2023 Honda Gold Wing
The 2023 Honda Gold Wing Tour is the latest iteration of Honda’s flagship touring motorcycle. It is designed to provide riders with the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and performance. The Gold Wing Tour is powered by a powerful and efficient 1,833 cc flat-six engine and is equipped with a variety of touring features, including an electrically adjustable windshield, a 7-inch TFT-LCD screen with navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, cruise control, hill start assist, and four ride modes.
Honda Gold Wing Tour
The 2023 Honda Gold Wing Tour’s update for the Malaysian market seems to focus on aesthetic enhancements and maintaining its high standard of touring capabilities.
Here’s a summary of the key features and updates:
- New Color Scheme: The Gold Wing is now available in Graphite Black in Malaysia, giving it a fresh look while maintaining its classic appeal.
- Price: Priced at RM210,888, this figure does not include road tax, insurance, and registration costs.
- Engine Specifications: The bike continues to feature its robust flat-six SOHC 24-valve engine with a 1,833 cc displacement. It delivers 124.7 hp at 5,500 rpm and 170 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm.
- Transmission: The power is delivered to the rear wheel through a shaft drive and a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox, ensuring smooth and efficient power transfer.
- Rider Conveniences: The electrically operated windshield offers adjustable wind protection. The 7-inch TFT-LCD screen provides essential information and integrates features like navigation, calls, messages, and music management compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A gyrocompass is also included for navigation continuity in areas with poor GPS signals.
- Riding Modes and Features: The bike comes equipped with cruise control, hill start assist, and four ride modes (Tour, Sport, Rain, Econ). The rear suspension preload is displayed on the LCD screen, and the audio system now supports Bluetooth connectivity with optional helmet headsets.
- Smart Key System: Honda’s Smart Key system allows for keyless starts and access to storage compartments. Walking mode and reverse gear are integrated into the DCT gearbox for easier manoeuvrability.
- Storage Capacity: The top box can hold up to 61 litres, accommodating two full-face helmets, while each pannier offers 60 litres of storage space.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The bike features a suede-like seat cover, and the seating position remains a focus, with an optional backrest for the rider and an adjustable passenger backrest. The bike’s weight is listed at 367 kg with a full tank (21 litres), and the seat height is 745 mm.
Touring Motorcycle and Luxury Tourer
Key Analysis
General analysis based on the typical features and market trends related to this model.
- Brand Reputation: Honda is known for its reliability and quality in motorcycles. The Gold Wing series, in particular, has a strong following and is renowned for its comfort and touring capabilities.
- Performance and Features: The Gold Wing Tour, traditionally, is equipped with a powerful engine, often a flat-six, offering smooth and substantial power ideal for long rides. It typically includes advanced features like a sophisticated infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium audio. The 2023 model would likely continue this trend, possibly with updates or enhancements.
- Comfort and Design: Gold Wing Tour models are designed for long-distance comfort. They usually have plush seating, ample storage space, and an aerodynamic design that reduces rider fatigue. The 2023 model would likely maintain these elements, with potential ergonomic improvements.
- Technology and Safety: Honda is known for incorporating advanced technology and safety features. This could include things like ABS, traction control, riding modes, and possibly even semi-autonomous features or advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in the latest models.
- Market Positioning and Price: The Gold Wing Tour is a premium motorcycle, typically positioned in the higher price range. In Malaysia, the pricing would also be influenced by import taxes and local market dynamics. It competes with other high-end touring motorcycles like the BMW K1600GT and Harley-Davidson’s touring range.
- Customer Base: The typical customer for the Gold Wing Tour is likely to be an experienced rider who is interested in long-distance touring, values comfort, and is willing to invest in a high-quality, high-performance motorcycle.
- Local Considerations: In Malaysia, factors like the climate, road conditions, and the popularity of motorcycle touring would influence the appeal and practicality of the Gold Wing Tour. Additionally, the economic conditions and the disposable income of potential buyers would impact sales.
- After-sales Service and Support: Honda’s network for after-sales service and parts availability in Malaysia would be a crucial factor for buyers, given the complex nature and premium positioning of the Gold Wing Tour.
Malaysia Motorcycle Market and Honda Motorcycles
The Honda Gold Wing Tour is a highly regarded touring motorcycle, known for its comfort, reliability, and performance. Below are the general pros and cons of this model, which would likely apply to the 2023 version, though specific features may vary.
Pros:
- Comfort: The Gold Wing Tour is designed for long rides, with features like a comfortable seat, good wind protection, and an ergonomic riding position.
- Performance: Equipped with a powerful engine (typically a flat-six), the Gold Wing Tour offers smooth acceleration and ample power, making it ideal for both highway cruising and passing manoeuvres.
- Technology: Modern Gold Wings come loaded with technology, including advanced infotainment systems, GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, and often Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Handling and Ride Quality: Despite its size, the Gold Wing is known for good handling and a smooth ride, thanks to its well-engineered suspension and chassis design.
- Storage Capacity: It typically comes with ample storage, making it practical for long tours and trips requiring luggage.
- Safety Features: Honda equips these bikes with numerous safety features like ABS, traction control, and often more advanced rider aids.
- Brand Reliability: Honda’s reputation for reliability extends to the Gold Wing, making it a trustworthy choice in the touring segment.
Cons:
- Cost: The Gold Wing Tour is a premium motorcycle, and its price reflects that. It’s more expensive than many other options in the market.
- Size and Weight: The bike is large and heavy, which can be challenging for less experienced riders, especially in tight spaces or at low speeds.
- Fuel Efficiency: Given its size and powerful engine, the Gold Wing Tour is not the most fuel-efficient motorcycle available.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Servicing a complex, technologically advanced bike like the Gold Wing can be more expensive compared to less complex models.
- Manoeuvrability in Traffic: In heavy urban traffic, its size can be a drawback, making it less manoeuvrable than smaller, nimbler bikes.
- Heat Dissipation: Some riders report that the engine can generate considerable heat, which might be uncomfortable in warm climates or during slow rides.
- Insurance Costs: Due to its high value and powerful engine, insurance costs can be higher compared to less expensive or less powerful motorcycles.
Conclusion
The 2023 Honda Gold Wing Tour is a premium touring motorcycle that excels in comfort, performance, and technology, making it an excellent choice for long-distance riders and enthusiasts who value these attributes. Its powerful engine, advanced features, and reliable brand reputation stand out as major advantages. The bike’s design focuses on rider and passenger comfort, making it a top choice for touring.
However, the Gold Wing Tour’s high cost, both in terms of initial purchase and ongoing maintenance, along with its size and weight, make it less suitable for those on a tight budget, novice riders, or those primarily riding in dense urban environments. Its fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability in heavy traffic are also considerations for potential buyers.
Overall, for riders who prioritize long-distance touring comfort, advanced technology, and high performance, and who are willing and able to invest in a premium motorcycle, the Honda Gold Wing Tour remains an outstanding choice in its class. As always, prospective buyers should consider their specific needs, riding style, and budget when making a decision.
