The first GOLD WING model, the GL1000 GOLD WING, was introduced in 1975, and this year (2025) marks its 50th anniversary. The 2025 GOLD WING model, unveiled in this anniversary year, comes with a styling-focused update in addition to wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
50 Years of GOLD WING
The first generation "GL1000 GOLD WING" was designed with the simple but audacious goal of creating the best motorcycle ever. Powered by a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, the "GL1000 GOLD WING" was embraced by many as a touring bike, many of which were equipped with aftermarket luggage and front fairing. And this customization had a major impact on the direction of the GOLD WING series from then on.
The first generation "GL1000 GOLD WING" was equipped with a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine and challenged American and European tourers.
In 1980, the GL1100 GOLD WING was followed by the GL1100 GOLD WING INTER STATE with a large fairing, saddlebags and top case, radio, etc. In 1982, the GL1100 GOLD WING ASPENCADE was added to the lineup. In 1982, the GL1100 GOLD WING ASPENCADE, a top-of-the-line version, was added to the lineup with an air compressor for the air suspension, padding for the rear seat, and a special two-tone color scheme.
The GL1100 GOLD WING, with its increased displacement, is a more powerful and high-performance tourer.
The GL1100 GOLD WING INTER STATE with large fairing, top case and side cases.
The GL1100 GOLD WING ASPENCADE, with its more luxurious equipment, established the GOLD WING style that continues to this day.
In 1984, the GL1200 GOLD WING series, the third generation of the series, was introduced with even larger engine displacement. From this model, the "GL1200 GOLD WING INTER STATE" and "GL1200 GOLD WING ASPENCADE" were designed with fairings and luggage, becoming the main models, and its naked version "GL1200 GOLD WING was discontinued after only one year.
In the GL1200 GOLD WING series, the top-of-the-line model, GL1200 GGOLD WING ASPENCADE, will play a leading role.
In 1988, the GL1500 GOLD WING was fully redesigned with a horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine and a completely new chassis that redefined the limits of touring motorcycle handling and comfort. It also featured increased fuel capacity, improved brakes, and a seamless fairing design, and production took place at Honda's Ohio plant in the United States.
The GL1500 GOLD WING, powered by a horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, set a new standard for tourer models.
In 2001, the "GL1800 GOLD WING" was introduced with even larger displacement and the first aluminum twin-spar frame in the GL series. Each part of the vehicle evolved as well, including fuel injection and optional ABS. In 2006, the GL1800 was equipped with navigation and the world's first motorcycle airbags, and in 2009, XM satellite radio was also added.
The GL1800 GOLD WING brings further evolution, including the adoption of an aluminum twin-spar frame.
For the 2018 model year, the fully redesigned lineup includes the fully equipped GL1800 GOLD WING Tour and the GL1800 GOLD WING, which eliminates the top case and other features, as well as models equipped with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
For the 2025 model year, seven types of models are available: the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT, the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour DCT, the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour, the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing DCT, the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing, the Gold Wing Tour DCT", and "Gold Wing Tour".
Available in Eternal Gold, Bordeaux Red Metallic, Matte Black Metallic, and Light Silver Metallic, all but the Light Silver Metallic will have emblems on the front of the seats and on the smart key to commemorate Gold Wing's 50th anniversary. All Gold Wing models except Light Silver Metallic will also come with two complimentary souvenirs: a coffee table book and a 1:12 scale model. The 1:12 scale model is a special one with the 1975 Gold Wing on one side and the 2025 Gold Wing on the other.
The Gold Wing Tour, with its top case and luxurious equipment, is the main line of the Gold Wing series.
"Gold Wing," which has no top case, appeals to a younger demographic as a street custom.
The emblem commemorating the 50th anniversary of Gold Wing, which will be placed in front of the seat, will be installed in a color other than light silver metallic.
The smart key also has an emblem commemorating Gold Wing's 50th anniversary, creating a special touch.
Included coffee table book and 1:12 scale model. The flip side of the scale model is the 2025 model.
The 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT in Bordeaux Red Metallic, the top model in the Gold Wing series.
The top case and side bags are designed to be an integral part of the vehicle body, and are equipped with a world view that is unique to Gold Wing.
It has a long wheelbase of approximately 1,700 mm, resulting in stable maneuverability.
It is equipped with an electric screen with high wind protection and has high carrying capacity thanks to the top case and side bags.
Eternal Gold" recalls the classic Gold Wing.
The simple "Light Silver Metallic" is positioned as a basic color.
The "Gold Wing" in "matte black metallic" can be tailored for a cool street custom look.
With the top case eliminated, the rear view image has changed dramatically.
The removal of the short-type windscreen and top case reinforces the long-and-low image.
Even when viewed from the front and rear, the low height of the motorcycle gives it a unique power and sportiness.
Fully Equipped and on the Cutting Edge of Tourer Models
For the 2025 model year, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available wirelessly on all Gold Wing series, and the traditional navigation system has been eliminated for the 2025 model year. In addition, "Since 1975" has been added to the "Gold Wing" logo that appears in the meter's opening ceremony when the bike is turned on.
The instrument panel has a large LCD screen in the center that functions with a smartphone for navigation, music player, and other functions.
The left switch box contains the usual horn and indicator switches, as well as numerous buttons for operating the meters, making phone calls, and so on.
The DCT model has a shift switch mounted on the right switch box. Also visible are the control buttons for cruise control.
The engine is a horizontally opposed 6-cylinder 1833cc engine with a 73 x 73 mm square bore x stroke, mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Four riding modes, "Tour," "Sport," "Economy," and "Rain," allow the rider to adjust the bike's characteristics to suit the riding conditions. The bike is also equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which manages rear wheel slip by adjusting the throttle valve and fuel injection in combination when rear wheel slip is detected.
The engine is a horizontally opposed type, which is the identity of Gold Wing, and is a six-cylinder with a 73 x 73 mm square setup.
Honda's proud DCT is a 7-speed type with smooth anomalies. It can switch between manual and automatic transmission, and the clutch lever is non-existent.
The vehicle is built on a twin-spar aluminum frame with double wishbone front suspension and a Pro-Link rear suspension system for a smooth and secure ride. A shaft drive system is used, with ties and sizes of 130 mm front and 130 mm/70-18, rear 200/55-16. Brakes are equipped with electronically controlled ABS, with radial-mounted 6-pot calipers + double 320 mm diameter rotors at the front and 3-pot calipers + 316 mm diameter rotors at the rear.
The front suspension is a double wishbone type, providing a comfortable ride and handling stability. Brakes are equipped with ABS, and 6-pot radial type calipers are used at the front.
Other features include a smart key, hill start assist, electric screen, cruise control, and tire pressure monitoring system, ensuring that the Gold Wing series remains a state-of-the-art tourer even after 50 years.
Equipped with Hill Star and Assist to support starting on hills. When the system is activated, a light illuminates in the meter.
It is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system that displays air pressure in the meter.
A special site for Japan is now open.
Although the limited edition Gold Wing is only for the European market, the Gold Wing has many fans in Japan as well, and we look forward to further news on its introduction. Honda has also opened a special "Gold Wing 50th Anniversary Site" on its Japanese website. The site contains information on the history of the famous machine, including information on past models and concepts, media collaborations, etc. Even if you are not a Gold Wing owner, you can check it out. Even if you are not a Gold Wing owner, you may want to check it out.
Gold Wing 50th Anniversary Site
https://global.honda/jp/goldwing/
Gold Wing Tour DCT Main Specifications (2025)
Wheelbase: 66.9 inches (approx. 1700mm)
Seat Height: 29.3 inches (approx. 744mm)
Vehicle Weight: 856 pounds (approx. 388kg)
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 4-valve horizontally opposed 6-cylinder 1833cc
Transmission: 7-speed DCT
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.5 gallons (21L)
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tire: F=130/70-18, R=200/55-16
Gold Wing DCT - Main Specifications (2025)
Wheelbase: 66.9 inches (approx. 1700mm)
Seat Height: 29.3 inches (approx. 744mm)
Vehicle Weight: 804 pounds (approx. 365kg)
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 4-valve horizontally opposed 6-cylinder 1833cc
Transmission: 7-speed DCT
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.5 gallons (21L)
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tire: F=130/70-18, R=200/55-16
See HONDA Moto Index Page
See HONDA GL1800 GOLDWING Parts & Accessories Page
See HONDA GL1500 GOLDWING Parts & Accessories Page