Photo: deliciousdivas.wordpress.com
Here's one for the asphalt touring enthusiasts: Honda is rumored to reveal a new Gold Wing generation next year, and this makes us believe we're going to get a glimpse of it even before the main motorcycle show of the year, the EICMA in Milan.
Younger motorcycling fans will probably be surprised when they find out that the Gold Wing model is in the fifth decade of its life, having been launched in 1974. However, it's been only five generations in the model's history, and saying that the last one needs a solid update is an understatement.
It's been 15 years since the last update of the Gold Wing, so an overhaul is long overdue even though, in this segment, changes tend to occur less often than in others.
Even so, the upcoming Gold Wing might represent an awesome reward for those patient enough to wait for it, as we can assume that Honda will equip it with the newest and the best technologies and features available.
Other (far-fetched) rumors even see the Gold Wing delivered with hybrid power plants, but we just don't see Honda taking such a bold step in the heavyweight tourer territory and adding electric motors to the flagship.
On the other hand, talking about what is rather VERY LIKELY to see in the new Gold Wing generation, we can almost vouch that DCT automatic transmission is on the list, as well as riding modes, TFT instrumentation, a better multimedia system and the semi-active suspensions that seem to become standard on all upper-tier bikes.
Cruise control, cornering ABS and all-round LED lighting can also be expected in stock trim, and a new leading link front fork might also be expected, rumor has it. Stay tuned, this is one thrilling update in the touring class!
It's been 15 years since the last update of the Gold Wing, so an overhaul is long overdue even though, in this segment, changes tend to occur less often than in others.
Even so, the upcoming Gold Wing might represent an awesome reward for those patient enough to wait for it, as we can assume that Honda will equip it with the newest and the best technologies and features available.
Will it remain a six-cylinder machine or will Honda go for a four-cylinder boxer engine?
One of the biggest questions when it comes to the new Gold Wing is whether Honda will retain the iconic six-cylinder opposed flat power plant or will make a bold step and go for a new 4-cylinder boxer like the one previewed by the Neowing concept.Other (far-fetched) rumors even see the Gold Wing delivered with hybrid power plants, but we just don't see Honda taking such a bold step in the heavyweight tourer territory and adding electric motors to the flagship.
On the other hand, talking about what is rather VERY LIKELY to see in the new Gold Wing generation, we can almost vouch that DCT automatic transmission is on the list, as well as riding modes, TFT instrumentation, a better multimedia system and the semi-active suspensions that seem to become standard on all upper-tier bikes.
Cruise control, cornering ABS and all-round LED lighting can also be expected in stock trim, and a new leading link front fork might also be expected, rumor has it. Stay tuned, this is one thrilling update in the touring class!
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