The Honda Gold Wing has always
been a spectacular touring bike, ever since the first GL1000 back in
1975. And over the years, our engineers have always stayed true to that
vision, but they've strived to make the bike better and better. Our 2021
model is a perfect example of that. Refinements abound, but the best
parts remain the same. You'll still have your choice of both
manual-transmission models and Gold Wings featuring our exclusive
automatic DCT transmission, but this year the trunk is bigger for more
road-trip storage, the speakers have a higher 45-watt rating, and the
passenger seat on our Tour models is improved. We also freshened up some
styling touches, like solid red tail lights and paint choices—check out
the grey with orange accent stripe on our no-trunk models! Plus, all
Gold Wings are now Android Auto compatible, as well as offering Apple
CarPlay. All in all, a truly great motorcycle gets even better—so your
dream ride has everything you'll need to make memories that last a
lifetime.
Performance Features
- Engine:
The Gold Wing's horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine is famously
smooth and powerful. The latest version is an 1833cc design that's over
13 pounds lighter than the previous generation (more than 8 pounds for
the DCT versions). STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Aluminum
Cylinder Sleeves: High-strength aluminum cylinder sleeves help reduce
weight, increase cooling efficiency, and reduce engine length. The 73mm
cylinder bore and short, high-strength crankshaft also help make the
engine more compact. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Unicam
Cylinder Head Design: The Gold Wing's engine uses four-valve, Unicam®
cylinder head design. That improves engine performance and power, and
also contributes to the engine's weight reduction from its previous
generation. The four-valve per cylinder design is also a big part of the
Gold Wing's superior fuel efficiency. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- 7-Speed
Automatic DCT Transmission: The Gold Wing is available with a
revolutionary 7-Speed Automatic DCT. The shifts in this version are
faster and smoother than ever, and the overdrive seventh gear is perfect
for highway cruising. STANDARD ON: GOLD WING DCT, GOLD WING TOUR DCT,
GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Slipper
Clutch: We've given our manual-transmission Gold Wings a slipper
clutch, just like our premium sportbikes. It only makes sense—the 1833cc
engine delivers tons of power, and the stellar chassis lets you ride
this Gold Wing like a sportbike. Twisty roads? Bring 'em on! STANDARD
ON: GOLD WING, GOLD WING TOUR
- Double-Wall
Exhaust Pipes: You may think this is just for cosmetics, but on a hot
day single-wall exhaust pipes can throw off a lot of heat. The Gold
Wing's twin-wall design keeps things cooler. Plus, this is the best
sounding Gold Wing we've ever built! STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Fuel
Efficiency: Because the 2021 Gold Wing is light, you'd expect it to be
fuel efficient. But its weight is just the start. Combined with the
bike's engine, intake system, and four-valve design, estimated fuel
economy is up 22 percent from the previous generation.* Want to really
squeeze the last mile out of every drop? Try the “Econ" ride mode
setting. *Honda's fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust
emission measurement test procedures and are intended for comparison
purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride,
how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure,
installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and
other factors. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Walking
Mode: All Gold Wings with DCT transmissions 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. STANDARD ON: GOLD WING DCT, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING
TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Cruise
Control: Of course the 2021 Gold Wing still features cruise control—it
was one of the first touring bikes to offer the feature. And with our
advanced throttle-by-wire system, it's better than ever. STANDARD ON:
ALL TRIMS
Handling Features
- Double
Wishbone Front Suspension: One look and your eyes will immediately go
to the Gold Wing's radical, Honda-engineered double-wishbone front
suspension. The innovative design changes the path the wheel travels
through the suspension stroke, and that lets us move both the engine and
the rider/passenger closer to the front wheel. You get more room, and
stellar handling. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Frame:
This latest generation all-aluminum frame is significantly lighter and
more compact than previous editions. State-of-the-art die-casting lets
us fine-tune chassis rigidity, giving you both a smooth ride and precise
handling. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Swing
Arm/Rear Suspension: Using our proprietary single-sided Pro Arm®
design, the aluminum swingarm houses the Gold Wing's shaft drive. The
swingarm links to the frame using a patented pivot structure that both
increases stiffness and reduces weight. You get responsive handling and a
smoother ride. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Ride
Modes: Gold Wing engines offer a wide range of user-friendly power, and
you can even choose between four ride modes (Tour, Sport, Rain, and
Econ). Each mode varies power output depending on the mode selected. On
the Gold Wing Tour models, it also changes suspension damping, and the
shift points on the DCT models. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Anti-Lock
Brakes: Have to make a hard stop, fully loaded and two up? All our 2021
Gold Wings are equipped with combined anti-lock brakes for excellent
stopping power under a wide variety of road and traction conditions.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Light
Is Right: Shaving weight on a motorcycle returns all sorts of benefits,
from handling to acceleration to just being easier to maneuver around.
We didn't just shave ounces or grams with the latest Gold Wing. We
lopped off almost 90 pounds compared to the previous generation. The
lighter weight absolutely redefines this motorcycle. You thought it was
fun to ride on twisty roads before? Wait until you experience this one.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Low
Center Of Gravity: It's not just how much a motorcycle weighs; it's how
it distributes that weight. Thanks to their horizontally opposed
engines, Gold Wings have always offered a low center of gravity. The
2021 Gold Wing offers the lowest center of gravity of any bike in the
class. That's a huge benefit in handling, and it makes the bike feel
lighter and easier to maneuver. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Radial
Front Brake Calipers: The brake calipers on the Gold Wing are mounted
similar to that of our World Champion RC213V MotoGP racebike. Why? The
stiffer mounting reduces caliper flex and improves brake power and feel.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Electronic
Suspension Preload: The Gold Wing Tour's suspension features four
electronically adjustable modes for varying loads. You can select (1)
Rider, (2) Rider with loaded bags, (3) Rider and passenger, and (4)
Rider and passenger with loaded bags. STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD
WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
Engineering Features
- Throttle
By Wire: The 2021 Gold Wing's throttle-by-wire system enables features
like the bike's four ride modes and our exclusive Honda Selectable
Torque Control (HSTC), available on our Gold Wing Tour models. STANDARD
ON: ALL TRIMS
- Hill Start
Assist: Both the Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour models feature Hill Start
Assist (HSA). This feature momentarily holds your motorcycle's position
on inclines after you've released the brakes and before you apply the
throttle, eliminating any roll-back drama. It's a great convenience when
starting from a stop on a hill. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Smart
Key: Your new Gold Wing features an electronic smart key. When the key
is in close proximity (say, in your jacket pocket), you can just hop on,
press a button, and ride off. An “answer back" feature lets you find
your bike in the dark or in crowded rally parking. STANDARD ON: ALL
TRIMS
- Integrated Starter
Generator (Isg): Most cars and motorcycles have separate starters and
alternators. Not your new Gold Wing. We've combined the starter and
alternator into one assembly that's light and compact. It's part of the
Gold Wing's overall weight-savings program, and you'll hear the
difference the first time you press the start button. STANDARD ON: ALL
TRIMS
- Reverse: Gold Wing
DCT models offer an exclusive low-speed reverse that uses engine power,
while the Gold Wing Tour with manual transmission offers a unique
electric reverse. Both systems make it easy to maneuver your bike out of
a parking space, especially if you need to roll back up hill. STANDARD
ON: GOLD WING DCT, GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR
AIRBAG DCT
- Honda Selectable
Torque Control (HSTC): On our Gold Wing Tour models, Honda Selectable
Torque Control (HSTC) constantly monitors your bike's rear-wheel speed,
and adjusts torque instantly. It's a great feature when riding in the
rain, on sandy, gritty roads, over wet leaves, or anywhere else where
surface conditions can compromise traction. STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR,
GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- LED
Lighting: All 2021 Gold Wing models feature a complete LED lighting
package. The headlights, the taillights, and every bit of
instrumentation is LED. LEDs not only last longer, but they're also
lighter and run cooler. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Nano-Tech
Paint: Even the Gold Wing's paint is high tech, using BASF's nano
technology. The darks look darker, and the lights look brighter. The
paint itself has a luxurious wet look. The Gold Wing is available in a
luxurious Deep Pearl Gray with a standard or DCT transmission. The Gold
Wing Tour and Tour DCT come in two colors (Candy Ardent Red and Metallic
Black). The Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT model is available in Candy
Ardent Red. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Airbag:
The Gold Wing pioneered the concept of a motorcycle airbag, and the
2021 Gold Wing continues to lead the way. Available on our Tour Airbag
DCT model, it goes that extra mile towards increased rider safety. You
also get an exclusive Candy Ardent Red paint scheme. STANDARD ON: GOLD
WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Turn
Signals: You'll notice that the Gold Wing's front turn signals are
integrated into the rearview mirrors, and use three LEDs each. The rear
LED turn signals are built into the tail- and brake-light assembly for a
clean, integrated look. Best of all, they're self-cancelling. STANDARD
ON: ALL TRIMS
- Optional
Lights: Lighten up! Accessory LED lighting for your Gold Wing includes
optional fog lamps, an additional brake light that integrates into the
upper portion of the Gold Wing Tour's trunk, and lights for inside the
trunk and saddlebags that automatically illuminate when the luggage is
opened.
Comfort And Cargo Features
- Electric
Windscreen: You'll notice a couple of things about the Gold Wing's
windscreen. First, it's electrically controlled, moving both up and down
over an 4.9-inch range for the Gold Wing Tour (4.1 inches for the Gold
Wing) as well as changing its angle as it raises and lowers. Plus, it
automatically remembers the last setting. Because you sit closer to the
windscreen, it has a narrower, lower, more sporting profile, yet still
offers excellent protection. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- New
Larger Trunk: Here's some big news for 2021—or should we say bigger
news? That's because we've made the Gold Wing's trunk bigger. It now
holds 61 liters, up 11 liters from last year's models. That means in
most cases you can get two XXL full-face helmets in there. Combined, the
trunk and saddlebags give you 121 liters of storage, plenty to hold
what you need for a weekend's travels. Accessories include an integrated
brake light, an auto-on interior light, and a luggage rack. STANDARD
ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Fairing:
Back in the 1980s, the Gold Wing was the first bike to introduce
full-coverage fairings as original equipment, and this latest one is one
of our best. It offers excellent wind and weather protection, yet is
trimmer and more aerodynamic than in previous generation models. It also
flows more air through refined ducting, helping keep you cooler on hot
summer days. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Rider/Passenger
Location: The shorter engine and innovative front suspension let us
move the rider farther forward, enhancing the bike's handling and making
you feel more connected to the motorcycle's steering axis. STANDARD ON:
ALL TRIMS
- Integrated
Passenger Grab Handle: Once a passenger has ridden on a Gold Wing,
there's no going back. Functional design touches like the integrated
passenger grab handle help make your copilot's riding experience an
absolute pleasure, especially on longer rides. STANDARD ON: GOLD WING
TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Human
Machine Interface (Hmi): Ever have to scroll through some abstract menu
to access a feature on your electronic device? You'll find plenty of
simple, dedicated switches and controls on your Gold Wing's handlebars,
ergonomically placed, which give you simple, intuitive control inputs
that zero out frustration. There is also a centralized control knob in
the console similar to modern autos. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- New
Passenger Backrest: We changed up the angle of the passenger backrest
on our Tour models (from 17 degrees to 24.5 degrees), increased its
height, and added more cushion. It's always been a great seat, but now
it's like your favorite easy chair at home! STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR,
GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
- Rider/Passenger
Seating: Here's another refinement for 2021, on our Gold Wing Tour
models. The seats feature a new, suede-like cover. The rider on every
Gold Wing model can enjoy an optional backrest, and on our Gold Wing
models without a trunk, there's also an optional backrest for the
passenger. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Luggage:
All 2021 Gold Wings feature integrated saddlebags, designed to hold
enough for most weekend trips. The bags open electronically with the
push of a button, and lock and unlock remotely with the smart key.
They're hydraulically damped for smooth operation, too. STANDARD ON: ALL
TRIMS
- Functional Styling:
Sometimes less is more, at least when it comes to motorcycles. We've
noted that the Gold Wing is lighter, more responsive, more athletic than
in previous generations. That goes for its styling as well. While the
bodywork still offers excellent weather protection, it's crisper now,
exposing a little more of the engine and chassis. It's definitely not
your grandfather's touring bike. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Over
50 Accessories: Gold Wing riders are incredibly engaged when it comes
to accessorizing their motorcycles. And we have you covered. We have
over 50 accessories available that look right, fit right, and are built
to Honda's high standards. Time to make that new bike yours and yours
alone!
- Heated Grips: Part
of riding a bike is enjoying the elements. But nobody likes being cold.
That's why every 2021 Gold Wing comes equipped with electric grips as
standard equipment. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Heated
Seats: Now we're talking about riding in the lap of luxury (no pun
intended). In addition to heated grips, every Gold Wing Tour model also
comes with heated seats for both you and your passenger. STANDARD ON:
GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
Electronics Features
- Homelink®:
Available as an optional feature, HomeLink® lets you integrate your new
Gold Wing with devices in your home. A typical example: you can open
your home's garage door without any dedicated controller—just touch a
switch on your bike's center console. No more fumbling, and no hassle.
- Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (Tpms): Correct tire inflation is a
necessity for safe, economical motorcycling. And it's especially
critical with a touring bike, because of the varying loads. The Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) automatically warns you of low tire
pressure on all Gold Wing models. On Gold Wing Tour models, including a
readout of the actual front and rear pressure in PSI is a premium touch.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Advanced
Meters: The Gold Wing's cockpit meters are information central. In
addition to the basics like vehicle and engine speed, loading
configuration, ride mode, fuel level, engine temperature and dual
tripmeters, you can also monitor outside air temperature, cruise control
speed, heater levels and even selected apps linked through CarPlay® on
an Apple® iPhone® or Android Auto on an android phone. STANDARD ON: ALL
TRIMS
- Apple Carplay™
Integration: A first for the motorcycle industry! Apple's CarPlay™*1
seamlessly integrates your iPhone®*1 into your new Gold Wing. That means
you can use your iPhone® to access Apple Maps®, Apple Music®, and other
services easily. You'll have access to weather, playlists and telephone
numbers while aboard. Available Bluetooth®*2-enabled wireless headsets
let you communicate more easily than ever. And best of all, with more
apps available every day, Apple CarPlay™ keeps your bike's technology
and convenience on the cutting edge. *1 Apple CarPlay and iPhone are the
trademarks of Apple Inc. *2 For using Apple CarPlay, connection to a
commercially available Bluetooth headset is necessary. See owner's
manual for Bluetooth headset requirements. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Android
Auto Integration: Do you prefer an Android phone? We have you covered!
Now the 2021 Gold Wing fully integrates with your phone, thanks to
Android Auto. That means you can connect your android phone to your Gold
wing to access Google Assistant, and to use navigation tools like
Google Maps, Waze, and more. Plus, you'll have access to weather,
playlists, music-streaming services and telephone numbers. Available
Bluetooth*-compatible headsets let you communicate easily too. *For
using Android Auto, connection to a commercially available Bluetooth
headset is necessary. Please refer to your Bluetooth headset
manufacturer for optimal audio settings for use with Android Auto.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Vehicle
Settings: Your new Gold Wing is packed with smart rider aids. A glance
at the dash keeps you informed of things like ride mode (Tour, Sport,
Rain, Econ), rear suspension preload settings (solo, with passenger,
loaded, unloaded on Tour models), tire pressure* and much more.
*Depending on chosen model. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- Navi:
Every Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour is equipped with a big, bright,
seven-inch full-color TFT LCD screen to display routes and other
navigation information. Plus, since it's equipped with a gyrocompass,
the system even functions inside a tunnel. Independent of the Apple
CarPlay™ or Android Auto feature, it works with or without your phone.
Added bonus only by Honda: 10 years of free map updates! STANDARD ON:
ALL TRIMS
- Audio: Your new
Gold Wing's audio system is an excellent example of state-of-the-art
electronic technology. In addition to listening to music, with an
available Bluetooth* headset you can make or answer phone calls without
taking off your helmet. In addition to a standard USB connector, options
include a separate passenger audio control switch, a high-output
amplifier and speakers, Sirius XM® satellite radio, a CB radio, and
more. Plus, there's a second USB connector in the left saddlebag of all
Gold Wing models. *See owner's manual for Bluetooth headset
requirements. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
- 45-Watt
Speakers: Gold Wings have always offered excellent sound systems, but
for 2021 they just got even better. The speakers now have a higher
45-watt rating, and we've optimized both the equalizer settings and
automatic volume adjustment, so you'll get a sound that's a little
richer and more pleasing to the ears. STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
Engine
- Engine Type: 1833cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder
- Bore And Stroke: 73mm x 73mm
- Induction: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
- Ignition: Full transistorized Ignition
- Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
- Valve Train: SOHC; four valves per cyclinder
Drive Train
- Transmission: Seven-speed automatic DCT, plus reverse and walking mode
- Final Drive: Shaft
Chassis Suspension Brakes
- Front Suspension: Double Wishbone Type; 4.3 inches of travel
- Rear
Suspension: Pro Arm® single-side swingarm with Pro-Link® single shock
plus four electronically adjustable preload settings; 4.1 inches of
travel
- Front Brake: Hydraulic; dual 320mm discs
- Rear Brake: Hydraulic; single 316mm disc
- Front Tire: 130/70-18
- Rear Tire: 200/55-16
Dimensions
- Rake (Caster Angle): 30.5°
- Trail: 4.3 inches
- Wheelbase: 66.7 inches
- Seat Height: 29.3 inches
- Curb Weight: 838 pounds. Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and a full tank of fuel—ready to ride
- Fuel Capacity: 5.55 gallons
- Miles
Per Gallon: 42 MPG - Miles per gallon values are calculated estimates
of fuel consumed during laboratory exhaust emissions tests specified by
the EPA, not during on road riding. Use for comparison purposes only.
Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride and maintain
your vehicle, road conditions, tire pressure, cargo and accessories,
rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
Other
- Model ID: GL1800D
- Emissions: Meets current California Air Resources Board (CARB) and EPA standards.
- Available Colors: Metallic Black, Candy Ardent Red
Factory Warranty Information
- Three Years Included: Transferable, unlimited-mileage limited warranty
- Optional Extended: Up to 8 years extended coverage available with HondaCare Protection Plan®
