Wings Of Gold On Wheels

The Honda Goldwing motorcycle was launched by Honda in 1975, and it took the biking world by storm. Initially brought out to serve as a road bike, it soon changed directions and turned into what was popularly referred to as a ‘touring bike’. To add to the novelty it came with an airbag system, the first of its kind in motorcycles. This flat-4 999 cc motorcycle, whose shell housed technology rarely seen before, first put in an appearance at the Cologne Motorcycle Show back in 1974.

Only the second motorcycle in the world to sport a water-cooled engine, it was also the first motorbike that had a fuel pump, with the fuel tank being placed under the seat. It also had a brand new transmission technology and a shaft drive, which was fairly new to Japanese motorcycles. One could not really hear it pass by, unlike many other motorcycles that quite loudly announced their presence. The first GL1000 came out in 1975. Although the markets opened avenues for add-ons, the bike continued to roll out till 1979 in its original form with very few modifications as called for by market conditions. Passing years saw the Honda Goldwing take on a few changes, such as the new faux tank shape and Comstar wheels. The years 1979 to 1983 saw the new GL1100 take to the road with features that were not markedly different from the GL1000. Only the electronic ignition, a larger 1085 cc cylinder and the air adjustable suspension set it apart from its predecessor.

A more popular version in the form of the GL1200, with a brand new engine, a bigger frame, integrated fairings in select models and a 1182 cc cylinder catered to the whims of bikers. The years 1984 to 1987 saw many new versions being introduced. They were hugely popular with the crowds, especially Americans. 1988 brought a new era of motorcycles all together. The smooth textured, plastic encased, more powerful and less noisier GL1500 was introduced, and it annihilated the competition totally in its market segment. Popular motorcycle makers Suzuki and Yamaha bowed out of this segment all together. This was mostly attributable to the introduction of the revolutionary flat-6 1520 cc engine.

After this huge success, Honda did not introduce a new model for almost 13 years. In 2001 the new GL was introduced with a 1832 cc fuel injected cylinder engine. The weight decreased considerably as compared to the GL1500, as the body was made out of aluminum. The best of all the GL editions, the limited edition Valkyrie Rune was introduced in 2004. Many Goldwing owners have since then come together and formed clubs and forums where they can get together and share their experiences as proud Goldwing owners. Many people seem to be under the false impression that Honda does not make Goldwing anymore. On the contrary Honda Goldwing continues to cater to bikers worldwide and remains as one of the most popular touring bikes that many bikers would swear by.

By: Rakesh Gaikwad

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