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What is a Gold Wing® Motorcycle?

Lori Kilchermann
Lori Kilchermann

A Gold Wing® motorcycle is a motorcycle model manufactured by the Honda Motorcycle Company. It is the company's top-of-the-line motorcycle and is known as a touring bike. The Gold Wing® motorcycle is equipped with creature comforts such as cruise control, air-adjustable suspension, stereo, Global Positioning System components, saddle bags, intercom systems and more. The Gold Wing® motorcycle is powered by a massive six-cylinder engine, which makes more than enough power to propel this machine at highway speeds. It even has a reverse gear optionally available to aid the rider in backing out of a parking space.

The Gold Wing® has been in Honda's motorcycle lineup since debuting in Germany in October1974. There have been several models since the original GL 1000, including the 1100, 1200, 1500 and 1800 GL models.

Man with hands on his hips
Man with hands on his hips

By most critics standards, Honda has been creating powerful motorcycles for decades. In 1983, the Honda V-65 Magna was the world's fastest production motorcycle. This was the motorcycle that started the push to ban the so-called super bikes. Honda has taken its know-how to luxurious levels with the Gold Wing® motorcycle. Its flat six-cylinder engine is one of the largest available in any motorcycle. It makes this motorcycle a strong bike to cover mountainous terrain but still has a sporty handling system that allows for the ability to maneuver through tight traffic.

All of this horsepower is controlled and tame. The engine runs smoothly with little vibration being passed on to the rider. The on-board stereo system can be heard by the rider and passenger at highway speed and conversation can be heard due in part to the extremely quiet exhaust system. The Gold Wing® motorcycle uses a drive-shaft final drive that also is said to contribute to the smooth and comfortable ride. The rubber engine mounts absorb the bothersome engine vibration, which is common in a bike of this size.

The Gold Wing® motorcycle can be equipped to tow a small trailer. This allows the rider and passenger to carry more gear when an extended ride has been planned. There are also small pop-up campers that can be pulled behind a Gold Wing® motorcycle. This makes overnight camping trips as well as cross country rides possible. Gold Wing® clubs plan trips worldwide and in nearly every country on almost every continent in the world.

When planning a new motorcycle purchase, check the availability of the Gold Wing® motorcycle. Be sure to follow all safety procedures and all rules of operation.

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