Flagship: 2023 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing Tour!

Thomas Wachsmuth September 28, 2022 Honda, Motorcycle / Scooter News & Tuning

Reading time 14 Min.

The GL1800 Gold Wing, Honda's luxury tourer with a six-cylinder boxer engine, double-link front wheel suspension and single-sided swingarm with cardan drive, has been comprehensively modernized since 2018 and is amazingly easy to handle. Factory equipment includes Honda's unique DCT dual-clutch transmission, sound and onboard navigation system, electric windshield, heated grips, four riding modes, 7-inch TFT display, cruise control, smart key, side cases, dual CBS combo brakes with ABS, forward/ Reverse maneuvering assistance, safety-enhancing HSTC traction control, hill start assist and extensive smartphone connectivity. New for the 2023 vintage are an upgraded air pressure control system and the new color Iridium Gray Metallic/Mat Pearl Morion Black including red engine detailing.

Honda GL1800 Gold Wing Tour

The success story of the Gold Wing goes back to 1975, when the first generation with a 1000 four-cylinder boxer enriched the market. Over the decades and several model generations, the machine later equipped with an 1800 six-cylinder boxer became the benchmark for the highest demands in the super tourer segment. The legendary motorcycle has long been considered an icon and is the undisputed first choice for everyone who values luxury, quality and comfort.

Changes in the motorcycle market and demographic developments meant that Honda embarked on a new path for the Gold Wing in order to increasingly arouse interest in middle-aged customers. The radically modernized 2018 GL1800 Gold Wing with aluminum bridge frame, innovative front wheel suspension and (initially optional) DCT dual-clutch transmission shines with its four-valve six-cylinder engine, which impresses with its phenomenal smoothness and intoxicating pulling power.

2020 saw improvements in chassis setup and maneuverability at a slow pace. The six-cylinder boxer remained the perfect basis for transporting the driver and front passenger in style. An audio upgrade followed in 2021. Since 2022, the GL1800 Gold Wing has only been available in combination with the 7-speed dual clutch transmission. For the 2023 vintage, the Gold Wing and its sister model, the Gold Wing Tour*, have been upgraded with a new feature in the tire pressure monitoring system. If the air pressure falls below the recommended values, a clearly visible warning message is immediately displayed on the TFT display. There is also a new finish in Iridium Gray Metallic/Mat Pearl Morion Black including red decorative applications on the engine.

Model overview

For the 2018 season, the Gold Wing's engine and chassis were completely redesigned to allow for a more forward seating position and more compact dimensions. The cast aluminum bridge frame is equipped with a double wishbone suspension on the front wheel. Thanks to high rigidity and reduced friction, this construction enables optimized driving stability with convincing suspension comfort at the same time.

The 24-valve six-cylinder shines with opulent power delivery, high torque and exhilarating refinement. The throttle-by-wire throttle control controls four modes for driving: Tour, Sport, Econ and Rain, which in turn also adapt the damping of the suspension on the front and rear wheels accordingly. The D-CBS combi brake (Dual Combined Brake System) also interacts with the selected driving mode. Hill start assist and an automatic start/stop system offer maximum operating comfort and contribute to improved fuel efficiency. The HSTC traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control) makes driving safer because it prevents the rear wheel from slipping and thus losing traction under all circumstances.

The DCT dual clutch transmission, which is now standard equipment on the GL1800 Gold Wing, has 7 gears. This also includes a walking mode maneuvering aid for driving forwards and backwards at walking pace. The GL1800 Gold Wing combines a uniquely majestic feeling, driving pleasure and lush performance with a stylish design. The aerodynamically sophisticated fairing guides the air around the crew, while the electrically height-adjustable screen can be adjusted as desired. The seats offer all-day luxurious comfort for both driver and passenger. The weatherproof loudspeakers of the audio system shine with lively sound quality. The smart key system allows contemporary ease of use. Apple CarPlayTM, Android AutoTM and BluetoothTM expand connectivity via mobile devices. In the 2023 model year, a new safety feature upgrades the tire pressure monitoring system. The brand new paintwork Iridium Gray Metallic/Mat Pearl Morion Black, which also includes red applications on the engine block, provides additional attractiveness.

Styling & equipment

7 inch TFT screen for vehicle data, navigation, audio system and the revised air pressure control system
Design with modern lines and visible engine technology
Electric windshield, adjustable in height and angle

Cruise control as standard
Side cases with 2 x 30 liters volume
Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM for convenient smartphone pairing

LED lighting technology all around and self-resetting indicators
Smartkey function for ignition and storage space locking systems
Two USB Type-C charging sockets

The bodywork of the Gold Wing underlines its finely polished character. Typical qualities are flawless workmanship, the best finish and high-quality materials. The design of the paneling emphasizes the elegant appearance combined with compact proportions and dynamic charisma. The aesthetics merge with technical refinements such as the six-cylinder boxer engine, double wishbone front suspension, single-sided swingarm with Pro-Link deflection and cardan drive, as well as the impressive 6-into-2 exhaust system. The modern design is combined with impressive mechanical and electronic engineering.

The development team aimed for high-end comfort, optimal airflow and the best possible heat management. The fairing elegantly directs the airflow around the rider and passenger to create the effect of a pleasant breeze. The electrically height-adjustable windscreen can be adjusted using a control on the left-hand handlebar switch. The height and angle of the pane can be infinitely varied. Optional accessories include: A larger windshield, adjustable wind deflectors for arms and upper body, and permanently installed deflectors for legs and feet. The driver and front passenger enjoy plenty of freedom of movement. The driver's seat contour is comfortable and ergonomically supports the back muscles. The best ground accessibility is also guaranteed. The front passenger also enjoys maximum seating comfort.

In terms of lighting, LEDs are used all around. In the striking twin headlights, five optical lenses on both sides focus the light from the LEDs. This effect is reminiscent of the sparkle of a jewel in low beam. This impression is reinforced when the high beam is used. The front indicators are integrated into the mirror housing and are self-resetting. Sensors (instead of a simple timer) compare the difference in speed between the front and rear wheels and calculate when the indicators are switched off in a practical manner – for example after turning maneuvers or changing lanes.

When driving with cruise control, the set speed is also displayed in the speedometer. Thanks to the throttle-by-wire throttle grip control, the transition to the desired speed is particularly smooth and supports pleasantly smooth driving behavior, especially when driving uphill. With DCT (in automated mode), cruise control remains activated in the background during braking maneuvers and switches back to cruise control mode after the preselected speed is reached again. The cockpit offers clear, comprehensive information with a speedometer, rev counter, additional information fields and a centrally located TFT screen. Shape and design support readability and suggest a pleasant feeling of depth, while soft LED illumination creates a pleasantly cool ambience.

The 7-inch TFT screen provides information about the audio and navigation system, as well as driving modes, suspension setup and tire pressure. The brightness automatically adapts to the ambient light after one of the 8 lighting levels has been preselected. It is operated using the rotary stick above a keypad on the center console. Above this is the central main switch, which, after activation of the smart key, is used to activate the ignition to start the motorcycle. The steering wheel lock and luggage system lock are also operated with it. Without a smart key, all on-board systems are automatically secured or locked and cannot be operated by unauthorized persons.

Gold Wing owners like to go on nice tours, so the side cases offer two times 30 liters of luggage volume. Inner pockets are optionally available. If the smart key is within reach and active, the cases can be opened at the touch of a button. It can also be unlocked with the ignition switched off by remote control. Opening and closing takes place gently via hydraulic dampers. When the call button of the smart key is pressed and held, the turn signals light up (answer-back function), which makes it easier to recognize. The GL1800 Gold Wing features Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM. Smartphone functions can be used via Bluetooth connection, such as telephony, emails or music. In addition, two USB Type-C sockets are available.

The audio system's two speakers are rainproof, positioned to match the seating position and offer great sound quality with lively presence. The pillion passenger can use his own controls on the top of the right case to control the volume, select the sound source or activate a pre-run function. The integrated navigation system is displayed on the 7-inch TFT screen in the cockpit. The advanced navigation electronics also work if GPS signals are blocked in tunnels. Waypoints and destinations can be changed or redefined at will, even if the vehicle is moving. The tank volume is 21 liters and consumption is 5,5 liters per 100 km, which allows a range of 380 km.

Suspension

Aluminum bridge frame
Double wishbone front suspension and Pro-Arm rear swingarm

ABS and dual CBS composite braking system

The cast aluminum frame accommodates the six-cylinder engine. Weight distribution and structural strength ensure comfortable handling and confidence-inspiring safe driving behavior - at walking speed and on narrow inner-city streets as well as on wide, winding interurban routes. The double wishbone suspension has a positive effect on the driving characteristics, because the front wheel moves less towards the engine block during compression than on the predecessor. For this purpose, the suspension and braking forces act separately from each other. The reduced friction during compression and rebound is an advantage of the design, which results in a finer response of the suspension compared to a telescopic fork. All joints and pivot points are mounted in a complex manner, which contributes to increased precision and optimized suspension comfort.

Steering head angle and trail are 30,5°/109 mm, the wheelbase is 1.695 mm. The 2023 Gold Wing (standard with DCT) weighs 367 kg with a full fuel tank. The dual-CBS combination brake distributes the braking forces between the front and rear wheel, regardless of whether you decelerate with a foot pedal or handbrake. The ABS system works electronically in accordance with the activated driving mode, which further improves safety. The 320 mm double disc brakes at the front have two six-piston calipers. On the rear wheel, three-piston calipers access an internally ventilated brake disc with a diameter of 316 mm. The GL1800 Gold Wing is equipped with a Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm. An integrated cardan shaft transmits the drive power cleanly and efficiently to the rear wheel. Pro-Link linkages allow for progressive suspension response. The lever system is equipped with play-free ball joints, which ensures precise function over the long term.

The damping setup adapts to the selected driving mode. Stepper motors in front and rear shock absorbers move needles to control oil flow and adjust damping force. Four settings from soft to hard are available for the four driving modes. solo driver; solo driver with luggage; rider with passenger; Rider with passenger plus luggage. The respective setting is displayed on the TFT screen. The spring preload on the rear wheel can be adjusted manually.

Motor

Six-cylinder boxer engine with 24 valves.

Throttle By Wire control, four riding modes.
The driving modes also control the damping behavior of the front and rear suspension as well as the dual CBS combination brake system.
Automatic start-stop, ISG starter unit and hill start assist.

The fascination of the Gold Wing is based on the six-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 1.833 cm3, which produces plenty of torque from low revs and spoils riders and passengers alike with its impressive refinement and performance characteristics. Since the model change in 2018, the engine has shined with four-valve technology, less weight (6,2 kg lighter than before) and more compact dimensions. The maximum power of 93 kW (126 hp) is available at 5.500 rpm, the maximum torque is 170 Nm at 4.500 rpm. The bore/stroke values are 73 x 73 mm. The left and right cylinders are offset, as is typical for the boxer design, the offset is 4 mm. The cylinder liners are made of aluminum and the compression is 10,5:1.

The Unicam cylinder heads are each equipped with a camshaft that controls the intake and exhaust valves. The intake valves are actuated by fork rocker arms, the exhaust valves by forked roller rocker arms. The combustion chambers of the four-valve cylinder heads are roof-shaped, and the gas-air mixture is also swirled in a targeted manner as it enters, in order to achieve efficient combustion in line with low fuel consumption. The piston skirts have a molybdenum coating to reduce friction.

With the electronic throttle-by-wire throttle grip control, there are four driving modes to choose from, which determine the engine character and power delivery. The modes also influence the coordination of the safety-enhancing HSTC traction control, the characteristics of the front and rear wheel damping and the function of the dual CBS combination brake system.

TOUR - is the basic driving mode for a balanced ratio of comfort and power. The throttle grip commands are passed on 100 percent to the throttle valve of the injection system. The chassis damping on the front and rear wheels as well as the brake force distribution correspond to a universal standard setting.
SPORT – the engine responds more directly in this mode; the throttle grip commands are passed on directly to the throttle valves of the injection. The sporty acceleration is supported by firmer damper tuning of the suspension and more direct brake response.

ECON – in this driving mode, the focus is on economical consumption and relaxed cruising. The throttle grip commands are passed on less directly to the motor. The setup of the spring element damping and the brake force distribution between the front and rear wheel correspond to standard values.
RAIN – this driving program is designed for wet and rather slippery asphalt. The throttle grip commands are transmitted more smoothly to the throttle bodies. The braking force distribution corresponds to the standard, the damper setup is comfortably designed for moderate gait and smooth response.

Two air inlets, at the front left and right at the rear, cause the intake air to be swirled in a targeted manner, which means that combustion can develop efficiently. The air filter position supports the intake behavior at low speeds, which leads to improved response and optimized passage with only slightly open throttle. A whispering six-cylinder sound and exceptionally smooth running have always been among the strengths of the Gold Wing. The exhaust system, which consists of two expansion chambers plus an additional resonance chamber, delivers an enchantingly turbine-like exhaust note without being aggressive.

The electric starter and alternator are combined into an ISG unit (Integrated Starter Generator). This is possible because the brushless alternator rotor is double-wound and, when the current is introduced in reverse, also acts as an electric starter, resulting in particularly gentle intervention during the starting procedure. The smooth starting process is all the more valuable because the automatic start-stop system switches off the engine after three seconds when it is idling at traffic lights. A quick twist of the throttle is all it takes to get the engine running again without using the electric starter. Here, too, the unusually gentle intervention of the ISG starter unit is pleasantly registered by the driver.

The start-stop system is controlled via the oil pressure in the DCT dual-clutch transmission. In this way, pressure can be built up via the hydraulics so that the driver's wish to drive off - by turning the throttle grip - is directly converted into propulsion. In order to prevent abrupt pull-off processes when using the start-stop system, the throttle valve opens more carefully and with a slight delay in response to the command from the throttle grip. This ensures that starting off with DCT on the Gold Wing runs with the desired smoothness. The start-stop system can be activated or deactivated by the driver as required using a switch on the handlebars.

Starting on a hill requires accelerating, releasing the brake and engaging the clutch at the same time, which can be quite a challenge with heavy bikes. That's why the Gold Wing is equipped with Hill Start Assist. If you stop on an incline and continue to apply the brake lever, the ABS modulator hydraulically activates the rear brake. For starting, even if the brake has been released in the meantime, the rear brake caliper will hold for about 3 seconds to prevent rollback and make the operation safer. Activation of the hill start assist is indicated in the cockpit by a lighted display.

DCT dual clutch transmission

DCT dual-clutch transmission with 7 gears as standard
Quiet and smooth shifting maneuvers without interrupting the train

Slow forward and reverse maneuvering ("walking mode")
The four driving modes also control the respective DCT shift pattern

Honda has already sold more than 200.000 motorcycles with dual clutch transmissions (DCT stands for Dual Clutch Transmission) in Europe. The technology made its debut in the VFR2009F in 1200 and, installed in numerous models, is now in its 14th year of production. The dual-clutch transmission makes driving easier by automatically changing gears. The electronic-hydraulic control also takes care of the metered actuation of the clutch for moving off. That's why there is no clutch lever on DCT Hondas. Simply twisting the throttle after a riding mode is activated is all it takes to set off. The simple operation quickly becomes a pleasant matter of course for users, which they are reluctant to do without.

Technically, the DCT system uses two clutches: one for launch and gears one, three, five (and seven on the Gold Wing), the other for second, fourth and sixth gears. Each clutch is controlled by an electronic-hydraulic circuit. With automated shifting, the system selects the next gear using the currently open clutch. While this closes electronically, the other opens at the same time – so that the newly selected gear can engage without any interruption in traction. The result is smooth, fast gear changes without noticeable shift pauses. There is minimal disruption to rear wheel traction during DCT gear changes, which virtually eliminates machine bucking and pitching. Stalling is also not possible with DCT, since there is no longer a clutch lever to operate. Especially in city traffic, a double-clutch bike is pleasantly effortless and allows the driver to devote his full attention to what is happening on the road.

The DCT double-clutch transmission basically offers two options for operation: Firstly, the AT mode, with which the gear changes are carried out completely automatically at the right time. And secondly, via the manual override (MT) to change gears using the paddles on the left handlebar switch, with thumb and forefinger
The double-clutch transmission is particularly recommended for the Gold Wing because it increases the sovereignty and driving comfort even further. The DCT of the Gold Wing uses seven gears for the first time. With both automated and manual actuation, the system shines with smooth and fast gear changes, with rubber dampers on the shift forks and main shaft also efficiently reducing possible shift noise.

The Gold Wing's DCT is equipped with a walking pace shunting gear. This "walking mode" moves the bike forwards at 1,8 km/h and backwards at 1,2 km/h. The maneuvering aid is also operated using the shift paddles on the left of the handlebars. When walking pace shunting gear is activated, both clutches of the DCT are used. Clutch pack 1 handles reverse movement, clutch pack 2 handles forward movement. Every movement is controlled by the electronics of the Throttle by Wire throttle grip control. Unadapted speeds are excluded, so that maneuvering maneuvers always take place with the required safety.

The double-clutch transmission is also networked with the four driving modes of the Gold Wing. In the TOUR riding mode, clutch engagement and shifting operations are carried out softly and smoothly in AT mode and comparatively early at medium engine speeds. In the SPORT driving mode, the clutch actuation is more direct and the timing for the gear changes is carried out in higher engine speed ranges for sporty driving. The ECON driving mode is linked to particularly soft clutch engagement and earlier gear changes. The RAIN mode in the AT position of the DCT provides early upshifts, smooth clutch engagement and smoothly executed shifts.

Accessories

Honda offers an extensive range of original accessories for the GL1800 Gold Wing for further customization, which leaves nothing to be desired in terms of fit and quality and is convincing in terms of practical aspects and functionality. The parts can be purchased individually or as a package at a reduced price. The Full Option Package for the Gold Wing includes:

LED fog lights
Passenger backrest

luggage rack
main stand
12 volt socket

High windshield
Matte panniers on the left
Matte panniers on the right

inner bag side case (2 pieces)

More accessories:

LED lighting package

Chrome Porter
Organizer for top case
Top case inner pocket

side case mats
Top case mat
High windshield

Wind deflector top and bottom
Comfort footpegs
driver backrest

Armrests for the passenger
Long handles for the passenger
DCT shift pedal

Rear speaker set
Amplifier and speaker set
Passenger audio control panel

Front brake caliper cover
Side stand chrome
Rim stickers

Aux port
Folding garage for models with/without top case
Motorbike cover for model with top case

Technical data

MOTOR
Type	Liquid-cooled, 24-stroke, SOHC, Unicam, flat-six, XNUMX-valve
Capacity	1.833 cm³
Valves per cylinder	4
Bore x stroke	73 x 73 mm
compression	10,5:1
Maximum power	126 PS (93 kW) at 5.500 RPM
Max. Torque	170 Nm at 4.500 rpm
Engine oil quantity	5,6 liters (with DCT)
Standing noise	88 dB (A)
CO₂ Emissions	127 g / km
FUEL SYSTEM
mixture preparation	PGM-FI Electronic Fuel Injection
Throttle valve Ø	50 mm
Air Filter	Paper-viscose filter element
Tankinhalt	21 liters
Consumption**	5,5 liters per 100km
ELECTRICS
Starter	Integrated starter/generator system (ISG)
Battery	12 volts / 20 Ah
Alternator power	12 volts / 120 amps
POWER TRANSFER
Clutch	Double clutch, electronically-hydraulically controlled, 2 sets of discs in an oil bath
Transmission	7 gears plus shunting function forwards and backwards
Primary translation	1,795 (79/44)
Gear steps	(DCT) 1^st: 2,167 / 2^nd: 1,696 / 3^rd: 1,304 / 4^th: 1,038 / 5^th: 0,821 / 6^th: 0,667 / 7^th: 0,522 / Reverse: 1,190
Final translation	Transmission output 0,972 / rear wheel 2,615
rear-wheel drive	propeller shaft
FRAME
frame	Cast aluminum bridge frame
Dimensions (LxWxH)	2.475 x 925 x 1.340 mm
wheelbase	1.695 mm
Steering head angle	30.5°
trailing	109 mm
turning circle	3,4 meters
seat height	745 mm
ground clearance	130 mm
Weight with a full tank	367 kg (with DCT)
SUSPENSIONS
your Front Wheel.	Double wishbone front suspension
behind	Single swingarm, Pro-Link suspension
BIKES
Tire dimension in front	130 / 70-R18
Rear tire dimension	200 / 55-R16
Rim in front	18 x MT3.5
Rim at the back	16 x MT6.0
BRAKES
ABS	Dual CBS with ABS
your Front Wheel.	Double discs 320 mm Ø, hydraulically operated, 6-piston calipers, floating discs, sintered metal pads
behind	An internally ventilated disc, 316 mm Ø, 3-piston caliper, sintered metal pads

Flagship: 2023 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing Tour!

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