A more streamlined Gold Wing motorcycle does not mean slimmed-down performance
BODY
Performance and luxury are not mutually exclusive, and although the latest iteration of the Honda Gold Wing has shrunk in size, it still delivers both in perfect harmony.
It’s smaller. Yes, you heard it right. It’s smaller than its predecessor. But even being 90 pounds lighter, the 2018 Gold Wing is the model's usual sharp and focused self, retaining all the traditional comfort and convenience that Honda’s flagship tourer is known for.
The first thing you notice is how slim the new edition looks when put next to the outgoing 2017 model. Gone is the muscular body of a WWE wrestler and in comes the finely chiselled physique of a martial arts master. It has kept the same flat-six engine configuration, but everything else has been radically changed. There are two versions to choose from – the Gold Wing Tour (full option with DCT) and the Gold Wing bagger edition, sans the rear trunk.
Our test ride was with the 2018 Gold Wing Tour DCT model with airbag in ‘candy ardent red’ and I was keen to find out whether the Wing could not only retain its ultimate touring title, but also if it could be used as an everyday workhorse for commuting.
Upfront, the Wing look stunning, with the wing-shaped array of 10 LED headlights and the beautifully placed multilens LEDs that don't intrude in the rear trunk. The turn signals have an auto-cancel feature, but while riding I found they turn off early – well before I take the turn. At times I had to restart the signal as I reached for the turn.
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Gulf Business.
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This story is from the June 2018 edition of Gulf Business.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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