22 February 2025

Gold Wing still flying high

On a meander through one of Dublin’s more salubrious streets, Paul Browne chanced upon a classic bike whose arrival on the 70s scene helped set Honda on the path to touring dominance.

Growing up the bike put on the pounds, toned its muscles and got smarter.

While wandering through the city recently I came across an older bike chained to a lamppost on Kildare Street.

I didn’t immediately recognise the model. On closer inspection it was a Gold Wing.

Not just that, but it was an original 1,000cc machine from all the way back in 1975. While it was a tourier it bore no resemblance whatsoever to the new bike.

Since then the Gold Wing has continued to grow in both engine capacity as well as sheer size and now, arguably, sits at the pinnacle of touring machines.

Twin Wings

Indeed today’s model is powered by flat six cylinder 1,833cc engine. That’s almost twice the capacity of the original. It produces 125 bhp and 170Nm of torque.

Since 2018 the Gold Wing has been split into two models. The now traditional beast, with its huge luggage capacity, 121 litres, and class leading comfort is now complemented by a Bagger (DB).

The latter is defined by both its touring capacity as well as the absence of a top box. It looks lighter and lower which creates  a more dynamic feel.

In 2020 the suspension was overhauled which resulted in a much happier machine in the handling stakes, especially at low speeds.

This was cleverly done. The new front forks now adjust their suspension electronically. The engine can sit further forward and the newer chassis performs better.

Personal assistant

A significant package of electric rider aids was also added. This included no fewer than four power modes with touring, rain, economy and even a sports setting.

The torque delivery can be set by the rider. There’s a hill start assistant and the brakes are combined, which pretty much eliminates dive under the weight of the bike while ‘hauling it up’.

Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)  is now the only available set up on the new ‘Wing. While this was distinctly unpleasant on some machines it works a treat here.

It’s a seven speed affair that involves no clutch or gear lever and instead is operated by a button on the left bar to shift up or down. This can even be set to automatic. For slow manoeuvring there is a ‘creep’ or walking speed mode that can even be used for reversing!

Cruise control is also standard.

Package tourer

Meanwhile up top the spec got a major overhaul with the addition of a whole lot more in the rider and ‘guest’ package. An electric screen makes a difference, both the width of it and the fairing make for a riding experience that’s nothing short of spectacular in the rider comfort stakes.

The adjusted back rest for the passenger represents a significant change in ergonomics and makes a surprisingly big difference as their weight is now ‘hidden’.

Riding the new and the previous models back to back with a 80 kilo kid brother on the back I found the the two were chalk and cheese.

The music is now delivered via a Bluetooth connection and ‘broadcast’ from all four speakers via either Apple Carplay or Android Auto. Two USB sockets make sure that the phone(s) keep the tunes coming even on the longest of days in the saddle.

Starting comes courtesy of keyless ignition.

All of this is displayed via a TFT screen.

The whole thing weighs in at 390kg and costs €40,999 , whilst the Bagger comes in at €32,499. They’re both widely available from bike shops across the country.

Touring motorcycle insurance? Call our specialist two-wheel team on 0818 945 950.

 

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