1800 or 1800?

[f6john]

If you were entertaining the idea of an 1800 Goldwing (mainly due to the added benefit of reverse) would you go for the latest version knowing you’re going to have to spend more or the 2001 and up version. I know I could go to a 1800 Goldwing board for opinions but I value the experience of you guys.

[msb]

If you were entertaining the idea of an 1800 Goldwing (mainly due to the added benefit of reverse) would you go for the latest version knowing you’re going to have to spend more or the 2001 and up version. I know I could go to a 1800 Goldwing board for opinions but I value the experience of you guys.

The pre-current version ,  as I'm pretty sure I'd find the current version too small for the Mrs and me (it's not that we're too big  ...the new version is just too small overall  for my liking) A 2008 -2012 or so would be a big jump up in tech after 19 years on the Interstate anyways, so it would be a big enough change for me.
If I didn't ride 2 up with the Mrs so often, I'd go for the F6B.

[Jess from VA]

I don't have an opinion on Gold wings.

But for nearly 50 years I have not needed a reverse because I pick my parking spots with care.  And I have short legs (but good knees).

The couple times I had no choice but to park nose-in downhill, I had my passenger put her back into it.      

I do have to do a 3-point backup turn to get out of my bike shed, but it's nearly level.

[Valkorado]

I like the size and looks of the older models, but I'd probably look for newer than an 01 if I were hunting for one tho...  Maybe 06 at earliest.  The new Wings look skinny and small to me, especially for two up.  Almost more like a beefy ST.  I like the new forks and transmission, but can do without the fancy electronics and tech options.  I'm sure the new models are great two up tourers, but I just like BIG solid bikes.

[vanavyman]

I've owned 3 Goldwing GL1800 and several other Goldwings.  To comment on which one you should buy is tough.  If you have the funds then I'd buy a 2014 - 2017 or if you like the new model a 2018-2021.  If you are looking for a nice GL1800 for under $10,000 look for a 2006 - 2010.  2006 added a larger radiator and new stereo.  Well worth the extra few dollars.  Bottom line on Goldwings though like Valkyries they are all great bikes.  I have a 2009 Yellow Level 4 with Full Monty Traxxion (ABS and Airbag).  My next Wing will be a 2014 - 2017.  In 2014 they put an update on the transmission.  On the 2018 + I'm not real happy with the seating position and highway peg options yet.
Dan

[cookiedough]

I doubt many of us old 1500 Valk owners have test driven the new 1800 wing, so without knowing I would say old 1800 wing due to price alone, plus the new 1800 wing cannot fit 2 helmets in top trunk area too small.   You and the misses would have to test drive them both to see if new 1800 wing roomy enough for both of you.  I found out by test driving the older 1800 wing that the roominess is bigger on my old 1500 VAlk I/S than the older say 2006 Wing we drove and the more upright position and tupperware in front turned me off as well after my test drive with the wife on back this summer.   The old 1800 Wing braked and pickup both slightly better than my 1500 Valk but not as comfy nor roomy as my old 1500 VAlk I/S.

Judging as well by all the tech features on the new 1800 Wing, for me,  would be a turn off as well.  Same as all the new techy and safety features on all newer cars nowadays is a turn off in features and pricing.  ONLY 2 nice techy/safety features made on cars the past few years is a backup camera and adaptive cruise control I would use.    Lane departure and blind spot monitoring we shut off on our newer tucson do not use it but leave the flashing light ONLY on the side mirrors if merging with turn signal on but the beeping noise is annoying.   I can live without NAV as well.  Would it come in handy in a few situations?  Yes, but not that big of a deal to me.

[f6john]

Just to clarify, it would be almost exclusively for one up riding. And to add to the thought process, I have seen a 2012 with very low miles I like and a 2018 with even lower miles, the model with no trunk and manual transmission and they are only $2,000 apart, $13,000 and $15,000 respectively. Now what say you?

[vanavyman]

Go test drive both.  The new ones are different like said before they ride a little more like a ST1300.  The ST1300 is a loved Honda motorcycle. 

[f6john]

Go test drive both.  The new ones are different like said before they ride a little more like a ST1300.  The ST1300 is a loved Honda motorcycle. 

Probably good advise, but these two in particular are 300+ miles away in opposite directions from me. I know I could be satisfied with a 2012 model as I’ve ridden some early 1800 wings. Finding a 2018 close by will be the challenge.

[vanavyman]

  With my age (63) I'm used to bikes I can lean back in the backrest and my feet on the highway pegs and cruise.  I'm not comfortable with my knees in a less than 90 degree angle when on the normal pegs.  Causes me hip issues.  This is why I don't ride a ST1300 or want to buy a new 2018+ Goldwing.  I find the newer Goldwing normal sitting position is less than 90 degrees and all highway pegs come off the bottom of the motor.
  Some guys love that riding position.  Just depends on what fits you and your riding style / physical situation.

[f6john]

 With my age (63) I'm used to bikes I can lean back in the backrest and my feet on the highway pegs and cruise.  I'm not comfortable with my knees in a less than 90 degree angle when on the normal pegs.  Causes me hip issues.  This is why I don't ride a ST1300 or want to buy a new 2018+ Goldwing.  I find the newer Goldwing normal sitting position is less than 90 degrees and all highway pegs come off the bottom of the motor.
  Some guys love that riding position.  Just depends on what fits you and your riding style / physical situation.

Good info thanks. I’m 68 and I have experienced some hip pain while on my Valkyrie so I could do without that.

[vanavyman]

You can call Honda Dealers and asked if they have a 2018+ that you can test drive.  That is worth a longer drive.  Then you will know.  Might have to drive 300+ miles to find a dealer like that but until you can take one out for a longer ride its hard to know.  I've test drove them several times at Rallies.  Can be hard to get a nice test drive on a for sale by owner bike.   Riding a Goldwing 2001 - 2017 are very similar.  Like mentioned there are a few differences but ride is similar.  2018+ is different.  If you are thinking of not needing a Truck a F6B is a great option.  Get an almost new Goldwing for under $11-13,000.  Some great ones still out there.  I shop all over the country for my bikes.  Doesn't work for everyone but I find what I want.  My 2009 Goldwing I bought in Colorado Springs.  Flew out there and drove it back to eastern Virginia.

[vanavyman]

In the last few years my hip pain has come from my Valkyrie Interstate.  With regular pegs it was very close to 90 degrees and my right hip would seem to lock up.  Almost caused me issues but was able to straighten enough to fix it.  I did not want to get rid of the bike so my solution was to get driver Cobra boards.  Allows my big boots (size14) to move around and keep my right foot over 90 degrees.  One bad habit I got into was putting my right foot on the highway peg in wrong situations.  After a close call broke myself of that idea and bought the Cobras. 

[cookiedough]

 With my age (63) I'm used to bikes I can lean back in the backrest and my feet on the highway pegs and cruise.  I'm not comfortable with my knees in a less than 90 degree angle when on the normal pegs.  Causes me hip issues.  This is why I don't ride a ST1300 or want to buy a new 2018+ Goldwing.  I find the newer Goldwing normal sitting position is less than 90 degrees and all highway pegs come off the bottom of the motor.
  Some guys love that riding position.  Just depends on what fits you and your riding style / physical situation.

exactly, each person is different for sure.  I tried driving a crotch rocket once and my fat legs would barely just bend back far enough to brake and shift gears with my feet, very uncomfortable.  LOL    

well,  if riding 1 up and the 1800 older wing had all the storage as a tourer does vs. a newer 1800 wing with no storage for 2K more and you did not need the storage 1-up riding,  I'd go newer 1800 wing for say 15K vs. 13K. assuming the ergos/comfort fit you.  Agree,  300 miles away is pushing it but i have driven 200 miles one way before a few times to buy cycle/atv, etc.   My neighbor traveled 2 states over from WI to Indiana to save 1000's on snowmobiles he wanted at the time which he never used now has 60K in new 4 seater UTV and two 2-up new ATV's and 2 trailers of which he will not use either, but he has money to burn and he looks cool apparently owning them?     I am afraid though for his 12 year old 100lb. tops daughter on a powerful 2-up heavy ATV feel it is way too much for someone her size and age to handle for sure and knowing him, he did not sign her up in WI for a MUST HAVE ATV safety course like my kids had to have 5-6 years ago when age 13 or so.  My kid was age 12 with 5 years of atving experience prior on his 90cc ATV before I let  him drive my bigger adult ATV.

When I bought my 2001 Valk I/S the Honda dealer I think was around 2008 year had a newer VTX1800 in very good shape as well on showroom floor.  I sat on both and right away ASAP knew the VTX1800 was not for me gravitated towards the Valk I/S and one test drive even if was not cleaned up a barn find sort of knew it fit me best.  

[3fan4life]

There is a 2020 Wing in my future, I'm just waiting to pick up a leftover in a couple of years.

I have looked at accessories for them and there does seem to be some good highway peg options.

I too need to stretch out to enjoy the ride.

I have an 04 ST1300 and love the way the bike handles, but I cannot get really comfortable on it.

When I do get serious about buying a new Wing the ST1300 will be sold.

I see the new Wing as a good compromise between the comfort of my 1500 Interstate and the handling of the ST1300.

Here is a pretty good review of the 2018 comparing it to the 2017:

https://www.asphaltandrubber.com/reviews/2018-honda-gold-wing-review/




For me I really like the look of the 2018 & up:



It's a bike that I imagine will be impossible to walk away from without turning around to look at it.

The same way that I am with my Valks.

[Beardo]

We have a 2018 and have toured 2 up from Quebec to California. Yes it’s smaller than a <2017 but that’s what I like about it. We like to ride “sporty” and it does that very well. I also commute to work in the city and the smaller size and nimbler handling is better. Yes, you have less luggage space than the older ones but leave the damn coffee machine and hair dryer and 20 changes of clothes at home and enjoy the ride. Anyone who says it’s not big enough is taking too much crap.

Yes, some of the tech stuff is a little much but it’s a Honda, so I don’t worry too much about the reliability down the road. The new front fork design alone makes it worth it. I bought the non-tour and  added the trunk to keep away from the traction control, electronic suspension, etc.

[f6john]

We have a 2018 and have toured 2 up from Quebec to California. Yes it’s smaller than a <2017 but that’s what I like about it. We like to ride “sporty” and it does that very well. I also commute to work in the city and the smaller size and nimbler handling is better. Yes, you have less luggage space than the older ones but leave the damn coffee machine and hair dryer and 20 changes of clothes at home and enjoy the ride. Anyone who says it’s not big enough is taking too much crap.

Yes, some of the tech stuff is a little much but it’s a Honda, so I don’t worry too much about the reliability down the road. The new front fork design alone makes it worth it. I bought the non-tour and  added the trunk to keep away from the traction control, electronic suspension, etc.

Sounds good to me, riding mostly by myself I don’t need a trunk but like a lot a things can be nice to have. Just a thought , do all the 2018’s and up have reverse?

Traveling for the right bike is not a problem. I went to Houston to buy my Titan 15 years ago and went to OKC 10 years ago to buy my Corvette. Finding the right bike is the issue for me now.

[Beardo]

The Canadian ones all have reverse but I think I read that the US non-tour doesn’t. Might want to verify that.

[vanavyman]

cycletrader.com and eBay are where I've bought most of my used bikes.

[3fan4life]

Here's a guy reviewing his 2018 after 10k mi:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKTo5Lf9oAM

[Beardo]

Here's a guy reviewing his 2018 after 10k mi:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKTo5Lf9oAM

I’ve watched his videos. He’s insanely annoying. Whines about the GPS constantly. I’ve toured mine more than he has and I’ve never used the onboard Honda GPS. Ever. Use the dang Apple CarPlay and it’s fantastic. Everyone who has a smartphone knows how to use Google Maps or Apple maps...if someone can’t figure that out, perhaps they shouldn’t buy a Goldwing. Or leave their house.

I also laugh at his ridiculously large barn door of a windshield because he doesn’t want any wind on him. We have the non-tour tiny windshield and it’s great. Put it down when it’s hot or city driving and it’s almost like not having one at all. You don’t want wind, get in the car.

Lol...sorry for the rant. He knows bikes and does a lot for the Goldwing community with his instructional videos...but the things he complains about constantly are annoying.

[3fan4life]

Here's a guy reviewing his 2018 after 10k mi:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKTo5Lf9oAM

I’ve watched his videos. He’s insanely annoying. Whines about the GPS constantly. I’ve toured mine more than he has and I’ve never used the onboard Honda GPS. Ever. Use the dang Apple CarPlay and it’s fantastic. Everyone who has a smartphone knows how to use Google Maps or Apple maps...if someone can’t figure that out, perhaps they shouldn’t buy a Goldwing. Or leave their house.

I also laugh at his ridiculously large barn door of a windshield because he doesn’t want any wind on him. We have the non-tour tiny windshield and it’s great. Put it down when it’s hot or city driving and it’s almost like not having one at all. You don’t want wind, get in the car.

Lol...sorry for the rant. He knows bikes and does a lot for the Goldwing community with his instructional videos...but the things he complains about constantly are annoying.

Here's the same guy riding and comparing a 2020 to his 2018.

I too find him a little annoying, but he seems to know what he's talking about.


I do think that I would eventually go with a custom windshield myself.

[msb]

Yes, you have less luggage space than the older ones but leave the damn coffee machine and hair dryer and 20 changes of clothes at home and enjoy the ride. Anyone who says it’s not big enough is taking too much crap.

lol Jason...my comment about the new 1800 being too small has nothing to do with luggage capacity ...believe me, after almost 40 years of 2 up riding with Lisa, I've had plenty of time to pare down her "must have" list for riding/touring  While I haven't actually ridden a new 1800 other than putzing around in a dealer parking lot, I just don't like the smaller overall dimensions period. Kinda like the couple times I rented a newer Ultra Classic when away on a holiday or work travel...after 19 years on the big, wide Valk, it just seems cramped. I do like the look of it and perhaps I would get used to the size and I'm certain I'd be thrilled with the performance and handling, but for the money if I ever do get another bike, a 2008 - 2015 or so Wing or an F6B would be such a huge improvement technology-wise over what I have now, that it would be more than enough for me at this stage. You know me...just a wee bit of a traditionalist...heck, I just got a "new" Wing...its turning 43 years old

[old2soon]

       Just sitting on some pre 16 G W brought about hip issues. Have NOT ridden one yet but my dlr still makes the ride offer now and then. After Much trial and error Finally got the road pegs and handle bars to My Likin on my 99 I/S Phatt Ghurl. And at a soon to be 76 my next what ever scoot most likely have 3 wheels. Should the 18 G W be to yer likin go fer it.  RIDE SAFE. P S 300 miles? I've ridden further fer a beer! 

[Sorcerer]

Are you a rebel, scofflaw. 2018 and up are limited to 112mph top speed. I’m keeping my 14 F6B  for now.

[scooperhsd]

Are you a rebel, scofflaw. 2018 and up are limited to 112mph top speed. I’m keeping my 14 F6B  for now.

WHAT !!?!? That's Blasphemy !

Just because I will never knowingly go that fast doesn't mean I don't want the capability....

[John Schmidt]

They also told me my '92 Aspencade wouldn't do much over 100. On my way up I-75 to trade it in on my current Valk about 130 miles away, I proved them wrong. Can't say it was still factory however. 

[Beardo]

Yes, you have less luggage space than the older ones but leave the damn coffee machine and hair dryer and 20 changes of clothes at home and enjoy the ride. Anyone who says it’s not big enough is taking too much crap.

lol Jason...my comment about the new 1800 being too small has nothing to do with luggage capacity ...believe me, after almost 40 years of 2 up riding with Lisa, I've had plenty of time to pare down her "must have" list for riding/touring  While I haven't actually ridden a new 1800 other than putzing around in a dealer parking lot, I just don't like the smaller overall dimensions period. Kinda like the couple times I rented a newer Ultra Classic when away on a holiday or work travel...after 19 years on the big, wide Valk, it just seems cramped. I do like the look of it and perhaps I would get used to the size and I'm certain I'd be thrilled with the performance and handling, but for the money if I ever do get another bike, a 2008 - 2015 or so Wing or an F6B would be such a huge improvement technology-wise over what I have now, that it would be more than enough for me at this stage. You know me...just a wee bit of a traditionalist...heck, I just got a "new" Wing...its turning 43 years old

I get what you’re saying. When you’re used to a big bike, riding less would be strange for sure and feel like a step backwards in comfort for a...ummm...more experienced gentleman.

I get the appeal of the big older Wings for people who want to tour long distances in luxury. And I know they can be ridden in a very sporty manner as well. We’ve all seen it. I was one salesman who refused to budge off MSRP away from getting a 17. I’m sure I would have loved it. But the 18 is a little less “road sofa”. I understand the vast majority of Goldwingers lamenting the loss of the road sofaness. But I’m glad they went where they did. And we’ve proven that long distance touring on the 18+ can easily be done, carrying everything we needed, while still fun and comfortable. .

[cookiedough]

correct me if I am wrong, but the newer 2018 on up wings the top trunk does not fit 2 large helmets, correct?  I am XL and wife Large helmet size.

A small cycle or scooter can be or feel big.  I have a 249cc scooter and am NOT cramped on it at all even being 290lbs. It is taller height and wide open fairly wide seat so can sit back on it and have tons of wiggle room as well as my 650cc suzuki burgman scooter.  The seat on that is HUGE makes the VAlk I/S seat feel small with the stupid driver's backrest taken off which I disliked did not go back far enough for me so took it off.  Even, for me anyways, the 2001 thru 2008 wings I have test driven feel cramped a tad bit in the driver's seat makes you sit in ONE spot straight up unable to move back or wiggle around much at all for us heavier (or some taller) folks.

[The emperor has no clothes]

I get what you’re saying. When you’re used to a big bike, riding less would be strange for sure and feel like a step backwards in comfort for a...ummm...more experienced gentleman.

[Beardo]

correct me if I am wrong, but the newer 2018 on up wings the top trunk does not fit 2 large helmets, correct?  I am XL and wife Large helmet size.

I can fit my XL but not both. The Senas on the side make it more difficult.  There are videos online where they show you how to fit 2 but it’s never been an issue, so I’ve never tried it. When we’re 2 up, we’re likely on a trip and the trunk is full of stuff anyway.

[fudgie]

Money is the thing for me. Looking to get a wing or f6b this spring. Prob get a older 1800 so I don't have to spend a fortune.

[vanavyman]

There are some really great prices on the older GL1800.  Almost the same for an older GL1800 and GL1500.  Saw a lot of 2001 2005s going for 4500-7000.  Radiator/fan on my 2005 was the reason I ended up changing to the 2009.  If going 0-15mph for an extended time in traffic or a parade can go in the red.  They bumped up the Radiator fan in 2006 and the problem was solved.  I'm a big ABS fan for riding on wet roads.  2006-2010 with lower miles and ABS are around.  Some with Full Traxxion.  I'd never driven a bike with Traxxion before buying my 2009.  I really like it. 

[Rams]

For me I really like the look of the 2018 & up:



It's a bike that I imagine will be impossible to walk away from without turning around to look at it.

The same way that I am with my Valks.

Nice Bike!   I'd ride that one myself, minus the trunk but, I like it.

Rams

[hubcapsc]

I'd ride that one myself, minus the trunk

I hope they don't make a naked one, whether they
call it a Valkyrie or not...

-Mike

[shortleg]

  As far as comfort goes I have to say the 2012 thru 2017 models
are the best  I feel.
  Even as short as I am I found that the newer model is too
cramped even for me.[][/img]

[Mr Whiskey]

If you were entertaining the idea of an 1800 Goldwing (mainly due to the added benefit of reverse) would you go for the latest version knowing you’re going to have to spend more or the 2001 and up version. I know I could go to a 1800 Goldwing board for opinions but I value the experience of you guys.

Having come from a Valk IS and being on an '05 Wing the past 5 years, here's my take on it...
'01-'04, prone to frame cracks in multiple places and you basically hafta disassemble the bike to repair, I wouldn't risk it.
'05, no frame crack probs but they will overheat in traffic and the ecm is NOT flashable so no custom performance tuning.
'06-'10, last of the American made. Frame and overheating problems solved, ecm can be flashed, and almost all the plastics from '01-'10 are interchangeable. Excellence machines at some very good prices, I'd look for lowest mileage possible.
'11, they were moving manufacturing to Japan, there is no '11.
'12-'17, redesigned bodywork but also excellent machines, I'd want a '14-'17 because they did upgrade/improve the transmissions.
There's some smokin' good deals on the '01-'17's because a lot of geezer gliders waited 17 years for an upgraded design and stopped riding 'em soon as the '18's came out.
As for the new design '18-'21, they say it runs, rides, and handles like a rocket on rails... but I don't think I want tie-rods in my motorcycle steering
2¢ worth, best of on your search  

[f6john]

Thanks for your insight, lots to consider.

[Tundra]

I love the bagger, rode it love it. I enjoy a little more pep/sport in my ride and this brings it. Handles like it's on rails, torque like a train. It's a refined monster. I wouldn't compare it to previous models as it's not the same and not as silky smooth. That's what I like, it's more like a motorcycle. Just not in my budget.
  The review 3fan4life posted seems to be a fair accurate review.

[The emperor has no clothes]

Anyone buy a new Goldwing recently?  From a dealer?  Here, all were sold out in May and June.  There are a few of the airbag models around, none particularly close.  Decent used ones are equally scarce.

I was interested, and too late. The 4 wheeler Hondas are selling briskly, which should keep the dealers going.  If Wings again become available, I have done my homework.  Fortunately I had a fun Valkyrie year.

I just checked with Russelville Honda's site. Even the funky green one they had for months is gone. They are all gone except for a Red Airbag model.