HI Cruiseman - what about sending aCopy of this Vid to Honda America! + Honda Japan! ... you really have picked up some points on this new Goldwing! - ..... but it seems in all new Car + bike models there are faults in the first Generation! ... but if you ask me some should have been Sorted before Production! - Love your Vids + Accent ! .....
With age comes wisdom!! This video is a must for Honda to see. -And btw, 5:44 the compartment lid has to either be turned around so that the lid are the other way around and not towards you like shown or away from you depending on how you see it.. and possibilities for cables maybe to come out from the storage compartment, i'm not sure about this but say that you have headphone cables, longer ones up under let's say the helmet or hooked up to another storage device of some kind and a cable can't be pulled like that with the lid closed. Great video "Cruiseman, Greetings from Sweden!
First long trip with a 2018 Airbag Wing and I loved the ability to add several day's worth of music on a USB stick or countless trips created online at home and up-loadable as leg1, leg2 etc. I wish the GPS between my Acura's could do this! I even updated this on the fly with my surface pro through a USB stick. I don't care about waypoint limitations with this capability .. storage addressed with a Rivco hitch and tray if I'm travelling 2 up and need room for the kitchen sink same as my 2001 & 2007 .. otherwise I echo your sentiments and love your installation videos .. but what a great machine .. kudos and thanks.
Just got a 2021 Tour DCT and most of those things still remain. I don't have the LED Entry Lights - a white circle on the ignition switch lights when one approaches with the key Fob. Passenger seat grab rails are now functional. Fit/finish - pocket door on right of fairing still doesn't fit. Horn button still sucks; still no warning for parking brake. But I love it!
I have had my bike for about 3 months now and think it's great. I bought the bike to ride and couldn't care less as to whether or not it had a radio. The fit and finish on my machine is very good. The front suspension works very well and it handles the corners better than any other big road machine I am aware of. The front brake is great, easily worked with 2 fingers and the abs gives you confidence to use it. The "fly by wire" throttle is easily operated and gives you exactly what you expect. The tail lights and turn signals show well making accessory lights unnecessary. The elect windshield is nice. Seat is good. Some adjustment to the handle bars would be nice and a helmet lock would also be good. I will agree that long distance riders might want more luggage space and suspect Honda will come out with a model to suit them in the future, but the current Wing is just right for my type of riding. By the way, my bike is the 6 speed standard shift.
Great video, and agree on all the points and add 4 points 1) lack of storage 2) seat comfort 3) larger gas tank 4) suspension fine tuning. Today the bike is a good base, I estimate that it will take Honda around 3 years to improve things meanwhile I will ride a BMW 1600 GTL
Agree with you 100% that where the phone goes should be lockable. I have an iPhone and have left accidentally several times in the compartment and by some miracle have not gotten robbed. I sincerely hope honda is watching this and will make some adjustments
According to Harmon, who I spoke to. They did NOT make the gps. They stated they only supplied the parts to Honda and Honda built it. I also have experienced the 3D shifting bug you spoke about. If I turn the gps off/on...it resolves itself. I agree with every idea you have put out here. But, I assume all of us who bought the wing this year are test dummies for next years model. Lol I still agree it is a great bike, these 10 things make it not worth the high price unless Honda addresses them. This is my 1st Goldwing..I guess I expected more after saving for it all these years. Great vid
Great video. Very surprised you left out the suspension's shortcomings. I won't hold my breath for Honda to fix any of these issues so if a Gold WIng is in my future, I'll more than likely go "used" and save a bundle of cash and get a well sorted 2012-17 model.
I've seen the video on the suspension. I'm not racing in the Isle of Man. I find that the suspension is more than adequate for the riding i do... Just saying
Great job, Cruiseman! Regarding the NAV audio loss, it happens every time I turn my bike off. Upon restart, all NAV audio is lost. The only way to get it back is remove a waypoint and recalculate or redo your navigation. Also, I NEED the ability to set Nav to avoid unpaved roads. My Nav system tries to have me take dirt roads!!!! Big fails that an update should be able to rectify.
Thank you CruiseMan , your eye for detail and safety is right on as far as i am concerned. The horn is a safety issue, Honda should address this soon. I love the style of the new Gold Wing Tour. Slim and sleek !! Just what i was looking for in a cruise touring motorcycle and therefore have to give up some storage space. I have just over 3,000 miles since Feb and find the handling, performance and ride excellent !!! Travel Safe and keep the shinny side up !
I'm really not as enthusiastic as you are regarding Honda's taking care of those problems. Let's see in 1 or 2 years :p And as far as I'm concerned getting more storage capacity would be the 1st thing to fix. Thx for what you are doing anyway, love your videos.
The new wing more looks like and advanced and boosted design of the good old ST1300 than the actual GW. Specially the front fairings, and mufflers look all to similar to ST1300...
Good review - I bought a new in the crate 2014 Goldwing GL1800C for $7999 in may 2018 from Halls in Mobile Alabama. Love the bike but the Horn was also moved above the turn signals so in an emergency i hit the turn signals . this was way to dangerous for me so I added a Radio shack 2nd horn button below it for safety . now things are tight but i can find the horn when needed and it is in the same location of my older Honda's . Honda sucks for placing the emergency equipment in different locations on different bikes and may get people killed as a result
Thank you very much for the review . I've had my DCT wing since early April . I also owned the previous generation wing . I have also owned multiple BMWs including K bikes GSs and RTs . I currently have 1700 miles on the bike . I really like this bike . Better ride , sportier (good handling ) , better wind screen and better controls . I also have a few very minor paint issues . I'm past worrying about small issues . If you use the bike there will always be a few marks on it . I initially didn't like the way the bags or the little storage compartment closed , but with use everything improved . Mechanically everything has been great . I don't really notice a drone at speed , but I have not done prolonged highway miles . Overall very happy with purchase and would do again . Would never buy a BMW again . Really loved the bikes , but got tired of the quirks , expensive service , limited number of dealers , poor service from dealers and mechanical issues .
Thanks for all the info, I was very interested in getting a new wing but I think i will wait and see what Honda is going to do with all the different issues that have been showing up in all the different u tubes . Keep them coming and thanks for all the info.
I'm riding my third Goldwing, but it's a 2015 F6B. I've owned a 1996 GL1500 and made four trips from California to Alabama and back with NO GPS, so I found your complaint about GPS laughable and wonder why anyone would need this. The mention of any Phone, yes I owned a 2001 GL1800 and never equated a cell phone with riding my bike. I did like the key fob, cute thing like popping the trunk as you approached, and the sound was important. Other then the GPS and Phone connection, I found this to be very helpful on issues as I contemplate "up grading" from my F6B but must admit, I still love my bike so much she has a name. Have you named your 2018 Goldwing?
I understand your position on the GPS issue. It is just a different style of touring. It is also a feature that owners are paying for, so it should be functional. I have named the bike "Ghost".
A colleague in Arizona got a new 2018 GW, and it's headlight stayed on all the time; draining the battery. He traded it back to the dealer for a 2019 model and it had the same problem. Both bikes brand new. Honda won't take the bikes back from the dealer; even after they followed Honda directions to first replace all electrical modules, then replace the entire wiring harness.
As always, Cruisman does a super job on informing us! With having given up my '13 Wing for this one, I really do wish Honda would at least offer a larger topbox as this would be a less expensive and viable fix for riders who need more space. Or sell a version with larger topbox and bags and call it the "Interstate" since they have used that before. Would be interesting to see what the sales of either the box or the total bike would be.
A lot of good suggestions. For the horn though, that's just digit memory. If you ride holding the grips the same way everytime then the horn button is the exact same movement time after time. If you hold the grip randomly each time you ride, it's like trying to type when you sit off centre of your keyboard, more difficult than if you're in your normal position.
Hey Cruiseman, I like your video's so much I subscribed to your channel. I just would like to mention though. I've read/heard a lot of complaints also about that front phone cubby not having a lock. It seems, however, no one has mentioned the obvious fact that it simply opens in the wrong direction. The rider should not have to look over the top of the lid to reach inside. It should be facing the rider for easier access to the items stored inside. Also, Honda should do away with that stupid switch inside the right fairing just to open another lid to get to your gas cap. You just need a regular locking gas cap. Which I might add, needs to be raised/better engineered so that when you're filling your tank. The nozzle doesn't lean on your expensive bike, potentially scratching/damaging the paint. I think that sometimes these manufactures feel as though because of their past reputation they can just charge a premium and it's okay to skimp on a few components. And that the consumer should just suck it up a d deal with it. Anyway, I'm ranting on. Keep up the good work and keep cranking out these good quality videos.
I don't understand you people. This man is telling you in his opinion (and a very valued one at that), the things that Honda should address to make this a better bike that cost thousands of dollars. And yet in still, people thumbs down the Video. Stop watching, or better yet keep it moving. My opinion only, and not those of other or the owner of this channel.
Thanks Cruiseman for all your informative videos!! This new Wings DCT transmission , it's engine's low end torque and smoothness and the aerodynamics are among it's mechanical high points. The helmet lock however is also a real negative as well as the 200 rear tire. The soft springs drag parts sooner than the last gen.
Now that boys and girls is how to properly review a motorcycle. Well done. Sounds like I'll be keeping the Zumo 550/XM strapped to the handlebars of my smooth and comfy, well suspended $11k Kaw Versys 1000. I'll use a portion of the savings for a few paper maps to use as backup...
I know you know that the January 2019 flash added the ability to add 99 waypoints. GPS is still subpar, though. Keep up the good work with these videos.
Well done video and fair review. I think it is worth noting that most of the issues are things that really don't have a place on a motorcycle. I would buy one of these in a second if there were a "tech-free" model that has a simple audio system. I realize that some people love these gadgets... but some people don't. To each his or her own however...
Honda, Get a couple of XL full face helmets and give them to the design guys. One each needs to fit in the panniers. Next both need to fit in the top box. I love a top box. But usually only need it when wife wants to ride. If it could be easily removable that would be great too.
Hey Honda! how about a tpms that is really usable. Should be able to walk up to the bike BEFORE taking off and see if you need to add air. Currently the PSI's don't show until AFTER you start your ride and then it only shows one tires pressure instead of switching back and forth showing both tires. This causes you to take your eyes off the road to hit the select button to see what psi is in both tires.
Have only looked at the new Wing briefly. The grips are too tight to the body. I grab them when putting bike on center stand. Also I have a J&S jack. I like to put my 07 on it for cleaning. But it doesn't look like I can use the jack without crushing the exhaust system. Have to buy or make an additional adapter.
I agree with all of the above - but the horn really bugs me - First switching the location around with the turn signals (I’ve had ten+ years of training on an older GW model) and ‘Why!’ is this button not illuminated!
Reading the comments below, it sounds like your video should have been the top 20 things wrong with the new Goldwing! For $34K here in Canada, I expect a lot better of Honda. The GPS is a fail for me, and of course the extremely limited luggage capacity. NO sale for me. I could buy a Civic for less money and get better gas mileage also. And the best thing is that my 2003 Goldwing does everything I need for touring, and more.
I THINK the radio goes goes to FM whenever you experience a drop in satellite radio reception. I’d personally prefer it just go silent and stay tuned to Sirius, but at the same time, I’ve experienced long periods of silence when that happens in my car. It can happen in the oddest places at times too ie. wide open spaces where you’d think satellite range is unobstructed.
Long time no see old man! Glad to see you posting the nitty gritty on the 18's! Hit me up if you are headed to the ding this year or will be around Deals Gap.
Cruiseman, have you been contacted by Honda? When you purchased the 2018 Goldwing, did they give you a break due to these imperfections? Great video as usual, I do sincerely hope that Honda is listening to you.
I think they’ve addressed some of these issues with the 2020 model.Can the nav on an 18 model be updated by Honda service? Should I grab a leftover 18, or just buy a 2020 model?🤔
Superb video. As a 2018 GWT6 owner, I would add the "helmet holder" as one of the most poorly designed features of my bike. Frankly, it looks and functions like something that I would have designed...and I'm not a designer... I sincerely hope that Honda can update the GPS with some kind of "over the air" software fix. Overall, however...I love the bike!
You can make calls from an Android phone by using the Speed DIals on screen. The manual says you can use the Recent Call list too, but I haven't tried that. I totally agree with your comment that a Touring bike needs a top GPS. However in New Zealand and Australia none of the bikes have Navigation even activated, although it seems the GPS receiver is in the bike as you can see the Signal Strength. To us that's even more of an insult from Honda than supplying a sub-par GPS. Still didn't stop me buying the bike, and I have my Garmin on a RAM mount - I notice in the video that you've got a RAM mount on the right handlebar too.
Fantastic video! - Why on earth didn't Honda just tweak the 2017 model? I know that it had its issues, but it seems like this new one would be too uncomfortable to take on a long trip, with its painful seat, shitty nav, zero storage, etc. Hoping that Honda addresses all of these issues soon.
I grew up in a family that had history with Goldwings and I wanted one since I was a kid. I bought a 2010 and traded it, trying 3 other touring bikes only to return to the Wing in 2013. I am sure the new Wing is a fantastic Sport Tour machine like the ST was and would have been had they kept it alive. I have no plan on getting a new wing unless they build an XL version. My dad on the other hand thinks it is great being smaller and would love to have one but doesn't even own a $26k auto let alone a bike. So he's keeping his Voyager and may buy an older Wing at some point because they are such a great commuter and easy to clean. I hope but don't hold my breath for Honda to make changes or another model unless it is at very little cost.
Very good video and I can agree on almost all points. Another thing that I would like to mention is that Honda switched the horn and direction indicator switch. I've pushed the horn several times when I wanted to indicate left or right. I rode the previous model for 13 years and the 1500 another 13 years before that and I couldn't remember if the horn-switch was above or beneath the direction-switch, but Honda changed it. Another thing I would like to mention is the absurd price Honda is charging for the fog-light accessory, I bought myself a pair of round led lights and connected it to the accessory connector next to the battery and it looks and works great and it cost me around USD 25,--. What I would like to know if it is possible to make the dummy buttons on the centre-dash into real working buttons. Maybe Cruiseman has a suggestion for that. Thanks for making these video's, Ruud (from the Netherlands)
The dummy buttons on the console are pre-wired into the harness for specific tasks, fog lights, HomeLink, etc. I suppose you could reverse-engineer the wiring harness in some fashion. Above my pay grade.
Great list. After about 3,500 miles on my 2018 DCT I have bumped into almost all of those issues. I would add that the Nav just pails in comparison to Google Maps, or even Apple Maps (and that’s a LOW bar!). There should also be a way to switch between Apple CarPlay and iPod mode onboard nav is so poor I avoid it altogether, and it was a driver for my purchase.
I am in the midst of a little 1000 mile road trip (trying to dodge Alberto) attempting to rely on the GPS. Everything that Chris has written is true - and then some. It isn't just the software. 1) The graphics processor that actually writes the screen is way, way too slow. Try driving thru a small town where you need to turn left or right every couple blocks. The content of the display is changing every couple seconds trying to play catch-up with the route processor. 2) The GPS audio stopped 1/2 way thru yesterday's ride. I tried 4/5 different tricks to make it restart - never did. 3) Related to #1, the audio and graphical occasionally give you contradictory information. Think fast and make your best guess!
The audio dropping is a known issue. I agree, I am not positive that the GPS shortcomings can be fixed with a software update. Honda just went cheap on the GPS. If they would add the ability to connect more Bluetooth devices to the system, I would probably just give up and buy a Garmin. But, it needs to be connected to the audio system. A shame to waste that beautiful TFT screen. Honda went cheap.
I am very close to buying a new 2018, 19 or 20 Gold Wing Tour DCT. I'm trying to keep my cost down, is it worth the extra money to get a newer 2019 or 2020?
Cruiseman thanks for having the courage for addressing issues about the new 2018 Goldwing, this is part of the reasons why I opted out of switching to the new Wing from my 2016 GL1800, I know that Honda will get it right if they want to keep their customer base. I agree with you the 2018 Goldwing is an amazing motorcycle, but I shall wait and see before I give it a Caliente approval, in the mean time I will be watching to see how Honda responds to their loyal customers and I believe they will. BTW this is an excellent video it's and very professional as always. Respectfully CHRISCALIENTE
It looks to me like the crash bars might be a problem. They have a plastic cover. If you lay the bike down in a parking lot these will brake and have to be replaced. The front one appears to be attached to the lower engine cover which could be expensive. Also, there doesn't appear to be any way to attach highway pegs to the bike. Do you agree?? Thanks!
What about the front wishbone suspension bottoming out, i heard and saw several vids on that being a serious problem, Honda should recall that...(not enough travel basically)
#1 Increase HP/Torque and top speed (current top speed is a controlled 112 MPH, last gen wing is 135-137 MPH) = yes they would have to increase fuel volume that they reduced) #2 Increase luggage space (that they reduced as well) you other suggestions are superfluous - ok, but are secondary to above..
Thanks for the video very informative . I have always had Honda automobiles and have been so happy and impressed . But lately it seems everything they make is suffering in one manner or another hopefully they will step up their game by the time I buy my Goldwing. There should be someone from Honda watching these Vlogs and doing the right thing.
I hope Honda is watching. However instead of hoping, why not carry the torch Cruiseman? You’ve invested heavily of your time with detailed and credible work to help improve GoldWing ownership. Why not seek to get this information into the right hands of the person(s) or department at the Honda Motor Corp. where this information would be of greatest value? Thank you for all you continue to do in helping to make the GoldWing a better ownership experience. Ride safe brothers & sisters.
You can install a RAM mount on the right side control and use a RAM mount cup holder for the rider. Have not figured out anything for the passenger yet.
Little Key FOB (7:16). I thought you had a brick in your hand. I don't know. But in California you might have to register the FOB as a weapon. LOL I don't own a Honda GW. But they look nice. Nice video.
Cruiserman ... I'm seen quiet a few of your videos and have to say .. You are very informative. Thank u. But I jave a few questions 1. The 2012-2017 GW what gen is that?? 2. Was there any major issues to speak of during that gen of bike? 3. Not trying to sound dumb but am confused is when they say it has a 5 speed with over drive. Me being a car guy see this 2 ways 1. Its a six speed.2 its a 4 speed with a over drive? Can u help clear this up thanks In the hunt for a 16-17 GW ... And had a few questions .. Thanks again
I did a test drive today on a 2018 DCT. Coming from my Vulcan Nomad 1700, I fell in love with this Goldwing. But I did notice the transmission especially in around town shifting seems rather noisy. I made that known to the dealer and the guy I did the test ride with said he too noticed it and thought perhaps it would quiet down after the break in period. Have you noticed that as well or was yours dead quiet from the start?
I’ll tell you what though, you are dead on right. Sure there are some things that Honda needs to address but there is a lot to love about this motorcycle. I got on the freeway and this thing was solid. I put it in sport mode and thought wow. What a great bike. A little pricy though but I’m shopping. Maybe I can find a slightly used one. Thanks for the review.
Hi Cruiseman. How are the wheels on the generation 3 GW1800? On my generation 1 they were all very prone to corrosion if not looked after, especially in a damp climate like here in the UK. I read that was due to no lacquer clearcoat being applied by the factory.... don't know if that was true or not. Can you tell if the latest bikes have lacquer on the wheels?
I only use GPS to find chinese restaurants so I guess it would be fine for me :-) GPS removes all the thrills and excitement of getting lost and ending up in the hood. You just don't know what your missing. I've been known to miss entire states - we have a blast when we travel.
You forgot the lack of storage space for 2 helmets and the electronic rear suspension settings poor calibration. This bike was released prematurely and lacks development in several areas. I will wait before considering a purchase.
It would be a cool feature. Probably not too difficult to engineer, but Honda probably is concerned about weight. Also, when the bags extend out from the sides, they would not be protected by the tip over bars.
Great review. I haven’t had the opportunity to ride one, but just looking at pictures I was concerned with the rider positioning. It looks like once you put your feet on the pegs, that’s it. There doesn’t seem to be any way to move your feet to any other position. There’s no way to install highway pegs or floorboards either. I have no idea how I could go more than 30 minutes without moving my feet especially since they’ve moved the pegs back. My knees would not approve of being forced to stay in one position with my feet behind my knees. Have I misinterpreted what I’ve seen or is the rider truly limited in where he can put his feet?
The seating position is surprisingly comfortable for me. I am 6' 2" tall w/33" inseam. Aftermarket highway pegs are already in production and RIVCO will have a set shipping by the end of this month.
Thank you for this video! Very instructive and to the point. You convinced me that I should wait for the 2019, maybe even the 2020 model year to buy a new GW. My 2009 has tranny issues, I may wind up biting the bullet and spend the $ to rebuild it... or buy a used 2017. Thanks!
Hey i have 2 exact goldwing tour 2018 And both the seatheater does not woRk. I brought it to the dealer to get it fix. But they dont know whats wrong with it. The connector the fuses all seems to be fine.. Helppp
@@cruisemansgarage yess perfectly. Just the rider and pillion heated seats. On my second bike. It workd once. And never work again ever since.. And the dealer doesnt seems to be able to do anything about it.. :(
@@TH-camrngajelas It can only be a couple of things. Either the heating element in the seat is not functioning, which would require a new seat, or there is a problem at the connector. They should check to make sure none of the pins in the connector are bent or missing. An easy way to test this would be for them to take the seat off of a new Goldwing, hook it up and see if it heats up. If it does, then it is obviously a problem with the seat. Dealers are hesitant to butcher showroom bikes for this sort of thing, but it is an easy test.
Hi! I am surprised that you haven't mentioned the mirrors. They are so strangely mounted that they look like cheap aftermarket replacements rather than factory ones. I have no clue what was the logic behind mounting them this way...
I recently test rode a DCT Tour for about 100 miles. To set the stage, I have never ridden a prior model Wing. I owned a Kawasaki Voyager XII for 17 years and currently ride a 2007 BMW K1200LT bought new. My LT is expensive to maintain, has been troublesome (it is the most trouble prone model BMW ever made) and BMW's dealer network is sparse. These are the key reasons I had interest in the Wing when the new model was seriously rumored a year or so ago. After my test ride, with my wife aboard, I agree with your 10 items, but would add at least three more for the touring couple. For solo riders, these may not be issues. 1. More storage! This bike has pathetically small bags and trunk for the traveling twosome. My LT is small enough at 130 liters, but at least the case shape makes the space useful. Side cases hold an XL HJC helmet and trunk holds two helmets. This is my test for the minimum acceptable storage for a touring bike. The Wing is at best sport touring capable storage-wise. 2. More Fuel. I consider 250 miles the minimum range with comfortable reserve. My LT carries 6.2 gallons and gets 43 mpg at 70 mph. This is the bare minimum range. The K1600 gets nearly the same MPG, but carries 7 gallons for a comfortable 250 miles. No excuse for Honda to not match the competition in this regard. 3. More comfortable seats. I found the rider seat too flat and too firm, even on my short test ride. My wife described the pillion seat as being like a concrete bench. It is great that Honda finally added the features that my LT has had since its 1999 introduction. Things like electrically adjustable windshield, central locking, Hossack style front suspension, etc. However, there are many deficiencies as you noted. I enjoyed my test ride. Honda has a great basic platform here, but simply didn't sweat the details. The switch gear is still poor for gloved hands with many small buttons. Look at almost any BMW to see switch gear done right. The DCT was cool once I got used to it. The brakes were good, equal to my LT. The ride was better than my LT, but not as controlled on larger dips and bumps in a corner and front-end dive is still pronounced. Russellville told me that the new Wing is currently selling well even with the warts. If Honda addresses these issues, they will have a world class luxury touring bike. As it stands now, overall my wife and I both feel our 11 year old LT is a better two-up touring platform as is the K1600GTL. If Honda addresses the storage and fuel capacity, I would very much consider switching back to a Japanese bike. For the present, I will stay with the Germans and clench my teeth at maintenance time. 🙂
LTVoyager If you think your 11 year old is better than this redesigned 2018 GoldWing, which is hard to believe, then you really should test ride the 2018 BMW K1600 GTL for phenomenal performance on all metrics you just covered. Storage and passenger pillion position far better than anything out there. In 11 years since your bike BMW has significantly addressed and cleaned up many of this bike’s previous issues. And has power and torque greater than the GoldWing. Fit & finish better too.
Road Glide I have about 5,000 miles on GTLs. A 2013 I rode the Alps with and a 2015 I toured the UK on. I have yet to ride a 2018 with the redesigned fairing. The performance of the GTL is outstanding, but the wind and rain protection is much worse than the LT, particularly for the passenger. And the passenger seat and backrest are smaller and less comfortable and the top case bounces against the passenger's back, unlike the rigidly mounted LT top case. I rented the 2013 with the idea of it being an extended test ride as I was looking closely at the 1600. It simply didn't surpass the LT for my mission which is two-up, long distance touring. Like the Wing, it is a great bike for the solo rider, particularly the sport oriented solo rider. Not so much for those riding two-up. Things like removable cases add no utility for me. They only add weight and make the cases uglier and less rigid in their mounting. I hope to ride a "new fairing" GTL and a GA to see how they compare to my current ride. Have you ridden an LT?
I've seen a review - who said in it that it's an automatic transmission bike. A lot of people would say otherwise... But for me, a large part of driving a bike is the shifting of the gears. If I had the money, would opt for clutch trannie GW.
So how has Honda responded with updates for your bike (or repair corrections), or for the 2019 and 2020? BTW, does this generation have the heating ports one can open to keep toes from freezing? That is one thing I just couldn't give up if moving up from my 2012!
A suggestion on the video itself. The #x red blobs need to be SMALLER. Take, for example, the "grab rail" blob. It's COVERING the grab rail for much of that segment. Interesting video though, enjoyed it.
The cubby door to open the gas tank does not fit well and has issues just opening. The gas cap lid is really flimsy plastic and the gas cap itself needs a new design.
I just purchased a 2018 Golgwing DCT and found that the turn signals candle too soon, the dealer can't get the problem fixed. Anyone having the same problems? can it be fixed?
Reach out to Max at Traxxion Dynamics located in Georgia. He ripped the 2018 GW apart and found serious issues with the GW suspension. His shop addresses this and has built custom made parts to fix these issues. At least look him up and watch his videos. Very thorough and informative like your video.
They made the trunk smaller so it will look "right". Strapping bags to the seat looks lies "right" to me than having more storage in the trunks. Its like the cool kids at school who never wore a hat when it was 30 below because it didn't look right but they look more funny after the frost bite set in. What about the front suspension ? Watch some of the Max Mcallister videos. Scary. It needs a bigger tank as well. Keeping my old, not right looking Wing that actually does what it needs to do.
Nitpicken taken to nth degree.You think the Goldwing is bad.I bought a 1970 Triumph. Triump brand new and the dealer told me to take it all apart to see if anything was amiss after I bought it.He said he visited the factory and a newly hired Indian immigrant was weighing and balancing the engine parts on a bathroom scale.
Being a long time Honda fan and owner, I’m continually amazed at how they release potentially great bikes that ought to be just great bikes at the point of their release. Look no further than the “new” VFR, the Africa Twin - and now, the ‘Wing. Ya gotta wonder if the flaws are ignored by design and part of a marketing strategy that us mere mortals can’t fathom? Oh well, I guess postpone gratification and keep my sights on 2020 . . . hey, is that Honda’s plan?!
Great video (as always). The GPS is an embarrassment - but in truth, I've come to expect that from vehicle manufactures. My 2017 Cadi CT-6 (at $85,000) is really not much better. But, at least, Cadi allows me to plug in my Android and use it - thank God. Many of us have come to really rely on a 'good' GPS.
I wish they would do what automakers are doing and the is just include a android tablet as it's gps unit. This way it would be constantly up to date and expandable. I have a red unit in my shop and the paint is perfect, fit and finish is also perfect, perhaps you got a dud? many good points here and you have done a great job as usual. Personally I am 100% in favor of the non-call option on the phone as nobody should be riding a motorcycle and be on the phone, I wish this was also true on cars as talking and driving is worse than drunk driving. I have no doubt Honda will address many of these concerns or DIY owners will just offer up their own solutions. The lack of storage is a concern however the motorcycle market is changing and Honda is trying to appeal to the masses and this redesing is what is needed. if storage is a mandatory requirement than I would simple stick to a pre-18 wing as an option which is what I did. Again personally I am fine with the bike as is but would love the option to not have any electronics like the gps or radio. I use my phone and bluetooth for nav (to tell me how lost I am) and never ever listing to music, I love to ride and enjoy my surroundings without all the added noise and distractions. Unfortunately the heavy addition of electronics is rampid on all vehicles so we now ride home entertainment systems rather than free spirited motorcycles.
HI Cruiseman - what about sending aCopy of this Vid to Honda America! + Honda Japan! ... you really have picked up some points on this new Goldwing! - ..... but it seems in all new Car + bike models there are faults in the first Generation! ... but if you ask me some should have been Sorted before Production! - Love your Vids + Accent ! .....
Hey Cuz man it is end of July 20 21 how many of these have been addressed on the 2021 model?
With age comes wisdom!! This video is a must for Honda to see. -And btw, 5:44 the compartment lid has to either be turned around so that the lid are the other way around and not towards you like shown or away from you depending on how you see it.. and possibilities for cables maybe to come out from the storage compartment, i'm not sure about this but say that you have headphone cables, longer ones up under let's say the helmet or hooked up to another storage device of some kind and a cable can't be pulled like that with the lid closed. Great video "Cruiseman, Greetings from Sweden!
I would think someone at Honda has already seen this, but nobody from Honda has reached out to me.
Ok let us know if they do please. Thank you.
First long trip with a 2018 Airbag Wing and I loved the ability to add several day's worth of music on a USB stick or countless trips created online at home and up-loadable as leg1, leg2 etc. I wish the GPS between my Acura's could do this! I even updated this on the fly with my surface pro through a USB stick. I don't care about waypoint limitations with this capability .. storage addressed with a Rivco hitch and tray if I'm travelling 2 up and need room for the kitchen sink same as my 2001 & 2007 .. otherwise I echo your sentiments and love your installation videos .. but what a great machine .. kudos and thanks.
Just got a 2021 Tour DCT and most of those things still remain. I don't have the LED Entry Lights - a white circle on the ignition switch lights when one approaches with the key Fob. Passenger seat grab rails are now functional. Fit/finish - pocket door on right of fairing still doesn't fit. Horn button still sucks; still no warning for parking brake. But I love it!
I have had my bike for about 3 months now and think it's great. I bought the bike to ride and couldn't care less as to whether or not it had a radio. The fit and finish on my machine is very good. The front suspension works very well and it handles the corners better than any other big road machine I am aware of. The front brake is great, easily worked with 2 fingers and the abs gives you confidence to use it. The "fly by wire" throttle is easily operated and gives you exactly what you expect. The tail lights and turn signals show well making accessory lights unnecessary. The elect windshield is nice. Seat is good. Some adjustment to the handle bars would be nice and a helmet lock would also be good. I will agree that long distance riders might want more luggage space and suspect Honda will come out with a model to suit them in the future, but the current Wing is just right for my type of riding. By the way, my bike is the 6 speed standard shift.
Great video, and agree on all the points and add 4 points 1) lack of storage 2) seat comfort 3) larger gas tank 4) suspension fine tuning. Today the bike is a good base, I estimate that it will take Honda around 3 years to improve things meanwhile I will ride a BMW 1600 GTL
Claude Rab and in 3yrs time BMW would have launched their newly designed k bike which will just bury Honda further in the ground.
Agree with you 100% that where the phone goes should be lockable. I have an iPhone and have left accidentally several times in the compartment and by some miracle have not gotten robbed. I sincerely hope honda is watching this and will make some adjustments
According to Harmon, who I spoke to. They did NOT make the gps. They stated they only supplied the parts to Honda and Honda built it. I also have experienced the 3D shifting bug you spoke about. If I turn the gps off/on...it resolves itself. I agree with every idea you have put out here. But, I assume all of us who bought the wing this year are test dummies for next years model. Lol I still agree it is a great bike, these 10 things make it not worth the high price unless Honda addresses them. This is my 1st Goldwing..I guess I expected more after saving for it all these years. Great vid
Great video. Very surprised you left out the suspension's shortcomings. I won't hold my breath for Honda to fix any of these issues so if a Gold WIng is in my future, I'll more than likely go "used" and save a bundle of cash and get a well sorted 2012-17 model.
I convinced that the suspension will be fine for the "average" Goldwing rider.
I've seen the video on the suspension. I'm not racing in the Isle of Man. I find that the suspension is more than adequate for the riding i do... Just saying
Great job, Cruiseman! Regarding the NAV audio loss, it happens every time I turn my bike off. Upon restart, all NAV audio is lost. The only way to get it back is remove a waypoint and recalculate or redo your navigation. Also, I NEED the ability to set Nav to avoid unpaved roads. My Nav system tries to have me take dirt roads!!!! Big fails that an update should be able to rectify.
Thank you CruiseMan , your eye for detail and safety is right on as far as i am concerned. The horn is a safety issue, Honda should address this soon. I love the style of the new Gold Wing Tour. Slim and sleek !! Just what i was looking for in a cruise touring motorcycle and therefore have to give up some storage space. I have just over 3,000 miles since Feb and find the handling, performance and ride excellent !!! Travel Safe and keep the shinny side up !
I'm really not as enthusiastic as you are regarding Honda's taking care of those problems. Let's see in 1 or 2 years :p
And as far as I'm concerned getting more storage capacity would be the 1st thing to fix.
Thx for what you are doing anyway, love your videos.
The new wing more looks like and advanced and boosted design of the good old ST1300 than the actual GW. Specially the front fairings, and mufflers look all to similar to ST1300...
Thanks. The horn button was a big concern to me. I thing it’s perfect on my 2010.
Good review - I bought a new in the crate 2014 Goldwing GL1800C for $7999 in may 2018 from Halls in Mobile Alabama. Love the bike but the Horn was also moved above the turn signals so in an emergency i hit the turn signals . this was way to dangerous for me so I added a Radio shack 2nd horn button below it for safety . now things are tight but i can find the horn when needed and it is in the same location of my older Honda's .
Honda sucks for placing the emergency equipment in different locations on different bikes and may get people killed as a result
Great video, and serves as vindication for my having chosen to buy a 2016 F6B last week.
Makes me love my 2013 F6B even more. Thank you Sir.
Thank you very much for the review . I've had my DCT wing since early April . I also owned the previous generation wing . I have also owned multiple BMWs including K bikes GSs and RTs .
I currently have 1700 miles on the bike . I really like this bike . Better ride , sportier (good handling ) , better wind screen and better controls . I also have a few very minor paint issues . I'm past worrying about small issues . If you use the bike there will always be a few marks on it . I initially didn't like the way the bags or the little storage compartment closed , but with use everything improved . Mechanically everything has been great . I don't really notice a drone at speed , but I have not done prolonged highway miles . Overall very happy with purchase and would do again . Would never buy a BMW again . Really loved the bikes , but got tired of the quirks , expensive service , limited number of dealers , poor service from dealers and mechanical issues .
Thanks for all the info, I was very interested in getting a new wing but I think i will wait and see what Honda is going to do with all
the different issues that have been showing up in all the different u tubes . Keep them coming and thanks for all the info.
None of the issues I have outlined would be "deal-killers" for me. Other than the GPS, the others are almost nit-picking.
I'm riding my third Goldwing, but it's a 2015 F6B. I've owned a 1996 GL1500 and made four trips from California to Alabama and back with NO GPS, so I found your complaint about GPS laughable and wonder why anyone would need this. The mention of any Phone, yes I owned a 2001 GL1800 and never equated a cell phone with riding my bike. I did like the key fob, cute thing like popping the trunk as you approached, and the sound was important. Other then the GPS and Phone connection, I found this to be very helpful on issues as I contemplate "up grading" from my F6B but must admit, I still love my bike so much she has a name. Have you named your 2018 Goldwing?
I understand your position on the GPS issue. It is just a different style of touring. It is also a feature that owners are paying for, so it should be functional. I have named the bike "Ghost".
A colleague in Arizona got a new 2018 GW, and it's headlight stayed on all the time; draining the battery. He traded it back to the dealer for a 2019 model and it had the same problem. Both bikes brand new. Honda won't take the bikes back from the dealer; even after they followed Honda directions to first replace all electrical modules, then replace the entire wiring harness.
As always, Cruisman does a super job on informing us! With having given up my '13 Wing for this one, I really do wish Honda would at least offer a larger topbox as this would be a less expensive and viable fix for riders who need more space. Or sell a version with larger topbox and bags and call it the "Interstate" since they have used that before. Would be interesting to see what the sales of either the box or the total bike would be.
A lot of good suggestions. For the horn though, that's just digit memory. If you ride holding the grips the same way everytime then the horn button is the exact same movement time after time. If you hold the grip randomly each time you ride, it's like trying to type when you sit off centre of your keyboard, more difficult than if you're in your normal position.
Hey Cruiseman, I like your video's so much I subscribed to your channel. I just would like to mention though. I've read/heard a lot of complaints also about that front phone cubby not having a lock. It seems, however, no one has mentioned the obvious fact that it simply opens in the wrong direction. The rider should not have to look over the top of the lid to reach inside. It should be facing the rider for easier access to the items stored inside. Also, Honda should do away with that stupid switch inside the right fairing just to open another lid to get to your gas cap. You just need a regular locking gas cap. Which I might add, needs to be raised/better engineered so that when you're filling your tank. The nozzle doesn't lean on your expensive bike, potentially scratching/damaging the paint. I think that sometimes these manufactures feel as though because of their past reputation they can just charge a premium and it's okay to skimp on a few components. And that the consumer should just suck it up a d deal with it. Anyway, I'm ranting on. Keep up the good work and keep cranking out these good quality videos.
SXM switches to FM occasionally for me too! Nice to hear I’m not the only one.
I don't understand you people. This man is telling you in his opinion (and a very valued one at that), the things that Honda should address to make this a better bike that cost thousands of dollars. And yet in still, people thumbs down the Video. Stop watching, or better yet keep it moving. My opinion only, and not those of other or the owner of this channel.
You have great attention to detail. Honda should listen to this.
We can dream.
Thanks Cruiseman for all your informative videos!!
This new Wings DCT transmission , it's engine's low end torque and smoothness and the aerodynamics are among it's mechanical high points. The helmet lock however is also a real negative as well as the 200 rear tire. The soft springs drag parts sooner than the last gen.
Just wondering with apple car play can’t you use your own gps app to overcome the limitations of the stock navigation
If you just want to go from point A to point B, that's fine. If you want to lay out a custom route using waypoints, CarPlay is not a solution.
Now that boys and girls is how to properly review a motorcycle. Well done. Sounds like I'll be keeping the Zumo 550/XM strapped to the handlebars of my smooth and comfy, well suspended $11k Kaw Versys 1000. I'll use a portion of the savings for a few paper maps to use as backup...
I really like that Versys 1000.
I know you know that the January 2019 flash added the ability to add 99 waypoints. GPS is still subpar, though. Keep up the good work with these videos.
Well done video and fair review. I think it is worth noting that most of the issues are things that really don't have a place on a motorcycle. I would buy one of these in a second if there were a "tech-free" model that has a simple audio system. I realize that some people love these gadgets... but some people don't. To each his or her own however...
Honda, Get a couple of XL full face helmets and give them to the design guys. One each needs to fit in the panniers. Next both need to fit in the top box. I love a top box. But usually only need it when wife wants to ride. If it could be easily removable that would be great too.
Oh I just discovered your channel. Awesome content man, I love your attention to details. Thanks for that.
Thanks! Please share this channel with your riding buds.
lets get together as a group and petition Honda for a change? you have the following and could start this movement
Terry
Hey Honda! how about a tpms that is really usable. Should be able to walk up to the bike BEFORE taking off and see if you need to add air. Currently the PSI's don't show until AFTER you start your ride and then it only shows one tires pressure instead of switching back and forth showing both tires. This causes you to take your eyes off the road to hit the select button to see what psi is in both tires.
Have only looked at the new Wing briefly.
The grips are too tight to the body. I grab them when putting bike on center stand.
Also I have a J&S jack. I like to put my 07 on it for cleaning. But it doesn't look like I can use the jack without crushing the exhaust system. Have to buy or make an additional adapter.
I agree with all of the above - but the horn really bugs me - First switching the location around with the turn signals (I’ve had ten+ years of training on an older GW model) and ‘Why!’ is this button not illuminated!
The button need a redesign
Reading the comments below, it sounds like your video should have been the top 20 things wrong with the new Goldwing! For $34K here in Canada, I expect a lot better of Honda. The GPS is a fail for me, and of course the extremely limited luggage capacity. NO sale for me. I could buy a Civic for less money and get better gas mileage also. And the best thing is that my 2003 Goldwing does everything I need for touring, and more.
I THINK the radio goes goes to FM whenever you experience a drop in satellite radio reception. I’d personally prefer it just go silent and stay tuned to Sirius, but at the same time, I’ve experienced long periods of silence when that happens in my car. It can happen in the oddest places at times too ie. wide open spaces where you’d think satellite range is unobstructed.
2021 GW I can't get AM or FM radio station to lock on, I live in the suburbs of Chicago, is this a common problem?
Long time no see old man! Glad to see you posting the nitty gritty on the 18's! Hit me up if you are headed to the ding this year or will be around Deals Gap.
Cruiseman, have you been contacted by Honda? When you purchased the 2018 Goldwing, did they give you a break due to these imperfections?
Great video as usual, I do sincerely hope that Honda is listening to you.
I think they’ve addressed some of these issues with the 2020 model.Can the nav on an 18 model be updated by Honda service? Should I grab a leftover 18, or just buy a 2020 model?🤔
Superb video. As a 2018 GWT6 owner, I would add the "helmet holder" as one of the most poorly designed features of my bike. Frankly, it looks and functions like something that I would have designed...and I'm not a designer... I sincerely hope that Honda can update the GPS with some kind of "over the air" software fix. Overall, however...I love the bike!
I agree about the helmet holder. Make that 11 things.
How does it handle in traffic jams and do you always need to keep it upright I've heard people say the slightest tilt and it'll fall ?
Not true. The bike has a low COG and is very stable when not moving.
Thanks alot
This thing is super easy to drive anywhere, DCT in trafic is wonderfull :-)
Also, how about the needlessly small trunk, the uncomfortable seat, the front suspension bottoming out, and not being able to get the cubby door open?
I have 8,000 miles on my 2019 and the front suspension has only bottomed out once when I hit a pretty large pothole.
I understand what you’re saying but I’m seeing other issues on the web as well , but I do respect all that you say and do for us wingers
You can make calls from an Android phone by using the Speed DIals on screen. The manual says you can use the Recent Call list too, but I haven't tried that.
I totally agree with your comment that a Touring bike needs a top GPS. However in New Zealand and Australia none of the bikes have Navigation even activated, although it seems the GPS receiver is in the bike as you can see the Signal Strength. To us that's even more of an insult from Honda than supplying a sub-par GPS. Still didn't stop me buying the bike, and I have my Garmin on a RAM mount - I notice in the video that you've got a RAM mount on the right handlebar too.
I just subscribed.
Every one of your points was right on the money.
Glad I found your channel.
Thanks
Very good presentation. After my Hayabusa this bike might be next on the list to have fun with. Thank you.
Fantastic video! - Why on earth didn't Honda just tweak the 2017 model? I know that it had its issues, but it seems like this new one would be too uncomfortable to take on a long trip, with its painful seat, shitty nav, zero storage, etc. Hoping that Honda addresses all of these issues soon.
Did they put tapered bearings in the stem or are they still ball bearings? I had to replace the ones in my GL 1800 at 22000 miles.
I grew up in a family that had history with Goldwings and I wanted one since I was a kid. I bought a 2010 and traded it, trying 3 other touring bikes only to return to the Wing in 2013. I am sure the new Wing is a fantastic Sport Tour machine like the ST was and would have been had they kept it alive. I have no plan on getting a new wing unless they build an XL version. My dad on the other hand thinks it is great being smaller and would love to have one but doesn't even own a $26k auto let alone a bike. So he's keeping his Voyager and may buy an older Wing at some point because they are such a great commuter and easy to clean. I hope but don't hold my breath for Honda to make changes or another model unless it is at very little cost.
Very good video and I can agree on almost all points.
Another thing that I would like to mention is that Honda switched the horn and direction indicator switch. I've pushed the horn several times when I wanted to indicate left or right. I rode the previous model for 13 years and the 1500 another 13 years before that and I couldn't remember if the horn-switch was above or beneath the direction-switch, but Honda changed it.
Another thing I would like to mention is the absurd price Honda is charging for the fog-light accessory, I bought myself a pair of round led lights and connected it to the accessory connector next to the battery and it looks and works great and it cost me around USD 25,--.
What I would like to know if it is possible to make the dummy buttons on the centre-dash into real working buttons. Maybe Cruiseman has a suggestion for that.
Thanks for making these video's, Ruud (from the Netherlands)
The dummy buttons on the console are pre-wired into the harness for specific tasks, fog lights, HomeLink, etc. I suppose you could reverse-engineer the wiring harness in some fashion. Above my pay grade.
I was thinking about putting a microswitch in the spare hole and make the dummy button go up and down, if that's possible
Great list. After about 3,500 miles on my 2018 DCT I have bumped into almost all of those issues. I would add that the Nav just pails in comparison to Google Maps, or even Apple Maps (and that’s a LOW bar!). There should also be a way to switch between Apple CarPlay and iPod mode onboard nav is so poor I avoid it altogether, and it was a driver for my purchase.
Me too
Did Honda fix the issue with front suspension clearance or is it really not that big of a deal?
Hasn't been a big deal for me.
I am in the midst of a little 1000 mile road trip (trying to dodge Alberto) attempting to rely on the GPS. Everything that Chris has written is true - and then some. It isn't just the software.
1) The graphics processor that actually writes the screen is way, way too slow. Try driving thru a small town where you need to turn left or right every couple blocks. The content of the display is changing every couple seconds trying to play catch-up with the route processor.
2) The GPS audio stopped 1/2 way thru yesterday's ride. I tried 4/5 different tricks to make it restart - never did.
3) Related to #1, the audio and graphical occasionally give you contradictory information. Think fast and make your best guess!
The audio dropping is a known issue. I agree, I am not positive that the GPS shortcomings can be fixed with a software update. Honda just went cheap on the GPS. If they would add the ability to connect more Bluetooth devices to the system, I would probably just give up and buy a Garmin. But, it needs to be connected to the audio system. A shame to waste that beautiful TFT screen. Honda went cheap.
I am very close to buying a new 2018, 19 or 20 Gold Wing Tour DCT. I'm trying to keep my cost down, is it worth the extra money to get a newer 2019 or 2020?
Cruiseman thanks for having the courage for addressing issues about the new 2018 Goldwing, this is part of the reasons why I opted out of switching to the new Wing from my 2016 GL1800, I know that Honda will get it right if they want to keep their customer base. I agree with you the 2018 Goldwing is an amazing motorcycle, but I shall wait and see before I give it a Caliente approval, in the mean time I will be watching to see how Honda responds to their loyal customers and I believe they will. BTW this is an excellent video it's and very professional as always.
Respectfully
CHRISCALIENTE
Verry well observed critique. Honda need to address these points.
It looks to me like the crash bars might be a problem. They have a plastic cover. If you lay the bike down in a parking lot these will brake and have to be replaced. The front one appears to be attached to the lower engine cover which could be expensive.
Also, there doesn't appear to be any way to attach highway pegs to the bike.
Do you agree??
Thanks!
What about the front wishbone suspension bottoming out, i heard and saw several vids on that being a serious problem, Honda should recall that...(not enough travel basically)
#1 Increase HP/Torque and top speed (current top speed is a controlled 112 MPH, last gen wing is 135-137 MPH) = yes they would have to increase fuel volume that they reduced)
#2 Increase luggage space (that they reduced as well)
you other suggestions are superfluous - ok, but are secondary to above..
Thanks for the video very informative . I have always had Honda automobiles and have been so happy and impressed . But lately it seems everything they make is suffering in one manner or another hopefully they will step up their game by the time I buy my Goldwing. There should be someone from Honda watching these Vlogs and doing the right thing.
I suspect if someone from Honda were monitoring Vlogs and forums, these issues would not have existed.
I hope Honda is watching. However instead of hoping, why not carry the torch Cruiseman? You’ve invested heavily of your time with detailed and credible work to help improve GoldWing ownership. Why not seek to get this information into the right hands of the person(s) or department at the Honda Motor Corp. where this information would be of greatest value? Thank you for all you continue to do in helping to make the GoldWing a better ownership experience. Ride safe brothers & sisters.
I have a couple of contacts who are very connected at Honda and they assure me they are passing this information to the right people.
Have you been able to install cup holders for the driver and the passenger?
You can install a RAM mount on the right side control and use a RAM mount cup holder for the rider. Have not figured out anything for the passenger yet.
I open the glove box, (cubby hole) and a drink fits perfect in there.
Little Key FOB (7:16). I thought you had a brick in your hand. I don't know. But in California you might have to register the FOB as a weapon. LOL I don't own a Honda GW. But they look nice. Nice video.
Cruiserman ... I'm seen quiet a few of your videos and have to say .. You are very informative. Thank u. But I jave a few questions
1. The 2012-2017 GW what gen is that??
2. Was there any major issues to speak of during that gen of bike?
3. Not trying to sound dumb but am confused is when they say it has a 5 speed with over drive. Me being a car guy see this 2 ways 1. Its a six speed.2 its a 4 speed with a over drive? Can u help clear this up thanks
In the hunt for a 16-17 GW ... And had a few questions .. Thanks again
I did a test drive today on a 2018 DCT. Coming from my Vulcan Nomad 1700, I fell in love with this Goldwing. But I did notice the transmission especially in around town shifting seems rather noisy. I made that known to the dealer and the guy I did the test ride with said he too noticed it and thought perhaps it would quiet down after the break in period. Have you noticed that as well or was yours dead quiet from the start?
Seems like I did notice more noise early on. Not sure if it is quieter or I grew used to it. I know it makes more noise when cold.
I’ll tell you what though, you are dead on right. Sure there are some things that Honda needs to address but there is a lot to love about this motorcycle. I got on the freeway and this thing was solid. I put it in sport mode and thought wow. What a great bike. A little pricy though but I’m shopping. Maybe I can find a slightly used one. Thanks for the review.
Hi Cruiseman. How are the wheels on the generation 3 GW1800? On my generation 1 they were all very prone to corrosion if not looked after, especially in a damp climate like here in the UK. I read that was due to no lacquer clearcoat being applied by the factory.... don't know if that was true or not. Can you tell if the latest bikes have lacquer on the wheels?
The wheels have a rough surface and I am not sure if they are powder-coated or painted. Good question.
I only use GPS to find chinese restaurants so I guess it would be fine for me :-) GPS removes all the thrills and excitement of getting lost and ending up in the hood. You just don't know what your missing. I've been known to miss entire states - we have a blast when we travel.
And, it is fine for that use.
@@cruisemansgarage Good to know as I am fussy about how badly I get lost.
Good stuff brother. Hopefully they address these issues before I decide to purchase one.
You forgot the lack of storage space for 2 helmets and the electronic rear suspension settings poor calibration. This bike was released prematurely and lacks development in several areas. I will wait before considering a purchase.
No way Honda is going to address the trunk space, so why mention it.
How difficult is to make slide out bags just like the windshield. You adjusted as needed. That will be a cool feature like the RVs.
It would be a cool feature. Probably not too difficult to engineer, but Honda probably is concerned about weight. Also, when the bags extend out from the sides, they would not be protected by the tip over bars.
Have all the recent software upgrades fixed the GPS issues that Cruiseman identified?
Great review. I haven’t had the opportunity to ride one, but just looking at pictures I was concerned with the rider positioning. It looks like once you put your feet on the pegs, that’s it. There doesn’t seem to be any way to move your feet to any other position. There’s no way to install highway pegs or floorboards either. I have no idea how I could go more than 30 minutes without moving my feet especially since they’ve moved the pegs back. My knees would not approve of being forced to stay in one position with my feet behind my knees. Have I misinterpreted what I’ve seen or is the rider truly limited in where he can put his feet?
The seating position is surprisingly comfortable for me. I am 6' 2" tall w/33" inseam. Aftermarket highway pegs are already in production and RIVCO will have a set shipping by the end of this month.
Thank you for this video! Very instructive and to the point. You convinced me that I should wait for the 2019, maybe even the 2020 model year to buy a new GW. My 2009 has tranny issues, I may wind up biting the bullet and spend the $ to rebuild it... or buy a used 2017. Thanks!
Hey i have 2 exact goldwing tour 2018 And both the seatheater does not woRk. I brought it to the dealer to get it fix. But they dont know whats wrong with it. The connector the fuses all seems to be fine.. Helppp
Do the heated grips work?
@@cruisemansgarage yess perfectly. Just the rider and pillion heated seats. On my second bike. It workd once. And never work again ever since.. And the dealer doesnt seems to be able to do anything about it.. :(
Honestly, I have never turned mine on. I will try mine tomorrow. Maybe mine doesn't work! I assume your dealer tested the circuit at the connector?
@@cruisemansgarage thankyou sir. Nope they have not. I will ask them to the next time i took my bike to the shop.
@@TH-camrngajelas It can only be a couple of things. Either the heating element in the seat is not functioning, which would require a new seat, or there is a problem at the connector. They should check to make sure none of the pins in the connector are bent or missing. An easy way to test this would be for them to take the seat off of a new Goldwing, hook it up and see if it heats up. If it does, then it is obviously a problem with the seat. Dealers are hesitant to butcher showroom bikes for this sort of thing, but it is an easy test.
Hi! I am surprised that you haven't mentioned the mirrors. They are so strangely mounted that they look like cheap aftermarket replacements rather than factory ones. I have no clue what was the logic behind mounting them this way...
bonjour pouvez vous me dire la lampe f1 clignote 7 a8 fois sur ma goldwing de 2004 merci
I recently test rode a DCT Tour for about 100 miles. To set the stage, I have never ridden a prior model Wing. I owned a Kawasaki Voyager XII for 17 years and currently ride a 2007 BMW K1200LT bought new.
My LT is expensive to maintain, has been troublesome (it is the most trouble prone model BMW ever made) and BMW's dealer network is sparse. These are the key reasons I had interest in the Wing when the new model was seriously rumored a year or so ago.
After my test ride, with my wife aboard, I agree with your 10 items, but would add at least three more for the touring couple. For solo riders, these may not be issues.
1. More storage! This bike has pathetically small bags and trunk for the traveling twosome. My LT is small enough at 130 liters, but at least the case shape makes the space useful. Side cases hold an XL HJC helmet and trunk holds two helmets. This is my test for the minimum acceptable storage for a touring bike. The Wing is at best sport touring capable storage-wise.
2. More Fuel. I consider 250 miles the minimum range with comfortable reserve. My LT carries 6.2 gallons and gets 43 mpg at 70 mph. This is the bare minimum range. The K1600 gets nearly the same MPG, but carries 7 gallons for a comfortable 250 miles. No excuse for Honda to not match the competition in this regard.
3. More comfortable seats. I found the rider seat too flat and too firm, even on my short test ride. My wife described the pillion seat as being like a concrete bench.
It is great that Honda finally added the features that my LT has had since its 1999 introduction. Things like electrically adjustable windshield, central locking, Hossack style front suspension, etc. However, there are many deficiencies as you noted.
I enjoyed my test ride. Honda has a great basic platform here, but simply didn't sweat the details. The switch gear is still poor for gloved hands with many small buttons. Look at almost any BMW to see switch gear done right. The DCT was cool once I got used to it. The brakes were good, equal to my LT. The ride was better than my LT, but not as controlled on larger dips and bumps in a corner and front-end dive is still pronounced.
Russellville told me that the new Wing is currently selling well even with the warts. If Honda addresses these issues, they will have a world class luxury touring bike. As it stands now, overall my wife and I both feel our 11 year old LT is a better two-up touring platform as is the K1600GTL. If Honda addresses the storage and fuel capacity, I would very much consider switching back to a Japanese bike. For the present, I will stay with the Germans and clench my teeth at maintenance time. 🙂
LTVoyager
If you think your 11 year old is better than this redesigned 2018 GoldWing, which is hard to believe, then you really should test ride the 2018 BMW K1600 GTL for phenomenal performance on all metrics you just covered. Storage and passenger pillion position far better than anything out there. In 11 years since your bike BMW has significantly addressed and cleaned up many of this bike’s previous issues. And has power and torque greater than the GoldWing. Fit & finish better too.
Road Glide I have about 5,000 miles on GTLs. A 2013 I rode the Alps with and a 2015 I toured the UK on. I have yet to ride a 2018 with the redesigned fairing. The performance of the GTL is outstanding, but the wind and rain protection is much worse than the LT, particularly for the passenger. And the passenger seat and backrest are smaller and less comfortable and the top case bounces against the passenger's back, unlike the rigidly mounted LT top case.
I rented the 2013 with the idea of it being an extended test ride as I was looking closely at the 1600. It simply didn't surpass the LT for my mission which is two-up, long distance touring. Like the Wing, it is a great bike for the solo rider, particularly the sport oriented solo rider. Not so much for those riding two-up. Things like removable cases add no utility for me. They only add weight and make the cases uglier and less rigid in their mounting.
I hope to ride a "new fairing" GTL and a GA to see how they compare to my current ride. Have you ridden an LT?
I've seen a review - who said in it that it's an automatic transmission bike. A lot of people would say otherwise... But for me, a large part of driving a bike is the shifting of the gears. If I had the money, would opt for clutch trannie GW.
So how has Honda responded with updates for your bike (or repair corrections), or for the 2019 and 2020?
BTW, does this generation have the heating ports one can open to keep toes from freezing? That is one thing I just couldn't give up if moving up from my 2012!
A few updates to the GPS, but not enough. Improved passenger grab rails for the 2020 model.
Where do you get those small wind deflectors?
I got them from Cyclemax.com. Look under 2018 Gold Wing accessories.
Didn't fuel capacity decrease as well?
Yes, but mileage has increased. No change in range per tank.
When my dad goes on rides up to Alaska he brings an extra 2 gallons strapped to the back of the bike. It needs a bigger fuel tank!
A suggestion on the video itself. The #x red blobs need to be SMALLER. Take, for example, the "grab rail" blob. It's COVERING the grab rail for much of that segment. Interesting video though, enjoyed it.
Wow you know so much more than the engineers who designed it!! I am amazed.
Shocking, isn't it?
It is always easier to criticize than to design.
The cubby door to open the gas tank does not fit well and has issues just opening. The gas cap lid is really flimsy plastic and the gas cap itself needs a new design.
Well done review Cruiseman!
I just purchased a 2018 Golgwing DCT and found that the turn signals candle too soon, the dealer can't get the problem fixed. Anyone having the same problems? can it be fixed?
Not familiar with the term "candle"
Reach out to Max at Traxxion Dynamics located in Georgia. He ripped the 2018 GW apart and found serious issues with the GW suspension. His shop addresses this and has built custom made parts to fix these issues. At least look him up and watch his videos. Very thorough and informative like your video.
Dave Lau you must remember that’s his business he makes suspension parts I have no reason to fult my 2018
They made the trunk smaller so it will look "right". Strapping bags to the seat looks lies "right" to me than having more storage in the trunks. Its like the cool kids at school who never wore a hat when it was 30 below because it didn't look right but they look more funny after the frost bite set in. What about the front suspension ? Watch some of the Max Mcallister videos. Scary. It needs a bigger tank as well. Keeping my old, not right looking Wing that actually does what it needs to do.
Nitpicken taken to nth degree.You think the Goldwing is bad.I bought a 1970 Triumph. Triump brand new and the dealer told me to take it all apart to see if anything was amiss after I bought it.He said he visited the factory and a newly hired Indian immigrant was weighing and balancing the engine parts on a bathroom scale.
Being a long time Honda fan and owner, I’m continually amazed at how they release potentially great bikes that ought to be just great bikes at the point of their release. Look no further than the “new” VFR, the Africa Twin - and now, the ‘Wing. Ya gotta wonder if the flaws are ignored by design and part of a marketing strategy that us mere mortals can’t fathom? Oh well, I guess postpone gratification and keep my sights on 2020 . . . hey, is that Honda’s plan?!
I don't know if updates will address all the issues with the GPS?
Very possible you could be right.
Great video (as always). The GPS is an embarrassment - but in truth, I've come to expect that from vehicle manufactures. My 2017 Cadi CT-6 (at $85,000) is really not much better. But, at least, Cadi allows me to plug in my Android and use it - thank God. Many of us have come to really rely on a 'good' GPS.
Parking brakes should have very visible or audible warnings, wore out 2 on Piaggio 3 wheeler and burgman scooters
Thanks for the info! What is the RAM mount that you installed on the right hand area?
I wish they would do what automakers are doing and the is just include a android tablet as it's gps unit. This way it would be constantly up to date and expandable. I have a red unit in my shop and the paint is perfect, fit and finish is also perfect, perhaps you got a dud? many good points here and you have done a great job as usual. Personally I am 100% in favor of the non-call option on the phone as nobody should be riding a motorcycle and be on the phone, I wish this was also true on cars as talking and driving is worse than drunk driving. I have no doubt Honda will address many of these concerns or DIY owners will just offer up their own solutions. The lack of storage is a concern however the motorcycle market is changing and Honda is trying to appeal to the masses and this redesing is what is needed. if storage is a mandatory requirement than I would simple stick to a pre-18 wing as an option which is what I did.
Again personally I am fine with the bike as is but would love the option to not have any electronics like the gps or radio. I use my phone and bluetooth for nav (to tell me how lost I am) and never ever listing to music, I love to ride and enjoy my surroundings without all the added noise and distractions. Unfortunately the heavy addition of electronics is rampid on all vehicles so we now ride home entertainment systems rather than free spirited motorcycles.