20 years ago I rode into a dealership on a Yamaha R1 and rode out on a Honda GL1800. First few miles I was terrified that I had made a mistake, by the 5th mile I was in love with the bike. I’ve had a lot of motorcycles and the GoldWing is the best bike I’ve ever owned. Now I ride a 2000 Honda Valkyrie. The flat 6 motor is amazing. I can’t even imagine how awesome the newest models are.
It was a good job you didn't live 4 miles from the dealership Todd! Did you know you were going to leave with a GW?! The Valkyrie is a good looking bike...Sarah
@@fbglife yes, I had done months of research, so I knew exactly what I wanted. I searched online for a dealer around me that had the bike I wanted in the color I wanted it in. Even if the dealership would have been across the street from my house, I would have given myself time to acclimate to the bigger bike. It was a shock even though I knew I would like it…from sport bike life style to not that style. I used the bike more of a daily driver than a touring bike. I needed a bike I could get my fiancé to ride with me on. She was tired of sport bikes and wanted to be comfortable. I knew that the 02 GL1800 was a different breed of Gold Wing. Gone were the days of a boat on wheels. The GL1800 was said to be a well balanced, well handing bike that hid it’s weight and gifted the rider with a confident inspiring characteristics. The reviews for the bike were not wrong. It did everything that was said about it and more. Probably the best bike I’ve ever ridden/owned. Valkyrie is right up there near the top with most of the GL1800’s same characteristics…close anyway. What it lacks in handling and power compared to the 1800’s, it makes up for in personality!!? Lol The Valkyrie is a fun rewarding machine for sure. I will get another GL1800 though…I just have to figure out what year I want. The lasted generation looks pretty good.
THE " WINGS " BELLS & WHISTLES --- LOTS OF SWITCHES , ** INTIMIDATING AT FIRST , BUT A " WING RIDER " BECOMES USE TO THEM & SECOND NATURE , THOSE *** LONG DISTANT RIDES BECOME MORE ENJOYABLE , THE " CADILLAC OF MOTORCYCLES WITH A SPORTS CAR POWER " . RIDE ON " WINGERS " BE SAFE AND " RIDE ON " .
Congratulations on the new ride. My wife and I started on a Goldwing when I turned 50, almost 20 years ago. We purchased a white GL1500SE with 22k miles. Your purchase experience reminded me of the almost giddiness we had after we made the purchase. We sat in a cafe, eating lunch, wondering what we had just done. We purchased ours in March, which is snow weather here in Ohio (USA). We trailered it home from a private purchase because of the snow on the roads. We kept that bike for 17 years, put on another 115K miles, and loved it. We traded up to a 2020 DCT and are still enjoying the ride. You will too.
Thank you for the comment. Ha! I was giddy and shell-shocked after buying it. Even now I have to take a step back in shock every time I open the garage door and see that huge thing inside :) Stories like yours (17years & 115k miles) give me a lot of confidence that we've made the right choice.
Welcome to the club, you won't regret buying a goldwing they are absolutely brilliant, handle like you wouldn't believe, after we bought ours my initial thought was why didn't we buy one of these years ago 😎
Hello from Louisville, Kentucky; Y'all have made a wonderful choice. Just make sure all the fluids are right and proper and, you will have years of riding that motorcycle to come. I just put 75K on my 17' audio comfort.
Thank for the note Jason. We too think it's a good choice - no regrets so far. Mind you, we have experienced one breakdown so far - details to follow soon in another video. Back on the road now though, after an unwelcome repair bill. Still, no regrets....
Good morning and Greetings from California... welcome to the Goldwing and UA-cam life. I have a few bikes as well, but the Goldwing is supreme for two up travel. I was at Donnington years ago for a MOTO GP race...lots of fun. You will love this machine.
Thank you for the Californian greetings! A little confession here: we are a little behind in our editing and uploading, which means we have already ridden a few more miles on the Goldwing - including a day out to Silverstone for this year's British Moto GP race. We have some footage and now need to edit it!
Happy for you guys! I also 6 weeks ago bought a goldwing for the wife, and I and still own my 19 GS. I know some don't like the new goldwing (I bought a 22 model) absolutely love it!!! 2000 miles and about 800 of it with the wife. Your bike looks awesome! And Im sure you and your wife will get many enjoyable miles out of it.
Thank you Glenn, it's not a stretch to say that in the short time we've owned this bike it has transformed our lives. We are now able to do the things we have always wanted to do. We both wish you and your wife many years and many miles of happy Goldwing ownership!
Hi there my name is Pierce I live in the south of Ireland. I recently purchased a Goldwing in March after searching for a long time to get the best bike that I could find. This will be my third wing and it a retirement present to me. We have not bought the wing to look at we’ve got it to do touring. Mine had less than 7000 miles on the clock when I purchased it I’ve 11,000 on it now. I wasn’t riding for 20 years since I sold my yellow wing to Appleyards in Shipley. And I got this one in Tom Conways Honda I Durham. I wish you all the best safe riding. Pierce 👍🇮🇪
Hello Pierce, good to meet you! I'm fast becoming a Goldwing advocate - amazed how good they are to ride. Hopefully we'll visit Ireland next year for a few days. Sarah has a friend in Galway, so that's a perfect excuse to jump on the Goldwing and catch a ferry across the Irish Sea....
Great story. Congrats to you. I too on my 3rd Wing. At 67 in God’s blessed great health, I purchased a beautiful ultra blue 22 DCT Tour airbag in this past July. Absolutely smitten with this DCT and the new size. Ride safe and often. ATGATT.
Another tip! After you have washed your wing, use the garden vac with the blower nozzle to get rid of the water. I bought a Flymow garden vac, it blows at 225 mph. Apparently car dealers use them when washing their stock. Wife thought I had bought it for the garden! So wash the wing and swill away the suds, then use the blower nozzle.
Had a similar experience a few years ago. My partner and I were riding a Vstrom 650, excellent bike. I had two issues with it, the first was if was physically too small when riding two up with luggage. the second was when I added panniers my partners struggled to get on and off of it because of the height. From a performance point of view I thought the Vstrom was ok, it required me to keep the revs up and dance on the gear lever in the hills and comfortably cruised at the speed limited with plenty to spare. Being a v twin fan I went down the path of a Harley Electra Glide Ultra Limited. Like you the main issue was getting used to the weight. When riding I learned the the best thing to do was get my feet on the floor boars (pegs) as quickly as possible which improved the balance of the bike and the weight becomes less of an issue. When coming to a stop I put both feet down to help manage the weight and balance.
That really IS a similar experience! I've never ridden a VStrom (or wee strom!) but I understand what you say: the Versys 2-up is hard work, I was constantly up and down the gearbox and whilst it's 'capable' of 2-up riding the whole bike was always at its limits. It will chug along all day at high speeds on the flat but...take it off of the motorway with pillion & luggage and it will make the rider work for every mile! That's good advice about getting both feet up as soon as possible. I've found that the more nervous I am with this big bike (and the more I leave a foot or two dangling) the more wobbly the bike is. The sheer size is very daunting at first but I'm now learning to treat it just like any other bike the more I'm enjoying riding it. And the more comfortable it's getting for my back-seater too!
It's a good looking bike, enjoy the ride. I had a Goldwing years ago, always enjoyed it. I now ride a Harley, remember : Doesn't matter what you ride, what matters is that it's your ride
Bought my 07 1800 four months ago. Had a GL1500 years ago and then went HD. Since I bought my 1800, haven't touched the HD. Like my HD but I LOVE my Wing! Ride safe and keep the rubber side down! You have a new subscriber!
Thank you Bruce! I have to say that in the short time (and few miles) I've been riding mine I have become a firm advocate for the Goldwing. I never imagined I'd have love for a bike like this but it's got me smitten already!
Thank you for the comment Jim. We have our eyes on having a Harley biking holiday in the US one day - trouble is, the costs keep rising faster than our savings do!
You're right, we are having SO much fun! We have a ton of footage from our journeys thus far and we are working as fast as we can to get more videos up - we hope you'll stick around to watch them.
Always said a Goldwing is just a car on two wheels. I am now on my third Wing after BMW. , Triumph and many more. If you want long distance touring two up there is no better bike. Comfort, speed, handling it has it all. We used to do around 2,500 miles on a Triumph Rocket Touring, on the Wing we knocked out 4,500 in more comfort. Nearest I have got was a BMW K1600GTLE but not as comfortable and very top heavy.
I always assumed the Goldwing was nothing more than a lumbering beast good for nothing other than riding long straight routes, and completely at odds with UK roads. I've quickly found out that my assumption couldn't be more untrue! We've put quite a few more miles on it since we made this video and we're both loving it!
@@fbglife when I bought my first Wing I asked for a test ride, I was only looking at it for the comfort of the pillion, I went about 150 yards, turned round and went back in to do the deal. Have had a Pan 1100 and 1300 but nothing gets near the wing. Even in Germany on the B500 it handles like a dream, way better than u would imagine. I am sure you will never go back now
Yes, it is a big outlay - with higher maintenance costs than most other bikes. But, yes, it IS spectacular! I don't mind that this was Sarah's choice of ride because I think she chose well :)
You won’t regret it! As a Harley dude, I bought my first Wing 15 months ago (low mileage pristine 08 GL1800) and will never look back. My channel banner has a glimpse of it. I love this this thing. I’ll subscribe to see what you think as time goes on.
Thank you so much for the comment and the subscription! We have reciprocated. We are a little behind with our videos but we have a lot of footage to edit and we'll share our experiences of this bike here soon....
Well presented by the both of you. I have a 2019 DCT tour. Purchased New. Never ridden!. I hope to get going soon again. Anyway thanks to the both of you.
@@fbglife got home December 24th, 2019. Dropped it getting it off my trailer. Decided to removed seat & trunk. To add lights, etc. Cold set in. Started working 14 hours a day. Just never got back to finishing up. Still new I hope. Was supposed to get it together this week. But.... unable due to pain in arm/back.
Well first off hello from America 🇺🇸 . And congratulations on your Goldwing purchase. You will not be unhappy at all for your choice. Looks like you need some highway pegs for your long trips. They will help stretch out your long legs on those trips. I have a 2015 GL1800 in digital silver. Anyway enjoy that new bike and make some good memories and videos. Just subscribed. Oh and yes it's a beast at slow speeds but the more you ride it the better you will get.
Hello Mo, I've been watching a lot of your channel in recent months and I absolutely love it! Your recent video on the Dragon's Tail is so good and we've both enjoyed watching that one. So I know about your 'new' silver GL1800....and your old orange one too. That was a sad video when you sold it :( Thank you for your channel and I'm flattered that you've subscribed here. About highway pegs: I'm concerned that the edge/corner of the fairing would dig into my lower leg with my legs spread out and forward like that - does that happen? I guess the best thing for me to do would be to ask a friendly owner if I can sit on their bike to try out the pegs for size.
GL are a really good bike, the older version you have have better storage than the new one. I’ve nearly owned one a few times but ended up with BMWs mainly I carnt fault there service and support. My first big tourer was a new k1600 Grand America witch was a very nice bike but thanks to the pandemic I didn’t get as much touring done as planned, This year I was invited in buy my dealer just to see on possibly changing to the new version. But ended up falling for a Touring Cruser R18 Transcontinental witch we have done one big tour into Spain this year on her and what a bike it keeps surprising me on every ride. Hopefully we will be off to the Alps next year and other adventures. Key I found to large bike riding is stop in a straight line, and forward planning and sensible confidence. I think large bikes can get a bad rep or vue primarily by first time riders that also may not have much ridding experience, and buy some in the press and social media. Large tour bikes can be the best for comfort storage and safety and surprisingly can be very fun and manuvable for the size and so on. Key is I would suggest is must have ridden for a while in terms of bikeing experience, have a cool head eg not pushing the limits and taking unessary risks and big one be open minded and willing to learn key Enjoy that’s what it for.
Sounds like you have some fantastic adventures planned Stevo. We would love to go abroad on ours, we are working up to that! Thanks for the tips, I certainly feel very visible on it which can be nothing but a good thing!
I am SO envious of you, I would have loved to find a red/black one. In my opinion it's the best colour scheme for this model. Yes, it is an airbag model. Maybe one day I'll be very grateful for the airbag (let's hope not though) but I think right now I'd prefer to have the extra cubby rather than the bag.
@@fbglife I agree with regards to the airbag, would rather a extra bit of storage but it's there and hopefully I'll never need it either. An airbag jacket/vest is far more practical. I think the white is a great colour for the wing, it was my first choice but didn't work out so that's what lead to the red/black. Enjoy the bike and the touring on it. All the best
Congratulations on your Goldwing. We needed a Bike that was comfortable For touring and had panniers we recently purchased a Harley Davidson Road king special. I was Worried about the weight of the bike especially having the responsibility of My wife being on the back. All Bikes are weightless once Moving, it is below 10 mph that it gets tricky. I came across Be the boss of your motorcycle on UA-cam game changer and I really Believe we would of dropped the bike and hurt our self’s If I hadn’t found this channel. It is all About keeping the revs set and dragging back Brake. I was very wobbly in slow Moving traffic. Now I can ride so slow, the bike is nearly moving, with both feet staying on floorboards. I come to a stop with out fear of dropping gently placing feet down at last minute. Hope this helps you 👍🏻
@@fbglife 👍🏻let me know what you think. Hardest thing is overcoming your instincts if you grab that front brake or pull the clutch in the bike is going to want to fall over if your front wheel isn’t straight.
I'd say the new bikes are excellent all round, long or short trips. We had a 6000k summer trip to Greece and the Balkans on ours, all sorts of roads, mountain passes, broken surfaces, rough roads. If you have the adventurous spirit you'll have an amazing time on that bike. I'd share some pics but can't via UA-cam.
Thank you Howard. We are envious of your 6000k trip, wow! We do have an adventurous spirit but our free time and budget does always match our travelling ambitions :)
Just found your channel as I’m looking for a Goldwing as we have the ST 1300 Pan European and my wife wants something a little more comfortable for the longer journeys.. your videos are inspiring and full of information keep up the good work guys
That was our first time there and we were both impressed with the selection of bikes, the quality of the bikes and the very easy-going sales staff. There was zero pressure on us, lots of help and friendly service. All-in-all we had a good experience with Rite Bike.
Watching this with Mrs Noob, hoping to interest her in some two up touring and I don't think anything else would entice her... Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on the nice ride.
What a lovely family, even the cat doesn't answer back. Your new 'sickle is magnificent, albeit much too much technology for me - ABS etc., hence I opted for a Honda Valkyrie 'Interstate' which I'm very happy with albeit it is high chrome maintenance! But showing off costs (ha ha). If I had still lived down the road from you in Notts. then maybe I would have asked you to help me form an oldies cruisers' gang as clearly you are easy to get on with. But now I'm down in Devon. No bike is ever perfect. It's finding the closest to it for you, which possibly you have done. Got to be better than a Harley? Yes, it's a beast at slow speeds but you are doing magnificently well. Paint and laquer is an issue with most marques these days , which I why I sold my Kawasaki GTR1400. I try to buy vehicles 20-25 years old so as to dodge paint, laquer and technology issues. But one has to carefully examine their mileage and maintenance histories. We live in a period of golden opportunity where power, reasonably easy maintenance, and sound wheels / paintwork can still be reasonably easily sourced, but this period is limited. Once any bike hits 30 years old other issues often arise simply due to time effluxion. Enjoy your new treasure and don't spoil Sarah too much!
Thanks for your comment Ivan, hope all is well in Devon! It was my fault we got this bike; I sat on one and suddenly the list was down to one! Jonathan isn't complaining though!! Sarah
We moved from a BMW K1200LT, which we'd had for 14 years, because I could see it was going to be too heavy before too long - I was 66 at the time. We chose your Versys' big sister and have a 2019 GT SE, with better luggage than your bike included. The Versys 1000 suits us very well and does the same kind of touring you're looking to do. We had a week in France a few weeks ago and the V1k was great. It suits us. Yours suits you. That's what it's all about, isn't it? As the old saying has it, it wouldn't do for us all to be the same.
If it were me - and ONLY me! - who got to choose the next bike I would likely have gone for the Versys 1000. If truth be told I'd still like to have one (and I'm slightly envious of you!) but I don't regret buying the Goldwing.
@@fbglife When we decided to move from the K1200LT we went to the NEC Show and, effectively, toured dual seats. We do so much riding two-up that any Ruth wasn't happy with was scratched from the list immediately. It came down to the BMW RT and GS, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and the Versys. We bought a Versys because the local dealers for the first two brands were both very off-hand. Derby Kawasaki couldn't have been more welcoming and, after a test ride, it was all settled. We don't regret our choice, either. I wouldn't buy a Wing - now - because of the weight but, in truth, the six-cylinder ones have always seemed OTT to my eyes but how many modern bikes *aren't* OTT? We toured in Europe on a Matchless 500 single with under 20 bhp. My Versys has 120! Enjoy your ride!
Great story, great bike. Looks really comfortable. I own the 2019 but never had the pleasure of riding the previous versions. Practices with it at slow speeds and ride safe.
Thank you Rich! The slow speed control and confidence is growing each time I take it out. I look forward to the day we're able to try out the 2018+ Goldwing!
Very nicely done vid, have many years and smiles with the Wing! Have to laugh tho because I've always thought heavy bikes were not for me but could never find the perfect bike. Tried my first 'heavy bike', an Integra , 100kg lighter than a Wing but wow, cannot see changing in a hurry! Many experienced riders say the Integra is one step below the Wing!
A lovely story. That's a big investment but one which should bring much enjoyment, and what is life about anyway?! I'm surprised you didn't like the ST1300. I doubt I could cope with the size and weight of the GL1800 but the benefits are many once on the move. I sold my BMW K1100 after I dropped it on the driveway, it's the slow stuff and paddling them around which is the tricky bit. Your GL has the reverser which must help in that regard. Looking forward to your continued experiences, will you use it in the winter?
Yes, we consider that we work hard so why not play hard too? I did like the ST1300 but by the time I persuaded Sarah to try sitting on one she'd already been bitten by the Goldwing bug! Paddling around is tricky but I'm fast getting used to it. And yes, if we have the opportunity to use it all year round, we will! Bikes are for riding, don't you say?
Hello from ‘s Heer Abtskerke in the Netherlands. I enjoyed the video you made from your first ride on the goldwing. I prefer em broidering. Hope the weather will become better to ride your new bike. Merry x’mas and 2024.
Goldwing are great , just watch adverse amber when stopping and slow manoeuvring , otherwise they are great especially two up , I did thousands of miles in Europe with my daughter on the back . Look forward to seeing your travels on it .
Congratulations on your bike. Slow speed handling is a bit tricky for that bike but like said can be mastered. A great place to practice is an empty parking lot. I had a 2009 gl1800 that I sold after 4 years ownership because of the slow speed handling issue for me. My height is 5.9 inches and on the wing I could only get the balls of my feet down on the pavement. I went to a different brand of heavy touring bike that had most of the weight down lower and a shorter seat height. The goldwing in my opinion doesn’t have any bike that can beat it in comfort and reliability.
My wife goes to sleep on the back when we're eating up the miles. She also loves the presence it has on the road which makes her feel "SUV" safe. So much so that I now can't get her on the back of my SH300i which I put on the back of the motorhome.
From the states, congratulations. Order the baker air wings and a couple cup holders and the two of you enjoy your new experience together. 40 years of marriage & 3 wings later we are still exploring new stories.
Yes, I too always figured I may never owe one (cost) or want to (weight). But never say never. I have a friend who lives in Vegas and is having a ball on his seeing the sights in the western parts of the US. Now I must susribe and watch your channel for further adventures. Will you be doing any camping by chance?
Thanks for the message. I never imagined I'd ride a Goldwing but life changes, and circumstances change with it. Yes it's heavy but honestly it's only noticeable at very low speeds. I am so taken with how easily it rides at anything above walking pace. No camping trips planned as yet but you never know...
Hello to your new bike. Its a year since you bought the bike. Hope you're enjoying it. I don't wish to spoil anything. If the bike has done more than 10k. Make sure the suspension linkage is properly greased and the bolts waxed as they seize in. Exhaust must be removed to do this. Its impossible to do with the exhaust on. i know done lots of them. Also the alternator drive bearing can fail the covers prevent you hearing it. Ps a full service takes 21 hours if done properly . Dr Dave
Thanks Dave, yes we are loving it! We get the bike serviced by Honda and a couple of days ago they did an inspection and said the suspension is all good. To be honest I dread the alternator failing! It looks like an expensive pain in the backside to fix.
,seems like a nice bike PPF on the front will help you with keeping it in good condition,, I've,2 bikes and my wife likes going on my speed triple 🤣 how is beyond me,, it's up for sale to get a touring type bike,,but no passenger on my 06 gsxr 1000 which is a keeper,, really enjoyed the VIDEO ☘️☘️ from northern Ireland 😁
Hi Cecil, thanks for the message and the kind words. I hadn't considered PPF for a bike but it makes perfect sense - if a little costly! Sarah didn't know what a Speed Triple is but she does now and she can't see how anyone could be a pillion on one :)
Thanks for the comment Gary. I'm getting used to the bike now, it's amazing how it seems to shrink in size after a while. I nearly forget I'm riding such a big bike!
Hi I'm a Goldwing owner and I'm interested in the issues you've had with your bike. I bought mine on a 66 plate with only 700 miles on the clock and to date has only 4700 now. This was down to pandemic etc, however I've had a trip to Garve in the Highlands this year and it was perfect, eight hours on the bike solid other than one comfort break at Glasgow and fresh as a daisy on arrival. Good choice but listening to you and the issues you've had I'm a little concerned. I'm in West Yorkshire so it appears I'm not far from yourselves. Look forward to hearing from you. Cheers.
I wouldn't worry Robert, we seem to be unique with what happened (the Vertu Honda mechanic said he'd never come across this before, it was just bad luck); It's all tickety boo now! So get out on the bike and enjoy!! We are North Notts, so yes we must be near! Sarah
We have been eyeing-up potential biking holidays in the US (organised HD tours mainly, but maybe self-hire too) so it's not out of the question that we'll one day make it to the Tail of the Dragon and take you up on your offer!
You will love it eventually after you get used to it there's a UA-cam channel named MC Rider he gives some really good points on how to handle and he's got a book that'll if you want to buy it that will show you how to handle that beast as low speeds and they help a whole lot a nickname mine Bear because of it happy riding
That's very kind of you, thank you. Yes, there will be a proper review coming but we want to make sure we've owned it long enough and ridden enough miles to make the review worthwhile. We have more footage yet to edit so hopefully our opinions will appear here soon-ish....
If you don't fancy GW...don't allow your pillion to sit on it...once seated...your pillion be haunted by GW...I was told & now I understand...anyway...it's an absolute bike
Hi Joe, that is SO funny! Sarah was bitten by the Goldwing bug and there was no way she was going to settle for any of my other choices. I'm OK though, it IS a lovely bike and I'm very happy to own & ride it.
Hello from Oklahoma USA, been riding most my life and currently on a 06 GW. Going to retire in a year or 2 I hope but who knows? I’m trying to decide if I want a 12-17 or the new design 18 and up. I sure like the looks of your white beauty. Enjoyed the video and joined your channel. Be safe
I have a Triumph t120 and Im looking at a GW so that I can take my girl with me on long trips. Ive taken the Bonnie on 800 mile trips no problem. But Im 6'3" and need the entire seat to myself hah. The GW is a Cadillac and it seems to be the way to go. Cheers from Las Vegas, and safe travels
Hi and congratulations on your new Honda gold wing, I've been watching your videos ..adventures. I have the same bike a 2015 with navigation no airbag model in white. IN one of your videos your wife mentioned air bluffing I installed air wings a happy wife now. Also a drivers back rest and for night riding fog lights. ps what year is your gold wing ? Enjoy the adventure with riding your Canadian friends. Fred and Diana.
Hello Fred & Diana, thanks for the comment. Which wings did you install? Are they the mirror ones, or the longer ones that go down the fairing? Specifically, what was the improvement Diana felt? Ours is 2014 model.
Awesome motorcycle....... im planning to upgrade from Triumph Bonneville T100 to hondagoldwing...but just worried about the weight of the motorcycle........i have quite a bit of experience under my belt.....whats your experience so far?? love from Canada 🇨🇦
Thanks for your comment Maverick. My experience of riding a Goldwing so far is entirely positive. The weight is noticeable only at very low speed. Get the wheels turning and, in all honesty, it's so easy to ride. It would be a lie to suggest it ever feels light but the effect of the weight is predictable and easy to manage. In fact, the more I ride it the more I regard the weight and stability as good friends! It's an easy bike to get along with - try one!
With Sarah on the back I'm happy to ride in a sedate and relaxed fashion because it suits both of us but I've just taken my first 'proper' solo ride (200 mile round-trip) and I had a blast. Knock it down a gear and crack the throttle open and you'll still get a real kick out of it - it's sort of delayed by a second but then this big old beast will be accelerating faster and harder than you'd think it has any right to.
Mine are getting worse and worse. I don't want to go down the route of removing the wheels and getting them stripped, polished and re-lacquered but I'd like to find a way of making look more presentable. Have you tried any remedies on your wheels?
I can't make a direct comparison (only having experience of a Japanese-built one) but I'm starting to wonder if the quality of the US ones is actually a little better than mine. When I look at older Goldwings they SEEM to be standing up to the passage of time better.
Congrats for buying the best motorcycle in the world. I ride a 2012 my third Goldwing. Please visit my channel for great Goldwing content. It is a awesome experience and the smile on her face says it all. The performance will surprise you. Now get all the accessories. LOL Got to buy all the farkles. I thin the best thing we did was get the intercoms in the helmets. To comm when you are riding makes the experience a lot of fun. She will appreciate it. Just take it to the parking lot and just practice. Wind wings for the mirror are next level comfort. Helps with cold wind and can open for more air when hot. They will help her with buffetting New subscriber here.
Thanks for your comment - and I've now visited your channel! Lots to see there and I'll work my way through all your uploads.... I am so impressed by the Goldwing so far (getting better at low speed too) and it's now no surprise that there are people like you who are on their 3rd, 4th, 5th Goldwing. Our intercoms are finally fixed after a lot of faffing around trying different things. We'll do a video about that subject eventually!
We're slowly working out what we like and like less about the bike. So far, arm comfort is OK but the moment Sarah says she wants armrests I guess I know what to do!
@@fbglife No, I did clean up one back in the 70's for my Father, who at the time had a Used Car Showroom. But No, I didn't get to ride one. It was too Damn Heavy. And, I can no longer ride, due to having an eye condition - Nystagmus, which excludes me from riding since 85.
@@garydunn3037 That's a shame about not being able to ride. Those of us with healthy eyes tend to take them for granted. I was once of the mind that the Goldwing is too big for UK roads but I simply don't hold to that view any longer. They ARE heavy but that doesn't mean they're not ridable (and enjoyable) on small twisty roads. In fact it seems to me that the high mass of the Goldwing may make it more stable and predictable through the bends. If anything I'd say the Goldwing's chassis is wasted on wide straight roads.
@@fbglife Although I will Never own a "GoldWing" or any other Motorcycle any more. From what I have read, they have a low centre of gravity, with the motor being slung low down, even the petrol tank is under the seat. So, I can understand their feeling of ease to handle. I always fancied a Kawasaki 900 Z1 or a Suzuki GT750 "Kettle" which I did get to ride back in 1986, but just around the block. I have always "Loved" Motorcycles, especially those from Japan in the 70's. But my eyes now preclude me from riding again. I feel like a "Bird" with its "Wings Clipped"
I had many bikes in my life and was never a Goldwing fan, till I bought one, is it really the best bike ever. BMW RT and K bike for two up is also an option, but not reliable and high gravity point
My preconceptions of the Goldwing were almost entirely negative. Amazing what a little bit of actual experience and knowledge can do to change opinions!
20 years ago I rode into a dealership on a Yamaha R1 and rode out on a Honda GL1800. First few miles I was terrified that I had made a mistake, by the 5th mile I was in love with the bike. I’ve had a lot of motorcycles and the GoldWing is the best bike I’ve ever owned. Now I ride a 2000 Honda Valkyrie. The flat 6 motor is amazing. I can’t even imagine how awesome the newest models are.
It was a good job you didn't live 4 miles from the dealership Todd! Did you know you were going to leave with a GW?! The Valkyrie is a good looking bike...Sarah
@@fbglife yes, I had done months of research, so I knew exactly what I wanted. I searched online for a dealer around me that had the bike I wanted in the color I wanted it in. Even if the dealership would have been across the street from my house, I would have given myself time to acclimate to the bigger bike. It was a shock even though I knew I would like it…from sport bike life style to not that style. I used the bike more of a daily driver than a touring bike. I needed a bike I could get my fiancé to ride with me on. She was tired of sport bikes and wanted to be comfortable. I knew that the 02 GL1800 was a different breed of Gold Wing. Gone were the days of a boat on wheels. The GL1800 was said to be a well balanced, well handing bike that hid it’s weight and gifted the rider with a confident inspiring characteristics. The reviews for the bike were not wrong. It did everything that was said about it and more. Probably the best bike I’ve ever ridden/owned. Valkyrie is right up there near the top with most of the GL1800’s same characteristics…close anyway. What it lacks in handling and power compared to the 1800’s, it makes up for in personality!!? Lol The Valkyrie is a fun rewarding machine for sure. I will get another GL1800 though…I just have to figure out what year I want. The lasted generation looks pretty good.
THE " WINGS " BELLS & WHISTLES ---
LOTS OF SWITCHES , ** INTIMIDATING AT FIRST , BUT A " WING RIDER " BECOMES USE TO THEM & SECOND NATURE , THOSE *** LONG DISTANT RIDES BECOME MORE ENJOYABLE , THE " CADILLAC OF MOTORCYCLES WITH A SPORTS CAR POWER " .
RIDE ON " WINGERS " BE SAFE AND
" RIDE ON " .
Congratulations on the new ride. My wife and I started on a Goldwing when I turned 50, almost 20 years ago. We purchased a white GL1500SE with 22k miles. Your purchase experience reminded me of the almost giddiness we had after we made the purchase. We sat in a cafe, eating lunch, wondering what we had just done. We purchased ours in March, which is snow weather here in Ohio (USA). We trailered it home from a private purchase because of the snow on the roads.
We kept that bike for 17 years, put on another 115K miles, and loved it. We traded up to a 2020 DCT and are still enjoying the ride.
You will too.
Thank you for the comment.
Ha! I was giddy and shell-shocked after buying it. Even now I have to take a step back in shock every time I open the garage door and see that huge thing inside :)
Stories like yours (17years & 115k miles) give me a lot of confidence that we've made the right choice.
Welcome to the club, you won't regret buying a goldwing they are absolutely brilliant, handle like you wouldn't believe, after we bought ours my initial thought was why didn't we buy one of these years ago 😎
Thanks for the welcome Paul. We've got a few more miles under our belts now and we are both loving it! We're so pleased with our purchase.
Even my 95 1500 that i bought in 2020 and rode 3000 miles with 147000 miles on it was a beauty to ride.i was 69 when i bought mine.
Thanks for the comment. Plenty more years of riding to enjoy then!
Hello from Louisville, Kentucky;
Y'all have made a wonderful choice.
Just make sure all the fluids are right and proper and, you will have years of riding that motorcycle to come. I just put 75K on my 17' audio comfort.
Thank for the note Jason. We too think it's a good choice - no regrets so far. Mind you, we have experienced one breakdown so far - details to follow soon in another video. Back on the road now though, after an unwelcome repair bill. Still, no regrets....
Love your partnership with each other. It goes to show nothing is impossible together!😊
Thank you Robin. It makes the world of difference to have a wife who is as enthusiastic about this bike as I am!
Good morning and Greetings from California... welcome to the Goldwing and UA-cam life. I have a few bikes as well, but the Goldwing is supreme for two up travel.
I was at Donnington years ago for a MOTO GP race...lots of fun.
You will love this machine.
Thank you for the Californian greetings!
A little confession here: we are a little behind in our editing and uploading, which means we have already ridden a few more miles on the Goldwing - including a day out to Silverstone for this year's British Moto GP race. We have some footage and now need to edit it!
Happy for you guys! I also 6 weeks ago bought a goldwing for the wife, and I and still own my 19 GS. I know some don't like the new goldwing (I bought a 22 model) absolutely love it!!! 2000 miles and about 800 of it with the wife. Your bike looks awesome! And Im sure you and your wife will get many enjoyable miles out of it.
Thank you Glenn, it's not a stretch to say that in the short time we've owned this bike it has transformed our lives. We are now able to do the things we have always wanted to do. We both wish you and your wife many years and many miles of happy Goldwing ownership!
Hello Glenn, did you get the DCT or 6 speed, just curious?
They call the back seat a couch, because it's so comfortable. My wife loves it so enjoy and welcome to the Goldwing Family
Thanks Ronald, it's a lovely family, isn't it?
Hi there my name is Pierce I live in the south of Ireland. I recently purchased a Goldwing in March after searching for a long time to get the best bike that I could find. This will be my third wing and it a retirement present to me. We have not bought the wing to look at we’ve got it to do touring. Mine had less than 7000 miles on the clock when I purchased it I’ve 11,000 on it now. I wasn’t riding for 20 years since I sold my yellow wing to Appleyards in Shipley. And I got this one in Tom Conways Honda I Durham. I wish you all the best safe riding. Pierce 👍🇮🇪
Hello Pierce, good to meet you! I'm fast becoming a Goldwing advocate - amazed how good they are to ride.
Hopefully we'll visit Ireland next year for a few days. Sarah has a friend in Galway, so that's a perfect excuse to jump on the Goldwing and catch a ferry across the Irish Sea....
@@fbglife thanks for the reply. You will enjoy Galway it’s a beautiful part of Ireland. Ride long and enjoy your Goldwing life 👍🇮🇪
Great story. Congrats to you. I too on my 3rd Wing. At 67 in God’s blessed great health, I purchased a beautiful ultra blue 22 DCT Tour airbag in this past July. Absolutely smitten with this DCT and the new size. Ride safe and often. ATGATT.
Another tip! After you have washed your wing, use the garden vac with the blower nozzle to get rid of the water. I bought a Flymow garden vac, it blows at 225 mph. Apparently car dealers use them when washing their stock. Wife thought I had bought it for the garden! So wash the wing and swill away the suds, then use the blower nozzle.
I've only just seen this comment Roger - brilliant idea, thanks!
Had a similar experience a few years ago. My partner and I were riding a Vstrom 650, excellent bike. I had two issues with it, the first was if was physically too small when riding two up with luggage. the second was when I added panniers my partners struggled to get on and off of it because of the height. From a performance point of view I thought the Vstrom was ok, it required me to keep the revs up and dance on the gear lever in the hills and comfortably cruised at the speed limited with plenty to spare. Being a v twin fan I went down the path of a Harley Electra Glide Ultra Limited. Like you the main issue was getting used to the weight. When riding I learned the the best thing to do was get my feet on the floor boars (pegs) as quickly as possible which improved the balance of the bike and the weight becomes less of an issue. When coming to a stop I put both feet down to help manage the weight and balance.
That really IS a similar experience! I've never ridden a VStrom (or wee strom!) but I understand what you say: the Versys 2-up is hard work, I was constantly up and down the gearbox and whilst it's 'capable' of 2-up riding the whole bike was always at its limits. It will chug along all day at high speeds on the flat but...take it off of the motorway with pillion & luggage and it will make the rider work for every mile!
That's good advice about getting both feet up as soon as possible. I've found that the more nervous I am with this big bike (and the more I leave a foot or two dangling) the more wobbly the bike is. The sheer size is very daunting at first but I'm now learning to treat it just like any other bike the more I'm enjoying riding it. And the more comfortable it's getting for my back-seater too!
It's a good looking bike, enjoy the ride. I had a Goldwing years ago, always enjoyed it. I now ride a Harley, remember : Doesn't matter what you ride, what matters is that it's your ride
Thank you Dave. We are truly enjoying this bike, and truly enjoying biking together for the first time ever!
@@fbglife Have a wonderful evening 🙏
Bought my 07 1800 four months ago. Had a GL1500 years ago and then went HD. Since I bought my 1800, haven't touched the HD. Like my HD but I LOVE my Wing! Ride safe and keep the rubber side down! You have a new subscriber!
Thank you Bruce! I have to say that in the short time (and few miles) I've been riding mine I have become a firm advocate for the Goldwing. I never imagined I'd have love for a bike like this but it's got me smitten already!
Same thing happened to my wife and I.....She just loved the Goldwing and I have to admit its the best bike I've ever had!
I never imagined I would enjoy a Goldwing - and I truly do enjoy it! All Thanks to our wives eh?
Thanks for posting myself love all bikes I am a Harley man but smart enough to know if Honda makes it you can't go wrong
Thank you for the comment Jim. We have our eyes on having a Harley biking holiday in the US one day - trouble is, the costs keep rising faster than our savings do!
You 2 are having so much fun on the GW. It's adorable! Thank you for sharing.
You're right, we are having SO much fun! We have a ton of footage from our journeys thus far and we are working as fast as we can to get more videos up - we hope you'll stick around to watch them.
Always said a Goldwing is just a car on two wheels. I am now on my third Wing after BMW.
, Triumph and many more. If you want long distance touring two up there is no better bike. Comfort, speed, handling it has it all. We used to do around 2,500 miles on a Triumph Rocket Touring, on the Wing we knocked out 4,500 in more comfort. Nearest I have got was a BMW K1600GTLE but not as comfortable and very top heavy.
I always assumed the Goldwing was nothing more than a lumbering beast good for nothing other than riding long straight routes, and completely at odds with UK roads. I've quickly found out that my assumption couldn't be more untrue! We've put quite a few more miles on it since we made this video and we're both loving it!
@@fbglife when I bought my first Wing I asked for a test ride, I was only looking at it for the comfort of the pillion, I went about 150 yards, turned round and went back in to do the deal. Have had a Pan 1100 and 1300 but nothing gets near the wing. Even in Germany on the B500 it handles like a dream, way better than u would imagine. I am sure you will never go back now
I think even if I wanted to go back Sarah wouldn't allow me to! :)
I did have a GL1000 for a while. Great fun.
Congratulations guys it's a spectacular machine. A big outlay but thank god female intuition takes over now and then. Happy miles guys 👌
Yes, it is a big outlay - with higher maintenance costs than most other bikes. But, yes, it IS spectacular! I don't mind that this was Sarah's choice of ride because I think she chose well :)
You won’t regret it! As a Harley dude, I bought my first Wing 15 months ago (low mileage pristine 08 GL1800) and will never look back. My channel banner has a glimpse of it. I love this this thing. I’ll subscribe to see what you think as time goes on.
Thank you so much for the comment and the subscription! We have reciprocated.
We are a little behind with our videos but we have a lot of footage to edit and we'll share our experiences of this bike here soon....
@@fbglife ..Oh thats nice. Thank You, I appreciate it
what a nice couple, enjoy and stay safe .
Thank you! And we will!
Well presented by the both of you. I have a 2019 DCT tour. Purchased New. Never ridden!. I hope to get going soon again. Anyway thanks to the both of you.
Why has it never been ridden Albert?!🤔
@@fbglife got home December 24th, 2019. Dropped it getting it off my trailer. Decided to removed seat & trunk. To add lights, etc. Cold set in. Started working 14 hours a day. Just never got back to finishing up. Still new I hope. Was supposed to get it together this week. But.... unable due to pain in arm/back.
Oh dear, sometimes things just pile up don't they Albert? It will be there when you are ready to do it...
Never ridden one but it looks like a lovely bike and had an FJR1300 for 14 years and loved it. Got to say you must both be nice to have a Ginger 😹😻😻
He chose us Richard! For which we feel privileged...
@FBG life yes. Think they can be a bit of a hand full sometimes but wouldn't be without my ginger Tom 😹😻
Definitely can be. My Ginger tom has just looked outside and seen the snow so he's has gone back to bed 😹
Well first off hello from America 🇺🇸 . And congratulations on your Goldwing purchase. You will not be unhappy at all for your choice. Looks like you need some highway pegs for your long trips. They will help stretch out your long legs on those trips. I have a 2015 GL1800 in digital silver. Anyway enjoy that new bike and make some good memories and videos. Just subscribed. Oh and yes it's a beast at slow speeds but the more you ride it the better you will get.
Hello Mo, I've been watching a lot of your channel in recent months and I absolutely love it! Your recent video on the Dragon's Tail is so good and we've both enjoyed watching that one. So I know about your 'new' silver GL1800....and your old orange one too. That was a sad video when you sold it :(
Thank you for your channel and I'm flattered that you've subscribed here.
About highway pegs: I'm concerned that the edge/corner of the fairing would dig into my lower leg with my legs spread out and forward like that - does that happen? I guess the best thing for me to do would be to ask a friendly owner if I can sit on their bike to try out the pegs for size.
The Goldwing can be a big sail when its breezy, so I open the air vent in the screen and it breaks the wind pattern and can make for a nicer ride.
I would never have thought of that! Thanks for the tip Roger.
GL are a really good bike, the older version you have have better storage than the new one. I’ve nearly owned one a few times but ended up with BMWs mainly I carnt fault there service and support. My first big tourer was a new k1600 Grand America witch was a very nice bike but thanks to the pandemic I didn’t get as much touring done as planned, This year I was invited in buy my dealer just to see on possibly changing to the new version. But ended up falling for a Touring Cruser R18 Transcontinental witch we have done one big tour into Spain this year on her and what a bike it keeps surprising me on every ride. Hopefully we will be off to the Alps next year and other adventures. Key I found to large bike riding is stop in a straight line, and forward planning and sensible confidence. I think large bikes can get a bad rep or vue primarily by first time riders that also may not have much ridding experience, and buy some in the press and social media. Large tour bikes can be the best for comfort storage and safety and surprisingly can be very fun and manuvable for the size and so on. Key is I would suggest is must have ridden for a while in terms of bikeing experience, have a cool head eg not pushing the limits and taking unessary risks and big one be open minded and willing to learn key Enjoy that’s what it for.
Sounds like you have some fantastic adventures planned Stevo. We would love to go abroad on ours, we are working up to that! Thanks for the tips, I certainly feel very visible on it which can be nothing but a good thing!
Congrats on the wing purchase.
Hope you both have many happy miles on it.
Got mine in Feb of this year and love it. Looking forward to more videos
Thank you Thomas, we're gradually clocking up the miles on this bike and loving every one of them! Which model is your Goldwing?
@@fbglife Mine is a 2015 model in red and black.
Do you have an airbag on your bike?
I am SO envious of you, I would have loved to find a red/black one. In my opinion it's the best colour scheme for this model.
Yes, it is an airbag model. Maybe one day I'll be very grateful for the airbag (let's hope not though) but I think right now I'd prefer to have the extra cubby rather than the bag.
@@fbglife I agree with regards to the airbag, would rather a extra bit of storage but it's there and hopefully I'll never need it either. An airbag jacket/vest is far more practical.
I think the white is a great colour for the wing, it was my first choice but didn't work out so that's what lead to the red/black.
Enjoy the bike and the touring on it. All the best
Congratulations on your Goldwing. We needed a Bike that was comfortable
For touring and had panniers we recently purchased a Harley Davidson Road king special. I was Worried about the weight of the bike especially having the responsibility of My wife being on the back. All Bikes are weightless once
Moving, it is below 10 mph that it gets tricky. I came across Be the boss of your motorcycle on UA-cam game changer and I really Believe we would of dropped the bike and hurt our self’s
If I hadn’t found this channel.
It is all About keeping the revs set and dragging back Brake. I was very wobbly in slow Moving traffic. Now I can ride so slow, the bike is nearly moving, with both feet staying on floorboards.
I come to a stop with out fear of dropping gently placing feet down at last minute.
Hope this helps you 👍🏻
Will check it out TeaPotWood, thank you!
@@fbglife 👍🏻let me know what you think. Hardest thing is overcoming your instincts if you grab that front brake or pull the clutch in the bike is going to want to fall over if your front wheel isn’t straight.
I'd say the new bikes are excellent all round, long or short trips. We had a 6000k summer trip to Greece and the Balkans on ours, all sorts of roads, mountain passes, broken surfaces, rough roads. If you have the adventurous spirit you'll have an amazing time on that bike. I'd share some pics but can't via UA-cam.
Thank you Howard. We are envious of your 6000k trip, wow! We do have an adventurous spirit but our free time and budget does always match our travelling ambitions :)
Just found your channel as I’m looking for a Goldwing as we have the ST 1300 Pan European and my wife wants something a little more comfortable for the longer journeys.. your videos are inspiring and full of information keep up the good work guys
Yours is the bike I expected us to buy but Sarah was having none of it :) What model are you looking at buying?
Ive been to Ritebike a few times as its fairly local to me. I need to find another bike so no doubt I'll call in again. The Goldwing looks great!
That was our first time there and we were both impressed with the selection of bikes, the quality of the bikes and the very easy-going sales staff. There was zero pressure on us, lots of help and friendly service. All-in-all we had a good experience with Rite Bike.
Watching this with Mrs Noob, hoping to interest her in some two up touring and I don't think anything else would entice her... Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on the nice ride.
Thank you! Give the Goldwing a try - I bet neither of you will regret it.
What a lovely family, even the cat doesn't answer back. Your new 'sickle is magnificent, albeit much too much technology for me - ABS etc., hence I opted for a Honda Valkyrie 'Interstate' which I'm very happy with albeit it is high chrome maintenance! But showing off costs (ha ha). If I had still lived down the road from you in Notts. then maybe I would have asked you to help me form an oldies cruisers' gang as clearly you are easy to get on with. But now I'm down in Devon. No bike is ever perfect. It's finding the closest to it for you, which possibly you have done. Got to be better than a Harley?
Yes, it's a beast at slow speeds but you are doing magnificently well. Paint and laquer is an issue with most marques these days , which I why I sold my Kawasaki GTR1400. I try to buy vehicles 20-25 years old so as to dodge paint, laquer and technology issues. But one has to carefully examine their mileage and maintenance histories. We live in a period of golden opportunity where power, reasonably easy maintenance, and sound wheels / paintwork can still be reasonably easily sourced, but this period is limited. Once any bike hits 30 years old other issues often arise simply due to time effluxion.
Enjoy your new treasure and don't spoil Sarah too much!
Thanks for your comment Ivan, hope all is well in Devon! It was my fault we got this bike; I sat on one and suddenly the list was down to one! Jonathan isn't complaining though!! Sarah
We moved from a BMW K1200LT, which we'd had for 14 years, because I could see it was going to be too heavy before too long - I was 66 at the time. We chose your Versys' big sister and have a 2019 GT SE, with better luggage than your bike included. The Versys 1000 suits us very well and does the same kind of touring you're looking to do. We had a week in France a few weeks ago and the V1k was great. It suits us. Yours suits you. That's what it's all about, isn't it? As the old saying has it, it wouldn't do for us all to be the same.
If it were me - and ONLY me! - who got to choose the next bike I would likely have gone for the Versys 1000.
If truth be told I'd still like to have one (and I'm slightly envious of you!) but I don't regret buying the Goldwing.
@@fbglife When we decided to move from the K1200LT we went to the NEC Show and, effectively, toured dual seats. We do so much riding two-up that any Ruth wasn't happy with was scratched from the list immediately. It came down to the BMW RT and GS, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and the Versys. We bought a Versys because the local dealers for the first two brands were both very off-hand. Derby Kawasaki couldn't have been more welcoming and, after a test ride, it was all settled. We don't regret our choice, either. I wouldn't buy a Wing - now - because of the weight but, in truth, the six-cylinder ones have always seemed OTT to my eyes but how many modern bikes *aren't* OTT? We toured in Europe on a Matchless 500 single with under 20 bhp. My Versys has 120!
Enjoy your ride!
Congratulations on your Goldwing purchase!
Thank you Howard, we are very pleased we bit the bullet and bought it.
Great story, great bike. Looks really comfortable. I own the 2019 but never had the pleasure of riding the previous versions. Practices with it at slow speeds and ride safe.
Thank you Rich! The slow speed control and confidence is growing each time I take it out.
I look forward to the day we're able to try out the 2018+ Goldwing!
Beautiful scenery! Congratulations on you new (a year old) bike!
Thank you Marina! Hopefully much more beautiful scenery to come next year.
Very nicely done vid, have many years and smiles with the Wing! Have to laugh tho because I've always thought heavy bikes were not for me but could never find the perfect bike. Tried my first 'heavy bike', an Integra , 100kg lighter than a Wing but wow, cannot see changing in a hurry! Many experienced riders say the Integra is one step below the Wing!
I just look at the pillion seat! :) Sarah
A lovely story. That's a big investment but one which should bring much enjoyment, and what is life about anyway?! I'm surprised you didn't like the ST1300. I doubt I could cope with the size and weight of the GL1800 but the benefits are many once on the move. I sold my BMW K1100 after I dropped it on the driveway, it's the slow stuff and paddling them around which is the tricky bit. Your GL has the reverser which must help in that regard. Looking forward to your continued experiences, will you use it in the winter?
Yes, we consider that we work hard so why not play hard too?
I did like the ST1300 but by the time I persuaded Sarah to try sitting on one she'd already been bitten by the Goldwing bug!
Paddling around is tricky but I'm fast getting used to it. And yes, if we have the opportunity to use it all year round, we will! Bikes are for riding, don't you say?
Hello from ‘s Heer Abtskerke in the Netherlands. I enjoyed the video you made from your first ride on the goldwing. I prefer em broidering. Hope the weather will become better to ride your new bike. Merry x’mas and 2024.
Thank you Margo. I'm trying to persuade Sarah to combine biking and embroidery - that would make a interesting video! A happy 2024 to you too!
Goldwing are great , just watch adverse amber when stopping and slow manoeuvring , otherwise they are great especially two up , I did thousands of miles in Europe with my daughter on the back . Look forward to seeing your travels on it .
Thank you John. yes, I'm noticing cambers much more now than I ever did! And loose dirt & gravel underfoot....
Congratulations on your bike. Slow speed handling is a bit tricky for that bike but like said can be mastered. A great place to practice is an empty parking lot. I had a 2009 gl1800 that I sold after 4 years ownership because of the slow speed handling issue for me. My height is 5.9 inches and on the wing I could only get the balls of my feet down on the pavement. I went to a different brand of heavy touring bike that had most of the weight down lower and a shorter seat height. The goldwing in my opinion doesn’t have any bike that can beat it in comfort and reliability.
Im 5.6 the slow handling is usually down to the steering head bearings. I changed mine an its 100 percent better at slow speed/crawl
Get motorcycle bras they put on front of the fairing protect from stone chips Just a thought.
Thank you Ethan, that's a good idea. We'll consider it!
My wife goes to sleep on the back when we're eating up the miles. She also loves the presence it has on the road which makes her feel "SUV" safe. So much so that I now can't get her on the back of my SH300i which I put on the back of the motorhome.
Sarah is amazed that people fall asleep on the back. Does that say something about the way I ride? :)
The road presence is good though, isn't it?
congrats on the new bike looks beautiful and many happy safe trips also vids to come
Thanks you Robert, we are loving it so far!
From the states, congratulations. Order the baker air wings and a couple cup holders and the two of you enjoy your new experience together. 40 years of marriage & 3 wings later we are still exploring new stories.
Thank you Jim. What do you think are the main benefits of the air wings? Do you think they improve the comfort of the passenger in any way?
Yes, I too always figured I may never owe one (cost) or want to (weight). But never say never. I have a friend who lives in Vegas and is having a ball on his seeing the sights in the western parts of the US. Now I must susribe and watch your channel for further adventures. Will you be doing any camping by chance?
Thanks for the message. I never imagined I'd ride a Goldwing but life changes, and circumstances change with it. Yes it's heavy but honestly it's only noticeable at very low speeds. I am so taken with how easily it rides at anything above walking pace.
No camping trips planned as yet but you never know...
Loving you guys journey!
Hello to your new bike. Its a year since you bought the bike. Hope you're enjoying it. I don't wish to spoil anything. If the bike has done more than 10k. Make sure the suspension linkage is properly greased and the bolts waxed as they seize in. Exhaust must be removed to do this. Its impossible to do with the exhaust on. i know done lots of them. Also the alternator drive bearing can fail the covers prevent you hearing it. Ps a full service takes 21 hours if done properly . Dr Dave
Thanks Dave, yes we are loving it! We get the bike serviced by Honda and a couple of days ago they did an inspection and said the suspension is all good. To be honest I dread the alternator failing! It looks like an expensive pain in the backside to fix.
,seems like a nice bike PPF on the front will help you with keeping it in good condition,, I've,2 bikes and my wife likes going on my speed triple 🤣 how is beyond me,, it's up for sale to get a touring type bike,,but no passenger on my 06 gsxr 1000 which is a keeper,, really enjoyed the VIDEO ☘️☘️ from northern Ireland 😁
Hi Cecil, thanks for the message and the kind words. I hadn't considered PPF for a bike but it makes perfect sense - if a little costly! Sarah didn't know what a Speed Triple is but she does now and she can't see how anyone could be a pillion on one :)
just discovered your vid really enjoyed look forward to the next
Thank you Allan. We have 4 more videos filmed but not yet edited - coming fairly soon hopefully.
Hi, perfect choice for 2 up touring.I own an 02 wing and their the best, once you get use to it, you bike looks really nice.
Thanks for the comment Gary. I'm getting used to the bike now, it's amazing how it seems to shrink in size after a while. I nearly forget I'm riding such a big bike!
Hi I'm a Goldwing owner and I'm interested in the issues you've had with your bike. I bought mine on a 66 plate with only 700 miles on the clock and to date has only 4700 now. This was down to pandemic etc, however I've had a trip to Garve in the Highlands this year and it was perfect, eight hours on the bike solid other than one comfort break at Glasgow and fresh as a daisy on arrival.
Good choice but listening to you and the issues you've had I'm a little concerned.
I'm in West Yorkshire so it appears I'm not far from yourselves.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Cheers.
I wouldn't worry Robert, we seem to be unique with what happened (the Vertu Honda mechanic said he'd never come across this before, it was just bad luck); It's all tickety boo now! So get out on the bike and enjoy!! We are North Notts, so yes we must be near!
Sarah
Congratulations. I know you’re ecstatic 🤩. Ping me if you want to tackle the tail of the dragon! It’ll be a nice vacation in the USA…
We have been eyeing-up potential biking holidays in the US (organised HD tours mainly, but maybe self-hire too) so it's not out of the question that we'll one day make it to the Tail of the Dragon and take you up on your offer!
If u ever decide to paint it, u can get rid of those scratches and get the color u prefer.
I would like that, but the cost scares me!
You will love it eventually after you get used to it there's a UA-cam channel named MC Rider he gives some really good points on how to handle and he's got a book that'll if you want to buy it that will show you how to handle that beast as low speeds and they help a whole lot a nickname mine Bear because of it happy riding
To be honest I already love it! Looking forward to getting used to it and loving it more 😃
I liked genuine videos like this, great job. Is review coming soon also ? 👍
That's very kind of you, thank you. Yes, there will be a proper review coming but we want to make sure we've owned it long enough and ridden enough miles to make the review worthwhile. We have more footage yet to edit so hopefully our opinions will appear here soon-ish....
If you don't fancy GW...don't allow your pillion to sit on it...once seated...your pillion be haunted by GW...I was told & now I understand...anyway...it's an absolute bike
Hi Joe, that is SO funny! Sarah was bitten by the Goldwing bug and there was no way she was going to settle for any of my other choices. I'm OK though, it IS a lovely bike and I'm very happy to own & ride it.
@@fbglife ...I watched the video with my wife & now she's asking me why I didn't go for a GW...omg
I hope you had a good answer ready...:) ! Sarah
Hello from Oklahoma USA, been riding most my life and currently on a 06 GW. Going to retire in a year or 2 I hope but who knows? I’m trying to decide if I want a 12-17 or the new design 18 and up. I sure like the looks of your white beauty. Enjoyed the video and joined your channel. Be safe
Thank you Larry. When you decide which one to buy for your retirement please do let us know what you bought and why you chose it.
I have a Triumph t120 and Im looking at a GW so that I can take my girl with me on long trips. Ive taken the Bonnie on 800 mile trips no problem. But Im 6'3" and need the entire seat to myself hah. The GW is a Cadillac and it seems to be the way to go. Cheers from Las Vegas, and safe travels
You're 1 inch taller than I am and I can vouch for the comfort! I know what you mean about having the seat to yourself, makes a big difference.
Hi and congratulations on your new Honda gold wing, I've been watching your videos ..adventures. I have the same bike a 2015 with navigation no airbag model in white. IN one of your videos your wife mentioned air bluffing I installed air wings a happy wife now. Also a drivers back rest and for night riding fog lights. ps what year is your gold wing ? Enjoy the adventure with riding your Canadian friends. Fred and Diana.
Hello Fred & Diana, thanks for the comment. Which wings did you install? Are they the mirror ones, or the longer ones that go down the fairing? Specifically, what was the improvement Diana felt?
Ours is 2014 model.
Awesome motorcycle....... im planning to upgrade from Triumph Bonneville T100 to hondagoldwing...but just worried about the weight of the motorcycle........i have quite a bit of experience under my belt.....whats your experience so far?? love from Canada 🇨🇦
Thanks for your comment Maverick. My experience of riding a Goldwing so far is entirely positive. The weight is noticeable only at very low speed. Get the wheels turning and, in all honesty, it's so easy to ride. It would be a lie to suggest it ever feels light but the effect of the weight is predictable and easy to manage. In fact, the more I ride it the more I regard the weight and stability as good friends! It's an easy bike to get along with - try one!
Bought one today after a 2 hour test drive. Swappingmy gsxs and my tiger for it. Let's see if my inner lunatic makes me do stuff I shouldn't
With Sarah on the back I'm happy to ride in a sedate and relaxed fashion because it suits both of us but I've just taken my first 'proper' solo ride (200 mile round-trip) and I had a blast. Knock it down a gear and crack the throttle open and you'll still get a real kick out of it - it's sort of delayed by a second but then this big old beast will be accelerating faster and harder than you'd think it has any right to.
The best colour 👍
Yeah, white is growing on me :)
Beautiful bike! It's a shame Honda is discontinuing them😔
Honda is not going to discontinue them. They’re coming out with the 2023 models soon.
I heard it's only a couple of models that are discontinued, not the whole line.
I’m only sorry I didn’t buy one earlier
You know what? Me too!
Same wheel issue on my '14.
Mine are getting worse and worse. I don't want to go down the route of removing the wheels and getting them stripped, polished and re-lacquered but I'd like to find a way of making look more presentable. Have you tried any remedies on your wheels?
@@fbglife Yes, magic eraser, and the usual elbow grease....none have worked really. Prevention may be the key.
@@goldwingconepatterns2565 I think you're right but I would have hoped the lacquer applied by the Honda factory would be more robust than this.
Are US made Goldwings the same Quality as the Japan made item? Have doubts about that.
I can't make a direct comparison (only having experience of a Japanese-built one) but I'm starting to wonder if the quality of the US ones is actually a little better than mine. When I look at older Goldwings they SEEM to be standing up to the passage of time better.
Congrats for buying the best motorcycle in the world. I ride a 2012 my third Goldwing. Please visit my channel for great Goldwing content. It is a awesome experience and the smile on her face says it all. The performance will surprise you. Now get all the accessories. LOL Got to buy all the farkles. I thin the best thing we did was get the intercoms in the helmets. To comm when you are riding makes the experience a lot of fun. She will appreciate it. Just take it to the parking lot and just practice. Wind wings for the mirror are next level comfort. Helps with cold wind and can open for more air when hot. They will help her with buffetting New subscriber here.
Thanks for your comment - and I've now visited your channel! Lots to see there and I'll work my way through all your uploads....
I am so impressed by the Goldwing so far (getting better at low speed too) and it's now no surprise that there are people like you who are on their 3rd, 4th, 5th Goldwing.
Our intercoms are finally fixed after a lot of faffing around trying different things. We'll do a video about that subject eventually!
What year is this bike??
It's 2014 Kevin.
Hi im from northern California usa. You too are beautiful.
Also don't forget Sarah, He can get you some nice arm rest to make you more comfortable
We're slowly working out what we like and like less about the bike. So far, arm comfort is OK but the moment Sarah says she wants armrests I guess I know what to do!
They are just too big for British Roads, OK in America, where roads are wide and straight.
Hi Gary. Have you ridden one in the UK?
@@fbglife No, I did clean up one back in
the 70's for my Father, who at the time
had a Used Car Showroom. But No, I
didn't get to ride one. It was too Damn
Heavy. And, I can no longer ride, due to
having an eye condition - Nystagmus,
which excludes me from riding since 85.
@@garydunn3037 That's a shame about not being able to ride. Those of us with healthy eyes tend to take them for granted.
I was once of the mind that the Goldwing is too big for UK roads but I simply don't hold to that view any longer. They ARE heavy but that doesn't mean they're not ridable (and enjoyable) on small twisty roads. In fact it seems to me that the high mass of the Goldwing may make it more stable and predictable through the bends. If anything I'd say the Goldwing's chassis is wasted on wide straight roads.
@@fbglife Although I will Never own a "GoldWing" or any other Motorcycle any
more. From what I have read, they have a low centre of gravity, with the motor
being slung low down, even the petrol tank is under the seat. So, I can
understand their feeling of ease to handle. I always fancied a Kawasaki 900
Z1 or a Suzuki GT750 "Kettle" which I did get to ride back in 1986, but just
around the block. I have always "Loved" Motorcycles, especially those from
Japan in the 70's. But my eyes now preclude me from riding again. I feel
like a "Bird" with its "Wings Clipped"
@@fbglife I have been to LA although my
father was driving, and their roads are
much wider and straighter than ours.
that's an armchair on wheels !!
I'm trying to persuade Sarah to make an embroidery video from the back seat! :)
Helo sar hau ar u
Good, thank you!
Sar am no aedeya inporte in pakistan
Well , you bought an Expensive Motorcycle because you are a Wealthy person I guess .
'Wealthy' is a relative term but I know we both worked very hard for a long time in order to afford this 8 year-old motorcycle.
The first 17 minutes have nothing to do with the bike.
Enjoy your time and the bike,
I had many bikes in my life and was never a Goldwing fan, till I bought one, is it really the best bike ever. BMW RT and K bike for two up is also an option, but not reliable and high gravity point
My preconceptions of the Goldwing were almost entirely negative. Amazing what a little bit of actual experience and knowledge can do to change opinions!
@@fbglife 👍👍