I bought a 2023 DCT Touring model in February of this year (2023), and after 5 months, I have put 7500 miles on it with no issues. The ride is very comfortable, and it handles like a much smaller bike, considering it weighs 850 lbs. It has the top trunk/rear passenger seat, so it has a lot of storage. The dealer only had 2 colors: red with lots of chrome and black with no chrome. I ordered the all black one the first week of November and got it the third week of February. I about waited about 3 1/2 months for it to be shipped from Japan. (The Goldwing is only made in Japan now.) The AM and FM radio reception is terrible. I don't even waste my time on it. The XM radio is good until you go under a bridge or into a tunnel. The radio instantly goes quiet. The bike has a USB connection in the front tiny unlockable storage compartment that allows you to plug in a flash drive with mp3's on it. The songs plays in alphabetical order, so if you want to keep songs playing in order like situated on the album, you have to place a number in front of each song name to force a song to be played in the order you want. I'm still working on that. The DCT takes time getting used to since it's a bit clunky when pulling up to a stop light/stop sign. I usually ride in tour mode and in manual. All in all, the bike is an amazing machine despite a few flaws. I highly recommend it. 😊
@@HighlandRider I think you are spot-on, problem is, I live on IOM where there are none to try and my present bike is a sort of mini Wing, NC700D , and I have a notch to get my poor leg through, but you were saying the back rest had to be removed! Just how easy is it to swing an old leg over the wing please?
Absolutely beautiful motorcycle i own an NT 1100 if i had the money i would love a bagger Goldwing i think your choice of DCT was spot on i enjoyed your honest review best wishes 😀
Great review. Watched all your videos related to your RT and now your Wing. Just bought a very lightly used 21 model bagger delivered Friday. Absolutely love it and already added loads of stuff. Stunning bike (still have my K1600GT and Rocket 3GT as well).
In doubt getting this or a family estate. We don’t need a 2nd car, but would come in handy sometimes. This, is pure pleasure usable on a daily basis. Never came across a car that can offer this much at the price of this bike. What a dilemma 😅
I rode sports bikes all my life. Fireblades. R1’s. An h2. Hayabusas. Ducati v2. Ducati v4s. Zx10r. BMW m1000rr. I met a guy in my 30s who was in his 70s and he had some great stories. I asked him what he rode and he said he had a lot of bikes in the past too. He ended the conversation with a funny statement ‘all roads lead to gold wing.’ As he walked off. Never saw him again. 20 years have passed and I’ve owned a few gold wings. And I now get what he meant. He wasn’t really as silly as I thought and I never have forgotten that parting comment.
Glad you are enjoying the bike. I still have my 2020RT @18000miles now. I am a 29" inside leg shorty and find it difficult as you say swinging a leg over..probably not helped by my 68 years. I just stand on the footrest to climb on board as it were. Nice and easy and no scratching of panniers. I fitted a Tony James full touring paint protection film kit when i bought the bike new including for the panniers and top box. £200 well spent with paint work still as good as new. Like you have found, my fuel consumption has improved with age.....240miles before fill ups when new but now regularly see 280 - 300miles before filling with bike saying around 30miles left.....running in is still required even with modern engineering and machining practice! Enjoy the next 12 months. Cheers Dave
When it comes to agility age never helps. The 'wing is low enough that I have no issues now but the standing on the pegs technique is something I have used with lots of other, taller bikes. I am also now getting 52-55 mpg, still not as good as the Rt but good enough for me, and you are so right about running in modern engines.
Thanks for the review. If I manage to sell my Africa Twin DCT then I was thinking this might be the next bike. It's the "end game" for the string of automatic bikes I've had over the years.
I have had my GW Bagger for 18 months, just covered 6k miles. I had many test ridges of other bikes , BMW K1600B & GT, RT & GS. They don’t compare. I have been riding for over 30 years and this bike is a one off. I will never sell it. It’s weight disappears as soon as it starts moving and can handle really well. Fast enough in sports mode too. If it was a car it would be the highest spec sport Bentley. I added a top box which I can remove when not touring. Panniers are a bit small, maybe ok for one, but not for 2. The engine is a dream and DCT a must. Mine is mud grey. You review is spot on, strange how the MPG improves identical to mine. 45 - 50 MPG isn’t bad for the size of the engine and weight. If Carlsberg made a bike it would be this bike. All the best safe riding
Snow foam, I agree works well, plus a silicone spray for the engine and other black bits, mine came with a centre stand plus dealer swapped over the screen for one from its big brother.
Have the same bike. Love it agree with most of your comments except economy. I’m hitting high 50 mpg and today 63.5.mpg. Had to fill up and convert litres to gallons and only a slight difference to trip reading. Seen on some posts others are achieving the same. I haven’t changed screen yet and wonder if the extra drag may reduce the mpg. Great video though and ride safe.
Love this bike. Your color is killer. Your engine color is killer. I have the 22 Ultra Blue DCT Tour Airbag. My 3rd Wing, (84 GL1200 and 96 GL1500). The DCT has been a game changer. In sport mode it’s a hooligan. It looks fantastic too. Always smooth, seamless and power is immediate. It jettisons from a stop. 😂 I have a 20” F4 windscreen. A US company. These windscreens are guaranteed optically clear and will not shatter upon impact. It’s re-curve at the top creates a nice pocket of deflected air and quietness. 3 sizes available. Lastly. There’s is no perfect bike, but only what is perfect for you. Today’s motorcycles are at all time greatness. Having the numerous choices always makes any day on two wheels such a great day. Thank you for the review. Ride safe. ATGATT.
Having tried so many bikes in the last 40 years, I agree there is no perfect bike, but this one comes damn close! Also jealous of the US for the variety of aftermarket options available, that just are not available here and if I order from the US, the costs are way to high to justify the spend. Ride safe.
Great review! Mine is a 2021BD model, now has 24K miles on it. My mileage, at moderately quick driving, is 45-47 MPG (US Gallons). Here in NJ there are no new ones to be found. I'm short, so I changed the windshield to the same height "F4" Clear. It has a flare at the top which diverts wind above my helmet. A great improvement over the stock unit. Your connectivity issues mirror mine. Several Samsung cables were pitiful. Finally solved the connectivity with a superior cable provided by a techie friend. Android Auto works fine now. The USB in the front cubbie was routed via an extension cable to a phone holder on the left handlebar. A top case was added, a GIVI V56 monokey. It easily gobbles up 2 full-face helmets with intercoms attached, +. No problems seen so far with paint... My experience with tire wear: The original Dunlop D423F rear tire needed replacement at 12,200 miles. Changed both tires to Bridgestones ( I Forget which type). The rear needs replacement now. I'm holding out for new Dunlop Elite 4's. And, just like the last time, the rear tire is back ordered. I'm sticking it out, for now... Luckily, we will start a vacation to Italy in a couple days. Hopefully the tires will be waiting here upon our return. Ride safely, and often. Thanks again for your thoughtful assessment of your Wing. Enjoy!
Thanks for the information and enjoy Italy, such a lovely place. In 2017 I had a week long meeting at the northern lakes above Milan, so I rode there and back, three days each way, and just a lovely way to travel
Hi Jim. I still have the backrest i bought off you 👍. I’ve had mine 12 months at the end of the month and only covered 350 miles in that time due to various reasons . I managed to get a Honda rack for the rear and fitted a Shad plate for a 58X to box I bought . I had front fog lights and centre stand fitted from new. The only thing I would of liked Honda to do it with the Apple car play . I wish as soon as you plug your phone it it would connect without having to turn a head set on . If you was out all day and like myself have a Bluetooth helmet and it ran out of charge then you wouldn’t be able to connect the ACP 🤷🏻♂️ Anyway glad to see you’ve still got the bike 😃👍
Hi Phil, good to hear from you. I did loads of miles in April and May, then life got in the way and I had my first ride since then on Saturday. To your point, I have a set of cheap bluetooth earphones, I think I paid about £20 for them, the sort you wear for sports. If I don't want to wear a bluetooth connected helmet, I use that with the headphones in my pocket, and I get apple car play, and play it through the speakers.
Super REAL world review .... Bought a new GL1000 way back ... and your machine is now, many years later.. one of my dream bikes Just need a lottery win ....lol Keep the videos coming Stay safe !!!
A very good review. I purchased a 2023 GW bagger with DCT recently and come to the same conclusions as you. At 6'4" I got the wide tinted 20" recurve from F4 and it works much better than stock. The bike is so much more comfortable than my 2014 Indian Chief and KTM 1290 SA. At first the seat seems firm but my bony backside settles in for very good comfort and surprisingly the foot position on the stock pegs is very comfortable. I added the Goldstrike highway pegs just to move around on longer rides. Thay work good but I hardly need them. I did add the ultimate driver backrest which is excellent and eliminates slouching. It is tough to swing my leg over the backrest but is very doable standing on the left foot peg. I wasn't satisfied with the panniers holding enough stuff so I added a Honda rear rack and Nelson Rigg weekender bag that looks good and holds a lot. I've had many say that the bike looks sharp. I like the looks of the bagger so much more than the tour. Happy as can be on the GW bagger!
I am guessing you are in the US where accessories are a lot easier and cheaper to get hold of. I looked at a rack for the rear but the cost was horrendous, over £600, so I just lay a towel over the back and attach a large waterproof bag when I go on longer trips. I also have a sheepskin saddle cover I use for long days in the saddle as after a few hours I can get a little saddle sore.
@@HighlandRider Yes, I thought the rear rack was expensive in the US at $332 including shipping. I always factor in long term enjoyment when buying pricey stuff. The highway pegs and backrest were also expensive but it all helps the magic carpet GW enjoyment. I have a sheepskin gel pad from PPI and they are great, especially in cold weather. Now if they would just fix all the potholes, ruts, and tar snakes here in New England the riding life would be perfect!
@@jgoogleheim8880 Living in The Highlands of Scotland we have lots of places selling off cuts of sheep skin, so I got one for £30. AS for the state of the roads, not sure it makes me feel better knowing you have the same problem as me
I agree...stunning bike...Best colour...OK I have to admit.. I have the same one..had it a month now. And adore it...I'm getting 54mpg from new but I don't ride it that hard.. just done a scotland tour. Up in Dornich....boy can you hustle it if needed...so.far I'm.loving it 👍
Thanks for the excellent review. I am considering one when the 2024's come out. Perhaps Honda will add Adaptive cruise control for next year, which would be a nice addition. I think it is a mistake for them to not make a bagger next year. Also, I watched some videos about the lack of underside engine protection on Goldwings and that an aftermarket shield should be considered. Some have reported running over road debris and it kicking up and severely damaging the underside of the engine, cracking castings, etc. The Goldwing doesn't have frame components positioned in areas that could protect the engine like most other bikes. One guy reported $12K USD damage and a 6 week repair after hitting a chunk of metal in the road that he didn't see due to following another vehicle too closely. You might want to look into that to protect your investment and also if your insurance would cover that type of damage. Enjoy your ride!
Good choice to hold. I do hear that 24 is coming with some safety goodies. Also, Belly Pan is almost a must on this bike. I made sure my insurance will cover such incident. I have it in writing. Don't want to deal wit a headache.
I know this is a bit late in the day but my apologies but I've only just seen this review😂. However, regarding the connectivity issue with cables, I have an NT1100 with the same option of Android Auto and had endless problems too with the connectivity. This has now been permanently resolved after I fitted a £50 wireless dongle. This stays permanently plugged in to the USB port on the bike and now every time I start the bike the helmet intercom connects within a very short time and touch wood it has never failed since the day I fitted it over a year ago. So, maybe its an option for you to consider 😊. All the best, Dave Watts
hello David. I too went down the dongle route and found it good, however since I changed phone and went back to an iPhone I have not had any connectivity isues, either in my car or bike. I use the same quality cable (high data transfer) and it all works perfectly.
I also have that same model Goldwing .. also changed the shortie windshield.. no backrest for me either.. was shocked to hear you say the base model might be dropped .. hope not .. mine accelerates like a rocket compared to a v-twin
@@HighlandRider the previous Goldwing model with no trunk was called the F6B .. as much as I liked it, it didn't sell very well .. its quite possible our base model is not either .. also miss that the helmet does not fit in the side bags .. it did fit on my previous bike (Honda ST1300/Pan American)
Hello Joyce, you are correct, the B is basic but like many I prefer it as the B for Bagger. Even my dealer uses it in the same way. Basic just sounds so low brow
When you get a bike like the GW, you never look at anything again. That’s a promise. My 2020 DCT Tour is by far, the best machine ever in 30 years of riding. I love every minute of riding. The DCT is not for everyone, but it is for me and always will be on next models. The reliability is no match to any bike on the planet. Yes, the phone cable is a tricky one. You need to order a phone OEM cable. Too much data transfer both ways. Enjoy this amazing machine.
Totally agree. I love looking at other bikes, but now I seem to have no interest. The GW does everything, which I believe explains why there are so few used ones around.
@@HighlandRider Even by me, in New Jersey, USA, hard to find used. My dealer got 4 - 23's, 2 sold, one pending in a matter of few weeks. I can sell mine for almost same as a new one. According to Honda, 6 out of 10 sold are DCT.
Yes I did, and yes it did. After I shot this video I refurbished my garage and just as I finished it we had a family illness and bereavement, and I forgot to put the bike back on the Optimate, and after a couple of months it would not start. I have kept my bikes on battery chargers for a while now, going back to my first GS and the start of electrics becoming more demanding of a battery when standing still. As a side note, my tracker has stopped working and I am getting a new one fitted this week
Thanks! Very informative. The "B" model is still available for 2023. I happened upon a bike in the exact color as yours. Will be checking tomorrow to see if we can cut a deal.
@@HighlandRider Oh my. Bad news but that might be a good thing for resale :) BTW, dealer's (a used bike dealer, not Honda) asking US $24,900 for the '22 with 32 miles on it. They call the bike "used" but when asked why so low mileage they won't give. I guess it doesn't matter 'cause the warranty is still in effect and can be extended another 5yrs. BTW do you have a make/model for the "upgraded" USB wire you discussed?
@@GortsBud The latest one is an Amazon Basics braided Gen 2 which has worked well, and I am also trying a Motorola dongle but that has mixed results so far
No, absolutely not. I is big and heavy and has a lot of power. Start with something small, so you can learn how a bike handles in all weathers, then progress. A wing is great when you have confidence and know how to adapt your riding style.
Agreed, did one more road trip to my local BMW dealership, counted north of 8 R 18's, did a quick web search to look at the numbers, both in terms of sales and stats, what strikes me about the bike is the overall size, and will it fit in my garage, do I have enough muscle to push it around the other bikes, still on the fence...
@@tomkarnes69 I thought it had a reverse gear as well but could be wrong. I know here there are lots of discounted R18's but they look fabulous. Personally, I have had too many quality issues with BMW to ever trust the bikes again
Well said. Kraken flagged a BMW recall for their rally bikes, the electronics were overriding the transmission casing full lockup at speed, and once you have experienced being slammed to a dead stop, and I have, it gets your full attention
No, although the fittings are there so I believe it is possible. The heated grips are OK, but no where near as powerful as BMW items, so I doubt a heated seat would be too effective.
A friend of mine has an issue mounting the bike from the left , so he mounts from the right and finds it much easier . Who care what side you get on the bike , it’s all about riding . Cheers
I don't think it's about can you put a helm inside the bag, the problem is that Honda has taken away from one of the benefits of the the Goldwing. Does the size of the bags on the old bagger prevent the rider from any specific riding that the new bagger can do.. NO! From a visual perspective the Goldwing (b) is an absolute stunner, the Goldwing tourer looks to me unbalanced with its proportions.
I agree with you on looks and that the Tour looks a little unbalanced. Not having owned any GW before I don't do. comparison but do know that a lot of longer term wing owners are very critical of the narrow panniers
Hi i came from the RT after issues with it. I have a 2021 bagger 6spd now with 14ooo plus. Lovely to ride , Only issue were the brake pads on nearside wearing a bit quicker than the offside . Other than that it just starts, goes and stops. Have put quite a lot of extras on it.
@@peterdane9138 You can, but I prefer a soft bag as I can get more in it. I have a North Face 80 litre bag that fixes easily and I can get everything into
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 67 | คู่เอก "นักรบ vs ทาเกียร์"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eahGc1XmrEU/mqdefault.jpg)
I bought a 2023 DCT Touring model in February of this year (2023), and after 5 months, I have put 7500 miles on it with no issues. The ride is very comfortable, and it handles like a much smaller bike, considering it weighs 850 lbs. It has the top trunk/rear passenger seat, so it has a lot of storage. The dealer only had 2 colors: red with lots of chrome and black with no chrome. I ordered the all black one the first week of November and got it the third week of February. I about waited about 3 1/2 months for it to be shipped from Japan. (The Goldwing is only made in Japan now.) The AM and FM radio reception is terrible. I don't even waste my time on it. The XM radio is good until you go under a bridge or into a tunnel. The radio instantly goes quiet. The bike has a USB connection in the front tiny unlockable storage compartment that allows you to plug in a flash drive with mp3's on it. The songs plays in alphabetical order, so if you want to keep songs playing in order like situated on the album, you have to place a number in front of each song name to force a song to be played in the order you want. I'm still working on that. The DCT takes time getting used to since it's a bit clunky when pulling up to a stop light/stop sign. I usually ride in tour mode and in manual. All in all, the bike is an amazing machine despite a few flaws. I highly recommend it. 😊
Thanks for the update, watched the 3000 mile and this update with great interest.
Cheers!
Great bike and if you decide to go for it, make sure you keep it on a battery charger when not using
Just what I needed, on the fence about getting one and you helped greatly instilling confidence, thank you and enjoy all future rides!
If you do get one, you will love it
@@HighlandRider I think you are spot-on, problem is, I live on IOM where there are none to try and my present bike is a sort of mini Wing, NC700D , and I have a notch to get my poor leg through, but you were saying the back rest had to be removed! Just how easy is it to swing an old leg over the wing please?
@@drdoolittle5724 Easy. The bike sits low and I have no problems at all. The seat is shaped so the back rest makes no difference
Great review from a true biker.. thanks for sharing
Absolutely beautiful motorcycle i own an NT 1100 if i had the money i would love a bagger Goldwing i think your choice of DCT was spot on i enjoyed your honest review best wishes 😀
I love it
Great review. Watched all your videos related to your RT and now your Wing. Just bought a very lightly used 21 model bagger delivered Friday. Absolutely love it and already added loads of stuff. Stunning bike (still have my K1600GT and Rocket 3GT as well).
I do like the Rocket 3, just never got round to buying one. Enjoy your 'wing
@@HighlandRider R3 far from ideal for distance/touring. Great fun bike but Wing out performs it in almost every way
In doubt getting this or a family estate. We don’t need a 2nd car, but would come in handy sometimes. This, is pure pleasure usable on a daily basis. Never came across a car that can offer this much at the price of this bike. What a dilemma 😅
I rode sports bikes all my life. Fireblades. R1’s. An h2. Hayabusas. Ducati v2. Ducati v4s. Zx10r. BMW m1000rr.
I met a guy in my 30s who was in his 70s and he had some great stories. I asked him what he rode and he said he had a lot of bikes in the past too. He ended the conversation with a funny statement ‘all roads lead to gold wing.’ As he walked off. Never saw him again.
20 years have passed and I’ve owned a few gold wings. And I now get what he meant. He wasn’t really as silly as I thought and I never have forgotten that parting comment.
Very nice and honest review 👍🏽
Thank you
Glad you are enjoying the bike. I still have my 2020RT @18000miles now. I am a 29" inside leg shorty and find it difficult as you say swinging a leg over..probably not helped by my 68 years. I just stand on the footrest to climb on board as it were. Nice and easy and no scratching of panniers.
I fitted a Tony James full touring paint protection film kit when i bought the bike new including for the panniers and top box. £200 well spent with paint work still as good as new. Like you have found, my fuel consumption has improved with age.....240miles before fill ups when new but now regularly see 280 - 300miles before filling with bike saying around 30miles left.....running in is still required even with modern engineering and machining practice!
Enjoy the next 12 months. Cheers Dave
When it comes to agility age never helps. The 'wing is low enough that I have no issues now but the standing on the pegs technique is something I have used with lots of other, taller bikes. I am also now getting 52-55 mpg, still not as good as the Rt but good enough for me, and you are so right about running in modern engines.
I love my 2018 B or bagger. It's a large comfortable sport bike!
Good honest straight review 👍👍🙏
Thanks
Thanks for the review. If I manage to sell my Africa Twin DCT then I was thinking this might be the next bike. It's the "end game" for the string of automatic bikes I've had over the years.
It is, and it works a treat
I have had my GW Bagger for 18 months, just covered 6k miles. I had many test ridges of other bikes , BMW K1600B & GT, RT & GS. They don’t compare. I have been riding for over 30 years and this bike is a one off. I will never sell it. It’s weight disappears as soon as it starts moving and can handle really well. Fast enough in sports mode too. If it was a car it would be the highest spec sport Bentley. I added a top box which I can remove when not touring. Panniers are a bit small, maybe ok for one, but not for 2. The engine is a dream and DCT a must. Mine is mud grey.
You review is spot on, strange how the MPG improves identical to mine. 45 - 50 MPG isn’t bad for the size of the engine and weight. If Carlsberg made a bike it would be this bike. All the best safe riding
Good to know our experiences tally, especially on the mpg
Snow foam, I agree works well, plus a silicone spray for the engine and other black bits, mine came with a centre stand plus dealer swapped over the screen for one from its big brother.
I should have negotiated a bit more when I got mine, just never appreciated the problems the lack of a centre stand and the low screen would cause
Have the same bike. Love it agree with most of your comments except economy.
I’m hitting high 50 mpg and today 63.5.mpg. Had to fill up and convert litres to gallons and only a slight difference to trip reading.
Seen on some posts others are achieving the same. I haven’t changed screen yet and wonder if the extra drag may reduce the mpg.
Great video though and ride safe.
Thanks. My mpg is improving and I am happy with what I get
Love this bike. Your color is killer. Your engine color is killer. I have the 22 Ultra Blue DCT Tour Airbag. My 3rd Wing, (84 GL1200 and 96 GL1500). The DCT has been a game changer. In sport mode it’s a hooligan. It looks fantastic too. Always smooth, seamless and power is immediate. It jettisons from a stop. 😂 I have a 20” F4 windscreen. A US company. These windscreens are guaranteed optically clear and will not shatter upon impact. It’s re-curve at the top creates a nice pocket of deflected air and quietness. 3 sizes available. Lastly. There’s is no perfect bike, but only what is perfect for you. Today’s motorcycles are at all time greatness. Having the numerous choices always makes any day on two wheels such a great day. Thank you for the review. Ride safe. ATGATT.
Having tried so many bikes in the last 40 years, I agree there is no perfect bike, but this one comes damn close! Also jealous of the US for the variety of aftermarket options available, that just are not available here and if I order from the US, the costs are way to high to justify the spend. Ride safe.
Great review! Mine is a 2021BD model, now has 24K miles on it. My mileage, at moderately quick driving, is 45-47 MPG (US Gallons). Here in NJ there are no new ones to be found.
I'm short, so I changed the windshield to the same height "F4" Clear. It has a flare at the top which diverts wind above my helmet. A great improvement over the stock unit.
Your connectivity issues mirror mine. Several Samsung cables were pitiful. Finally solved the connectivity with a superior cable provided by a techie friend. Android Auto works fine now. The USB in the front cubbie was routed via an extension cable to a phone holder on the left handlebar.
A top case was added, a GIVI V56 monokey. It easily gobbles up 2 full-face helmets with intercoms attached, +.
No problems seen so far with paint...
My experience with tire wear: The original Dunlop D423F rear tire needed replacement at 12,200 miles. Changed both tires to Bridgestones ( I Forget which type). The rear needs replacement now. I'm holding out for new Dunlop Elite 4's. And, just like the last time, the rear tire is back ordered. I'm sticking it out, for now... Luckily, we will start a vacation to Italy in a couple days. Hopefully the tires will be waiting here upon our return.
Ride safely, and often.
Thanks again for your thoughtful assessment of your Wing. Enjoy!
Thanks for the information and enjoy Italy, such a lovely place. In 2017 I had a week long meeting at the northern lakes above Milan, so I rode there and back, three days each way, and just a lovely way to travel
Great video
Thank you
Hi Jim. I still have the backrest i bought off you 👍. I’ve had mine 12 months at the end of the month and only covered 350 miles in that time due to various reasons . I managed to get a Honda rack for the rear and fitted a Shad plate for a 58X to box I bought .
I had front fog lights and centre stand fitted from new.
The only thing I would of liked Honda to do it with the Apple car play . I wish as soon as you plug your phone it it would connect without having to turn a head set on . If you was out all day and like myself have a Bluetooth helmet and it ran out of charge then you wouldn’t be able to connect the ACP 🤷🏻♂️
Anyway glad to see you’ve still got the bike 😃👍
Hi Phil, good to hear from you. I did loads of miles in April and May, then life got in the way and I had my first ride since then on Saturday. To your point, I have a set of cheap bluetooth earphones, I think I paid about £20 for them, the sort you wear for sports. If I don't want to wear a bluetooth connected helmet, I use that with the headphones in my pocket, and I get apple car play, and play it through the speakers.
I agree with you about connectivity and the cable being flakey. I got around that issue by going wireless with the Motorola MA1.
Thanks for that, just ordered one
Super REAL world review ....
Bought a new GL1000 way back ... and your machine is now, many years later.. one of my dream bikes
Just need a lottery win ....lol
Keep the videos coming
Stay safe !!!
Thank you, it is a bit of a dream machine
@@HighlandRider... Wave to me if you see a blue Yamaha NIKEN on your travels ....as I will be up your way in a few weeks visiting friends
@@andrewewan624 That is a distinctive bike so I will look out for you - enjoy your trip
A very good review. I purchased a 2023 GW bagger with DCT recently and come to the same conclusions as you. At 6'4" I got the wide tinted 20" recurve from F4 and it works much better than stock. The bike is so much more comfortable than my 2014 Indian Chief and KTM 1290 SA. At first the seat seems firm but my bony backside settles in for very good comfort and surprisingly the foot position on the stock pegs is very comfortable. I added the Goldstrike highway pegs just to move around on longer rides. Thay work good but I hardly need them. I did add the ultimate driver backrest which is excellent and eliminates slouching. It is tough to swing my leg over the backrest but is very doable standing on the left foot peg. I wasn't satisfied with the panniers holding enough stuff so I added a Honda rear rack and Nelson Rigg weekender bag that looks good and holds a lot. I've had many say that the bike looks sharp. I like the looks of the bagger so much more than the tour. Happy as can be on the GW bagger!
I am guessing you are in the US where accessories are a lot easier and cheaper to get hold of. I looked at a rack for the rear but the cost was horrendous, over £600, so I just lay a towel over the back and attach a large waterproof bag when I go on longer trips. I also have a sheepskin saddle cover I use for long days in the saddle as after a few hours I can get a little saddle sore.
@@HighlandRider Yes, I thought the rear rack was expensive in the US at $332 including shipping. I always factor in long term enjoyment when buying pricey stuff. The highway pegs and backrest were also expensive but it all helps the magic carpet GW enjoyment. I have a sheepskin gel pad from PPI and they are great, especially in cold weather. Now if they would just fix all the potholes, ruts, and tar snakes here in New England the riding life would be perfect!
@@jgoogleheim8880 Living in The Highlands of Scotland we have lots of places selling off cuts of sheep skin, so I got one for £30. AS for the state of the roads, not sure it makes me feel better knowing you have the same problem as me
I agree...stunning bike...Best colour...OK I have to admit.. I have the same one..had it a month now. And adore it...I'm getting 54mpg from new but I don't ride it that hard.. just done a scotland tour. Up in Dornich....boy can you hustle it if needed...so.far I'm.loving it 👍
Lovely area to ride and the roads suit the GW to a tee
Thanks for the excellent review. I am considering one when the 2024's come out. Perhaps Honda will add Adaptive cruise control for next year, which would be a nice addition. I think it is a mistake for them to not make a bagger next year. Also, I watched some videos about the lack of underside engine protection on Goldwings and that an aftermarket shield should be considered. Some have reported running over road debris and it kicking up and severely damaging the underside of the engine, cracking castings, etc. The Goldwing doesn't have frame components positioned in areas that could protect the engine like most other bikes. One guy reported $12K USD damage and a 6 week repair after hitting a chunk of metal in the road that he didn't see due to following another vehicle too closely. You might want to look into that to protect your investment and also if your insurance would cover that type of damage. Enjoy your ride!
Thank you for the information, I will look into that
Good choice to hold. I do hear that 24 is coming with some safety goodies. Also, Belly Pan is almost a must on this bike. I made sure my insurance will cover such incident. I have it in writing. Don't want to deal wit a headache.
I know this is a bit late in the day but my apologies but I've only just seen this review😂.
However, regarding the connectivity issue with cables, I have an NT1100 with the same option of Android Auto and had endless problems too with the connectivity. This has now been permanently resolved after I fitted a £50 wireless dongle. This stays permanently plugged in to the USB port on the bike and now every time I start the bike the helmet intercom connects within a very short time and touch wood it has never failed since the day I fitted it over a year ago. So, maybe its an option for you to consider 😊.
All the best, Dave Watts
hello David. I too went down the dongle route and found it good, however since I changed phone and went back to an iPhone I have not had any connectivity isues, either in my car or bike. I use the same quality cable (high data transfer) and it all works perfectly.
I also have that same model Goldwing .. also changed the shortie windshield.. no backrest for me either.. was shocked to hear you say the base model might be dropped .. hope not .. mine accelerates like a rocket compared to a v-twin
I read it in the bike press and hope it is not true
@@HighlandRider the previous Goldwing model with no trunk was called the F6B .. as much as I liked it, it didn't sell very well .. its quite possible our base model is not either .. also miss that the helmet does not fit in the side bags .. it did fit on my previous bike (Honda ST1300/Pan American)
@@seeaboutagirl2 I vaguely recall the F6B, ugly looking thing so not surprised it didn't sell.
Looks like there is some sort of accessory on the right passenger hand-grip? What is that for?
It is a Ram Mount fitted to the brake resevoir
Hi,GL 1800 B.The B doesn’t stand for bagger.The bike you have is a Goldwing Standard. The Bagger name is catching on though.Cheers.😊
Hello Joyce, you are correct, the B is basic but like many I prefer it as the B for Bagger. Even my dealer uses it in the same way. Basic just sounds so low brow
When you get a bike like the GW, you never look at anything again. That’s a promise. My 2020 DCT Tour is by far, the best machine ever in 30 years of riding. I love every minute of riding. The DCT is not for everyone, but it is for me and always will be on next models. The reliability is no match to any bike on the planet. Yes, the phone cable is a tricky one. You need to order a phone OEM cable. Too much data transfer both ways. Enjoy this amazing machine.
Totally agree. I love looking at other bikes, but now I seem to have no interest. The GW does everything, which I believe explains why there are so few used ones around.
@@HighlandRider Even by me, in New Jersey, USA, hard to find used. My dealer got 4 - 23's, 2 sold, one pending in a matter of few weeks. I can sell mine for almost same as a new one. According to Honda, 6 out of 10 sold are DCT.
when you got the bike did you get a datatool steathl s5 with it n if so does it drain ya battery
Yes I did, and yes it did. After I shot this video I refurbished my garage and just as I finished it we had a family illness and bereavement, and I forgot to put the bike back on the Optimate, and after a couple of months it would not start. I have kept my bikes on battery chargers for a while now, going back to my first GS and the start of electrics becoming more demanding of a battery when standing still. As a side note, my tracker has stopped working and I am getting a new one fitted this week
Thanks! Very informative. The "B" model is still available for 2023. I happened upon a bike in the exact color as yours. Will be checking tomorrow to see if we can cut a deal.
Good luck with the deal. It is 2024 that I hear there will be no B model, but I hope they continue.
@@HighlandRider Oh my. Bad news but that might be a good thing for resale :) BTW, dealer's (a used bike dealer, not Honda) asking US $24,900 for the '22 with 32 miles on it. They call the bike "used" but when asked why so low mileage they won't give. I guess it doesn't matter 'cause the warranty is still in effect and can be extended another 5yrs.
BTW do you have a make/model for the "upgraded" USB wire you discussed?
@@GortsBud The latest one is an Amazon Basics braided Gen 2 which has worked well, and I am also trying a Motorola dongle but that has mixed results so far
Can I ask if the Goldwing would be a good motorcycle for a beginner?
No, absolutely not. I is big and heavy and has a lot of power. Start with something small, so you can learn how a bike handles in all weathers, then progress. A wing is great when you have confidence and know how to adapt your riding style.
I think the engine looks fantastic, but I have my sights set on BMW's 2024 Rocktaine
Looks a lovely bike
Agreed, did one more road trip to my local BMW dealership, counted north of 8 R 18's, did a quick web search to look at the numbers, both in terms of sales and stats, what strikes me about the bike is the overall size, and will it fit in my garage, do I have enough muscle to push it around the other bikes, still on the fence...
@@tomkarnes69 I thought it had a reverse gear as well but could be wrong. I know here there are lots of discounted R18's but they look fabulous. Personally, I have had too many quality issues with BMW to ever trust the bikes again
Well said. Kraken flagged a BMW recall for their rally bikes, the electronics were overriding the transmission casing full lockup at speed, and once you have experienced being slammed to a dead stop, and I have, it gets your full attention
hi again just a quick on on your insurance what name did you put it down to is it a goldwing GL1800 or a goldwing GL 1800BD
GL1800BD
@@HighlandRider super that ks what model year is your bike
2022 @@jasonlaughton7590
Yer I just bought the 2023 model from Manchester Honda shop n pick it up on Thursday
You are going to love it@@jasonlaughton7590
No heated seat or an option to add one?
No, although the fittings are there so I believe it is possible. The heated grips are OK, but no where near as powerful as BMW items, so I doubt a heated seat would be too effective.
Can the helmet fit into side box? Will you be able to show in video?
No, one of the problems with the Goldwing, and something much complained about, is you cannot fit a helmet in the panniers. For that you need a topbox
@@HighlandRider noted, thank you
Put some ppf on top of the boxes
A friend of mine has an issue mounting the bike from the left , so he mounts from the right and finds it much easier . Who care what side you get on the bike , it’s all about riding . Cheers
Makes sense. Now the back rest has gone I have no problems
Hi there can you lower the bike
Not sure. it is very low already so not sure of the benefit. I struggle with flexibility in my legs and I find the wing easy to get on and off
@@HighlandRider what do you mean by the wing to get on and off
@@jasonlaughton7590 getting on and off the bike, and when stationary the ease of getting my feet on the floor
I don't think it's about can you put a helm inside the bag, the problem is that Honda has taken away from one of the benefits of the the Goldwing. Does the size of the bags on the old bagger prevent the rider from any specific riding that the new bagger can do.. NO! From a visual perspective the Goldwing (b) is an absolute stunner, the Goldwing tourer looks to me unbalanced with its proportions.
I agree with you on looks and that the Tour looks a little unbalanced. Not having owned any GW before I don't do. comparison but do know that a lot of longer term wing owners are very critical of the narrow panniers
Hi i came from the RT after issues with it.
I have a 2021 bagger 6spd
now with 14ooo plus.
Lovely to ride ,
Only issue were the brake pads on nearside wearing a bit quicker
than the offside .
Other than that it just starts, goes and stops.
Have put quite a lot of extras on it.
what have you added?
Looks like a good bike to me. Probably better than RT. Can you put a top box on it? Back looks a bit naked to me.
@@peterdane9138 You can, but I prefer a soft bag as I can get more in it. I have a North Face 80 litre bag that fixes easily and I can get everything into