Honda Gold Wing GL1800 Redefined Luxury Motorcycling
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Honda’s Gold Wing redefined luxury touring on two wheels. It provided unrivaled power, comfort, and reliability. To this day, there isn’t another motorcycle that does what the Gold Wing does. A rare 30th Anniversary Edition of Honda’s US-built flagship machine was recently listed on eBay.
Gold Standard
The prototype Gold Wing appeared in 1972 and went into production in 1975. Honda boldly dubbed it “the ultimate motorcycle.” America quickly took the big Japanese touring cruiser to its heart. In 1977, the Gold Wing Road Riders Association was founded in Arizona. In 1979, Honda opened a $50-million production facility in Marysville, Ohio - opens in new window or tab., where this Gold Wing was built.
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US production ended in 2009. The 2010 models were the last US-made Gold Wings before production switched back to Japan.
Spirited Performance
The Gold Wing’s 118 horsepower and impressive 123-pound-feet of peak torque result in spirited performance. This despite the fact that it weighs more than most contemporary Harley-Davidsons - opens in new window or tab., an asphalt-crushing 900 pounds with a full tank of gas.
The smoothness, durability, and reliability of its fuel-injected 1,800-cc flat-six engine and shaft drive (no chain) earned the Gold Wing its sterling reputation. The cashmere-smooth driveline is complemented with class-leading build quality and equipment like ABS and even an electric reverse gear.
Despite their weight, the 2005 Gold Wings are surprisingly good in turns. Mounting the engine low in the frame gives it a low center of gravity. This, allied with some fine suspension and chassis engineering, provides fine handling characteristics.
Mile Muncher
A recorded mileage north of 80,000 normally indicates that a motorcycle’s best days might be behind it. That’s not the case for Hondas like this gleaming example in Jacksonville, Fla.
Mileages of 250,000 are not uncommon with these superbly engineered, under-stressed motorcycles. Diligent servicing can result in closer to 400,000 miles. This one boasts a complete maintenance record. It’s also in superb cosmetic condition.
Anniversary Features
This Pearl Yellow GL1800 was built to celebrate the Gold Wing’s 30th anniversary in 2005. As such, it has some special features:
- 30th Anniversary “opening ceremony” on LCD
- 30th Anniversary color-coded key
- 30th Anniversary dash cover badge
- 30th Anniversary color-coded badging on fairing and trunk
- Carbon fiber seat pattern (only on Pearl Yellow and Metallic Silver examples)
With recent attention to the brakes - opens in new window or tab. and tires - opens in new window or tab. and a new battery - opens in new window or tab., this Gold Wing is ready to roll for at least another 80,000 miles.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.