The open road is calling, and it always has been. Humans are just hard-wired to explore, to want to see what’s over the horizon. Every motorcyclist knows the feeling. And one motorcycle makes it happen better than any other: the Honda Gold Wing. This year, all four Gold Wing trim levels get updated highlight strips and colours and a navigation system map update.
But the best parts remain—the famously smooth 1833cc six-cylinder engine, refined bodywork for weather protection, and ample luggage. Full of innovative engineering, all Gold Wing models are Android Auto™ compatible and offer Apple CarPlay™ compatibility.
Depending on the model, you can choose between a conventional six-speed transmission and exclusive Honda automatic seven-speed DCT transmission. So go ahead—isn’t it time you experience the gold standard of touring bikes?
2023 Model
In a model announcement, American Honda confirmed that the Gold Wing family returns for the 2023 model year. Honda’s legendary flagship touring machine has starred in long-distance road rides for nearly five decades. Nothing compares to the model that invented the touring category for those who enjoy covering mile after mile on two wheels.
Comfort, smoothness, technology and surprisingly nimble handling are the ingredients that make for memorable motorcycle touring, and the Gold Wing has them all in spades, along with a long list of available accessories.
The Gold Wing is ready to deliver inspiring touring adventures for the new model year and is available in four trim levels, three of which feature Honda’s exclusive Dual Clutch Transmission.
The 2023 Gold Wing line will be available in November.
Gold Wing
Honda’s Gold Wing family continues to define the modern touring category known for its smooth power, comfortable ride, and high-tech features. Exploring long, picturesque roads with good company is precisely what this luxury cruiser is designed to do.
Equipped with substantial luggage capacity, a premium sound system and convenient navigation software, the Gold Wing makes taking the scenic route the apparent choice.
The comfortable seat and unparalleled suspension performance promote rider and passenger comfort for long, multi-day rides. At the same time, the Gold Wing’s agile handling and available DCT gearbox offer exceptional performance on open highways and winding backroads.
Colours
- Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour DCT: Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour: Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing DCT: Matte Gray
MSRP ( Four Trims)
- Gold Wing Tour Air Bag DCT: $32,900
- Gold Wing Tour DCT: $29,600
- Gold Wing Tour: $28,600
- Gold Wing DCT: $25,600
ENGINE
The Gold Wing’s horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine is famously smooth and powerful. The latest version is a 1833cc design that’s over 13 pounds lighter than the previous generation (more than 8 pounds for the DCT versions).
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
ALUMINUM CYLINDER SLEEVES
High-strength aluminium cylinder sleeves help reduce weight, increase cooling efficiency, and reduce engine length. The 73mm cylinder bore, and the short, high-strength crankshaft help make the engine more compact.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
UNICAM CYLINDER HEAD DESIGN
The Gold Wing’s engine uses a four-valve, Unicam® cylinder head design that improves engine performance and power and contributes to its weight reduction from its previous generation. The four-valve per cylinder design is also a big part of the Gold Wing’s superior fuel efficiency.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
7-SPEED AUTOMATIC DCT TRANSMISSION
The Gold Wing is available with a revolutionary 7-Speed Automatic DCT. The shifts in this version are faster and smoother than ever, and the overdrive seventh gear is perfect for highway cruising.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING DCT, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Prefer a manual transmission? The latest Gold Wing Tour offers the best conventional gearbox in Gold Wing history. Case in point: highway cruising is smoother than ever with a sixth overdrive gear.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR
SLIPPER CLUTCH
Honda has given manual-transmission Gold Wing models a slipper clutch, just like Honda’s other premium sportbikes. It only makes sense—the 1833cc engine delivers tons of power, and the stellar chassis lets you ride this Gold Wing like a sportbike. Twisty roads? Bring them on!
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR
DOUBLE-WALL EXHAUST PIPES
You may think this is just for cosmetics, but single-wall exhaust pipes can throw off much heat on a hot day. The Gold Wing’s twin-wall design keeps things cooler. Plus, this is the best-sounding Gold Wing we’ve ever built!
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
FUEL EFFICIENCY
Because the 2023 Gold Wing is light, you’d expect it to be fuel efficient. But its weight is just the start. Combined with the bike’s engine, intake system, and four-valve design, the estimated fuel economy is up 22 % from the previous generation.* Want to squeeze the last mile out of every drop? Try the “Econ” ride mode setting.
*Honda’s fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission test procedures and are only for comparison purposes. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride and maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
WALKING MODE
All Gold Wing models with DCT transmissions feature “Walking Mode,” which lets you creep forward or backward under power at a walking pace. Think how easy it will be to get in and out of tight parking spots with a fully loaded bike. It’s another great example of Honda technology working for you.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING DCT, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
CRUISE CONTROL
Of course, the 2023 Gold Wing still features cruise control—it was one of the first touring bikes to offer the feature. And with an advanced throttle-by-wire system, it’s better than ever.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
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HANDLING
DOUBLE WISHBONE FRONT SUSPENSION
One look and your eyes will immediately go to the Gold Wing’s radical, Honda-engineered double-wishbone front suspension. The innovative design lets us move the engine and the rider/passenger closer to the front wheel, giving you more room for added comfort and stellar handling.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
FRAME
This latest generation all-aluminium frame is significantly lighter and more compact than previous editions. State-of-the-art die-casting lets us fine-tune chassis rigidity, giving you both a smooth ride and precise handling.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
SWING ARM/REAR SUSPENSION
Using our proprietary single-sided Pro Arm® design, the aluminium swingarm houses the Gold Wing’s shaft drive. The swingarm links to the frame using a patented pivot structure that increases stiffness and reduces weight. You get responsive handling and a smoother ride.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES
Have to make a hard stop, fully loaded and two up? All 2023 Gold Wing models have combined anti-lock brakes for excellent stopping power under various road and traction conditions.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
RIDE MODES
Gold Wing engines offer a wide range of user-friendly power, and you can choose between four ride modes (Tour, Sport, Rain, and Econ). Each mode varies power output depending on the mode selected. On the Gold Wing Tour models, it also changes suspension damping and the shift points on the DCT models.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
LIGHTER OVERALL WEIGHT
Shaving weight on a motorcycle returns all sorts of benefits, from handling to acceleration to easier manoeuvring. Honda didn’t just shave ounces or grams with the latest Gold Wing. They lopped off almost 90 pounds compared to the previous generation.
The lighter weight redefines this motorcycle. Have you thought it was fun to ride on twisty roads before? Wait until you experience this one.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
LOW CENTER OF GRAVITY
It’s not just how much a motorcycle weighs; it’s how it distributes that weight. Gold Wing models have always offered a low centre of gravity thanks to their horizontally opposed engines. The 2023 Gold Wing offers the lowest centre of gravity of any bike in the class. That’s a huge benefit in handling, making the bike feel lighter and easier to manoeuvre.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
DUAL RADIAL FRONT BRAKE CALIPERS
The dual brake callipers on the Gold Wing are mounted similarly to the World Champion RC213V MotoGP racebike. Why? The stiffer mounting reduces calliper flex and improves brake power and feel.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
ELECTRONIC SUSPENSION PRELOAD
The Gold Wing Tour’s suspension features four electronically adjustable modes for varying loads. You can select
- Rider,
- The rider with loaded bags,
- Rider and passenger, and
- Rider and passenger with laden bags.
You won’t have to adjust the suspension manually and always get a great ride.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
ELECTRONICS
ADVANCED METERS
The Gold Wing’s cockpit meters are information central. In addition to the basics like vehicle and engine speed, loading configuration, ride mode, fuel level, engine temperature and dual trip meters, you can also monitor outside air temperature, cruise control speed, heater levels, and even selected apps linked through Apple CarPlay™ on an iPhone® or Android Auto™ on an Android phone.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
HomeLink®
Available as an optional feature, HomeLink® lets you integrate your new Gold Wing with devices in your home. A typical example: you can open your home’s garage door without any dedicated controller—touch a switch on your bike’s centre console: no more fumbling and no hassle.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
Correct tire inflation is a necessity for safe, economical motorcycling. And it’s especially critical with a touring bike because of the varying loads. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) automatically warns you of low tire pressure on all Gold Wing models. On Gold Wing Tour models, including a dashboard readout of the actual front and rear pressure in PSI is a premium touch.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
Apple CarPlay™ COMPATIBILITY
A first for the motorcycle industry! Apple’s CarPlay™*1 seamlessly integrates your iPhone®*1 into your new Gold Wing. That means you can easily use your iPhone® to access Apple Maps®, Apple Music®, and other services.
You’ll have access to weather, playlists and telephone numbers while aboard. Available Bluetooth®*2-enabled wireless headsets let you communicate more efficiently than ever. And best of all, with more apps available daily, Apple CarPlay™*1 keeps your bike’s technology and convenience on the cutting edge.
- *1 Apple CarPlay and iPhone are the trademarks of Apple Inc.
- *2 For Apple CarPlay, a connection to a commercially available Bluetooth headset is necessary. See the owner’s manual for Bluetooth headset requirements.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
ANDROID AUTO COMPATIBILITY
Do you prefer an Android phone? We have you covered! The 2023 Gold Wing fully integrates with your phone, thanks to Android Auto™. That means you can connect your Android phone to your Gold Wing to access Google Assistant and use navigation tools like Google Maps, Waze, and more.
Plus, you’ll have access to weather, playlists, music-streaming services and telephone numbers. Available Bluetooth*-compatible headsets let you communicate easily too.
*Connecting to a commercially available Bluetooth headset is necessary for using Android Auto. Please refer to your Bluetooth headset manufacturer for optimal audio settings for use with Android Auto.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
NAVI
Every Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour has a big, bright, seven-inch full-colour TFT LCD screen to display routes and other navigation information. Plus, since it’s equipped with a gyrocompass, the system even functions inside a tunnel. Independent of the Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ feature, it works with or without your phone.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
VEHICLE SETTINGS
Your new Gold Wing is packed with smart rider aids. A glance at the dash keeps you informed of things like ride mode (Tour, Sport, Rain, Econ), rear suspension preload settings (solo, with passenger, loaded, unloaded on Tour models), tire pressure* and much more.
*Depending on chosen model.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
AUDIO
Your new Gold Wing audio system is an excellent example of state-of-the-art electronic technology. In addition to listening to music, with an available Bluetooth* headset, you can make or answer phone calls without taking off your helmet. In addition to a standard USB connector, options include a separate passenger audio control switch, a high-output amplifier and speakers, Sirius XM® satellite radio, a CB radio, and more. Plus, there’s a second USB connector in the left saddlebag of all Gold Wing models.
*See owner’s manual for Bluetooth headset requirements.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
55-WATT SPEAKERS
Gold Wings have always offered excellent sound systems. Still, the current speakers have a high 55-watt rating, and we’ve optimized both the equalizer settings and automatic volume adjustment, so you’ll get a sound that’s a little richer and more pleasing to the ears.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
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ENGINEERING
THROTTLE BY WIRE
The 2023 Gold Wing’s throttle-by-wire system enables features like the bike’s four ride modes and exclusive Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), available on all Gold Wing models for 2023.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
HILL START ASSIST
The Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour models feature Hill Start Assist (HSA). This feature momentarily holds your motorcycle’s position on inclines after you’ve released the brakes and before you apply the throttle, eliminating any roll-back drama. It’s a great convenience when starting from a stop on a hill.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
SMART KEY
Your new Gold Wing features an intelligent electronic key. When the key is nearby (say, in your jacket pocket), you can hop on, press a button, and ride off. An “answer back” feature lets you find your bike in the dark or crowded rally parking.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
INTEGRATED STARTER GENERATOR (ISG)
Most cars and motorcycles have separate starters and alternators. Not your new Gold Wing. We’ve combined the starter and alternator into one light and compact assembly. It’s part of the Gold Wing’s overall weight-savings program, and you’ll hear the difference the first time you press the start button.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
REVERSE
Gold Wing DCT models offer an exclusive low-speed reverse that uses engine power, while the Gold Wing Tour with manual transmission offers a unique electric reverse. Both systems make it easy to manoeuvre your bike out of a parking space, especially if you need to roll back up a slight hill.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
Honda SELECTABLE TORQUE CONTROL (HSTC)
The Gold Wing Tour model, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), constantly monitors your bike’s rear-wheel speed and adjusts torque instantly. It’s a great feature when riding in the rain, on sandy, gritty roads, over wet leaves, or anywhere else where surface conditions can compromise traction.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
LED LIGHTING
All 2023 Gold Wing models feature a complete LED lighting package. The headlights, the taillights, and every bit of instrumentation are LED. LEDs not only last longer, but they’re also lighter and run cooler.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
NANO-TECH PAINT
Even the Gold Wing’s paint is high-tech, using BASF’s nano technology. The darks look darker, and the lights look brighter. The colour itself has a luxurious wet look. This year, the Gold Wing DCT model is available in a new Matte Gray. The Gold Wing Tour and Tour DCT come in two colours (Candy Ardent Red and Black). The Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT model is available in Candy Ardent Red.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
AIRBAG
The Gold Wing pioneered the concept of a motorcycle airbag, and the 2023 Gold Wing continues to lead the way. Available on Tour Airbag DCT model, it goes that extra mile towards increased rider safety. You also get an exclusive Candy Ardent Red paint scheme.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
TURN SIGNALS
You’ll notice that the Gold Wing’s front turn signals are integrated into the rearview mirrors and use three LEDs each. The rear LED turn signals are built into the tail- and brake-light assembly for a clean, integrated look. Best of all, they’re self-cancelling.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
OPTIONAL LIGHTS
Lighten up! Optional accessory LED lighting for your Gold Wing includes an additional LED rear brake light integrated into the available rear chrome trunk rack and LED lights inside the trunk that automatically illuminates when the trunk is opened. There’s even general LED “Entry Lighting” that illustrates the outside of the bike.
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COMFORT AND CARGO
LARGER TRUNK
The Gold Wing’s trunk holds 61 litres. That means, in most cases, you can get two full-face helmets in there. Combined, the trunk and saddlebags give you 121 litres of storage, plenty to hold what you need for a weekend’s travels. Available accessories include an auto-on interior light, a luggage rack, and more.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
ELECTRIC WINDSCREEN
You’ll notice a couple of things about the Gold Wing’s windscreen. First, it’s electrically controlled, moving up and down over a 4.9-inch range for the Gold Wing Tour and changing its angle as it raises and lowers. Plus, it automatically remembers the last setting. Because you sit closer to the windscreen, it has a narrower, lower, more sporting profile yet still offers excellent protection.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
FAIRING
In the 1980s, the Gold Wing was the first bike to introduce full-coverage fairings as original equipment, and this latest one is one of the best. It offers excellent wind and weather protection yet is trimmer and more aerodynamic than previous generation models. It also flows more air through refined ducting, helping keep you more relaxed on hot summer days.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
RIDER/LOCATION
The shorter engine and innovative front suspension let us move the rider farther forward, enhancing the bike’s handling and making you feel more connected to the motorcycle’s steering axis.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
INTEGRATED PASSENGER GRAB HANDLES
Once a passenger has ridden on a Gold Wing, there’s no going back. Functional design touches like the integrated passenger grab handles help make your copilot’s riding experience an absolute pleasure, especially on longer rides.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
Ever had to scroll through some abstract menu to access a feature on your electronic device? You’ll find plenty of simple, dedicated switches and controls on your Gold Wing’s handlebars, ergonomically placed, which give you simple, intuitive control inputs that zero out frustration. The console also has a centralized control knob, similar to modern autos.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
RIDER/PASSENGER SEATING
Gold Wing Tour models feature seats with a custom-feel suede-like cover. The rider on every Gold Wing model can enjoy an optional backrest; on the Gold Wing models without a trunk, there’s also an optional backrest for the passenger.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
NEW PASSENGER BACKREST
We changed up the angle of the passenger backrest on Tour models in 2021 (from 17 to 24.5 degrees), increased its height, and added more cushion. It’s always been a great seat, but now it’s like your favourite easy chair at home!
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
LUGGAGE
All 2023 Gold Wings feature integrated saddlebags designed to hold enough for most weekend trips. The bags open electronically with a button and lock and unlock remotely with the smart key. They’re hydraulically damped for smooth operation too.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
FUNCTIONAL STYLING
Sometimes less is more, at least when it comes to motorcycles. We’ve noted that the Gold Wing is lighter, more responsive and more athletic than previous generations.
That goes for its styling as well. While the bodywork offers excellent weather protection, it’s crisper now, exposing a little more of the engine and chassis. It’s not your grandfather’s touring bike.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
OVER 50 ACCESSORIES
Gold Wing riders are incredibly engaged when it comes to accessorizing their motorcycles. And we have you covered. We have over 50 accessories that look right, fit right, and are built to Honda’s high standards. Time to make that new bike yours and yours alone!
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
HEATED GRIPS
Part of riding a bike is enjoying the elements. But nobody likes being cold. That’s why every 2023 Gold Wing comes equipped with electric heated grips as standard equipment.
STANDARD ON: ALL TRIMS
HEATED SEATS
Now we’re talking about riding in the lap of luxury (no pun intended). In addition to heated grips, every Gold Wing Tour model also has heated seats for you and your passenger.
STANDARD ON: GOLD WING TOUR, GOLD WING TOUR DCT, GOLD WING TOUR AIRBAG DCT
via Honda
