Honda launches the 2018 Gold Wing at Rs. 26.85 Lakh

Words by Ajinkya Nair

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd (HMSI) has started accepting bookings for its flagship long-distance touring motorcycle, the Gold Wing. Showcased at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, Honda hasn’t wasted too much time in getting the big tourer to our shores.

The highlight of the latest installment is the addition of a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which Honda claims is the best they have ever developed. Having made its way onto the Africa Twin, Honda has brought this over to the 2018 Gold Wing. This DCT offers a special low-speed “Walking” mode in addition to reverse. Honda says this is a huge help when maneuvering into or out of parking spaces with a passenger on the back.

It also comes with ride by wire, having four riding namely Tour, Sport, Econ and Rain. The Gold Wing gets an electronically controlled suspension which changes as per the selected riding mode while Honda Selectable Torque Control alters the twist delivery. You also get cruise control for comfortable highway riding. Another first for the motorcycle is the new double wishbone front suspension which reduces friction in comparison to traditional telescopic setup. Honda claims it is now easier to maneuver and borderline ‘nimble’ even with a kerb weight of 357kg. There is a weight reduction of over 50kg as compared to the 2017 Gold Wing, a commendable feat by Honda.

Even the engine is reworked. It is still a horizontally opposed flat-six, but now gets 4-valves per cylinder, instead of the earlier 2 valve set up. The 1,833cc mill produces peak power of 125bhp @ 5,500rpm, with peak torque of 170Nm delivered @ 4,500rpm. While on the braking front, ABS and combined braking system is standard. There is also an inclusion of hill start assist for ease of use on an inclined plane.

Some other new features about the Gold Wing include an electrically adjustable windscreen, a seven-inch TFT display with Apple CarPlay integration, full LED lighting with auto-cancelling indicators, and a smart key for added convenience.

HMSI has started accepting booking for its flagship tourer and the deliveries are expected to begin in the month of January, on a first come first serve basis.