https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/motorcycles/2018-honda-gold-wing-riding-the-new-techiest-bike-on-the-planet/ar-AAu0Amf?ocid=spartanntp
Non tour version looks very interesting
Non tour version looks very interesting
It's always been in that similar range, but that doesn't keep folks from overloading them.. I don't really see it as an issue.I really like the looks of the new tour model....I couldn't find the load capacity for it so I sent momma Honda email on 2/8.....got a phone call from them this eve...anyway, unfortunately, the total load capacity for the tour is a very disappointing 423#..............had a brief conversation with the Honda rep...told him I could see that they were aiming for a youger rider but that true demographic for the wing was older (fatter) guys who now could afford a $25,000 toy...anyway...so much for me getting a new wing...sure are sharp looking though.
plus, since it's getting harder and harder to find a manual transmission vehicle these days, the DCT option also focuses on those not interested in that option... Actually, I'm intrigued by it and would love to give the new wing a test ride... I know many will say that changing gears is a no-brainer and muscle memory so why take away something that is a huge part of the fun.. however, changing gears IS time consuming and DOES take your brain time to see/think/respond.. even if it feels like muscle memory and doesn't take you any time.. it actually does... so if the bike can do that in 1/100th the time you do... that may be the difference between dealing with road conditions better and that hesitation which could cause issues. How many times have you missed a gear or come to a stop and thought you were in first but it was some other gear, or stalled at a light? Not often, but... it happens... it does to me. Anyway, like I said, I'm intrigued by DCT and all the great comments I've heard about it... but, the Super Tenere fits me and only has 41,000 miles on it and does everything I need/want so as much as I like the wing, and have had 2 in the past, I need to avoid even looking too closely at one.+1 on Mellow's comments.
A lot of dedicated Gold Wing riders from 10-15 years ago, are no longer riding. During the 90s, there were many GWRRA chapters in my area of OH but now it's rare to see one and if I do see one, it's never in a group of GLs out of a ride.
It's better for Honda to aim for a slightly younger demographic.
I disagree. I have an NC700X with DCT. The fact is that I find myself having more fun and the ability to pay more attention to things during the ride. The experience is hard to put into words for others to comprehend. Its something that people have to experience for themselves and keep an open mind to the experiences that DCT can offer.I know many will say that changing gears is a no-brainer and muscle memory so why to take away something that is a huge part of the fun..
Thanks, I'm afraid to take any DCT bike for a ride... LOL.. I might like it too much.I disagree. I have an NC700X with DCT. The fact is that I find myself having more fun and the ability to pay more attention to things during the ride. The experience is hard to put into words for others to comprehend. Its something that people have to experience for themselves and keep an open mind to the experiences that DCT can offer.
I can easily switch between all the modes with minimal thought. On a day I ride NaNCy into work, I use all 3 modes, D-Mode, S-Mode, and M/T-Mode.
I know what you mean. I also got to ride the prototype of the new Gold Wing with the DCT nearly 3 years go out in the Mojave Desert on a test track. I can it was very rough when compared to the production release.Thanks, I'm afraid to take any DCT bike for a ride... LOL.. I might like it too much.
WALKING MODE
A big leap forward for 2018: The new Gold Wing DCT models feature “Walking Mode,” which lets you creep forward under power at a walking pace. Think how easy it will be to get in and out of tight parking spots with a fully loaded bike.
I never thought I'd like the "paddle shift" automatic in a car as much as a manual transmission. But when I put my Mustang in "Sport" or "Track" mode it is a blast to play with the paddles. Just as effective as shifting a manual transmission and I don't have to worry about missing a shift or over revving as the computer won't let it. One of these days I'm going to have to try out a DCT sport bike and see if it is as much fun...Thanks, I'm afraid to take any DCT bike for a ride... LOL.. I might like it too much.