The Honda Goldwing is one of the most recognized names in motorcycles next to the Harley Davidson. The history of motorcycles is an interesting and winding road, and the history of the Goldwing is no different. It has proven to be a tremendously popular and dependable motorcycle and leaves nothing behind in rider comfort, style, and available accessories.
The first time a Honda Goldwing ever rolled on two wheels was at the motorcycle show in Cologne, Germany in October of 1974. The following year the new GL1000 was introduced to the public and (unbeknownst to the Japanese at that time) a new and historical figure in the motorcycle world was born. The first GL1000 had a 999cc power plant, a seat, and handlebars -- that was about it at the time. The bike had power but it had no style or comfort.
The new GL1000 was an awkward sell at first because the bike was introduced as a touring model and yet didn`t really fit-the-bill; it had no fairing or any saddle bags or trunk -- this was the greatest complaint from new customers about the bike. Honda answered the call a few years later when they introduced the GL1100 (1980). This was the complete bike; it had it all in terms of a bike that would make the long hauls. Also, it became known for its raw power and rider comfort.
Over the next three decades Honda continued to impress the market with their newer and better versions of an already fantastic motorcycle. Just as Harley Davidson had a loyal following -- so did the Honda Goldwing. In 1984 Honda introduced the GL1200; in 1988 came the GL1500; and finally, the powerful GL1800 in 2001.
Along with the loyal following of the Honda Goldwing came a huge after-market demand. Riders wanted accessories for their bikes. There are literally thousands ofHonda Goldwing accessories available for the rider to purchase.
In 1975, when it was first introduced, the GL1000 was considered one heck of a power house; the 999cc "boxer" four cylinder motor delivered 78 HP at 7000 rpm and 61(ft. lbs.) of toque at 5500 rpm. The power alone made it receive -- "glances from afar" -- where no other Japanese bike could get a look before. The American bikes may have had the looks, but these Japanese bikes were ultra-powerful right off the showroom floor.
Today`s GL1800 commands respect as well in the area of power, rider comfort, and the now famous durability found in the Honda name brand. The GL1800 sports an 1832cc water cooled six cylinder power plant that riders boast will snatch your neck back when you twist the throttle. This motor produces 118 HP at 5500 rpm and 123 (ft. Lbs.) of torque, respectively.
The GL1800 Honda Goldwing also exudes modern comforts like: heated seats and grips, a GPS system, Bluetooth capabilities, a state-of-the-art sound system, remote control locks, reverse drive, and cruise control -- to name only a few.
If you want Honda Goldwing accessories, there is no limit to what a rider can do to his/her bike. Honda offers a complete line of accessories and upgrades for these bikes and so do a number of after-market companies. There is no doubt that The Honda Goldwing is a Japanese legend right here in America.
The new GL1000 was an awkward sell at first because the bike was introduced as a touring model and yet didn`t really fit-the-bill; it had no fairing or any saddle bags or trunk -- this was the greatest complaint from new customers about the bike. Honda answered the call a few years later when they introduced the GL1100 (1980). This was the complete bike; it had it all in terms of a bike that would make the long hauls. Also, it became known for its raw power and rider comfort.
