The Honda Gold Wing has now made history as the world’s greatest (and biggest) motorcycle touring model. The first Goldwing to be released was the Honda GL1000 and it had already established itself as the biggest, most comfortable kilometre-going tourer on the market, before the next generations came along.

The GL1800 Gold Wing hasn’t received any great updates since 2001, and now we get both style and technical updates for the new 2012 Gold Wing. The new model keeps us with innovation for the new generation, maintaining its spot as the best tourer around. The new body panels and styling upgrades are the first things to notice, with new headlights, grey side panels and an updated rear layout with a centrally-mounted light.

Aerodynamics on the new Gold Wing have been improved with more homogenous saddle bags and a compact, close fit design. Studies in the Honda wind tunnel were carried out, to create better wind protection for the lower body. Chassis upgrades include changes to the suspension with a Pro-arm rear swingarm and final shaft drive. The model is set to be a more comfortable one with greater ride stability.

The 2012 Gold Wing gets new technology including iPod connectivity and a surround sound audio system. The audio system can be controlled from the handles and includes no less than six speakers. There is a new sat nav and other onboard features include a comfier seat and new upholstery materials, and an enhanced storage capacity up to 150 litres.

The Gold Wing engine is the same six-cylinder boxer 1832cc SOHC 12-valve unit from Honda, with PGM-FI electronic ignition. Power is 118 hp and torque reaches 167 Nm. Transmission is a five-speed gearbox with overdrive function. Touring features for 2012 include the new sat nav, heated seats and handlebars, as well as a heating system for the feet, cruise control, electric rear drive gear, adjustable windshield, and new storage spots on board.

Finally, the sports look is completed by new clear-coated wheels housing Honda’s ABS CBS systems, and additional safety includes the front airbag. The Honda Gold Wing accessories include a cooling system for the storage, aerodynamic spoilers, new light kits, alarm and a cover. Three colours are available which combine with the new grey side panels: Glint Wave Blue Metallic, Pearl Fadeless White and Graphite Black.

2012 Honda Gold Wing technical specs

ENGINE
Engine Type 1832cc Liquid-Cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder
Bore And Stroke 74mm x 71mm
Induction Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Ignition Computer-controlled digital with three-dimensional mapping
Compression Ratio 9.8:1
Valve Train SOHC; two valves per cylinder

DRIVE TRAIN
Transmission Five-speed including Overdrive, plus electric Reverse
Final Drive Shaft

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES
Front Suspension 45mm cartridge fork with anti-dive system, 4.8 inches travel
Rear Suspension Pro Arm® single-side swingarm with Pro-Link® single shock with computer-controlled spring preload adjustment with two memory presets; 4.1 inches travel
Front Brake Dual full-floating 296mm discs with CBS three-piston calipers
Rear Brake Single ventilated 316mm disc with CBS three-piston caliper
Front Tire 130/70R-18
Rear Tire 180/60R-16

DIMENSIONS
Rake 29.15 degrees
Trail 109mm (4.3 inches)
Wheelbase 66.5 inches
Seat Height 29.1 inches
Curb Weight 904-933 pounds, depending on option packages selected (Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and a full tank of fuel-ready to ride)
Fuel Capacity 6.6 gallons

OTHER
Model Id GL1800
Emissions Meets current California Air Resources Board (CARB) and EPA standards.
Available Colors Candy Red, Pearl White, Ultra Blue Metallic, Black
FACTORY WARRANTY INFORMATION
Three Years Transferable, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

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