Supertourer with a stylish paintwork: the Honda Gold Wing 2022!

Reading time 14 Min.

For the year 2022, the GL1800 Gold Wing with the six-cylinder boxer engine will be offered exclusively with a DCT dual clutch transmission with seven gears and in the new color Mat Jeans Blue Metallic. Since 2018, the legendary Gold Wing has been comprehensively modernized, easier to drive and modernly equipped. In the chassis with double wishbone suspension and cardan single-sided swing arm, the damper characteristics can be adjusted electrically, as is the spring preload on the rear wheel damper. Contemporary features include electronic throttle, four driving modes, HSTC traction control and hill start assist. Packing bags, smart key system, electrically adjustable windshield and audio updates complete the equipment.

Content:

1. Introduction
2. Model overview
3. Equipment features
4. Technical data

1. Introduction

The success story of the Gold Wing goes back to 1975, when the first generation of the 1000cc four-cylinder boxer enriched the market. Over the decades and further model generations, the machine later equipped with an 1800 six-cylinder boxer became the epitome of use on long journeys. The legendary motorcycle has long been an icon and benchmark in the touring segment and is the undisputed first choice for everyone who values ​​luxury, quality and comfort.

Changes in the motorcycle market as well as demographic developments led Honda to embark on a new path for further development for the Gold Wing. The completely modernized 2018 GL1800 Gold Wing with aluminum bridge frame, innovative front suspension and optional DCT dual clutch transmission shone with an intoxicating six-cylinder that pampers both driver and front passenger with phenomenal smoothness and intoxicating pulling power.

In 2020, improvements in the chassis setup and maneuverability at slow speeds followed. In combination with the six-cylinder boxer and its unique torque and power output, the GL1800 Gold Wing remained the perfect basis for stylishly transporting the driver and front passenger. Features such as the smart key system and Bluetooth connectivity also enhanced the equipment.

The Gold Wing remains Honda's touring flagship and offers complete equipment that makes long trips a pleasure. All in all, the model is more compact, lighter and more agile - but remains a first-class luxury driving machine. This means that the Gold Wing also appeals to younger generations of drivers who were not necessarily suitable for earlier generations. In 2022 the Honda GL1800 Gold Wing with the six-cylinder boxer engine will be offered exclusively with a DCT dual clutch transmission with seven gears and in the new color Mat Jeans Blue Metallic.

2. Model overview

For the 2018 season, the engine and chassis of the Gold Wing were completely redesigned and coordinated to enable a more forward seating position and a more compact motorcycle. The aluminum support frame is provided with a double wishbone front suspension. Thanks to its higher stiffness and reduced friction, this construction offers optimized front wheel stability with impressive damping behavior.

The 24-valve six-cylinder engine shines with sheer size, opulent power, high torque and immense power delivery. With the electronic throttle (Throttle By Wire), four modes can be selected for driving: Tour, Sport, Econ and Rain. The Dual Combined Brake System (D-CBS) interacts with the selected driving mode. Hill Start Assist (HSA) and an automatic start / stop system offer maximum operating convenience and contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Thanks to the HSTC traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control), there is always enough traction on the rear wheel, which makes driving even safer.

The standard DCT dual clutch transmission has 7 gears. The clutch engagement feeling, shift speed, speed ranges or points for upshifting and downshifting are specially tailored to the respective driving mode in the DCT transmission. It also includes a maneuvering aid for slow driving forwards and backwards ("walking mode"). A variant of the GL1800 Gold Wing with conventional gear will no longer be offered in 2022.

The Gold Wing combines a feeling of freedom, pure driving pleasure and performance with a stylish design. The aerodynamically efficient cladding guides the air around the crew, while the electrically height-adjustable window can be adjusted as desired. The seats offer all-day comfort for both driver and front passenger. The weatherproof speakers shine with lively sound quality. Functions such as operation via Smart Key, Apple CarPlay ™, Android Auto ™ and Bluetooth ™ offer contemporary convenience and enable connectivity with mobile devices. The 2022 vintage of the GL1800 Gold Wing is only available in the new color Mat Jeans Blue Metallic.

3. Features

3.1 Styling & equipment

• Modern design with tight lines and visible engine technology
• Electric windshield, adjustable in height and angle
• Convincing cruise control function via Throttle By Wire 
• Integrated side cases (with 2 x 30 liter volume) for weekend tours
• 7 inch TFT screen for vehicle data, navigation and audio system
• Apple CarPlay ™ and Android Auto ™ for convenient smartphone coupling
• LED lighting technology all around, including self-resetting turn signals
• Smart key function for ignition and storage space locking systems
• 2 USB Type-C charging sockets

The bodywork of the Gold Wing underlines its finely honed character. The silhouette combines comfort and the dynamic potential of the engine and chassis. Typical Gold Wing qualities are flawless workmanship, the best finish and high-quality materials. The design of the front cladding emphasizes the elegant visual appearance in connection with compact proportions and dynamic charisma. The aesthetics of the vehicle merge with technical refinements such as the six-cylinder boxer engine, the double wishbone front suspension, the single-sided swing arm with cardan drive and the exhaust system. The modern design is combined with impressive engineering from the fields of mechanics and electronics.

The Gold Wing development team aimed at comfort, heat management and, above all, optimal airflow. The fairing elegantly directs the wind around the driver and passenger to create the effect of a pleasant breeze. An electrically height-adjustable windscreen can be adjusted using a control element on the left end of the handlebar. The height and angle of the disc are infinitely adjustable. The following optional accessories are available: an even larger windshield, an adjustable deflector for arms and upper body and permanently installed deflectors for legs and feet. The driver and front passenger sit separately from one another with plenty of freedom of movement. The contour of the driver's seat is comfortable and ergonomically supports the back muscles. Practical ground accessibility is also guaranteed. The front passenger is also extremely comfortable. In addition, details such as the correct inclination of the passenger backrest also support comfort.

In terms of lighting technology, LEDs are used all around. In the lower part of the headlight, five optical lenses focus the light from the light-emitting diodes on both sides. Even with the low beam, this effect is reminiscent of the sparkle of a jewel. This impression is reinforced when the high beam is used. The front indicators are integrated in the mirror housings and are self-resetting. Sensors compare the speed difference between the front and rear wheels and calculate when the self-resetting indicators can be switched off depending on the driving situation.

While driving, the speed set with the handlebar switch for the cruise control is displayed in the lower left area of ​​the speedometer. Thanks to the throttle-by-wire control, the transition to the selected speed is carried out particularly smoothly. This results in a pleasantly quiet driving behavior, especially when driving uphill. With DCT (in AT mode), the cruise control remains activated in the background during braking maneuvers and switches back to the cruise control mode once the preselected speed has been reached again.

The cockpit is luxuriously equipped and offers the driver a comprehensive range of information. The display uses moderate color tones that improve readability. Conical openings and covers for the instruments suggest a pleasant feeling of depth. All displays are elegantly framed with metallic rings, the soft LED illumination creates a pleasant, cool ambience.

The display brightness automatically adapts to the ambient light after one of the 8 lighting levels has been preselected. The tire pressure is also displayed numerically. The Gold Wing emblem is placed on the center console. This is not only an eye-catcher, but also serves to start up the motorcycle after the smartkey has been activated. This also applies to the ignition, steering wheel lock unlocking, infotainment system and luggage system locking. Without a smart key, all on-board systems are automatically secured or locked and cannot be operated by unauthorized persons.

Gold Wing owners usually go on short or 2 to 3-day tours, so that the volume of the integrated side cases with a total of 60 liters should be sufficient. Inner pockets are optionally available. If the smartkey is within reach, the cases can be opened at the touch of a button, and they can be unlocked by remote control. The unlock button on the smartkey gives the passenger instant access. It is opened and closed gently via hydraulic dampers. If the call button on the remote control is pressed and held, the blinkers light up, which makes it easier to identify in crowded places.

The Gold Wing is compatible with Apple CarPlay ™ and Android Auto ™. In this way, the driver can manage information and content on his smartphone, such as telephone numbers or music playlists. The machine also has Bluetooth ™. There are also two USB Type-C sockets available. The speakers of the audio system are rainproof, positioned to match the seating position and offer excellent sound quality with a lively presence. The passenger can use their own control elements on the top of the right case to influence and regulate the volume, select the sound source or activate a forward function.

The navigation system is displayed on the 7-inch color display in the cockpit. The advanced control electronics also work if GPS signals are shielded in tunnels. Waypoints can be removed while driving, and destinations can also be changed or redefined when the vehicle is moving. The map material also offers the option of entering up to 99 different waypoints for detailed travel planning. The capacity of the fuel tank is 21 liters with a fuel consumption of 5,5 l / 100 km.

3.2 chassis

• Brand new aluminum bridge frame that allows the engine and driver to be in an advanced position
• Double wishbone front suspension and Pro-Arm rear swing arm
• ABS and dual CBS composite braking system

The cast aluminum frame accommodates the modern six-cylinder engine. Weight distribution and structural strength have been optimized in all areas to ensure comfortable handling and confidence-inspiring, safe driving behavior - at walking pace and on narrow inner-city streets as well as on endless rural roads. The dynamic behavior of the double wishbone suspension also has a positive effect on the driving characteristics, because the front wheel moves less in the direction of the engine block during compression than on the previous model. In addition, the suspension and braking forces act separately from one another.

The reduced friction during compression and rebound is a further advantage of the double wishbone suspension, which results in a finer response behavior of the suspension compared to a conventional telescopic fork. All joints and articulation points of the steering as well as the suspension are elaborately supported, which contributes to increased precision as well as further reduced friction and optimized suspension comfort. The steering head angle and caster are 30,5 ° / 109 mm, the wheelbase measures 1.695 mm. The 2022 Gold Wing (with DCT as standard) weighs 367 kg fully fueled ready to drive.

The Dual Combined Brake System (D-CBS) distributes the braking forces optimally between the front and rear wheels. The ABS braking system works electronically in accordance with the activated driving mode, which further improves safety. The front double disc brake system measures 320 mm and has six-piston calipers, while a 316 mm disc and three-piston brake caliper are used on the rear wheel.

The GL1800 Gold Wing is equipped with a Pro Arm single-sided swing arm. The Pro-Link deflection system enables a progressive response of the suspension and improves comfort. The levers are equipped with backlash-free ball joints, which helps to improve the exact function and smooth response. Servomotors inside the shock absorbers ensure that the damping characteristics are also determined by the selected driving mode. The spring preload on the rear wheel can be adjusted manually.

3.3 Engine

• 1,8 liter six-cylinder boxer engine with four-valve technology
• Electronic throttle by wire and four driving modes for tailor-made power output
• The selected driving mode influences the coordination of the traction control, the suspension and damping coordination as well as the braking system
• With automatic start-stop, ISG alternator / electric starter and hill start aid

The fascination of the Gold Wing is based on the smooth six-cylinder boxer engine, which produces plenty of torque from low revs and pampers both driver and passenger with an inspiring smoothness and performance characteristics. Since the model revision in 2018, the 1,8-liter engine with four-valve technology has shone with noticeably less weight (6,2 kg lighter than before) and significantly more compact dimensions.

The maximum output of 93 kW (126 PS) is at 5.500 revolutions per minute, the maximum torque is 170 Nm at 4.500 tours. The values ​​for bore / stroke are 73 mm x 73 mm. The left and right cylinders are typically staggered for the boxer design, the offset is 4 mm. The cylinder liners are made of aluminum, the compression is 10,5: 1.

The Unicam cylinder heads are each equipped with a camshaft that controls both the intake and exhaust valves. The inlet valves are operated via fork rocker arms, the outlet valves via forked roller rocker arms. The modern combustion chambers of the four-valve cylinder heads are designed in the shape of a roof, the gas-air mixture is also swirled in a targeted manner upon entry in order to achieve efficient combustion in accordance with low consumption. The piston skirts have a molybdenum coating to reduce friction.

With the electronic throttle (Throttle By Wire) there are four driving modes to choose from, which influence the character of the engine and power delivery. The modes influence the coordination of the HSTC traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control), the suspension damper characteristics and the dual CBS braking system (Dual Combined Brake System).

• TOUR - is the practical basic driving mode for a balance between comfort and power. The throttle commands are passed on 100 percent to the throttle valve of the injection system. Chassis setting and damping as well as the braking force distribution between the front and rear wheels correspond to a universal standard setting.
• SPORTS - The motor has a direct response behavior in this mode; the throttle commands are passed on directly to the throttle valve of the injection system. The sporty acceleration is supported by tighter suspension damper settings and more direct brake response when the foot brake lever is operated.
• ECON - In this driving mode the focus is on economical consumption and relaxed cruising. The throttle commands are passed on less directly to the engine. The setup of the chassis and damping as well as the braking force distribution between the front and rear wheels correspond to standard values.
• RAIN - This driving program is designed for wet and slippery asphalt. The throttle commands are transmitted more smoothly to the throttle valve of the injection. The brake force distribution corresponds to the standard, the setup of the chassis and damping is comfortably designed for moderate pace and gentle response.

Two air inlets, front left and right rear, create the desired turbulence in the intake air, which enables the air filter to work more efficiently. The routing of both air filter channels supports the intake behavior at low speeds, which leads to improved response behavior and optimized passage when the throttle grip positions are only slightly open.

The purring six-cylinder sound and exceptional running smoothness 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 a turbine-like, enchantingly confident exhaust sound without being aggressive. The electric starter and alternator of the Gold Wing are combined into one unit (ISG - Integrated Starter Generator). This is possible because a brushless rotor is wound twice and, when the current is introduced in the opposite direction, also functions as an electric starter, which ensures particularly gentle intervention during the start-up procedure.

The smooth start-up process is also worth mentioning. When stopping at traffic lights, the automatic start-stop system switches off the engine after three seconds of idling. Then a quick turn of the throttle is all it takes to wake the engine up and running again without having to operate 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. Pressure in the DCT system can be built up via the hydraulics so that the driver's wish to drive off - by turning the throttle grip - is converted directly into propulsion. In order to prevent too abrupt starting 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 up with DCT with the Gold Wing runs with the desired smoothness. The automatic start-stop system can be activated or deactivated by the driver using a switch on the handlebar as required.

Starting on a hill requires accelerating, releasing the brakes and engaging the clutch at the same time, which can be quite a challenge on heavy bikes. That is why the Gold Wing is equipped with Hill Start Assist. If you stop on an inclined plane and continue to operate the brake lever, the ABS modulator hydraulically activates the rear brake. For the start-up process, even if the brake is released in the meantime, the rear brake calliper holds the Gold Wing for about 3 seconds so that the start-up process can be carried out more safely. The activation of the hill start aid is indicated in the cockpit via a separate light indicator.

3.4 Dual clutch transmission (DCT)

• Third generation 7-speed DCT
• Soft and quiet, with ultra-fast gear changes
• Walking mode for maneuvering forwards and backwards
• 4 driving modes affect the response behavior of the DCT
• Optimized maneuverability at low speed

Honda has already sold over 200.000 motorcycles with dual clutch transmissions (DCT stands for Dual Clutch Transmission) in Europe. In 2009 the system debuted in the VFR1200F. The acceptance of DCT technology, which only Honda offers in the motorcycle sector, is high. For the models that are optionally available with a dual clutch transmission, 2020% of customers preferred this equipment to a conventional manual transmission in 53.

The dual clutch transmission makes driving easier by automatically changing gear. The electronic-hydraulic control also takes care of the dosed actuation of the clutch for starting. That is why there is no longer a clutch lever on DCT Hondas. Simply turning the throttle after a riding mode is activated is enough to get going. The simple operation quickly becomes a pleasant matter of course for users, something that is reluctant to do without.

The DCT system controls the shift work electronically and enables smooth gear changes with seamless traction. The system works with two clutch packs, which alternately create the frictional connection between the gear pairs and the output shaft. One clutch is responsible for gears 1, 3, 5 and 7, the other for gears 2, 4 and 6. Each clutch is controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. For a gear change, the system preselects the desired gear with the clutch that is not in use. The first clutch (with the gear currently still engaged) is then electronically disengaged, while the second clutch (with the desired gear) is engaged at the same time.

The result is a smoother, faster, and seamless gear change. Since the two clutch packs transfer the drive from one gear to the next to the rear wheel with minimal interruption, jerks and pitching movements of the machine are minimized, which means that the change takes place comfortably, directly and evenly. Additional advantages are longevity (since gears cannot be damaged by rough gear changes), the impossibility of over-revving and the reduced stress on the driver, who can devote his full attention to the rest of the traffic.

The DCT dual clutch transmission basically offers two options for operation: First, the AT mode, with which the gear changes are completely automated at the right time. And secondly, via manual actuation (MT) to change gears using the paddle shifters on the left of the handlebar, with your thumb and forefinger

The DCT dual clutch transmission, which only Honda offers in the motorcycle sector, is particularly recommended for the Gold Wing because it underlines the sovereign, relaxed character and the high level of driving comfort. The Gold Wing's DCT is the third generation of this technology and the first to use seven gears. With automated and manual actuation, the system shines with soft and fast shifting processes, with rubber dampers on shift forks and main shaft efficiently reducing possible shifting noises.

The DCT of the Gold Wing is also equipped with a walking pace maneuvering gear. This "walking mode" moves the bike forwards at 1,8 km / h walking speed and backwards at 1,2 km / h. The maneuvering aid is also operated using the switch on the left-hand side of the handlebar. When the walking speed shunting gear is activated, both clutches of the DCT are used. Clutch pack 1 brings about the backward movement, clutch pack 2 the forward movement. The movement (and the engagement of the clutches) is controlled via the electronic throttle grip. Unadjusted speeds are excluded, so that maneuvers are always carried out with the necessary safety. The dual clutch transmission is also networked with the four driving modes of the Gold Wing.

• In driving mode TOUR In AT mode, clutch engagement and gear changes are carried out smoothly and smoothly and comparatively early at medium speeds.
• In driving mode SPORTS the clutch is operated more directly and the gear changes are carried out for sporty driving in higher speed ranges.
• The ECON Driving mode is linked to particularly soft clutch engagement and gear changes that were set earlier.
• The mode RAIN in the AT position of the DCT causes early upshifts, smooth clutch engagement and smooth shifting maneuvers.

4. Technical data

MOTOR
Type	Liquid-cooled four-stroke 24-valve 6-cylinder boxer engine (SOHC)
Capacity	1.833 cm3
Valves per cylinder	4
Bore x stroke	73 mm x 73 mm
compression	10.5:1
Maximum power	93 kW (126 PS) bei 5.500 U / min
Max. Torque	170 Nm at 4.500 rpm
Oil volume	5,6 liters
CO2 Emissions	127g / km
FUEL SYSTEM
mixture preparation	PGM-FI injection
Throttle valve Ø	50 mm
Air Filter	Paper-viscose filter element
Tankinhalt	21,1 liters
Consumption*	5,5 liters on 100 km
ELECTRICS
Starter	Integrated starter / generator system
Battery	12 volts / 20 AH
Alternator power	12 Volt / 120 A.
POWER TRANSFER
Clutch	Double clutch, electronically-hydraulically controlled, 2 sets of discs in an oil bath
Transmission	7 gears, plus maneuvering function forwards and backwards
Primary translation	1.795 (79/44)
Gear steps	1st: 2.167 2nd: 1.696 3rd: 1.304 4th: 1.038 5th: 0.821 6th: 0.667 7th: 0.522 Rev: 1.190
Final translation	Transmission output 0.972, rear wheel 2.615
final drive	Kardan
FRAME
Type	Cast aluminum bridge frame
FRAME
Dimensions (LxWxH)	2.475 mm x 925 mm 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
WHEEL SUSPENSION
your Front Wheel.	Double wishbone front suspension
behind	Single-sided swing arm with Pro-Link lever deflection
BIKES
Tire dimension in front	130 / 70R 18
Rear tire dimension	200 / 55R 16
Rim size in front	18 x MT3.5
wheel size	16 x MT6.0
BRAKES
ABS	Dual-CBS combination system with ABS, electronically controlled
Front brake	Double discs 320 mm x 4,5 mm, hydraulically operated, 6-piston brake calipers, floating discs, sintered metal linings
rear brake	An internally ventilated disc, 3-piston brake caliper, sintered metal linings

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Photo credit: Honda

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