New 2018 Honda Gold Wing?
Oliepiel in the Netherlands has posted what are reportedly leaked shots of the new long-anticipated Honda Gold Wing, and what could be a new F6B-type bagger. The photos definitely have a legitimate look; the bikes appear to be finished products and ready to roll on October 24, which would mean these are what Honda was teasing with its “What Lies Beyond” video we posted on 9/11 (which features an original GL at the end).
For one thing, from this angle we can see that’s not the typical telescopic fork holding up the front end, and we can also see the new design looks far swoopier and more modern than your Dad’s Gold Wing – though the traditional Boxer Six-cylinder looks to still be in place. How big will it be? First there was GL1200, then GL1500, and currently we’re at 1832cc. Will we go to a full 2 liters?
She looks nice and thin through the midsection, which we hope accompanies a sorely needed weight reduction if we’re to keep pace with BMW’s Six-bangers. Notably absent in this shot is a clutch lever, which tells us Honda’s superb Dual Clutch Transmission must be an option.
The bike that redefined bells and whistles as they apply to the motorcycle will not be short of them, including various ride modes, big TFT display, 6500-rpm redline… the owner’s manual will be thick.
The aluminum frame appears to be basically unchanged. Though the bike itself looks lighter, the seat looks a bit broader, in a nod to American exceptionalism. That’s all we have for now. Stay tuned for October 24, when if not all, at least more will be revealed, leading up to the big EICMA show in Milan in November.
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The DCT auto shift will be great. I have an NC 700 with DCT and it is wonderful. If you aren't needing to shift to race around or make needless noise you should give it a chance. I had an 07 Wing and while it seems bulky to me, I always thought it would be a more relaxing ride with the auto. Like who buys a Buick with a manual trans? Don't knock until you try it for 50 miles. I am convinced. I just can't afford a new car OR bike anymore.
I swear I saw a red one this morning in Boca Raton, FL. Beautiful big Honda. Lucky rider! Going west on Spanish River Blvd on I95 overpass.