GOLDEN TOURER
UPDATES FOR HONDA ' S MY23 GOLD WING
The Honda Gold Wing , since its introduction as a naked 1000cc machine in 1975 , has always represented the ultimate in two-wheeled travel . And it ’ s a motorcycle that ’ s been very much on its own journey , growing in physical size and displacement over the decades , all the while creating an enduring and unrivalled reputation for luxury , quality and comfort .
For 18YM , in response to the evolution of demographics and the motorcycle market , it made a radical departure from what would have been a traditional update trajectory . The GL1800 Gold Wing took a new direction and , brand new from the wheelsup , became sleeker , lighter and more agile – very much a rider ’ s motorcycle – while adding a host of new features to cement its reputation as a technological flagship .
And , as a result , the Gold Wing ’ s appeal became instantly broader , reaching out to a younger generation of motorcyclists that may have overlooked – or simply not been aware of – the previous incarnation .
For 20YM , improvements to suspension and slow speed manoeuvrability further complemented the evocative , flat six-cylinder engine beating at the heart of Honda ’ s premium tourer . In 21YM , the Gold Wing gained an audio upgrade and 22YM saw it become available in Dual Clutch Transmission ( DCT ) form only .
For 23YM the Gold Wing receives a new Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ( TPMS ) that quickly and clearly warns the rider if tyre pressures are low and receives a stunning new colour combination .
The Gold Wing ’ s engine and chassis were designed in unison for the 18YM rebirth , to move the riding position forward and create a much more compact motorcycle . The aluminium beam frame is constructed around a double wishbone front fork , which allows the engine to sit forward in the machine – as the front wheel moves up and down in a more vertical plane – while providing high quality suspension control and front-end stability thanks to its stiffness and reduced friction .
Optimised for size , the 24V flat six-cylinder engine lost
none of its power , avalanche of torque or addictive power delivery . The addition of Throttle By Wire ( TBW ) control brought with it 4 rider modes : TOUR , SPORT , ECON and RAIN ; the operation of the Dual Combined Brake System ( D-CBS ) alters depending on the mode selected . Hill Start Assist ( HSA ) and Idling Stop offer ease of use and improved fuel efficiency .
The DCT features 7-speeds , with clutch feel , shift speed and rpm range of up / downshifts tailored specifically to each riding mode . It also features a ‘ creep ’ forward and back function .
The Gold Wing offers a total sense of freedom , with sheer riding enjoyment and performance matched by stylish design . An aerodynamically efficient fairing channels air around the rider , while the electric screen adjusts for preference ; the luxurious seats offer all-day comfort . The lightweight audio system and speakers show off incredible sound quality . And features like Smart Key operation , Apple CarPlay™ , Android Auto™ and Bluetooth™ provide modern-day convenience and connectivity .
For 23YM a new Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ( TPMS ) adds to the technical offering and the GL1800 Gold Wing is available exclusively in a beautiful , brandnew Iridium Gray Metallic / Mat Pearl Morion Black colour way with red detailing on the engine cases .
The Gold Wing ’ s lines exude a honed , athletic ethos . The styling presents a unique silhouette and counterpoints comfort with the dynamic abilities of chassis and engine , with the traditional Gold Wing premium level of fit , finish and materials . Its ‘ face ’ is daringly forward-slanting ; combined with the compact fairing proportions , it presents an energetic frontal signature .
The key line of the body , stretching front to back , highlights the differing upper and lower bodywork functions . A central element is the fairing , with its sharp and solid flat surfaces , and nuanced aerodynamic detailing . It adds a tension that hints at the performance
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