Honda GoldWing GL1800 DCT motorcycle test

Menus

• An armchair for two, luxury cruise, Mobile lounge
• 6 cylinders flat, 1,833 cm3, 126 hp and 170 Nm, Tour and standard version (bagger), from € 27,899 to € 36,999
• Discovery
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorway and expressways
• Departmental
• Part-cycle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• Video test of the Gold Wing
• Conclusion

An armchair for two, luxury cruise, Mobile lounge

6 cylinders flat, 1,833 cm3, 126 hp and 170 Nm, Tour and standard version (bagger), from € 27,899 to € 36,999

The Gold as it is called is the superlative motorcycle, one or even the benchmark in terms of – very – large road, symbol of comfort and long roads.. Designed first for the American market, it is not for nothing that La Repaire was taken to make a big 8,000 km roadtrip through the United States and the 13 Colonies a few years ago, thus completing the big tests on a daily basis.

The GoldWing began its career in 1974 at the Cologne Motor Show, as a GL 1000 mega-roadster with a 1,000 cc 4-cylinder boxer engine. Honda’s first water-cooled, cardan-shaft drive model, the Honda GL also featured other innovations. Thus, its false tank housed an expansion tank and a chest. The real container was located under the saddle, associated with a fuel pump, a device not very common on a motorcycle at the time. Absence of overturning torque and a primary reduction gearbox already generate unrivaled smoothness..

Having become a benchmark and icon of superlative road cars, almost a brand in its own right, the GoldWing has been synonymous with comfortable travel and extraordinary mechanical amenities for more than 47 years. Many times revised over the years, the road vessel becomes GL 1100 (1980), GL 1200 (1984), GL 1500 when the engine goes to 6 cylinders (1988) then GL 1800 (2001) restyled in 2011 then again in 2018.

2018 marks the legendary revolution. The Gold then reinvents itself completely, without denying any of its essential qualities as a luxury traveler. Aesthetics, mechanics, electronics and dynamic behavior, this vintage propels the GoldWing into the third millennium. And a stylish bagger (first under the name F6B) always accompanies the legend. The road of the road Leviathan resumes with a success to its measure. Thus, in France, when it was released, 1,066 units were sold in 8 months, making France the second largest seller of Gold in the world after the USA. !

2021 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing test drive

As successful as it is, the Honda likes to treat performance by touch. We are trying the 2021 version, Euro5 and the new services of the mobile palace in the Montpellier region.

Discovery

On a common engine and chassis basis, the new Gold Wing still offers two specific versions. A station wagon and a coupe in a way. The first and best known is called GoldWing Tour, with suitcases and streamlined top case with a large backrest. The other, sleeker, more dynamic variant is the bagger with integrated side cases, simply called GoldWing. On the French market, the GL1800 Gold Wing Tour will only be available in DCT / Airbag version.

The Honda Gold Wing DCT

No major change therefore for this 2021 vintage. Honda continues to adjust its flagship with a few small improvements. Speakers optimized for the audio system and its remote remote control for the passenger on the upper part of the right case. The Tour model benefits from the same care and also gains in storage capacity. Its top case now offers 61 liters (+11) to store two full-face helmets, even bulky, thus repairing the main criticism that was made with the previous model, on a too small carrying capacity compared to its claims of great traveler. A new seat upholstery and a more comfortable passenger backrest improve the two-wheeled salon. In short, enough to embellish your travels.

The Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT

Apart from these developments, nothing new. The opulent roadster displays a chiseled physique. Tense lines and marked contrast between the different elements give it a certain visual sportiness compared to a much rounder story. The general fluidity is obvious. The front is thus dressed in angles and complex surfaces with aerodynamic flats and a double frontal optic, wide, tapered is garnished with LEDs, like all the lighting.

Replacing the large windshield of its predecessor, a slightly more compact screen is electrically adjustable in height and tilt at the left stalk. Ditto for the bagger version. Note that, with the ignition off, the screen goes back down to the low position so as not to harm the compact aesthetics of the road…. ! As an option, a larger screen, adjustable deflectors for the arms and upper body as well as fixed deflectors for the legs and feet will satisfy the most demanding. The whole is framed by profiled mirrors, integrated into the machine. They always include turn signals which are automatically recalled..

LED headlight and electric screen for the Gold Wing 2021

At the top, the sides are indented, forming a flat across the entire width, dominated by a stylish central plate flying over the steering. This console now only receives a few buttons and a multi-directional wheel. Further down, a small central safe, electrically lockable, will accommodate your smartphone to connect it to the machine. In DCT / Airbag version, the inflatable cushion squats this place…. The whole plunges towards a large one-piece seat, always distinguishing the pilot seat from the passenger seat. Under this element, the 21.1 liter tank is always placed at the lowest.

Originally designed to generate a real "calm zone" around the crew by large fairings, the new design changes the approach without denying this comfort. It streamlines shapes and reduces volumes by channeling air flows around the pilot and his passenger.

Less bulky than in the past, the Gold Wing remains a model of comfort

More roomy, the top case of the "Tower" version, internally lit by an LED, modernizes its volumes by widening out upwards. It is removable and a hood then finalizes the stern. With the side cases, the loading capacity is now 121 liters. As an option, it is possible to install a luggage rack on the topcase (but beware of the additional unbalance in height in this case) and specific travel bags are also available. Finally, the stern ends with a large double rear light.

The 61-liter top box can accommodate two integral

The Gold is based on a large section rear aluminum frame, welded at four points to the main frame, double diamond-type aluminum spar, in die-cast aluminum and clearly refined. This structure is coupled with a new double wishbone front suspension separating the damping and guiding functions. It provides geometric stability under braking and reduces the wheelbase.

A powerfully aesthetic mechanical heart, the 1,833 cm3 (73 x 73 mm) flat 6-cylinder block has a single camshaft driving its 24 valves. This explosion-proof cathedral releases 170 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm and 125 hp at 5,500 revolutions / minute. Of course, the throttle grip is under electronic control. Ride by Wire type, it allows the motor response to be adjusted in 4 modes (Tour, Sprot, Econ and Rain). These modulations also adjust damping, torque control and DCBS (double coupled ABS) braking. Combined with the DCT double-clutch transmission, a stop & start system and hill start assist optimize daily driving comfort.

1.833cc inline 6-cylinder upgrades to Euro 5

A choice of two transmissions is offered for the GL1800 GoldWing. The manual gearbox has a cam assisted slip clutch. The resistance to the lever is reduced by about 20% while the gear changes are carried out even more smoothly. This new assistance system also improves downshifting. On this mechanical version, the reverse system is identical to that used by the old Gold Wing, using the starter as the driving force..

Perhaps the essential equipment for this machine, the double-clutch DCT transmission clearly enhances the muffled operation of the super GT. Third iteration of this technology, the gearbox features 7 gears in order to best cover all ranges of use in long-distance tourism. And also meet a larger template. As a reminder, the DCT system uses two separate clutches; the first intervening during starting and on odd gear ratios (1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th), the second on even gears (2nd, 4th and 6th). In order, here again, to gain in compactness, the shafts of these 2 clutches are arranged concentrically. Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When changing gear, the system already preselects the next gear on the "inactive" clutch. The "active" clutch is then disengaged while, simultaneously, the other is engaged.

The DCT box has 7 gears including a reverse gear

Also, a start & stop system equips the Gold Wing 2018. At a red light, the automatic Idling Stop cut-off system engaged, the engine stops automatically after three seconds and restarts instantly at the slightest action on the throttle. In order to suddenly smooth, the TBW electronic throttle system conditions a gradual opening of the throttle valve. The automatic cut-off system can be activated or deactivated from a control placed on the right handlebar. Also, in order to facilitate hill starts, the new manual gearbox as well as the DCT version adopt the hill start assist system HSA (Hill Start Assist).

The ride-by-wire accelerator is accompanied by a start & stop

Column angle of 30.5 °, wheelbase of 1695 mm, these values ​​demonstrate a desire for stability. A patented transverse steering bar connects the handlebars to the front axle by connecting rods. The ProArm swingarm transmits the force of the boxer 6 to the rear wheel by bevel gear. The hydraulic damping is electrically adjustable according to the driving mode chosen by the pilot. "Stepper" motors housed in the front and rear suspension units control the flow of oil, adjusting the damping force to the driving conditions. The spring preload is also electrically adjustable; the system is intuitive rather than purely digital with four different adjustment modes, depending on the load and regardless of the driving modes: pilot alone, pilot with luggage, pilot and passenger, pilot and passenger with luggage. The settings are displayed on the central screen and can be configured on the handlebars.

To stop the Gold Wing’s flight, a dual D-CBS combined braking system distributes the braking power between the wheels. The two front 320mm discs are clamped by radial-mounted 6-piston calipers while, on the other hand, a 3-piston caliper attacks a 316mm disc. In aluminum with five split spokes, the 18-inch front rim receives a 130×70 envelope and its 16-unit counterpart a 200×50 tire..

Although lighter, the Gold Wings still claim 367 and 390 kg

Finally, let us recall the weight reduction of many elements, engine, chassis, ABS…. Depending on the version chosen, up to nearly 48 kg have been saved compared to the generation before 2018. The 2021 model displays 367 kg ready to go in bagger version and 390 kg for the "Tour" version (379 with the mechanical gearbox). ). As standard, the central stand easily parks the machine.

In the saddle

No noticeable change on board, apart from a much nicer saddle covering, such as high quality micro-fiber. The driver’s seat height of 745 mm is accompanied by a reduced leg arch, optimizing accessibility. At the end of the seat, a short lumbar support secures the driver. Ideal, natural, the bending of the legs calls for no comment, even for the tallest.

The seat is placed at 745 mm for the pilot

At the top of the cockpit, a new retractable wind deflector allows an air flow to be directed towards the pilot when the bubble is raised. The large cockpit elegantly combines a large TFT screen with two analogue dials (tachometer and rev counter). Surrounded by a large brushed metal ring, they testify to a great aesthetic refinement. Backlit indexes, perfectly legible indications and discreet but stylish hands add an "artisanal" finish to the Japanese flagship. Everything is illuminated by dimmable diodes.

At the ends, two LCD windows group together the usual information: gear indicator light, fuel and oil temperature gauge, odometer, partial double, remaining range, average and instantaneous consumption, average speed, tire pressure, etc..

TFT screen, analog dials, central console … the cockpit is very complete

Placed in a central position, the 7-inch TFT active matrix color display automatically adjusts its brightness according to ambient conditions; but the pilot can also choose between 8 different levels. It consolidates information from audio and navigation systems as well as less common machine interface settings. All the functions are adjustable by controls associated with the left and right stalk switches and / or on the central console.

Completely new, backlit, they are intuitive and more compact. Particularly neat, the pushers are easy to handle and their operation is very high quality. However, the whole requires a "learning of the fingers" to use them without taking your eyes off the road. In addition, the multi-directional group of the left handle is redundant with that of the center console. However, when stationary, we may prefer the latter, which is more easily gripped. Remarkably intuitive, the general ergonomics like that of the digital interface are pleasant and simple.

Commodos are more compact and backlit

We still regret several things about this evolution of the Japanese super-road. Firstly, the lack of certain equipment, starting with an adaptive cruise control and an IMU (inertial unit). The latter means the absence of adaptive lights, ABS and anti-skid system taking into account the inclination when cornering … Also, no electrically retractable mirrors (manual only).

In the city

Incomparable, the ample and hoarse growl of the flat 6 Honda is an ode to the marvelous mechanics. Its smoothness is more sonorous from mid-revs and sporty on the last range of the tachometer. The air box also amplifies this sensation of titanic breathing. In DCT version, the gearbox ensures rapid and almost imperceptible gear changes. With the manual gearbox, the selection is also very smooth and precise. But we quickly realize the interest of automation on such a machine. It clearly amplifies comfort and serenity on board. Obviously, the super GT is heading to the eye. Rigid, balanced, it shows a certain ease in moving in an urban environment.

The DCT box clearly facilitates urban evolutions

Exceptionally, the availability of the block allows to evolve in agglomeration on the 6th gear. However, this smoothness is undermined by the auto-start, especially in Sport mode. More rigid, the double wishbone and return rods, associated with a more open geometry weigh down the steering a little. Steering requires a little effort during very tight maneuvers. It also "falls" more at very low speed. The pneumatic mounting in 200 mm does not play in favor of the novelty at this level either..

The 6-cylinder shows great flexibility

The new Gold Wing DCT also offers a "maneuver" mode which allows it to travel at a speed of 1.8 km / h in forward gear and 1.2 km / h in reverse. This function is accessible by a dedicated control on the left stalk. During activation, it is the double clutch gearbox that is requested. The first then drives forward, the second allows to reverse. This configuration ensures much more smoothness and precision and frees the pilot from the moan of the old electric motor which formerly provided only reverse gear. We quickly appreciate this feature during U-turns or other parking maneuvers. Finally, wide and clear, the mirrors return an excellent rear-view image and are completely free of vibration, whatever the look..

Lighter, the bagger is even more comfortable in town

Less heavy and even more balanced, the bagger is more at ease in the city. On his handlebars, we like to play villainous dragsters to the sound of his exhausts. And its clean line makes it a remarkable limousine on the boulevards. Of course, these long-haul vessels are a bit cramped between the walls…. Their dynamic dimensions and capacities call to seek the horizon.

Motorway and expressways

Displaying exemplary stability, the Golds threw themselves on the priced asphalt. We quickly engage the regulator and…. we are enthusiastic about the calm on board. This model is really out of the ordinary. No vibration, flawless heading. Like a regular ship, the road crosses off in peace. The audio system is always satisfactory up to 110 km / h. Beyond that, aerodynamic noise is too much of a nuisance.

Stability is never compromised at high speed

At the legal motorway, the ample mechanical buzzes at 2,700 rpm. Always available, the block is appreciated more in automatic transmission, relaunching the crew with ease at any speed. Less demonstrative in manual gearbox, the too long staging of the selection in 6 ° requires entering a report if you want more enthusiasm. At 150 km / h, the flat 6 took only 500 laps…. Nothing disturbs the balance of the winged long haul.

Wind protection could still improve

However, the protection of post-2018 models still remains a point of contrition. It is laterally that we would like a little more defection. The cold wind, or even a little water in the event of heavy rain, is sure to come on board. At the level of the hands, the sides of the pilot and the external parts of the legs, the cold is more sensitive. Certainly, additional elements compensate for this.
Imperial on long routes, will check the Gold provisions again on a more changeable route.

Departmental

While Tour mode is a good compromise between dynamism and comfort, Eco mode allows even more softness on board. Bagger or Tour, the Golds take them at full speed in the various meandering curves. Certainly, the ground clearance is to be taken into account to capture its rhythm. With such machines, the limit of passage hardly supports shameless transgression. After the footrest, it is the crankcase slider that rubs. And it’s already worse for the front grip…. No need to play daredevils, the endless vigor of the flat 6 pushes more to take advantage of the couple. Here again, the DCT transmission is a real advantage for the dynamism and serenity of evolutions..

The flagship can be taken easily on winding roads despite limited ground clearance

We thus benefit fully from all the qualities of the Honda. Strength and softness in the same balanced setting. These are the Golds who roam the countryside at full speed, carried away by the velvety breadth of their block. Precise and on target at all times, the machines move efficiently, regardless of the quality of the bitumen. While the bagger still benefits from less weight, the Tour version is in no way unworthy. Engaged Sport mode, changes are always surprisingly dynamic. The 170 Nm of torque take the crew without strain at any speed. In addition, the power curve comes perfectly in relay of the fore motor. Maintained by the DCT box on a high engine range, the unit reveals ever better health up to the red zone (6,000 rpm). Something to slip away, to the vibrating sound of the mechanics or the sound system. Light pressure on the handlebars causes the roadways to lean out of the corner. We catch the rope point in a natural way and the relaunch heats the rubber of the Dunlop D243 and sounds the flat. A mechanical opera is at work, a symphony for pistons, valves, crankshaft and cardan.

The 170 Nm of torque of the engine is a treat on the occasions

Perfectly decelerated, the Golds safely allow a frenzied rhythm. Assisted braking works wonders on these machines, stopping hyper-GTs with authority. The piloted suspensions easily cash the mass transfers and the motorcycles keep their plate. Absorbing all the defects of the bitumen with equal efficiency, the GL 1800 is endowed with one of the best behavior and equipment at this level of the range..

Part-cycle

The very rigid assembly of the chassis (frame, swing arm, triangulated fork) controls the chassis when the motorcycle is under stress. Very flexible in pilot mode alone, the suspension deserves to be more preloaded by a value. As for the cardan transmission, its smoothness matches that of the gearbox and the engine..

The Gold is well served by its cycle part and largely adjustable suspensions

Braking

Perfectly suited to the machine, the D-CBS system often means that only the brake pedal can be used, combined with calipers. And, when you also grab the lever, the decelerations impress with power and control. Actuated alone, it also controls the rear element, optimizing braking. Likewise, when cornering, the coupled rear brake makes it possible to refine the transition even more precisely. ABS, perfectly calibrated, adds to the feeling of safety and the machine does not dive under braking.

Combined braking is powerful and precise

Comfort / Duo

Less superlative, the protection of the pilot slows down a little at certain levels, with the benefit of redefined aerodynamics and a more acceptable physical size. In addition, the new screen greatly improves the comfort aspect of the crew and in particular the passenger. The latter now benefits from an optimized tilt backrest guaranteeing even better comfort. Tested and approved. Superlative, the welcome on board the crew is truly unrivaled. Finally, the additional space in the top-box usefully compensates for the excessively drastic reduction in its volume in 2018.

The new saddles offer a real gain in comfort

Consumption

During our 200 km test, the average fuel consumption was 6.5 liters per 100 km, at a very good pace. With a more flexible control, the 21.1 liters of capacity of the canister can therefore take you to more than 300 km from your home without forcing.

Video test of the Gold Wing

Conclusion

Without equal, the Honda Gold Wings take care of their top-of-the-range services. More welcoming in 2021 (seats, top-box capacity), they are strengthening their leadership. Their mechanical pleasure carried by a rigid frame and a rigorous cycle part make it an efficient and safe travel ship..

Note that the bagger version does not have torque control, electric suspension adjustment, or heated seats, but now receives the DCT box. In fact, its price increases (+ € 1,900) or € 27,899. The Gold Wing Tour charges € 33,999 and the Gold Wing Tour DCT € 36,999.

The Honda Gold Wing Tour mech, standard DCT and Tour DCT

Praised in our country (10% Tour in mechanical gearbox, 20% in bagger and 70% in Tour DCT airbag), the Gold enhances its legend and refines its myth. Enough to take your ticket to excellence.

Strong points

• Sleek aesthetics
• Technological equipment
• General ergonomics
• Character and availability of flat 6
• Triangulated fork
• Fast and precise DCT box
• Electronic
• On-road sound
• Comfort and protection of the bubble
• Increased capacity (top-box)

Weak points

• Neutrality at very low speed
  Leg and side protection
  Autostart too sudden
  Lack of traction control on bagger
  Lack of electronic suspensions on bagger
  Lack of heated saddles on bagger

The 2021 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing DCT technical sheet

Test conditions

• Itinerary :
• Motorcycle mileage: km
• Problem encountered: ras

Test equipment

• Modular helmet Dexter Adron Carbon Evo
• DXR Sparker Jacket
• DXR Curbstones Gloves
• DCR Santa Cruz sneakers
• Vanucci jeans

Related articles

• Honda GL1800 GoldWing test

  Testing of DCT and mechanical gearbox versions After five years of waiting, the Honda road flagship is completely reinventing itself. Aesthetics,…

• 2012 Honda Goldwing GL 1800 motorcycle test

  Majestic Asphalt Diva. Icon of road machines, imposing and luxurious, Honda carves out its generous muse with small touches. Thus, 2012 will certainly…

• Honda CTX 1300 test

  GT-Cruiser of the 3rd type The winged builder keeps up his ideas and keeps revisiting the contemporary bagger style. After the F6B and very soon F6C,…

• Honda GL 1000 GoldWing test

  Flatteries of flat Appeared forty years ago (already!), The Honda 1000 GoldWing was the first behemoth produced in large series. A limousine on two…

• Honda NC 700 X motorcycle test

  Transgenic camel Discovered at the Milan Motor Show, the Honda range is enriched with a new range of 3 midsize machines, available on the same chassis…

• BMW R 1200 RT motorcycle test

  The way of Reason Teutonne Without going back to the genesis of the 30-year-old RT (Reise-Tourer) lineage, this road model sees its modern lineage dating…

• Honda CBR 600 RR motorcycle test

  1700 km test The CBR 600 RR is the Honda hypersport, the ultimate weapon of the Hamamatsu firm, whose lineage with the RC211V is evident. The 2010…

• Honda Crosstourer 1200 test

  The migratory meaning The spirit of adventure certainly blows through the 2012 motorcycle production. Indeed, no less than three new maxi-trails come to…

• 2012 Honda VFR 1200 F test

  Road bike 173 horses Presented in early 2010 as the synthesis of Honda know-how, both mechanically, qualitatively and technologically, the VFR 1200 did…

• Honda Varadero 1000 XLV motorcycle test

  Maxi-Trail with a road vocation The Honda XL 1000 V Varadero, which appeared in 1998, is the heir to the famous Africa Twin … but the manufacturer has…