week trip. I also recall stating that neither was better, but different. The Honda has its own feel and sound. I still own a Harley Davidson, I like them both for what they can and cannot do. In my opinion you missed the point of this video. My basic belief is ride which ever you prefer. If you prefer Harley Davidson buy a HD, if you like another brand buy that.
@@ellobo1326 Imagine sitting on top of that on a 100 degree day, chess nuts roasted not roasting on a open fire, and just think if they made performance parts for a Gold Wing, google turbo charge GW.
Honda= reliable HD= unreliable, if you want to ride 15K+ miles per year. if your a 5K miles or less person? Then it doesn't matter. HD survives on loyalty and culture, HD lovers will actually find humor in all the little gremlins, SMH
@@moose3971 lol, my brother in law has a 2017, and took apart half the bike to change out the air cleaner 😂😂😂😂😂. My 2019 Ultra Limited is going through a lemon law case right now for Transmission oil migrating to the primary. Additionally the M8 has sumped itself 6 times, burned ungodly oil, looked like a crop duster on the freeway. Dealership had no diagnosis?????. Went through six lifters by 22K miles, making sane noise again at 43K. Sometimes uses oil sometimes doesn’t. Sometimes it vibrates at a certain RPM, sometimes doesn’t. Sometimes it has a “floppy” shift lever when downshifting, causing the clutch to be re-engaged to get it to work, sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes the tech connects , sometimes it doesn’t. And yes I have the bell on it😂😂😂😂 I’ll have a GW next!
Do not bother with a Goldwing. They are severely flawed. I bought a low mileage...16000 kms.... F6b 4 months ago. Worst bike in 50 years of biking. The turbulence.. the flexi bars.. the seat. Unrideable overweight scooter with half a car glued to the front. 200 miles to get repaired...head bearings shock springs new oil....air filter takes3 hours to fit....Thats it in 4 months. The turbulenceis like being hit with a rubber hammer 60 times aminute. Awful pos.
I don’t mind the gold wing and I have the 2019, I don’t know much about the older bike like the F6B you’re speaking about. I understand where you’re coming from because I do know there’s some of the things on this bike that are not as nice of a build quality as they should have been the Harley Davidson I will admit had better overall quality like the saddlebags. I do like the power and the lean of this bike so I’m able to look past some of its insufficient qualities. Really all depends on what you like to ride and what you don’t like to ride. Thanks for watching.
I bet you could sell the F6B in a second. Lots of guys are looking for them. Maybe to someone who doesn’t mind wrenching on his own machine when the rare occasion happens.
I have three GW and one is a F6b it is the only one with a Tail Wind trailer in toe never in 38000 miles have I felt what you speak of and it has been in triple digits many times with trailer in toe you must have had a problem F6b, and I know it was @ 90-105 mph for 45 miles trying to a group of riders that left on a ride a head of schedule, out of all of them none have been back to a dealer for anything as of yet, my 18 Air Bag model is the the best bike I have ever had so far.
I have older models of both brands. Both are beautiful! I have a Harley Davidson Electra Glide Stage 1 & 2 and an Honda GoldWing GL1800. I liken the Harley to the classic muscle car that turns heads and roars down the street. The Wing is like a Ferrari on two-wheels with luggage space. I love them both and will never let either one go.
I used to be a diehard Road Glide Ultra rider, I loved that bike. Then I test rode a 2018 Goldwing DCT. The Wing just rode so much better, I couldn't believe how bad the Harley rode by comparison. it was so undeniable that I had to trade my RGU in for it, best decision I ever made. Sorry Harley. 🙁
They are still good bikes, but the two manufactures make totally different bikes.. I do like the Honda's ride, but I miss the Harley's paint finish.
My Street glide special is leaving soon as well. I want a soft ride. I wont do the DCT. My harley is brutal on bumps. Also under powered in my opinion.
The fact that a twin cam only goes about 50,000 on the average says it all.
100% Double M.
Same here! I test drove a Gw and just couldn’t deny how good it rides! Bought a dct tour and have no regrets! Still think Harleys are cool bikes but, you can’t match a Gw….safe rides!
Respect to anyone who rides anything.
I’ve had two or three gold wings, mostly always Harley baggers with the exception of a couple dynas . Just purchased the 21 Goldwing tour. I only have about 100 miles on it. Cannot imagine getting back on a Harley Davidson.
Both are great bikes...But unfortunately in order to have more power on the Harley's you must spend money having them upgraded with the stages. Not so for the Gold Wings. We ride 2015 Wings and they are very powerful...stocked. I (Rich) raced bikes (Not professionally) and I am very familiar with speed shifting. But the DCT is a game changer for big bikes. We will always be Gold Wing riders because of its reliability and comfort.
That is the problem with them, the fact that you have to spend money for power upgrade.
Well said, that is the major flaw with HD, you end up spending money that for the price, should've come on the bike in the first place. Engine upgrades, suspension upgrades etc. I have a friend that bought a CVO Road Glide and spent money to upgrade the suspension because it rode like crap. For the price of a CVO, its inexcusable IMO. HD needs to do better. I love my "chrome couches" and own two a 2012 Electra Glide, and an 07 Yamaha Royal Star tour deluxe, both are paid for and getting up there in mileage. I'm starting to look at a third bike as a retirement bike since I'm 2 years from it. I'm keeping the other bikes but I'd like a new one for when I retire I want to do some cross country riding . I've never owned a Goldwing but have test rode one and loved it. I think its going to be a Goldwing for cross country touring. I don't want a DCT though. If I don't I will probably take the Yamaha Royal Star on the trip even though it is the highest mileage of the two. And yeah, like you, I don't care what you ride or care to be a part of the HD club. I'm out there to ride and don't care what I or others do it on.
How can I say this.....KING OF KINGS
What a great video.
Thanks. I still have a passion for Harley mentally. When I get tired back to a goldwing I will go.
I agree with most everything you said, I also have a Harley and my Goldwing, I love them both. Depending on the mood I am in is the one I ride. They both have their pros and cons in my humble opinion. I was forced into buying metric when you couldn't buy a new Harley 25 years ago, they were not available, so I bought a new Honda VTX 1800, that bike was bigger than any Harley and it was drop dead gorgeous, my Harley friends could not keep theirs eyes off it. In 2006 I bought my Harley Heritage, later I sold the VTX for my Goldwing. I am older now retired and happy.
So many bikes, so little room to store them. LOL. I miss my big cruiser every once in a while, not because it was a HD persay. The times I miss it the most is when it is windy, the Ultra was big and heavy, didn't move around much in the wind. They all have their pluses and minuses. In the eye of the beholder I suppose. Ride safe.
I recently wrecked my ‘15 Ultra Limited but before I did, I was plenty pleased with the power of it’s 103 with Stage 1. I replaced it with a 2017 RoadGlide Ultra with the 107 and was really impressed with the power increase. Those must of been some steep grades and heavy luggage when you were in Wyoming with your M8 Ultra. Wow
Ride safe
Yeah, I think the main issue on that trip was the lack of air getting to the engine. I bet if I had done a Stage One kit, it would have made a difference. I had a similar problem in 07 with my RK on a Sturgis trip, but then I was hauling a trailer behind the bike. It is hard to say. I would be interested in putting a Stage 1 bike next to a stock bike in the same circumstance and see what the differences are. May have been the bag on the tour pack acting like a sail. LOL
@@moose3971
When anyone rides a Wing especially the DCT technology, there’s an undeniable response of it smoothness, power and speed. You just can’t out shift a DCT. But the Wing’s ethos is not for everyone. Understood. But from pure performance. The Gold Wing is at the very top of the food chain for the money. No question.
try a goldwing 1800 you will see the 107 is nothing ahahah
@@roadglide no dct for my , i need clutch my goldwing 2003 , is perfect but i miss the harley look and community...
I like both bikes. Agree, it’s all personal preference. The GW power is hard to compare. It makes such a difference in some aspects of riding styles.
Yeah, the two are not exactly comparable. They are different setups, different seating positions, different riding styles. They are just different, LOL. Ride safe
I ride a 2019 Harley Road Glide Special and lately been interested in a Gen 6 Gold Wing but had never rode one.
Last week I test rode a 2018 GW DCT Tour, after about a 10 mile test ride I came to the conclusion I will still with my Harley.
I did not like the riding position on the GW, felt I was perched on top of it rather than in it on my Harley, also didn't like how the GW felt when stopping, never felt in proper control. The DCT was fun but would need an extended ride before deciding if it was for me.
But the storage and nav sucks compared to the Harley so thats a big pill to swallow
That’s interesting, I recall having a lot of the same thoughts when I rode my buddies GW when I had my Ultra. The second time did grow on me tho. You are correct about the seating position. I really only changed because I wanted more power and better performance in the curves. I wanted more lean. But you have to do what feels right. They are both great bikes!
Just saw your video, and from watch M7’s videos in the past heard your name several times. I am just like both of you, and have owned Harley touring bikes in the past and still do. Had a 2012 Ultra Classic Electra Glide CVO that I traded for a 2016 Road Glide Ultra CVO, that I still have. Then I purchased the 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT.
From a motorcycle perspective, there are only really 3 huge differences that cannot really be compared. The first is the rider seating geometry. With the Harley touring line the rider has “forward” foot controls vs the Goldwing’s “center” controls. The second is the type of engine. Harley run a V-Twin mainly air cooled engine vs the Goldwing 6 cylinder water cooled boxer engine. And the third is the suspension setup. The Harley has the traditional twin tube front forks and dual rear shocks vs the Goldwing with the electronic adjustable suspension with front double wishbone front suspension and single sided swing arm with mono shock on the rear. And that’s where the comparisons cannot be made because of the difference in major component design.
Now where the comparisons can start to be made.
Engine displacement/HP/Torque.
Harley engines:
107ci = 1753cc
110ci = 1802cc
114ci = 1868cc
117ci = 1917cc
The Goldwing engine
1833cc = 111ci
The Goldwing produces more HP and Torque STOCK, than what most stage 4 Harley engines can produce even after spending thousands of dollars more on the Harley engines.
Suspension:
Here is where the Goldwing really shines is is far superior to any Harley. There is not a Harley out there that can compare to the smoothness of the Goldwing ‘s suspension. Even if a person gets the best aftermarket suspension for a Harley, the smooth ride of the Goldwing can’t be beat. And there is an aftermarket suspension upgrade for the Goldwing that makes the already superior suspension even better.
Fit and finish:
This is an area that Harley Davidson has perfected. Harley’s quality of paint and and plastics are superior to that of the Goldwing. No denying that. Both Harley Touring bikes and the Goldwing are “sexy” in their own ways and a personal preference when appearance comes into play.
Sound System:
Harley Davidson beats out the Goldwing when it comes to the sound system in the clean, crisp, and loud department of speakers. However the Goldwing doesn’t really need as loud of a sound system because the engine and wind noise is soo much less. But the Goldwing’s speakers are less than desirable.
Infotainment System:
This is a difficult one because both Harley and the Goldwing’s infotainment systems are very comparable. They both have navigation, satellite radio, am/fm, Bluetooth, auxiliary, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and optional CB radio. I think Harley’s navigation program is better and more user friendly than the Goldwing, however this is where the comparisons end and the Goldwing begins to straight up out perform the Harley infotainment system.
The Goldwing doesn’t need anything extra to connect Bluetooth headsets. Harley requires a WHIM and harness to connect with a Bluetooth headset. In addition to that, to get full stereo sound out of the headset, Harley requires you purchase the Harley branded Sena headsets to have full stereo, sound out both left and right headset speakers. Also requires those headsets in order to have full compatibility with the Harley infotainment system, voice commands, CB radio push to talk, etc. because the infotainment system doesn’t have the Bluetooth headset protocol, this is who the WHIM is required.
On the Goldwing, the infotainment system has the Bluetooth headset protocol already programmed into the system and is compatible with any Bluetooth headset.
Suspension adjustment:
Harley touring bikes have manual suspension adjustments, whereas the Goldwing’s have electronic suspension adjustments on their tour models. The bagger models have a manual rear suspension system and electronic front suspension.
Locks/Security
Harley’s have manual locks, or a button that is pressed on the key fob to lock and unlock the bike.
The Goldwing has all electronic locks. The key fob is the key. When you close the saddle bags or top case, they are already locked. There is a push button that you press to open the bags. But once the key fob is out of range, the bags will not open and bike cannot start. Also the steering lock is electronic. Full lock handlebars left or right, and turn ignition switch counter clockwise when bike is off to lock the handlebars with key fob in range. Turn switch clockwise to unlock handlebars with key fob present.
Heated seats and grips come standard on the Goldwing tour models, but only heated grips on the bagger. Only the CVOs come standard with heated grips, seats, and electronic locks.
The Goldwing comes standard with TPMS, where only available on the CVOs and some specials. However the Harley TPMS is a bit better as it displays the tire pressure once the bikes electrical system is on. The Goldwing has to travel at least 16 mph for 30 seconds before the TPMS displays tire pressure.
Wind protection:
There are multiple brands and styles if windscreens for both brands. However, Harleys only have a fixed screen whereas the Goldwing has an electronic adjustable windscreen to either block wind or allow the rider to get more wind as the rider pleases.
Maintenance:
Harley motorcycles require a lot more maintenance vs the Goldwing. However, to change the air filter on a Goldwing is going to take about 2 - 3 hours by someone who is skilled at removing and replacing the plastics. But all the Goldwing really needs for maintenance is regular oil changes.
Handling:
Harley’s are kinda heavy and clunky. A skilled rider can throw it around and maneuver quite well but doesn’t have the lean angle due to the low sitting floor boards. The Goldwing however has a much lower center of gravity and with its center controls, allowing for greater lean angles, the Goldwing is a breeze to maneuver and throw around.
Transmission options:
Harley only has a manual 6 speed transmission.
Goldwing has the option for a manual 6 speed or 7 speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The DCT doesn’t have a clutch lever and shifts automatically or can shift manually via paddle shifters on the left handlebar. No more clutch hand cramps in traffic.
Overall, the Goldwing Tour DCT is a far superior motorcycle over any Harley Davidson motorcycle, to include their CVO line on a motorcycle perspective. As for personal taste and preferences, that will be debated till the end of time. My preference is if I had sell either my Harley Road Glide Ultra CVO or my Goldwing Tour DCT, I would sell the Harley in a heartbeat.
Nice review and comment very detailed oriented..The winner is definitely DCT 1800 Goldwing
@@jmcrjc6799 thanks for the compliment.
@@danaszalajeski4416 Welcome
great review.. I'm was trying to decide between the 2 bikes..leaning towards the GW.
@@rzellmer219 I don’t think you will be disappointed at all with the Goldwing’s performance and handling. The seat may be another story, but with most motorcycles, the seat and windscreen are usually the first items to be replaced.
I had a 2017 ultra limited. I had it at stage 2 full exhaust with auto tuner.it finally made decent power. It was a torque monster. Over 5k invested. I loved it. Wrecked it 2 months ago, it is a total loss. Looking for my next bike, I am a v twin guy, so I'm looking at indian and HD. My car is a honda, I'll keep it at that.
That’s a hard choice, both HD and Indian are great bikes. I’m more bias toward the HD. I like the finish. But the Indian has some cool features that I don’t think HD’s have yet. It’s a tough choice for sure. Sorry that you wrecked the One you had, good that you came out alive and able to still ride tho.
@@moose3971 I test rode the new roadmaster limited. I really like how light and nimble it felt compared to the ultra. As a short rider it sits lower and the footing feels better for me. Now just convincing the wife it's comfortable two up. She liked the ultra, but as you know it's a handful.
love em all.... each bike serves its purpose
Honda has a few different models with dct. I have an nc750xd abs dct traction control. Entry level adventure/commuter
They do have a nice line up
Great bike at one third the price. 500 lbs, 68mpg, dct smoother than wing's. I traded mine for a 2021 goldwing dct bagger just because, still miss the NC.
That was an excellent point. The two are very different. I have an ultra which I very much enjoy. Just like any other Harley owner I’ve put my personal touches on it and it’s a keeper. I took a GW DCT Out last week and loved the heck outta that too and plan on putting it right next to my HD. Best of both worlds! Great video!
Welcome to my world Bruce. Having both is truly the best of both worlds!
I have two of one brand and one of the other but never has road one of the brands.
Funny you talking about having owned a Triumph Trophy. I own a Honda st1300 that I’ve put 75,000 miles on in the last 4 years. So far the bike has been completely reliable. I’m researching the Triumph like crazy so you’re a great person to ask. Did you have any issues with that bike?
Well, I had a few issues with the ECU, it was a recall before I got the bike, however, even though it was fixed prior I had issues after a service. The dealer put in the wrong firmware, which caused the bike to power down and restart going down the road intermittently, (according to the other dealer I took it to). Even though this was corrected by the other dealer, I still experienced this issue on a long trip. I traded it in the next riding season. Not sure this is a problem, probably not an issue a person would experience. I think I was just lucky, lol. Other than that the bike ran good, had the inline 3 cylinder. Shifted good too.
moose3971 .. thank you for the response. I need to keep reading and checking the forum’s
Moose you started to mention your seat upgrade. I think I’m a similar size to you. What one did you go with? I have 2018 duct tour I’m 6’ 2” 215 lbs. Thanks.
The new 2020 Harley Ultra Limited has android auto. The 114 also rocks.
I wonder how you feel about lane splitting with the gw. A lot of traffic in california.
Its much better than Old GW
You said it best at the end of this video.
I love both motorcycles
Yes, they all have their place. I will still enjoy my RK too.
Funny how the algorithm works. I own a '23 Road King Special, and am trading my '21 Street Bob for a '24 Gold Wing next week. In keeping with your (and other commenters') view, I'll be doing the "Best of Both Worlds" thing lol. I watched this video and immediately subscribed - great content - thank you! ✌🤘
It’s been a good bike. The paint is not nearly as good as the HD. The handling is superior, along with the power. Both great bikes, but so different from one another. I still enjoy riding mine. Good luck on your upcoming purchase. Hope you have a great riding experience on the new wing!
The difference is the same .... I love my own.... leave me alone .... each to his own .... apples to oranges ... beauty is in the eyes of the beholder ....the proverbial never ending story.... lol
What state are you in. The scenery is very nice
Hey buddy, Tks for the video.
Good review a GW has plenty of torque all the way threw the power band with out shifting even the 5 generation GW, I have three GW and a 2021 Revival but the truth is the truth, and both of these bikes are made for two totally different styles of riding, if you want to look cool and you need the attention from other telling how great your bike looks get a HD but if your going to ride heavy hard miles and you want less maintenance the GW may fit the bill, and all those charging problems HD has from compensators.
I find that just about any bike can get boring. Jumping on something different can be rejuvenating. But in the end, even more boring: too much power, too smooth, put me to sleep. And then back to the evo I go. Rigid mount, unbalanced. Tingle my feet right off the highway pegs.
Your hard earned money. What you enjoy.
lol I own both Harley and my 2018 Goldwing..I recently posted on FB Group ' I love my Harley" a photo of my 2010 Streetglide that also had the Wing Stting beside it.. The photo disappeared..Thinking I did something wrong post wise I re posted it and 5 min.s later was banned from the group. I can't believe a Harley Group could be so Shallow....
Wow. That’s messed up! Pretty cruel treatment.
why harley cant have a good suspension like goldwing ...i dont understand.
I believe it is called an Ultra not Altra.
Tomato tomahto 😂
I love goldwing.....👍👍👍👍
Great video! New subscriber here.
Classic/relics versus Formula One/Lexus.
You "traded up"?
Depends on your outlook I suppose, LOL
As long as you on 2 wheels it shouldn't matter what you ride. This tribalism crap is annoying and only pushes to new riders away from motorcycles. My friends got Harley Softtail, Indian Challenger Darkhorse, Harley 48, and I got a Honda Shadow vlx600. This is my first bike but I'm looking at that GW bagger DCT for 2nd bike. Yeah the lack of power is annoying on long trips, especially with front wind gust. Hows the wind protection on your legs with the Goldwing, does it have cruise control? My right hand goes numb on long rides.
All new GW has cruise control.
If you’re currently riding a shadow the move to a GW will take you to a whole new experience in power and comfort. I think you’ll be happy.
1
Q
You feel like flying, buy a plane. Not fair to try and compare a 6 cylinder to a V twin. Ya, unfair. I don't think cruising happens at 85 mph. 60 to 70 is more comfy. When the telephone poles look like a picket fence your just racing. Harley helps attitude with the feel and sound of riding. Honda has no feel or sound. Considering what the V twin does, it's really out performing the 6. Just imagine 3 twins powering a Harley. Then compare.
I never said anything about wanting to fly in regards to speeding. If memory serves, in this video I was speaking to a motorcycle that was unable to conform to a posted speed when loaded down for a 2 week trip. I also recall stating that neither was better, but different. The Honda has its own feel and sound. I still own a Harley Davidson, I like them both for what they can and cannot do. In my opinion you missed the point of this video. My basic belief is ride which ever you prefer. If you prefer Harley Davidson buy a HD, if you like another brand buy that.
Wrong analogy. (3) V twins would have way more total displacement than the flat 6.
@@ellobo1326 Imagine sitting on top of that on a 100 degree day, chess nuts roasted not roasting on a open fire, and just think if they made performance parts for a Gold Wing, google turbo charge GW.
Honda= reliable HD= unreliable, if you want to ride 15K+ miles per year. if your a 5K miles or less person? Then it doesn't matter. HD survives on loyalty and culture, HD lovers will actually find humor in all the little gremlins, SMH
True. I usually ride around 15k and higher per year. It is much simpler on the Honda. Except for the air cleaner lol!
@@moose3971 lol, my brother in law has a 2017, and took apart half the bike to change out the air cleaner 😂😂😂😂😂. My 2019 Ultra Limited is going through a lemon law case right now for Transmission oil migrating to the primary. Additionally the M8 has sumped itself 6 times, burned ungodly oil, looked like a crop duster on the freeway. Dealership had no diagnosis?????. Went through six lifters by 22K miles, making sane noise again at 43K. Sometimes uses oil sometimes doesn’t. Sometimes it vibrates at a certain RPM, sometimes doesn’t. Sometimes it has a “floppy” shift lever when downshifting, causing the clutch to be re-engaged to get it to work, sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes the tech connects , sometimes it doesn’t. And yes I have the bell on it😂😂😂😂 I’ll have a GW next!
Do not bother with a Goldwing. They are severely flawed. I bought a low mileage...16000 kms.... F6b 4 months ago. Worst bike in 50 years of biking. The turbulence.. the flexi bars.. the seat. Unrideable overweight scooter with half a car glued to the front. 200 miles to get repaired...head bearings shock springs new oil....air filter takes3 hours to fit....Thats it in 4 months. The turbulenceis like being hit with a rubber hammer 60 times aminute. Awful pos.
I don’t mind the gold wing and I have the 2019, I don’t know much about the older bike like the F6B you’re speaking about. I understand where you’re coming from because I do know there’s some of the things on this bike that are not as nice of a build quality as they should have been the Harley Davidson I will admit had better overall quality like the saddlebags. I do like the power and the lean of this bike so I’m able to look past some of its insufficient qualities. Really all depends on what you like to ride and what you don’t like to ride. Thanks for watching.
I bet you could sell the F6B in a second. Lots of guys are looking for them. Maybe to someone who doesn’t mind wrenching on his own machine when the rare occasion happens.
I have three GW and one is a F6b it is the only one with a Tail Wind trailer in toe never in 38000 miles have I felt what you speak of and it has been in triple digits many times with trailer in toe you must have had a problem F6b, and I know it was @ 90-105 mph for 45 miles trying to a group of riders that left on a ride a head of schedule, out of all of them none have been back to a dealer for anything as of yet, my 18 Air Bag model is the the best bike I have ever had so far.
I get it HD is iconic 🫡 The GW out the box is most street and reliable from power to comfort