Honda Gold Wing motorcycles get lighter, sleeker
LOS ANGELES -- In contrast to the imposing, heavy touring bikes of the past, Honda has unveiled a new, sleek Gold Wing for 2018 that could surprise the motorcycling world.
The 2018 Gold Wing gets new, sharper lines and a more aerodynamic shape. It also will be lighter than the outgoing model when it goes on sale in February. The new bike was just unveiled at an event in Santa Barbara, a touring motorcyclist's haven north of Los Angeles.
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"Lighter, more agile, and more sophisticated, the 2018 Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour set a new standard for the touring category, with groundbreaking features that enhance the riding experience," said Chuck Boderman, vice president of American Honda's motorcycle division.
The rider and passenger sit slightly more forward in the new one, Honda says. With new ducts and an electric windshield, the goal is to minimize wind blast and give the rider more control over airflow.
The new Gold Wing will be powered by a liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine that is more fuel efficient and 13.7 pounds lighter. There's a slightly smaller cylinder bore, updated crankshaft, redone valve train layout and improved exhaust.
It will come with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission.
Because of the improved engine efficiency and other improvements, the Gold Wing's gas-tank capacity was reduced by 1.1 gallons without sacrificing range compared to the outgoing motorcycle, Honda says.
As Honda's top touring motorcycle, pricing approaches that of a midsize car. The Gold Wing Tour will be start at $26,700 and the Gold Wing begins at $23,500.