Reader's Choice Best Touring Motorcycle of 2015: Honda Gold Wing

Kevin Duke
by Kevin Duke

Ah, the venerable Gold Wing, known for decades as an upper-echelon touring bike, with more than 640,000 sold during its 40 years on the market. And it still holds a special place in your hearts as the premier touring platform. The GL1800 garnered 30.4% of your votes, more than doubling the votes for BMW’s K1600GTL, which was the best touring bike according to MO’s editorial staff.

2012 Honda Gold Wing Review

Our comparison test of the Wing and GTL resulted in a split decision, with the Honda earning praise as “the most comfortable long-distance, straight-line mileage gobbler on two wheels.” It also boasts greater luggage capacity and a broader dealer network than the BMW. In addition, the Honda’s flat-Six engine cranks out more power earlier than the BMW’s inline-Six, even if it falls short up top.

The Wing’s silky six-cylinder motor cranks out a pavement-wrinkling 105 lb-ft of torque, enabling quick passing maneuvers when desired.

So, the mighty Gold Wing is powerful, refined and amazingly agile for a 900-pounder, plus it’s exceedingly comfortable and has passenger accommodations beyond reproach. It adds up to our Readers Choice best Touring motorcycle of 2015.

Reader’s Choice Best of 2015 winners:

Kevin Duke
Kevin Duke

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