I saw the title and told my wife, "Honey, watch this video with me and you'll see why I want a Goldwing!" Then Sean launches into the 3 chicks on the Goldwing...wife says I can have a Trail 50, no Goldwing.
As an owner of a 1996, I'll tell you honestly that you DO wish they had a 6th gear. There's enough power for a higher overdrive which would save tremendously in gas.
I agree as far as gas that would be great. I have a 87 1200,, and a 95 1500. Have lots of power but that overdrive would help on long trips I get maybe 30 miles per gallon sometimes less depending on speed. I also think he was a bit slow on that clutch well not on the clutch but he didn't push it I can do 60 and second gear if I when I open up 👍🏻👍🏻
I currently own my 3rd goldwing, a 2000 GL 1500 SE. After riding many other bikes including Harleys, in my opinion the GL 1500 goldwing is the best and most comfortable bike I have ever owned. My 2000 SE, also gets up to 44 mpg at 70 mph fully loaded with my wife and I. I agree with everything in this post, and would seriously recommend this bike for anyone interested in long distance touring riding.
I've had a 1200, 1500 and now an 1800. I still feel the 1500 was the smoothest and best riding one of them all. The extra ponies in the 1800 is fun but it lacks the other positives that the 1500 had.
I went from a 1200 to a 1500 and oh boy is it better in every way except maybe raw acceleration. I think the 1200 might have an half second edge but that's about it.
You videos help me to decide to buy a goldwing now im a proud owner of 1989 gl1500 goldwing with 57k Thank you for your videos Greetings from California
Yea I love my Gold wing but I traveled with a friend and the first long ride we went on we stopped to get lunch he was riding a Harley and the first thing out of mouth is how do you keep you butt and hands from itching from the vibration and 2 of us laughed and said ride a Honda.
I have a Evo Road King and a '95 Goldwing. I ride the RK local and travel on the wing. I love how smooth my GW is. I just bought it last fall. One nice thing about GW's is they built many so they are on the market for very reasonable money.
I have owned three goldwings. On the headshake thing. The tire is obviously the main culprit. Also, as you mentioned the neck bearings after some wear (10 minute fix at home), the third source of it and the uneasy feeling when you hit a pothole while in a curve is the fork brace. I am not sure about the newer ones, but classic goldwings are helped a lot by putting an ACCESSORY lol aftermarket fork brace on them. Love the content and the lack of using the Lord's name in vain on your channel! I preach for the Stewart Park church of Christ in Cross Lanes, WV.
I have an 85 Goldwing 1200 cc 4 cylinder Aspencade. Built in the US. I bought the bike in France with 70 000 Ks on it. Goldwings are so unbelievably reliable. It can sit for 5 years and then crank it up and go again. I am from Australia and I had a 1000cc model years ago when they had a nickname "leadwing". I didn't care because I would do 3000ks on it in one trip. The things are tanks man. I love any Goldwing. They love the carbs tuned and synced and some nice oil and plugs and they will run forever. The French have a love affair with the Goldwing. There are heaps of them for sale. I cannot afford a new one which start at about 38 000 euro. Ouch. I don't care, I have my old clunker that turns heads everywhere. I would rent it out no problem to anyone that wanted to tour France. France is so fantastic to tour around, there are 35 000 different towns in France. Every 5 ks there is a new little town over the whole country. Don't believe me go on Google maps and scroll in to see all the roads in France. Australia is boring by comparison. I have my own love affair with the Goldwing. I did 700 k two weeks ago from Paris out to the Normandy coast where the GIs and Allies landed in WWII. There are monuments to WWII everywhere. I road down the coast and camped at a little camping ground under the apple trees on my air mattress. The Goldwing is the best bike on the road. Greg
Aspencade Was the flagship model (top of the range). Replaced later on by the SE spec. You should check out the first Aspencade I think it was 1983 GL1100 that featured adjustable suspension, cruise control, and a digital dash in the early 80s. It's a real gem if you can find one!
You did the nickel test wrong. You're supposed to set the nickel on its edge. I could do that on the valve cover of my 1993 Nissan Maxima. It was an amazing feat.
Shaun, I may have nitpicked at your videos in the past, but I must say all of them are very intriquing, informative, and illustrative of each bike's riding style. I subscribed about a month ago finally, because bikes 😂 Keep on doing what you're doing
I have owned my 95 GL1500 Goldwing Aspencade for the last 17 years and it has 291,565 kms or 181,170 miles on it and it still rides like new as long as you keep them well maintained with full synthetic engine oil they will last 10,000 kms between oil and filter changes, spark plugs every 3 years, K&N air filter will last around 20,000 kms before it need to be cleaned as long as your not riding in dusty conditions, mine has never need a rebuild yet try getting the same mileage out of a Harley without needing a top end rebuild or a bottom end rebuild as for the values on the GL1500 well they have hydraulic lifters which work on the engine oil so you will never need to adjust them for the life of the engine, as for the power yes they have 75 Kw or 100 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm but they also have 150 Nm or 110 ft-lb of torque @ 3,250 rpm
Been watching lots of these videos, I find it hilarious that Sean has such issues with almost every cruise control on every bike. I think this is the only one where he actually got the snooze set! Lol
FYI, all the first generation (75-79) GL1000s were made in Japan, as were the earliest second generation gl1100s, until partway thru the 1980 model year. That's when they started assembly in Marysville, OH. Engines were made in Japan until 1985, when they started making the engines in Anna OH
I have been a wing driver for over 40 years and I have owned every iteration of the wing except a 1200 Currently on a 1500 trike and I was very happy to be back on a wing. 67 y/o and not ready to quit riding and I want my last bike to be a wing! And oh by the way will never dark side
I spoke to a motorcycle tech who had 2 Gold Wings in for service, one had 189,000 miles and the other had 212,000 miles. I would definitely say they are immortal.
i do beleive loud pipes can help preserve a riders life, and goldwings are like sedans, its really hard to miss one. am allso a fan of the zero srf. best thing for a rider is smart offensive opperating.
I have seen data on this issue and remarkably, there is no data that clearly demonstrates “loud pipes save lives.” One reason however, is that there are too many variables on crash data statistics to confirm the hypothesis one way or the other. Are any two accidents identical? And if so, what are the odds that one of the bikes had loud pipes v. A more quieter bike? Me, I hate noise. I know that seems strange, but I hate all loud noises. For this reasons, and many others, my “94 Wing is perfect for me. I am never getting rid of her.
@@Anonymous594 I second Alan's comment. I have 2 GW's, 1 with Super Brace other stock and they both shake when the following happens. ONCE the air pressure falls below recommended setting, scalloping begins. BALANCING BEADS is the best remedy even when tire is shop balanced. As tires wear they wear unevenly, beads work constantly over 25-28 mph. WHY DO PEOPLE POST FICTION? WTH!
A new front tire's not going to help with that head shake, it needs new head bearings. But you are right about the Boss Hoss's having 2 speeds and the new DCT Wings having 7 speeds. With regards to loud pipes saving lives, it depends on where you are. Noise alerts people to your presence, there's no two ways about it. That's why we have horns, and that's why emergency vehicles have sirens. In the city where I do most of my riding, sometimes I'm left with no choice but to ride in someone's blind spot, and if they can't see me, I want them to hear me.
We moved the machinery for the GL engine out to make room for the CVT transmission in the Accord. The engine for the GL was assembled in Anna, OH. Really enjoy your videos fellas!! God Bless!!
Sean, I loved the 93 I use to ride. The 1 I rode was even the same color as that 1. I took it to my endorsement test. Every body there said I was crazy bringing such a big bike. I had no problem passed it on the first pass. Air ride radio. Only issue was that the choke stuck so I didnt use it.
Noooo, the first thing you notice when getting on a 4th gen goldwing, is lifting it off the kickstand. You feel like your manually lifting a car onto two wheels from four. The thing is a tank!
I'm so glad to see you do a Goldwing video on the older bikes. I have owned three of them my last one was identical to that one it was a 1997 aspencade. I thought I heard you call that one an 87 model. My friends did not believe they were made in the USA. Absolutely love them. Thank you for the video
That wobble on cruise control made me grab for the handle bars. lol Picking up my first Goldwing this weekend, a 97 with only 6000 miles on it. Can't wait too cruise it. Great video and thanks for all the info.
The GL1500 Goldwing is a flat six (not a boxer) with matching crank pins in the same plane so in matching cylinders one piston is moving out while it's mate is moving in. A boxer has a 360 degree crankshaft and a non boxer flat engine has a 180 degree crankshaft.
I'd really like to have a Ural sidehack but they cost way too much here in the USA for what they are. In Russia they are dirt cheap even when purchased new. They are a cheap bike sold at a premium price here in the States. A friend bought one and had problems from day one. I completely rewired it, Changed all the bulb sockets, and ended up taking the engine completely appart to fix all the oil leaks. When the factory machined all the castings they left sharp burrs on everything and I even found metal shavings inside where they never bothered to clean them out before assembly. I tried installing new o-rings to stop the leaks but the sharp corners would always cut them so they would leak every time before I gave up and took it appart.
@@n4zou here in hungary we only have the old ones on the used market and every time i talk to someon who owns one they say that you completly have to take it apart and restore everything before you can use them somewhat reliably
@@n4zou no, they aren't dirtcheap in Russia. Урал СиТи (Ural CT) base price is 766000 rubles (~11500 dollars), while average salary is about 30000 rubles (450 dollars). In fact, you don't see many of new Urals in traffic, or should I better say "any" instead of "many". If one can't spend so much money on a bike, he goes for a used japanese or a new chinese bike. If one can afford a new bike, he'd better go for HD Sportster 883 (750000 R), Triumph Scrambler (800000 R), or BMW F 800GS (830000 R), Kawasaki Versys or Suzuki V-Strom (both 650cc and ~630000 R). Only thing you lose in this case is driveshaft.
I'm 26 and just bought myself a 1992 Honda Goldwing Canadian Edition. such a great touring bike and so comfortable on long trips. Always feels weird to get back onto my 2018 kawasaki h2.
As another commenter mentioned, some fixes for the "low speed wobble" on Goldwings are, replacing steering head bearings with "All Balls" tapered bearings, and putting a fork brace on. When "Darksiding" it, a lot of guys put a normal Goldwing "rear" tire on the "front" and mount it so it runs "backwards" from what it is designed to do. In this way you get a "car tire" on the back and a motorcycle rear tire on the front and you get a lot of mileage out of those tires. Of course, Mother Honda does "not" recommend putting car tires on their motorcycles. They claim the tire can come off the "bead" but Darksiders swear by it and don't seem to have that issue.
The fifteen hundred Goldwings were not hard on tires, when they switched to radial tires with the 1800 Goldwing that is when the complaints started about tire wear.
@@JSAFIXIT It is odd, car radials last much longer and handle much better than bias ply tires, but it is almost the opposite with motorcycle tires. Radals still handle better, but bias ply tires last much longer. The bias ply Dunlops on my 1100 Goldwing lasted 25000 miles. The 1800 Goldwings require radials and from what I hear, they are very lucky to last 10,000 miles.
@@danfarrell8958 I run darkside bias ply, I get around 25,000 out of rear, the front gets around 2-3,000 before it starts "cupping" if a person just rides freeways they would last a lot longer, curves and twisties take their toll on these heavy a$$ bike tires.
My uncle that taught me how to ride motorcycles back in the 80s had an '84 GW that even had a CB radio on it. I myself didn't like the rear end styling of bags and tour pack of the GW because they look like the projector cases that Will Smith carried around with him in the movie "Pursuit of Happiness".. I myself currently have a 2014 Street Glide with aftermarket had lowers and tour pack.
@8:44 Damn bro, you had a small tankslapper there! You're lucky it didn't increase in severity or you would be one of the first youtubers to Highside a Goldwing! lol glad you okay though
i had a 1500 vulcan with new tires that would do that violently only on a particular curve with a bump and i was holding onto the handles. ive heard everything including back wheel alignment which is what i agree with the most because i had brand new tires and it wouldnt ever do this on a straight line. even the mechanics couldnt find anything wrong with the front end.
Mine was doing that before I replaced the front tire when I had it replaced it completely stopped and I took a look at the front tire that came on the bike you realize it was in such bad shape until it was unmounted and you could see how badly warped it was
I had a full on tank slapper on my 1988 Gl1500. I was on a highway doing 123 kph (76 mph). Scared the shit out of me. I had not experienced that in 25 years. I let off on throttle, loosened my grip on the bars, then gradually gave more throttle. Finally it stopped. I also checked my mirrors for other cars, in case I had to bail. I also glanced at speedo. It was a 4 lane highway, one direction. I got onto another highway and came to a long straight smooth section. I brought the bike up to the same speed- nothing. The bike handled perfectly. I just wanted to know if this was a concern with these bikes. 2 days later I went to the spot where the tank slapper happened. The highway in that section was covered in those tar snakes from hell. Cracks filled with tar. Most of us know what I mean. I figure that I hit one that started the front end into that wobble and it just got worse. Just a heads up. As a side note: my tires were new (1000 km on them) and I do have a super brace on the forks.
So, before 2009 when they moved to Japan, how much (percentage of parts) of the Marysville Goldwings were made in the USA? Did they import any parts from Japan and China and assemble them in the US?
I particularly love the Gold Wing, as I owned a 1978 GL1000 for several years, and it was dead smooth, even for a boxer 4 cylinder, and had plenty of power for interstate cruising. I find it disturbing that an American company like Harley Davidson can't take a hint and move into the future with 4 and 6 cylinder sport and cruiser bikes that would actually be competitive in today's market. Instead they insist on beating that antiquated V-twin to death, making it bigger and bigger, and adding modern electronics and fuel injection to try to squeeze more power out of it. If Harley doesn't get out of the dark ages pretty soon, they're going to go the way of the Dodo bird once again.😐
I've owned my 97 SE from mile one. It is by far the most reliable and most comfortable bike for 2 up touring I've ever owned. It is why I have kept it. Only 9ssue I've had is no matter which battery you put in it an whether or not you put a floating charger (Battery Tender) on it, the batteries will suddenly have one or more cells fail - the plates from one cell detach from the connecting bridge to the other cells. No real issues with electrical connectors or the harness failing or brakes warping in mountain rides or parts vibrating off (HD) or overly complex electrical systems (BMW) that leave you broken down 8n mid trip.
I`ve owned several 1500 `wings over the years and even though I really liked the bike, they both had a shimy shake from front end even with new tires. Had both bikes in shop for this condition, never fix the shake and just something I was aware of and always kept both hands on the bars. Great bikes for sure!
I have 1990 Goldwing, still riding it.. now has 26k… ride it on “good” days.. preparing put trike on it cause being 67 years old, still have heart keep on riding.. while friends quit and sold theirs… owning 1986 700 shadow and 1100 shadow is what I rode to most every days.. “THE” 1500 Goldwing still always be my pride and JOY.
At the Riverside Hotel in Laughlin upstairs there is a 1975 Goldwing them documented to go for 1 million miles and never had to take the engine apart for anyting. I had a 1975 Goldwing and I loved it. I sold it and then I realize how much I missed a bike. So I ended up buying a Yamaha Maxim very quick bike. Shortly after that a Honda Shadow. And I wasn't satisfied with those two I knew I wanted another Goldwing and now I ride a 1996 Goldwing and it's only got 33,000 miles on it then redone than from Tire to tire
Sean my Goldwing did the same exact thing yesterday at low speed, the handlebar shake thing. I'm putting a new front tire on it asap, thanks for sharing
I am the current owner of a 1999 SE model. I love the video but there is one comment that he made that he is in error. He said that with the onboard air compressor you can change the pressure of the rear shock on the fly, which I'm assuming he means while you're riding. I have tried it in the only time the compressor works is the transmission has to be in neutral. So you have to be stopped
NECK BEARING? You mean like Linda Blair in the Exorcist or BENDER in Futurerama. STEERING BEARINGS, there are 2 and steering stem nuts are tightened to (Wings) 29 psi.. Around 24-ish and less you get that bar-shakes.
Gold wings are massive and easy to see. Never had anyone merge into me on mine. However on my dirt bikes the loud ones did not get merged on nearly as often.
Everybody forgot in the 80's that the goldwing was originally designed and sold as a super bike when it was released. I'm a young guy, all of 34 years old, and I love my '94 goldwing aspincade. It sucks for village riding, but if I need to go further than 15 minutes, the goldwing gets the miles.
Honda issued a warning about the handlebars shaking with hands off of the handlebars due to the rake. This condition really rears its head with a worn front tire. You think you have a smooth ride. Add 2 oz of dynabeads inside the tires. I did 1150 miles on my 1998 Aspencade pulling a trailer. Was tired due to needing sleep. Did not get beat up by the bike or the wind. Only problem I had was that the carbs did not like the continental divide. Not a lot of performance and 20 mpg. I get 45 mpg doing 50/55. 36 mpg doing 70. 30 mpg doing 80.
I ride one exactly like this one, with only 25k miles on it. Last summer l wanted a change in sound from ''silent''. I straight piped it from the cat back......I'm loving it.
I just picked up a used 2009 GL 1800, had a worn out Shitko tire in the front that made it wobble at low speeds. New set of Avon Cobra Chromes solved it.
Interstate is a base model. Then aspencade and se. Love my 91. The only thing I dont like is pulling off all the Tupperware to do any kind of maintenance.
Hello gentlemen I own a goldwing a 1989 I have had it for three years it rides good but the radio needs some work if you could help me out I would appreciate. Thanks Ron
I ride a 1982 GL1100 Goldwing and it runs like a sewing machine and rides like a Goldwing . It has around 78,000 miles on her and the reason I bought was because I'm a motorcycle mechanic and the Gold wing after the bugs were worked out they became the most dependable motorcycle on the road . The two models of Gold wing are interstate and aspencade the aspencade was loaded the interstate was more basic.
I had a 1976 K1 in 1977-it was first bike after passing my UK test. No fairing, top box or panniers, and it felt huge. Compare one to a Burgman 650 scooter, let alone a current Goldwing, and its tiny. The Goldwing has, like cars, increased in its physical size enormously over the years. Will it continue to do so?
GoldWing, Valkyrie, Valkyrie Interstate and many Shadow motorcycles were MADE here in the USA until 2010. They made the switch in 2011 back to Japan. This is why there are no 2011 Honda GoldWing motorcycle.
As mentioned by a couple other riders, the nickel should be up on edge. The Valkyrie engine shows this even better. Set up the nickel in the middle of the right valve cover with the bike on the side stand, then start the engine, then rev it to 5000 rpm, then let it go back to idle. The nickel will still be standing. Mine never tossed the coin.
Ken, my GL1500 has 135,000 miles on it and runs like a bird on a wire. Progressive suspension front and rear! Only thing it does not like is starting in minus 20 degree weather. So, I stay in front of the wood burning stove when it is that cold outside!!!! I don't blame it..
We have 132,000 miles on our 1996 SE. Rode Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica and back to Ohio last summer. It's older, but got lots of looks from passer-bys. Ran great. But I still want a new DCT!
Of course they are, as an Englishman looking in American culture from the outside I can honestly say the most American thing isn't glitz and glamour Hollywood......its small town America, low budget small buck lifestyle and the honda goldwing is a low budget (compared to harley davidson) touring bike. Also when it comes to american low budget life style nothing is more american than a Honda.......got a family, got a small income, go down to your nearest dealership and buy an Accord or a Camry....Toyota is probably more American than honda but that's cars not bikes
probably true, most big luxurious pickups and suv are buyed by wealthy suburban peoples because you know a v8 Is essential form shopping and drive thru fast foods, with less than 300hp how did you 'merge into the highway" even despite giant access lanes and lower speed limits than mainland Europe? no one is obsessed with merging in an highway in Europe but in the US anything over 7 seconds 0-60 mph is considered way too slow. 3usd/gal? cries because Is "expensive" ? european: hold my beer :D
@@harleyrobertson73 i know, sometimes the truth can hurt. Just take it easy, im not offending anyone except some distorted american car culture misconceptions...
If you're thinking of an old wing, a word to the wise as regards repair and maintenance: You will need either deep pockets or a ton of time and patience. Deep pockets if you have someone else do your repairs. Time and patience if you do your own work. Take it from someone who knows.
I have a 1998 Goldwing and my back brakes don’t work ,called two Honda dealers they said they don’t work on old bikes,because they can’t get parts anymore.
Can anybody who owns a wing help me. I'm lookin at a 2000 goldwing on craigslist looks in new condition has 40,000 miles on it. It being a 20 year old bike would it need anything like a carb cleaning or anything major. Or if it runs fine will I be okay to add say 5000 miles without taking it to the shop for an inspection? Or should I take it directly to a shop but I'd prefer to do that miles after because I'll be running low on the greenbacks after the purchase? And do most shops still work on these bikes and is it expensive?
Search YT for "how to buy a used motorcycle" for problems to look out for. Unless the previous owner(s) were knuckleheads a Wing with 40k should be fine. At that age consider changing the belts and tensioners.
Has nothing to do with where its put together but where are the parts made that make up the build. Harleys have so many tap parts on them now days it probably pretty close, but 13 years ago not so much.
Hey I just bought a 1996 1500 interstate,nobody works on these bikes,I needs someone to help me out on this one, if you could recommend someone I would like the info
I saw the title and told my wife, "Honey, watch this video with me and you'll see why I want a Goldwing!" Then Sean launches into the 3 chicks on the Goldwing...wife says I can have a Trail 50, no Goldwing.
Lol ohhhhhh nooooooo, well I have a sweet trail 90 to sell you. Sorry I lied I’m going to keep it for my self
@@Srkcycles Oh your wife must have watched your video!
😂😂😂😂
Lol
One more reason I’m glad I don’t have a wife.
As an owner of a 1996, I'll tell you honestly that you DO wish they had a 6th gear. There's enough power for a higher overdrive which would save tremendously in gas.
i felt the same with a 1500 vulcan i had. hard to complain when i could pop a wheelie going into 2nd.
I agree as far as gas that would be great. I have a 87 1200,, and a 95 1500. Have lots of power but that overdrive would help on long trips I get maybe 30 miles per gallon sometimes less depending on speed. I also think he was a bit slow on that clutch well not on the clutch but he didn't push it I can do 60 and second gear if I when I open up 👍🏻👍🏻
I say the same for my last 2 bikes. 01' Maruader 800, and my current 06' M109r. I never understood why they don't put in a 6th.
I concur 6th would be welcomed
It wouldn’t save that much in gas if you simply cruise at 60mph.
Here I was like a schmuck taking home only two hotties from the bar, not knowing about this trick to fit a third on. Man, do I feel stupid.
I currently own my 3rd goldwing, a 2000 GL 1500 SE. After riding many other bikes including Harleys, in my opinion the GL 1500 goldwing is the best and most comfortable bike I have ever owned. My 2000 SE, also gets up to 44 mpg at 70 mph fully loaded with my wife and I. I agree with everything in this post, and would seriously recommend this bike for anyone interested in long distance touring riding.
I've had a 1200, 1500 and now an 1800. I still feel the 1500 was the smoothest and best riding one of them all. The extra ponies in the 1800 is fun but it lacks the other positives that the 1500 had.
What year 1800 cause I looked up the brand new one and it's got slightly less power
I went from a 1200 to a 1500 and oh boy is it better in every way except maybe raw acceleration. I think the 1200 might have an half second edge but that's about it.
@@zosxavius really....I'll have to try out a 1200. I have am '83 1100 and a '90 1500....the 1500 has superior performance over the 1100 hands down.
Had an 1100, 1500 currently on an 1800 and agree with you.1500 SE still very special.
You videos help me to decide to buy a goldwing now im a proud owner of 1989 gl1500 goldwing with 57k
Thank you for your videos
Greetings from California
I have zero interest in a goldwing, until i've been on the highway for for 3 hours or more and a i see a goldwing rider relaxed and happy lol.
Yea I love my Gold wing but I traveled with a friend and the first long ride we went on we stopped to get lunch he was riding a Harley and the first thing out of mouth is how do you keep you butt and hands from itching from the vibration and 2 of us laughed and said ride a Honda.
I have a Evo Road King and a '95 Goldwing. I ride the RK local and travel on the wing. I love how smooth my GW is. I just bought it last fall. One nice thing about GW's is they built many so they are on the market for very reasonable money.
I have owned three goldwings. On the headshake thing. The tire is obviously the main culprit. Also, as you mentioned the neck bearings after some wear (10 minute fix at home), the third source of it and the uneasy feeling when you hit a pothole while in a curve is the fork brace. I am not sure about the newer ones, but classic goldwings are helped a lot by putting an ACCESSORY lol aftermarket fork brace on them. Love the content and the lack of using the Lord's name in vain on your channel! I preach for the Stewart Park church of Christ in Cross Lanes, WV.
On the Goldwing, its not loud pipes, It Loud Stereos save Lives.
I have an 85 Goldwing 1200 cc 4 cylinder Aspencade. Built in the US. I bought the bike in France with 70 000 Ks on it. Goldwings are so unbelievably reliable. It can sit for 5 years and then crank it up and go again. I am from Australia and I had a 1000cc model years ago when they had a nickname "leadwing". I didn't care because I would do 3000ks on it in one trip. The things are tanks man. I love any Goldwing. They love the carbs tuned and synced and some nice oil and plugs and they will run forever.
The French have a love affair with the Goldwing. There are heaps of them for sale. I cannot afford a new one which start at about 38 000 euro. Ouch.
I don't care, I have my old clunker that turns heads everywhere.
I would rent it out no problem to anyone that wanted to tour France. France is so fantastic to tour around, there are 35 000 different towns in France. Every 5 ks there is a new little town over the whole country. Don't believe me go on Google maps and scroll in to see all the roads in France. Australia is boring by comparison.
I have my own love affair with the Goldwing. I did 700 k two weeks ago from Paris out to the Normandy coast where the GIs and Allies landed in WWII. There are monuments to WWII everywhere. I road down the coast and camped at a little camping ground under the apple trees on my air mattress.
The Goldwing is the best bike on the road. Greg
Sean, GL1500 first year was 1988 and ran through 2000. 1984-1987 was the GL1200 4 cyl. Just helping out!
Yep, my 1987 was 1200, the 1989 was a 1500 and now my 2012 is a 1800, not sure I needed that help, lol
Aspencade Was the flagship model (top of the range). Replaced later on by the SE spec. You should check out the first Aspencade I think it was
1983 GL1100 that featured adjustable suspension, cruise control, and a digital dash in the early 80s. It's a real gem if you can find one!
You did the nickel test wrong. You're supposed to set the nickel on its edge. I could do that on the valve cover of my 1993 Nissan Maxima. It was an amazing feat.
I was wondering if someone told him! 😂
Shaun, I may have nitpicked at your videos in the past, but I must say all of them are very intriquing, informative, and illustrative of each bike's riding style. I subscribed about a month ago finally, because bikes 😂 Keep on doing what you're doing
I think the best thing about goldwings is that they feel much lighter than they are.
I have owned my 95 GL1500 Goldwing Aspencade for the last 17 years and it has 291,565 kms or 181,170 miles on it and it still rides like new as long as you keep them well maintained with full synthetic engine oil they will last 10,000 kms between oil and filter changes, spark plugs every 3 years, K&N air filter will last around 20,000 kms before it need to be cleaned as long as your not riding in dusty conditions, mine has never need a rebuild yet try getting the same mileage out of a Harley without needing a top end rebuild or a bottom end rebuild as for the values on the GL1500 well they have hydraulic lifters which work on the engine oil so you will never need to adjust them for the life of the engine, as for the power yes they have 75 Kw or 100 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm but they also have 150 Nm or 110 ft-lb of torque @ 3,250 rpm
Been watching lots of these videos, I find it hilarious that Sean has such issues with almost every cruise control on every bike. I think this is the only one where he actually got the snooze set! Lol
FYI, all the first generation (75-79) GL1000s were made in Japan, as were the earliest second generation gl1100s, until partway thru the 1980 model year. That's when they started assembly in Marysville, OH. Engines were made in Japan until 1985, when they started making the engines in Anna OH
Sean, the nickel is supposed to be on its edge. It is that smooth.
Yes, coin on it's edge is the trick it does.
Just like my old V12 Jaguar.
@@patdwyer6274 Rolls Royce too
I’d say my Valkyrie too, but I feel like that’s cheating.
I have been a wing driver for over 40 years and I have owned every iteration of the wing except a 1200
Currently on a 1500 trike and I was very happy to be back on a wing. 67 y/o and not ready to quit riding and I want my last bike to be a wing! And oh by the way will never dark side
I have a 1987 gold wing a little over 70,000 miles and still runs great. Just can’t wait for the next ride, short or long ride so smooth.
You are sitting on a bike that looks just like the one my I bought my father. Color and all. Made me really miss him
I have an 88 Goldwing smooth as glass only paid 1300 for it and the surprising part is everything works even the air ride system
I spoke to a motorcycle tech who had 2 Gold Wings in for service, one had 189,000 miles and the other had 212,000 miles. I would definitely say they are immortal.
I puckered up for you at that head shake moment...glad you caught it in time.
Same. I had a similar moment on my old GL1200 under firm braking, although (obviously) my hands were on the bars at the time.
@@richardsmith5249 I too have a GL1200 and I only had to experience it once to never take my hands off those bars again.
At 37,000 it’s been sitting a lot, I’m surprised the tires aren’t all weather checked. And the fact that it is fairly stock is amazing.
Double darkside ... you put rear motorcycle tire on front and car tire on rear. Front tire cup you need to have steering bearings torque or replace.
Could need a wheel balancing too.check it all out. Fix what needs to be fixed. Then it's Years and Years of pleasurable riding!!
i do beleive loud pipes can help preserve a riders life, and goldwings are like sedans, its really hard to miss one. am allso a fan of the zero srf. best thing for a rider is smart offensive opperating.
I have seen data on this issue and remarkably, there is no data that clearly demonstrates “loud pipes save lives.” One reason however, is that there are too many variables on crash data statistics to confirm the hypothesis one way or the other. Are any two accidents identical? And if so, what are the odds that one of the bikes had loud pipes v. A more quieter bike?
Me, I hate noise. I know that seems strange, but I hate all loud noises.
For this reasons, and many others, my “94 Wing is perfect for me. I am never getting rid of her.
I’m definitely looking at picking one up this winter for a repair and cruise come summer. 😅
Shaking may be from brace. It is probably cracked between forks on front. Common issue.
i replaced mine and it makes a BIG diff.
Alan Huberman no you didn’t, Alan.
@@Anonymous594 I second Alan's comment. I have 2 GW's, 1 with Super Brace other stock and they both shake when the following happens.
ONCE the air pressure falls below recommended setting, scalloping begins.
BALANCING BEADS is the best remedy even when tire is shop balanced. As tires wear they wear unevenly, beads work constantly over 25-28 mph.
WHY DO PEOPLE POST FICTION? WTH!
fm00078 nope. You’re lying. You’re part of the Deep State.
A new front tire's not going to help with that head shake, it needs new head bearings. But you are right about the Boss Hoss's having 2 speeds and the new DCT Wings having 7 speeds. With regards to loud pipes saving lives, it depends on where you are. Noise alerts people to your presence, there's no two ways about it. That's why we have horns, and that's why emergency vehicles have sirens. In the city where I do most of my riding, sometimes I'm left with no choice but to ride in someone's blind spot, and if they can't see me, I want them to hear me.
Check the Headstock bearings while you're doing the tyre. Heavy bikes notch the bearings and notched bearing cause head shake.
The last year for production in Marysville for the GL1800 was 2010. The production shift happened during 2011 model year.
Oh good to known
We moved the machinery for the GL engine out to make room for the CVT transmission in the Accord. The engine for the GL was assembled in Anna, OH. Really enjoy your videos fellas!! God Bless!!
As near as I can tell, Aspencade is the original name for the Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally in Ruidoso, New Mexico. This year is their 50th year.
Thanks for that; I always wondered. And now, thanks to this video, I know how to arually pronounce Aspencade.👍
Goldwings were in their own category for decades. They are still very much the top of the food chain.
Sean, I loved the 93 I use to ride. The 1 I rode was even the same color as that 1. I took it to my endorsement test. Every body there said I was crazy bringing such a big bike. I had no problem passed it on the first pass. Air ride radio. Only issue was that the choke stuck so I didnt use it.
Noooo, the first thing you notice when getting on a 4th gen goldwing, is lifting it off the kickstand. You feel like your manually lifting a car onto two wheels from four. The thing is a tank!
I'm so glad to see you do a Goldwing video on the older bikes. I have owned three of them my last one was identical to that one it was a 1997 aspencade. I thought I heard you call that one an 87 model. My friends did not believe they were made in the USA. Absolutely love them. Thank you for the video
1987 Goldwing wasn't a GL1500. 1988 was the first year for 1500.
That wobble on cruise control made me grab for the handle bars. lol Picking up my first Goldwing this weekend, a 97 with only 6000 miles on it. Can't wait too cruise it. Great video and thanks for all the info.
The GL1500 Goldwing is a flat six (not a boxer) with matching crank pins in the same plane so in matching cylinders one piston is moving out while it's mate is moving in. A boxer has a 360 degree crankshaft and a non boxer flat engine has a 180 degree crankshaft.
For anyone who is intrested in this sort of stuff, the old bmws and urals have mechanical reverse
Blaze the boss hoss also had reverse.
I'd really like to have a Ural sidehack but they cost way too much here in the USA for what they are. In Russia they are dirt cheap even when purchased new. They are a cheap bike sold at a premium price here in the States. A friend bought one and had problems from day one. I completely rewired it, Changed all the bulb sockets, and ended up taking the engine completely appart to fix all the oil leaks. When the factory machined all the castings they left sharp burrs on everything and I even found metal shavings inside where they never bothered to clean them out before assembly. I tried installing new o-rings to stop the leaks but the sharp corners would always cut them so they would leak every time before I gave up and took it appart.
@@mikehancock6280thank you for your anserw, I didn't know that.
@@n4zou here in hungary we only have the old ones on the used market and every time i talk to someon who owns one they say that you completly have to take it apart and restore everything before you can use them somewhat reliably
@@n4zou no, they aren't dirtcheap in Russia. Урал СиТи (Ural CT) base price is 766000 rubles (~11500 dollars), while average salary is about 30000 rubles (450 dollars). In fact, you don't see many of new Urals in traffic, or should I better say "any" instead of "many". If one can't spend so much money on a bike, he goes for a used japanese or a new chinese bike. If one can afford a new bike, he'd better go for HD Sportster 883 (750000 R), Triumph Scrambler (800000 R), or BMW F 800GS (830000 R), Kawasaki Versys or Suzuki V-Strom (both 650cc and ~630000 R). Only thing you lose in this case is driveshaft.
I'm 26 and just bought myself a 1992 Honda Goldwing Canadian Edition. such a great touring bike and so comfortable on long trips. Always feels weird to get back onto my 2018 kawasaki h2.
Lol complete opposite bikes
As another commenter mentioned, some fixes for the "low speed wobble" on Goldwings are, replacing steering head bearings with "All Balls" tapered bearings, and putting a fork brace on. When "Darksiding" it, a lot of guys put a normal Goldwing "rear" tire on the "front" and mount it so it runs "backwards" from what it is designed to do. In this way you get a "car tire" on the back and a motorcycle rear tire on the front and you get a lot of mileage out of those tires. Of course, Mother Honda does "not" recommend putting car tires on their motorcycles. They claim the tire can come off the "bead" but Darksiders swear by it and don't seem to have that issue.
The fifteen hundred Goldwings were not hard on tires, when they switched to radial tires with the 1800 Goldwing that is when the complaints started about tire wear.
That's odd, radials usually last much longer.
@@JSAFIXIT It is odd, car radials last much longer and handle much better than bias ply tires, but it is almost the opposite with motorcycle tires. Radals still handle better, but bias ply tires last much longer. The bias ply Dunlops on my 1100 Goldwing lasted 25000 miles. The 1800 Goldwings require radials and from what I hear, they are very lucky to last 10,000 miles.
No sir, the 1500 is also hard on tires, i have one, EVERYONE that owns one will agree
@@russellmott1726 How many miles do you get and are they bias ply or radial?
@@danfarrell8958 I run darkside bias ply, I get around 25,000 out of rear, the front gets around 2-3,000 before it starts "cupping" if a person just rides freeways they would last a lot longer, curves and twisties take their toll on these heavy a$$ bike tires.
wow that thing sounds like a spaceship! I thought somebody was blowing leaves in the back ground or something it was way quieter than his voice
This is George Jetson's touring bike.
My uncle that taught me how to ride motorcycles back in the 80s had an '84 GW that even had a CB radio on it.
I myself didn't like the rear end styling of bags and tour pack of the GW because they look like the projector cases that Will Smith carried around with him in the movie "Pursuit of Happiness"..
I myself currently have a 2014 Street Glide with aftermarket had lowers and tour pack.
The first generation, 1000cc Goldwings were made in Japan. Production was moved to the USA when the 1100cc model was released in 1980.
and then Japan took them back so the Ohio plant could build cars and now are built somewhere in China...
@8:44 Damn bro, you had a small tankslapper there! You're lucky it didn't increase in severity or you would be one of the first youtubers to Highside a Goldwing! lol glad you okay though
i had a 1500 vulcan with new tires that would do that violently only on a particular curve with a bump and i was holding onto the handles. ive heard everything including back wheel alignment which is what i agree with the most because i had brand new tires and it wouldnt ever do this on a straight line. even the mechanics couldnt find anything wrong with the front end.
Mine was doing that before I replaced the front tire when I had it replaced it completely stopped and I took a look at the front tire that came on the bike you realize it was in such bad shape until it was unmounted and you could see how badly warped it was
I had a full on tank slapper on my 1988 Gl1500. I was on a highway doing 123 kph (76 mph). Scared the shit out of me. I had not experienced that in 25 years. I let off on throttle, loosened my grip on the bars, then gradually gave more throttle. Finally it stopped. I also checked my mirrors for other cars, in case I had to bail. I also glanced at speedo. It was a 4 lane highway, one direction. I got onto another highway and came to a long straight smooth section. I brought the bike up to the same speed- nothing. The bike handled perfectly. I just wanted to know if this was a concern with these bikes. 2 days later I went to the spot where the tank slapper happened. The highway in that section was covered in those tar snakes from hell. Cracks filled with tar. Most of us know what I mean. I figure that I hit one that started the front end into that wobble and it just got worse. Just a heads up.
As a side note: my tires were new (1000 km on them) and I do have a super brace on the forks.
So, before 2009 when they moved to Japan, how much (percentage of parts) of the Marysville Goldwings were made in the USA? Did they import any parts from Japan and China and assemble them in the US?
I like the position of the foot pegs but on my last long ride one knee gave out. Need to add highway pegs. Can't go for days on with my knees bent.
I particularly love the Gold Wing, as I owned a 1978 GL1000 for several years, and it was dead smooth, even for a boxer 4 cylinder, and had plenty of power for interstate cruising. I find it disturbing that an American company like Harley Davidson can't take a hint and move into the future with 4 and 6 cylinder sport and cruiser bikes that would actually be competitive in today's market. Instead they insist on beating that antiquated V-twin to death, making it bigger and bigger, and adding modern electronics and fuel injection to try to squeeze more power out of it. If Harley doesn't get out of the dark ages pretty soon, they're going to go the way of the Dodo bird once again.😐
But harley parts are made all over the place including china
I've owned my 97 SE from mile one. It is by far the most reliable and most comfortable bike for 2 up touring I've ever owned. It is why I have kept it. Only 9ssue I've had is no matter which battery you put in it an whether or not you put a floating charger (Battery Tender) on it, the batteries will suddenly have one or more cells fail - the plates from one cell detach from the connecting bridge to the other cells. No real issues with electrical connectors or the harness failing or brakes warping in mountain rides or parts vibrating off (HD) or overly complex electrical systems (BMW) that leave you broken down 8n mid trip.
I`ve owned several 1500 `wings over the years and even though I really liked the bike, they both had a shimy shake from front end even with new tires. Had both bikes in shop for this condition, never fix the shake and just something I was aware of and always kept both hands on the bars. Great bikes for sure!
Yes, the 37mph wobble. I have owned a 1000, 1200, 1500 and my current 1800. They all do it, even with new tires.
I have 1990 Goldwing, still riding it.. now has 26k… ride it on “good” days.. preparing put trike on it cause being 67 years old, still have heart keep on riding.. while friends quit and sold theirs… owning 1986 700 shadow and 1100 shadow is what I rode to most every days.. “THE” 1500 Goldwing still always be my pride and JOY.
At the Riverside Hotel in Laughlin upstairs there is a 1975 Goldwing them documented to go for 1 million miles and never had to take the engine apart for anyting. I had a 1975 Goldwing and I loved it. I sold it and then I realize how much I missed a bike. So I ended up buying a Yamaha Maxim very quick bike. Shortly after that a Honda Shadow. And I wasn't satisfied with those two I knew I wanted another Goldwing and now I ride a 1996 Goldwing and it's only got 33,000 miles on it then redone than from Tire to tire
Sean my Goldwing did the same exact thing yesterday at low speed, the handlebar shake thing. I'm putting a new front tire on it asap, thanks for sharing
I am the current owner of a 1999 SE model. I love the video but there is one comment that he made that he is in error. He said that with the onboard air compressor you can change the pressure of the rear shock on the fly, which I'm assuming he means while you're riding. I have tried it in the only time the compressor works is the transmission has to be in neutral. So you have to be stopped
All Honda boxer motors were made in Marysville Ohio at one time or another...Wings, Valks and Runes
NECK BEARING? You mean like Linda Blair in the Exorcist or BENDER in Futurerama.
STEERING BEARINGS, there are 2 and steering stem nuts are tightened to (Wings) 29 psi.. Around 24-ish and less you get that bar-shakes.
There is a video somewhere , maybe TH-cam showing how they make the Goldwing on the production line in the USA 🇺🇸!!
Gold wings are massive and easy to see. Never had anyone merge into me on mine. However on my dirt bikes the loud ones did not get merged on nearly as often.
(4:38) - I’m 99% sure the manual states adjusting the rear air pressure ONLY with the bike on the centre stand.
Your videos are awesome man keep up the test drives!
The problem that I am seeing if many of the dealerships in my area won't work on a bike that is over 10 years old
Everybody forgot in the 80's that the goldwing was originally designed and sold as a super bike when it was released. I'm a young guy, all of 34 years old, and I love my '94 goldwing aspincade. It sucks for village riding, but if I need to go further than 15 minutes, the goldwing gets the miles.
Honda issued a warning about the handlebars shaking with hands off of the handlebars due to the rake. This condition really rears its head with a worn front tire. You think you have a smooth ride. Add 2 oz of dynabeads inside the tires. I did 1150 miles on my 1998 Aspencade pulling a trailer. Was tired due to needing sleep. Did not get beat up by the bike or the wind. Only problem I had was that the carbs did not like the continental divide. Not a lot of performance and 20 mpg. I get 45 mpg doing 50/55. 36 mpg doing 70. 30 mpg doing 80.
I ride one exactly like this one, with only 25k miles on it. Last summer l wanted a change in sound from ''silent''. I straight piped it from the cat back......I'm loving it.
Could you do some two stroke bike videos please?
Won’t work camera cant see through all the smoke.
I just picked up a used 2009 GL 1800, had a worn out Shitko tire in the front that made it wobble at low speeds. New set of Avon Cobra Chromes solved it.
Interstate is a base model. Then aspencade and se. Love my 91. The only thing I dont like is pulling off all the Tupperware to do any kind of maintenance.
Hello gentlemen I own a goldwing a 1989 I have had it for three years it rides good but the radio needs some work if you could help me out I would appreciate.
Thanks Ron
Yep they were more so, until they moved across the pond. The '09 and '10 were built at the same time, and were the last ones from the States.
I ride a 1982 GL1100 Goldwing and it runs like a sewing machine and rides like a Goldwing . It has around 78,000 miles on her and the reason I bought was because I'm a motorcycle mechanic and the Gold wing after the bugs were worked out they became the most dependable motorcycle on the road . The two models of Gold wing are interstate and aspencade the aspencade was loaded the interstate was more basic.
I had a 1976 K1 in 1977-it was first bike after passing my UK test. No fairing, top box or panniers, and it felt huge. Compare one to a Burgman 650 scooter, let alone a current Goldwing, and its tiny. The Goldwing has, like cars, increased in its physical size enormously over the years. Will it continue to do so?
Nah it shrunk in 2018
Triumph Rocket lll...?
GoldWing, Valkyrie, Valkyrie Interstate and many Shadow motorcycles were MADE here in the USA until 2010. They made the switch in 2011 back to Japan. This is why there are no 2011 Honda GoldWing motorcycle.
The aspencade was named after the aspencade rally,in Ruidoso New Mexico.
Going back to PA. for a home visit. Thinking of checking your place out. Do you always have Goldwings for sale?
As mentioned by a couple other riders, the nickel should be up on edge. The Valkyrie engine shows this even better. Set up the nickel in the middle of the right valve cover with the bike on the side stand, then start the engine, then rev it to 5000 rpm, then let it go back to idle. The nickel will still be standing. Mine never tossed the coin.
I learned to keep my tire pressure at 40-45 psi to keep the front tire from wondering and keep the tires from wearing out early.
Yep 42 front and rear for me.
What bikes have you rated as "advanced" on your scale?
He recently did a test drive on a CBR 1000 RR...rated that as advanced lol
*Transmission type:* Shaft Drive.
What kind of transmission is that?
Is this an clutch / automatic gear shifting system?
I just got a 93 1500 trike the only thing that got me was the first time I seen OD on the dash till I figured out it meant over drive good video
I own a 1993 Honda Goldwing GL1500, and this video has inspired Me to get it out of mothballs! It is time to ride the California roads again! 🇺🇸😀👍
Another excellent video Sean ..thanks for sharing / showing 👍🏼☕️🇺🇸🏍🛵
Yep I have a friend his goldwing has a hundred thirty three thousand and still runs like new
Ken, my GL1500 has 135,000 miles on it and runs like a bird on a wire. Progressive suspension front and rear! Only thing it does not like is starting in minus 20 degree weather. So, I stay in front of the wood burning stove when it is that cold outside!!!! I don't blame it..
We have 132,000 miles on our 1996 SE. Rode Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica and back to Ohio last summer. It's older, but got lots of looks from passer-bys. Ran great. But I still want a new DCT!
Your persistance to be anti loud pipes saves lives makes me so happy. Its the worst safety fall back
If it doesnt already have one, install a horn that's loud and clear! Maybe go the extra mile and add another air tank to it and do an air horn.
No, it comes in second, behind "I had to lay it down."
Of course they are, as an Englishman looking in American culture from the outside I can honestly say the most American thing isn't glitz and glamour Hollywood......its small town America, low budget small buck lifestyle and the honda goldwing is a low budget (compared to harley davidson) touring bike. Also when it comes to american low budget life style nothing is more american than a Honda.......got a family, got a small income, go down to your nearest dealership and buy an Accord or a Camry....Toyota is probably more American than honda but that's cars not bikes
probably true, most big luxurious pickups and suv are buyed by wealthy suburban peoples because you know a v8 Is essential form shopping and drive thru fast foods, with less than 300hp how did you 'merge into the highway" even despite giant access lanes and lower speed limits than mainland Europe? no one is obsessed with merging in an highway in Europe but in the US anything over 7 seconds 0-60 mph is considered way too slow.
3usd/gal? cries because Is "expensive" ? european: hold my beer :D
@@Tonyx.yt. I know right in UK it's like £5 - £6 a gallon and Americans complain about their price.....please, quit your Bitching
@@harleyrobertson73 i know, sometimes the truth can hurt.
Just take it easy, im not offending anyone except some distorted american car culture misconceptions...
If you're thinking of an old wing, a word to the wise as regards repair and maintenance: You will need either deep pockets or a ton of time and patience. Deep pockets if you have someone else do your repairs. Time and patience if you do your own work. Take it from someone who knows.
I have a 1998 Goldwing and my back brakes don’t work ,called two Honda dealers they said they don’t work on old bikes,because they can’t get parts anymore.
The only problem I have with my cruise control is you can't set it over 85 mph. Keeps you alert in west texas, montana, wyoming
Well that sucks
My dad wants to Hollis when’s the old sports store when’s the new heritage now on 19 in Honolulu he’s not used to it
Can anybody who owns a wing help me. I'm lookin at a 2000 goldwing on craigslist looks in new condition has 40,000 miles on it. It being a 20 year old bike would it need anything like a carb cleaning or anything major. Or if it runs fine will I be okay to add say 5000 miles without taking it to the shop for an inspection? Or should I take it directly to a shop but I'd prefer to do that miles after because I'll be running low on the greenbacks after the purchase? And do most shops still work on these bikes and is it expensive?
Search YT for "how to buy a used motorcycle" for problems to look out for. Unless the previous owner(s) were knuckleheads a Wing with 40k should be fine. At that age consider changing the belts and tensioners.
Had one just like the one your
Showing. Bought new in 92. I sure
Miss it.
Have you ever had a Victory Vision at your shop??
Awesome 👍 great review, love my Wing, all the best.
Has nothing to do with where its put together but where are the parts made that make up the build. Harleys have so many tap parts on them now days it probably pretty close, but 13 years ago not so much.
Hey I just bought a 1996 1500 interstate,nobody works on these bikes,I needs someone to help me out on this one, if you could recommend someone I would like the info
In 2022 Honda announced discontinuing production of the gold wing sometime in 2023.