A Harley Rider Rides a New 2018 Goldwing DCT

First of all Thank you to Naults Powersports in Manchester NH.
I got to spend a half hour trying out a new 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT. I normally ride a 2014 FLHTK.
The Good: This bike was like riding an Acura. The suspenion, Engine, and transmission kept eliciting the word smooth. It soaked up the all but the largest of craters and slid through the gears like a late model luxury car.
The Bad: Storage, this isn't your father's Goldwing. I think this has enough storage for 1 person to spend a few days on the road. I think if you spend a lot of time 2 up for extended periods you may need to search out more laundrymats than you're used to.
Overall: As a motorcycle, this thing is an A+, as a touring motorcyle, an A-. (But an A average will still get you into the ivy leauge)
A few people have stated that I am moving my head too much. Sorry, but I was in an unfamiliar area, on an unfamiliar bike. so I was trying to learn the bike while navigating an area I had never ridden in, all the while trying to tell you what I thought of it. So there's more than the average amount of head bobbing and looking around. If this makes you seasick, there are plenty of other videos out there about this bike.
Thank you for watching.

[@mikeedland]

I’ve just watched this over breakfast. When it finished I said “I’d love one of those bikes” and my wife said ‘You can get one Hon”. How’s that for the ultimate ‘like’.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Let me know if you're dealership is looking for an address to send the commission check. JK, enjoy the bike. Ride safe.

[@exeveche1979]

Mike Edland she’s a keeper!;)

[@christianpaul3303]

She wants you to be able to tell people how cool your wife is - I do it for mine all the time. She knows if I'm happy I'm going to go out of my way to make her happy. Win/win. Ride safe!

[@dr.michaelbennett8597]

We had an ‘08 M109R and my wife was cool with it. We stopped at a Honda dealer for some strange reason and she climbed up on the throne of a Goldwing. An hour later we were driving the Goldwing home. I just bought a brand new leftover 2018 last Saturday. I could not make myself go with the automatic. It was only $1,000 more, but I just couldn’t do it. Regarding storage, Corbin makes perfect match side and trunk covers.

[@maxiscooterridescapetown-g2217]

It depends on her tone of voice when she said it.....

[@siraff4461]

How to sell a Harley - big ad campaigns, loads of playing on the heritage and made in America. How to sell a Honda - "here's the key - bring it back when you're ready to buy it".

[@babaduke3298]

Si Raff Exactamundo!!

[@GTARockman]

Exactly... You can take away the braindead symptoms of simple people who have this die hard emotional attachment to a name brand Hardley bike. In comparison, just get on a Honda. It speaks volumes. You will never understand if you never ride it. VFR is a great bike. Honda has always left me impressed. ALWAYS smart and sensible and great and conservative and EXCELLENT. Honda blows away most all. Ducati is also awesome when I rode it. I would have both.

[@goofyfoot2001]

I loved my Sporty but then I got on a KLR650 and now I'm selling the Sporty.

[@siraff4461]

Anyone who can afford a new wing can afford a new Harley so you're making as much sense as the usual fanboys. I suppose next you will be telling us the rust on the bikes at the EICMA show adds character or that the now famous death wobble is something riders really want? Please go ahead and waste your money on a bike with inferior design and shoddy build - most of us have done it at least once. I love Harleys but only upto around the late 70's. Most stuff after that isn't much of an improvement and honestly it's largely cynical marketing rubbish to sucker in the mid life crisis brigade. Look at what the Harley name used to mean (some of the best bikes in the world) then look at what it's beceme (a marketing mans wet dream). It's disgusting they are taking such a name and defiling it by making overpriced, sub standard rubbish. Some are still nice but the majority fall short and dissapoint. This is why there are so few of the newer generation buying them. It's a shame but after the dyed in the wool fanboys like you have died out Harley will be struggling if they haven't got something special in the wings by then. It's even more frustrating because they have a massive brand andthe ability to throw more R&D at it than most but thanks to people kissing their butts they will keep churning outdated tat out until they get the same wake up call as the big three car makers in the US did a few years back. Better to be honest now than kiss their backside until they collapse.

[@interman7715]

Si Raff An extra few things to sell the harley, one set of leather chaps ,black open face helmet ,one little canvas side bag and a voucher at a tattoo parlour for the obligatory tough stickers 😆

[@TOURMANBOB]

I've been driving bikes for almost 65 years and didn't EVER have a reliable one until I bought a 1966 Honda Dream, which never gave me any trouble and ran like a modern car. That sold it for me, and have had Yamahas and Hondas ever since. Although the 2018/19 Wing is a superb bike, I haven't yet worn out my "old" one (2003 GL1800 with 123,000 kms). And since my riding days are coming to an end through old age, I won't consider myself truly OLD until I can no longer handle the Wing safely. Thank you Honda for building a full line of bikes from the 50cc up that are some of the best in the industry

[@daleval2182]

Ride long as you can , on a Trike, no limits long as you can get in the saddle and twist the throttle , there's a guy on utube Harley Side car , 101 yrs old, man Britain rides everyday at 97, I'm 60 shopping a bike, and your a few years on me, hope all is well , happy trails

[@jamesnusky6257]

I just sold my 2010 Goldwing. I thought I was done riding until I test rode the 2018 DCT Goldwing. I will be getting one really soon. I loved it.

[@ernieschatz3783]

DCTs really set themselve apart in traffic. I had an Africa Twin DCT and I swear I felt more refreshed at the end of the ride than when I started.

[@billwhiteathome2080]

Having both is the best option. That way you can ride the Honda while the Harley is in the shop.

[@shelliecarlson7015]

❤

[@terrasiho5606]

Well then you will never get a chance to ride your Harley because a Harley was built for the shop!! How sad,

[@nairbyad7188]

!

[@1dlb]

spot on .....lmao

[@ellobo1326]

Good one ! 🤣

[@Wildstar40]

Dude you don't have to switch brands. You can have a Harley and a Honda. Nobody is forcing anyone to have only one type.

[@GTARockman]

Harley = good Boat anchor?

[@UncleKennysPlace]

Awesome how you mouth off without using your real name.

[@bamasace8022]

I own several types, the one I ride most often is my Harley.

[@martincvitkovich724]

Ed Victory Ditto. 85K troublefree miles on my 2003 Road King and still performs like a Champ

[@ramrodsanbonito5028]

LincolnTek h

[@Tom-kw6km]

Remember their slogan years ago, "You meet the nicest people on a Honda".

[@Glen-hn9wu]

Or ... Follow the Leader he’s on a Honda !

[@seambunthayarat4370]

Like Marc Márquez .

[@prestonramsey9296]

It's always interesting how these kind of videos bring out the best and worst in riders comments! Not a thing wrong with a Goldwing...or a Harley. It's simply personal preference. I've owned 3 GW's and now on my 5th Harley...and I loved them all!

[@prestonramsey9296]

You just made my point Mr. Rothwill... Thank you

[@anthonyspanjich2772]

Happy Jack, you left your 50 cents behind from the toll!!! hahahaha.....

[@baddriver3580]

"big , little, short or tall, I love em all" I hope to try a gold wing one day!

[@tonymcgee1146]

@Charlie Rothwill Better/worse, whatever. Ride what you want. Be happy.

[@bigpapa8152]

@@prestonramsey9296 Actually he made a valid point and nothing more. Truth is the truth.

[@JoeSchmoeLivesHere]

I test drove a Goldwing a few years ago (lifetime Harley rider) and thought it was damn amazing to be honest. VERY well balanced bike that flowed through corners like few others could in that class. Great Bikes, no doubt!

[@JoeSchmoeLivesHere]

Just noticed it's got an automatic tranny!! I don't think I could get into that. ;(

[@gregorytimmons4777]

I got a feeling this new Goldwing is a total revelation compared to past models.

[@christoon7848]

@@JoeSchmoeLivesHere I'd say it's to try to get new riders out that don't feel confident on one with clutch and having to shift. Then again this automatic trans on their motorcycles aint new by any means. Didn't they start the Honda-matic bikes back in the 80s?

[@billygraham2132]

Stop being nice to Honda, or I might have to start being nice to Harley 🤣

[@cyclotronbxl]

@@JoeSchmoeLivesHere You can go for the BMW K1600, it's quiet similar but more sporty than the Goldwing.

[@ellobo1326]

Goldwing is the Cadillac of the touring bikes !

[@BarryAllen-pd1jv]

It's the s class of touring bikes

[@MikeSmith-rx4uu]

I was fortunate to be the head mechanic at the Honda dealership in town when they unveiled the Valkyrie. When I drove it, it felt amazing. I want to believe that the frontend technology from that bike trickled down (or up) to this style Goldwing. I've had my own shop for some time now. I kinda miss getting to ride all the new machines that come out in the new model year. I'm a Honda fan for life because of it.

[@michaelb.42112]

Head mechanic ? You are a BADASS !!!!!!!!!!!

[@midhun-007]

"This is 1000 times smoother than my Harley" ..I can feel the pain😭😭😭

[@fpvtrucker129]

I rode a Wing for years and rode with some friends that got Harleys and we went for a long ride and stoped for lunch the first thing they said was how do you keep your hands and but from itching from the vibrations I just said buy and Honda. Oh and Wings are built in the USA much of Harleys are not.

[@deckgun31]

This is, by far, the most unbiased review I have ever seen! Thanks for taking us along, Happy Jack.

[@hotelpapa6]

This biker traded his '15 Ultra in on an '18 Gold Wing! Best bike I have ever owned!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Nice, did you go with the DCT or traditional. Enjoy and stay safe.

[@hotelpapa6]

6 speed manual! I still enjoy going through the gears with a clutch!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I would have chosen the same.

[@bamasace8022]

Can I like both or is it a fight to the death?

[@edmundcano521]

Yes, i did that too. Goldwing is the best!!! FASTEDDIE

[@johnelong55]

Met a guy in Nebraska that had a 1989 Goldwing, same as mine BTW... I walked over to take a look at his bike, and the Odometer said 237 THOUSAND miles...He said all I do is change oil on time, and lube stuff that needs it.... Never left him stranded anywhere he claimed...I believe him, I've ridden Honda's for 45 years...Biggest problem I had was getting speeding tickets...lol

[@billanderson8198]

I took a test ride on the same bike and I was instantly hooked. So much so that I worked to find a dealer that would take my 2018 BMW K1600GTL in on trade. I eventually found one that was willing and I LOVE the new Gold Wing. It's far and away the best bike I've ever ridden and I've owned a couple dozen different bikes and ridden even more. I got the 7 Speed DCT auto trans because I have arthritis that prevents me from riding very far on a bike with a conventional clutch. The Wing is definitely much more of a sport touring bike than earlier Gold Wings. It eats up miles with no effort and in Sport mode it's incredibly quick. I can't imagine ever buying another bike. I can't ride sport bikes but this thing is as quick as I'll ever need it to be. Try one if you're looking for a touring or sport touring bike. You won't be disappointed.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I'm afraid to even speculate the financial beating you took on the BMW, but I agree with everything you just said. The sales person I spoke to said the DCTs were selling 3 to 1 over the 6 speeds ride safe and enjoy.

[@7ludig]

Bill Anderson Does it have more power than your old BMW? I test rode a K1600GT and it was FAST.

[@almar9949]

is it too soon to judge the bike give a couple year

[@bertadelaudebri7179]

7ludig I own a 2018 BMW GTL K1600 and recently rode a 2018 Honda Goldwing - it is not, and by a far margin, a competitor in terms of performance for my BMW sport tourer. However, I must admit to being quite impressed by its overall quietness, the ride and decent performance - no other "tourer" will surpass it!

[@MRBIGCOHONEZ]

Adelbert Brideau Your BMW is a piece of shit.

[@saddle8bag]

Nice. When you had to take off quick from the light and when you had to pay the toll, they lack of dicking around shifting gears sold me on the DCT.

[@t5saj198]

You were blown away by good wing. Like your honesty loved your vlog

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks buddy. Ride safe.

[@reactorfallout]

the flat-6 in these is like a velvet freight train. truly a world class power train. I've always loved the GL 6 cylinders.

[@bobcaygeon4533]

I own a 1988 gl1500. Everytime I go for a ride, the flat six just blows me away. Smooth and powerful. It just keeps pulling when you grab that throttle.

Try the BMW 1600 GT inline six. 160hp of pure smoothness..

[@charliesadv8493]

I would love to have one of those. Love the DCT auto idea. Goldwing has always been my dream bike

[@FletchersTubeTV]

Riding a motorcycle myself, pulling in the clutch and shifting is what I love most about riding bikes.

[@scowler92]

Having a hand free is always nice, though.

[@ricpowers1475]

Well, weekender, lots more than pulling in the clutch, and "wow".

[@joaquinsolis7071]

Lol that’s what truckers said about driving a rig. Now most big companies have auto fleets. No complaining here but some guys don’t feel like a real trucker unless they’re grindin coffee (gears).

[@kaydenchristensen5011]

I wanted to hate the DCT. When my dad let me take his automatic, I was blown away. For a bike that weighs as much as a cruise ship, such as a wing, the DCT is great

[@MOUSEBOWEN]

I used to think the same but hell not I love my 2023 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT freaking amazing piece Japanese of technology . Sport mode standard mode Rain mode and user mode or manual paddle shifter (by the way even on drive you can still paddle shift not need to be on manual. I won’t change it for Clutch and shifting more work especially in traffic hell mode . Shifts like a Ferrari

[@petertrapani8701]

Very Cool wheel. Looks like a BMW from the front. Thanks for the test ride. Ride Safe.

[@whirinakii]

Thanks for the video really smooth review - refreshing to hear a down to earth commentary and no tearing up the highway at illegal speeds

[@RobertNixAlternativeArtist]

Incredible piece of motorcycle technology and thanks for letting me see New Hampshire-the last bike I had was a Yamaha RD400 which I owned back in the 1980's

[@dynarider6026]

"It keeps beeping at me I'm doing something wrong." Love it lol.

[@davidd1395]

Went from Roadmaster to goldwing tour DCT and never looked back, love it. Like you, it took a while to forget about the clutch.

[@DarthPlaya]

Me and the wife played a drinking game, had to stop at Smooth #8 🥴 Nice ride Bro' Your enthusiasm feels sincere. 👍🏽given!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

That's awesome.

[@RogerBarraud]

Hey Jack, thanks very much for this video. Lovely scenery, gotta love NH - I've never been there yet, hopefully one day soon though :-) And thanks Mr. Nault for making this possible. Cheers from New Zealand :-)

[@mattsez2879]

I own a 28 yr old GL1500. All my friends own Harleys and Triumphs , and ya, i get alot of flak now and then. However, when the 2018 harley is in the shop getting ANOTHER charging system replaced....and my other friends 2017 Harley is getting electrical probs AND a wobble from the rear in corners.......not to mention dumping 4k every time you drive past a dealer ship.....i just smile...start my bike, and ride ride ride. I'll always love a Harley. But i dont think i would trade in my sewing machine for a new one. (shout out to MSFB there )

[@ridingnewengland3192]

The first Wing I ever rode was around that era. That's a shame about your buddy's bikes. I think that's more the exception than the rule. Pretty much everybody I ride with has a Harley, I don't know anyone that has had regular problems with the newer bikes, and the older ones have normal high milage issues. If you get a chance, throw a leg over a 2018 Wing. They're expensive, but I think you'll find a way to trade in the 28 yr old one for a new one. They ride better than anything I've tried in the last couple of years. Thanks for watching and ride safe.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Oh, and what's MSFB? Just curious.

[@mattsez2879]

he had a reply farther down....refered to our hondas as sewing machines.....lol

[@mattsez2879]

and on a side note.....a dealership near me said....and i quote....."that bikes so old, its not even listed in our trade in value book " 89 GL1500.....had 13k on it original when i got it for 2800 bucks......and I can say, its the most dependable bike ive ever owned......and the 3 day each way trip to Sturgis was a breeze. My channel has vid of me riding Iron Mtn on it. New tires.....changed the oil.....gone

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I'll check it out, thanks.

[@Tomh821]

I do not ride motorcycles but KZbin brought me here. A shout out to Honda for making such a quiet motorcycle! This speaks volumes about any car or bike being well engineered.

[@will.I.AmonYT]

I just bought a ‘22 Goldie with a DCT last week. It’s an AWESOME bike and the DCT is an awesome transmission.

[@mdtaylor2274]

The only Goldwing I drove was a 1985 model and it was "smooth" as butter. This one looks amazing and thanks for sharing.

[@SkyeRocket]

Hahah, cool perspective. Go Naults! Been on that road a thousand times in my life, and hopefully one of these days it'll be on a new Wing

[@lancelot1953]

Riding since 1969 (Hondas, Kawazakis, MotoGuzzi), coming back from a 6-month cruise (all expenses paid, compliment of the US Navy) in 1996, I bought my first (and only) brand-new bike - a Harley Electra Glide Classic - loaded. I had it 9 months including 2 months of warranty-covered repair/convalescence (for the bike) time. Sadly and/or strangely enough, except for some electronic niceties, it rode worse than my 1982 Honda GoldWing (which I still have), the finish was not as fitting for such a pricey motorcycle; it had poor attention to details and a lot of the parts/pieces looked like "add-on" (i.e. did not seem to have been designed with/for the bike in the first place). It sat lower which I liked (I was 5' 9" then), vibrations on long cruises got old after a while (I was getting older, I understand), acceleration, cornering/maneuverability/braking was worse than my old GoldWing. My biggest gripe was having to "stay in touch" with my HD dealership (don't get me wrong - they were nice to me, Oceana/VA Beach, VA has a huge Navy presence!) but I did not expect a new motorcycle ordered while at sea to suffer several electrical failures (radios, gauges, front brake AND engine leaks!). I sold it and bought a used 1991 Anniversary Edition GoldWing (which I still have after 88, 000+ miles). Tastes are personal, and I respect my fellow bikers' choices. HD's are "different", I like tradition and "classic" vehicles like the best of some of us (still have my first Mustang, a 1970 convertible) but ... (engineer talking here), HD is "slightly" behind the times. Incidentally, my HD had cost me more than all my current used Honda classic bike collection (10 motorcycles)! You guys ride safe, Ciao, L

[@geraldstow2189]

Brilliant commentary . Really enjoyed your video . Definitely miscounted a few smooths 😊👍🏻🇮🇪🇺🇸

[@Siper2]

Nault's! I'm a NH expat living in PA, it's always good to hear a familiar name. Glad you enjoyed the ride!

[@yourdogmabites9477]

Enjoyed your video! I just got home from my local Honda dealer, ordered one today in blue with the manual transmission. Been riding my 99 Valkyrie long enough ;) I tour two up, and I think there's just enough storage with a luggage rack/waterproof bag to be OK. As long as your significant other can pack lite...

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Greg Curran congrats, I think you'll be very happy with it. I think if you don't mind packing a bag on top of the luggage rack you should be fine. Have fun and be safe.

[@Broncoride]

Would love to demo this one day. The Goldwing is no joke and has a ton to offer. Glad you got out to scout some roads.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I highly recommend getting out on one. Like the previous model Wing, it's more refined than the Vtwins and fast. Being that its in its first year of production,, I would presume that it will only get better. RSMF

[@a.d.c7941]

Being a person who has never been a fan of changing gears on anything (cars included) this is right up my alley. I wanted to get a Harley guys opinion of it because I know Harley guys know their bikes. And your opinion did not disappoint at all. I am gonna have to go with the 2019 model because I want it in black. 2018 is just blue, white and red I believe. Thank you so much for a great review. A lot of people that are interested in this bike will greatly appreciate this video!!

[@rondacus]

11:20 "Oooh... Wow...alright. Not gonna do that again. That got up and..., that got up and went!" 😅😅😅

[@bandit446484]

Nice honest review. Glad to see a real motorcycle owner review a bike. Get a little tiered of the professional reviews. Thanks Happy Jack. Safe travels and Have a great day!!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

This comment made my day. thank you ride safe

[@elbolillo2703]

You mean srk. lol

[@elbolillo2703]

Lmfo.no no no I mean srk cycles. Lol he reviews bikes but a lot of times it's not a very good job.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

My bad, I'll delete my comment. I looked it up and found Spoiled Rich Kid. I apologize, thank you for watching.

[@mrdonsmith]

I'm sure you figured out by now that the transmission mode doesn't take effect until the mode name stops flashing. It's an instant change when you're are sitting still, but if you change the mode at speed, the transmission will look for a safe transition point and will let you know it is still working on the problem by flashing the mode change. As for the smaller tank, keep in mind that the engine went through a complete redesign for 2018 and is more efficient. Yes, the tank is a gallon smaller, but you're range is close to the same. I've owned three Harley's and two Indians and the 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT is, by far, the best thing I've ever ridden. If I ever choose to go back to a V-Twin, it would certainly be a heavyweight Indian. I would never go back to Harley. All three of my Harley's, two of which I bought new, were maintenance nightmares. One of my new Harley's simply went dark while accelerating into a busy intersection. It was like someone reached over and turned the ignition to Off. The central computer had fried. The bike, new, had about 250 miles on it.

[@tjaynes22]

Horsepower? Technology? What are these things? ........no chrome air pump underneath? How will everyone hear me now? -Harley person

[@davej3736]

Hey, don't feel guilty...Sonny Barger..the Capo di Capo of the Hells Angles, admitted in his autobiography that he was not fond of HD, and his "secret love" was a Honda ST100. I understand it is difficult though if all your friends ride HD, and you have ALL the tats, apparel buttons and baubles though. Me? I have no brand loyalty. I had 3 HD's ..2 deckers and a pan chopper...never did get it. Ride what ya love to ride :-)

[@Enonymouse_]

Ride whatever breaks down the least and puts a smile on your face. If one can manage, have lots of alternatives in your garage.

[@gregblack4581]

Whole lot of riders I would have respect for his opinion than Sonny.

[@darylclifford1641]

I loved your honest review and thoughts. Btw I’d say smooth all the time. I was thinking it as you rode !!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks, I guess the lesson of the day is that the new Goldwing is smooth. It's been said that the power delivery in the old wing was electric like. This bike takes that feeling to the next level. Thanks for watching.

[@darylclifford1641]

HappyJack I’m about to buy a 2nd bike. I’ve ridden for 40 yrs and got my license on a 750 Honda. I have had a 2006 Ducati Sports Tourer (ST4) since new. I’d like to ride the Honda F6B bagger. It has the same 6cyl engine. I wanted to look at HD, but was snubbed cause I didn’t have Harley knowledge. I have cash, but was alienated by the staff so I won’t be buying one. Is the Goldwing really hard to park and move in the garage?

[@charliesadv8493]

@@darylclifford1641 I read another comment where somebody said it felt like the HD salespeople are doing you a favor to sell you an HD, instead of the other way around.

[@moncho2000]

I enjoyed your review so much, I felt like driving myself...

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks.

[@BloodPlusPwn]

A single goldwing can pack on more miles than most riders will ever see. Such good bikes. Definitely want one in the future for long trips.

[@HolyBibleOpen]

When you stopped to pay toll, it then switched to sport mode. It will not change mode when rolling. This Harley rider bought one. Love it. Do miss highway pegs.

[@cadeere74]

Arturo Meuniot BMW K1600B grand America

[@billanderson8198]

Mine definitely does change modes while rolling. Try again.

[@mengy3007]

I test rode one the other day. It will change modes while rolling but only if you let the throttle roll off. When the mode is flashing on the display like he had it then yeah, it's waiting to change modes once the throttle is left go.

[@oklahomahank2378]

Very nice video, too, by the way. I like that you are calm and reasonable.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. RSMF

[@gphilipc2031]

Come on powerball!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Just bought my tickets 10 minutes ago. That's pretty much the only way I'm getting on one of these this year.

[@goofyfoot2001]

I saw a couple goldwings from the 80s on Craigslist I could swing. They came with squirrels though.

[@120074]

Yes expensive motorcycle

[@RogerBarraud]

@@goofyfoot2001 What's not to like? :-)

[@texaslonestarrider]

I test rode one and fell in love with it! Great Review And Thanks For Sharing My Friend!

[@jamesnusky6257]

I just tested one. I loved it. I kept thinking I was gonna stall at stop signs and red lights. Kept reaching for the clutch.LoL Over all, I love it. Thanks for the video

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks for watching. I agree, it's a fun bike. RSMF

[@stevewyatt3339]

Harleys are good too, I like almost all bikes

[@joeglenn7323]

I think you'll convince yourself to buy one this summer.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I have a high school age daughter, so unless she gets a scholarship to college, my next big bike will be built in 2024. That being said, if I come into unexpected money, you are probably correct. Thanks for watching and your analysis of me is spot on.

[@gregorywills2231]

You have your priorities in the right order.

[@victoews6842]

Nice review, had a mid 90's goldwing with trailer. Awesome , getting older but dreaming of doing it again.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

It's a substantial investment, but this Wing is a huge improvement over the previous generation and probably the mid 90s versions also. None of us are getting any younger. I hope to be touring on a bike until I'm physically unable. If you have the time, the money, and the health, there are much worse ways to spend your weekends. RSMF

[@trysmthing4951]

I really like your very honest openion . Thank you

[@xxWtChocolatexx]

Range comes up short but it feels good to get off the bike for a bit. I went out of town on mine last weekend and did a little over 900 miles on a Friday/Saturday ride and it was needed to get off and get gas.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I think you're right. I've done some 900-1100 mile days. I was never that far from a gas station, that a 30 mile difference in range would have been an issue, and at 200 miles I'm ready for a water and a short walk. On those rides, on ECONO mode, I think this bike would do just fine. My only concern with this bike would be the luggage. I would need to travel lighter on long trips. Those 900 mile trips are usually only once a year, so the luggage capicity and range would be of no concern for the other 51 weeks where I'm using my bike to get a burger and ice cream and only use the luggage to store my jacket when it gets hot.

[@xxWtChocolatexx]

Yeah it's going to be tight whenever I get some real miles under this thing. My wife is not the biggest fan of motorcycles but I think she likes this one which just adds another person to a road trip and more clothes. So we will see how that works out in the future. Being in South Dakota I would like to make it out to either side of the country never being either way on a bike. I will say a Harley does sound better. Not sure if goldwing is a bike you change the exhaust on either since it's so much a part of the look of the bike. Parents have a Harley trike and my step dad has a 98 or 99 Heritage Springer, which I would like to buy from him someday.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

You'll be fine, I'd trade some luggage space to get my wife to come with me on more long road trips.

[@IDYLBERRY]

White Chocolate, I have an '05 GL that I gave up some bag space from my previous ride. I still get more than enough space and end up taking more than I use. If you're on the road on a big touring machine chances are you'll stay somewhere with a washer & dryer. You might as well pack your wife's bag to avoid the beating.

[@davido9208]

Great video man. I actually just bought a 2019 goldwing yesterday. I went from a gixxer 1000 to a goldwing and I was even impressed with the power and handling of it. I have a manual transmission though. I want to try the DCT and I dont think I would mind it although i do enjoy working the clutch i have noticed that the shift level is really close to the fairing which is annoying. I love my sport bikes. I've been riding for 16 yrs but it's just to hard on me and I want to do long rides with my wife so it was time to change. A comment about the gas tank size. Its 1 gallon smaller but gets 20 to 25% better fuel mileage so it works out to be about the same overall distance.

[@progress426]

I took an Advanced motorcycle safety course to get my class M endorsement and I noticed a senior gentleman who had just purchased a beautiful pearl white 2018 Honda Goldie and while going through all of the stages in the course, he had the biggest smile on his face. I just happen to notice that the man wasn’t shifting at all and cruising just a “smooth” as butter through every single stage of the course. Now I see why. I’m a youngster, who rides a BMW S1000RR, but after watching this video, I would surely consider purchasing a Gold-wing at around age 40. Great Video.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

S1000RR, that's pretty much the class of the field when it comes to liter bikes. Enjoy and ride safe. Thanks for watching.

[@jeffhairston9645]

I traded my 2008 Wing in for the 2019 Goldwing Tour. I really liked the 08 and put nearly 100K miles on it. Then got the ‘19 Tour. Wow!! Nicest bike I’ve ever ridden! Smaller tank is no problem because of the better milage. The lighter weight and various driving modes help make this a phenomenal bike to ride! The up to date technology is great once you figure it out. Planning my first long trip on it for this Spring. Can’t wait!

[@slobodangligorijevic4385]

Thanks for the video. I will buy that one now. You helped a lot. I was between bmw k1600b and this one. Since it is my first bike ever....automatic will be the perfect choice. Take care.

[@artsbest1]

I own a 2018 BMW K 1600 GT. Wife wants a new Goldwing with the DCT if course. I think we'll make a cool riding duo this summer.

[@thomashenderson603]

Happy Jack, I might be getting the Goldwing DCT from Naults in Windham, NH . After watching your Video I had called around to a few dealers and gave them a call and was very impressed.. I'm going down tomorrow and test drive one.. Im coming off a Road glide... Thanks Tom

[@ridingnewengland3192]

That's awesome. I bought a couple kawi jet skis from the Windham location. They were a pleasure to deal with. Enjoy the bike and ride safe. (and tell them they can send the commission check to me. LOL)

[@kodiak536kodiak536]

Started with Yamaha enduro, traded for brand new CB750 Nighthawk. Next new bike, a Honda VTX1300 which I sold and bought a used 2005 Goldwing with 75, 000 miles. Ridden it until 100,000 miles, sold it and bought a 24' cruiser boat. Miss riding so, found a nice used 2007 Goldwing with @61,000 miles which wife and I will go get and ride back from Illinois to NC. Never owned a Harley, never "dreamed" of owning a Harley and never could afford a Harley. All my past bikes were "maintenance free" bikes, meaning NEVER ended up in shop for ANY repairs...reliability and cost effective ride, THAT is what we want to ride.

[@Clearanceman2]

A guy I do some contract work for was talking about buying one of these and he's never ridden a motorcycle before. I said you really should take the motorcycle course with the DMV and start with something smaller and lighter. I was really thinking it was a great way for him to crash. He was talking about reverse and paddle shifters. And I said that a motorcycle doesn't handle the way you think it handles, take the course. I have a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 and I love it. It was almost free and the insurance is almost free.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

This is an easy bike to handle, but I don't think I'd recommend it as a first bike. It is a lot of bike to learn on.

[@HarleyDayRider]

Might we start calling you Happy HarleyI can't wait to try one of these new Gold Wings! I am going to start calling dealerships and see where I can ride one. Take care my friend and Ride Safe

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Ahh, a comment from the great HDR. I'm not switching bikes just yet, but you could do a lot worse than this Wing. If I were in the market right now it would probably be another Limited, but I'm hoping Harley puts the 114 in the touring bikes,and adds a few modern features that are showing up on their competitors bikes. Ride safe buddy.

[@HarleyDayRider]

Great THANKS for the compliment! Coming from one of the great rider that means a lot. I would like to ride one but it would be hard to give up my Harley. But I am always a person looking for comfort on those long miles ahead. Ride Safe

[@steeveedee8478]

Keep the Harley and buy the Wing too! Totally different bikes and not really comparable. Like trying to judge fish against meat.

[@dionysusb.8880]

Really miss living in new england this dude reminds me of the folks there, I was born there moved to midwest a year ago. Great channel! I subscribed

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Thanks for the sub. Appreciate it.

[@thealmightyz73]

I have a CBR 600 RR from 2006. Drive it for years now and it is totally different experience. But this is my dream bike. The new GL1800. Saving for one!

[@billy1st28]

Awesome video and review! Time to trade in my 2006 navi, for the 2019 model DCT.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

billy1st28 I think you'll appreciate the upgrade. Thanks for watching.

[@barrettclanton9952]

When I retire I will absolutely have a Goldwing to tour on. My last bike was a Honda ST1300...their true sport tourer. Brilliant bike. That said....I'm also a huge fan of the BMW K1600 GTL...basically BMW's version of a Goldwing. That said....the BMW has gobs more power...but a Wing is hard to beat for an all around ultra touring bike.

[@sinaniseri6575]

Sir, you deserve a Honda Goldwing. Happy and smooth riding...

[@davidrobins4025]

Very nice bike - thanks for the tour.

[@LeonGT7]

I love Goldwing! Thank you for this video!

[@tedbarr6693]

I have owned 6 Goldwings and every one of them have been faster, road nicer and cost less in maintenance than ANY Harley ever and does not require checking chain guides every 15K or do you have to tighten things up from rattling loose as well as no chain or belt tightening and my favorite is the capability of over 200,000 miles WITHOUT the worry of a rebuild of the engine.

[@chuckwagon5518]

Yeah alright...let me know when Honda has been around over a hundred years and thru two world wars.

[@upsidedownpeon9984]

Chuck Wagon, will do and it will be one made within the past few years with the same engine in it the day it left the factory.

[@johndunn9819]

pete, using the term "run" very loosely here...

[@_Common_Logic_]

Ted Barr - If you've had SIX Goldwings, I doubt that reaching 200,000 miles on any one bike is of real concern to you... Note that the only DOCUMENTED Million mile bike with the factory motor in it is an HD... The famous "million mile Wing" has been through MULTIPLE engines and one tragic crash :(... I've ridden along side of BOTH of those bikes here in Wisconsin. As for those "World Wars"... Be careful what you wish for. ;)

[@rickyabney7650]

@@chuckwagon5518 what fucking Harley Davidson bicycle that gets rode regularly been around that long? NONE! HD is hype that's all! No better than McDonald's fries!

[@obwan7217]

It pulled me away from Harley in 2013 F6B, then the 2018 Wing DCT, and now 2023 Tour DCT..I'm a winger for life riding with the Harley Boys..

[@mikebaird1110]

i had a honda goldwing it was a 1989 with 117 k on it no oil leaks , no clutch problems ,ran like a top , stock . didnt need rings or primary gears , drive chains, spacers .never overheated , ever . even in traffic ,

[@IanRMcAllister]

Nice video, and very nice bike - I think you just changed my mind from a Harley! And great to thank the dealer

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I really suggest riding both, back to back if you can. I don't think you will go wrong with either. Both will eat up miles, ones more like an old Mustang, the other, like a new Acura. The Honda was really fast (and smooth). The Harley's are full of character. Ride Safe.

[@manaranam]

You forgot to take the 50 cents from the front storage lol

[@ridingnewengland3192]

You are correct. Nice catch.

[@DavidAdiv]

HappyJack I also noticed that

[@ZacVaper]

me too, guess we are the cheap bastards. lol

[@t5saj198]

Me too

[@dbest1aVlogs]

Going there tomorrow, just to get the 50 cents

[@ElliotP27]

I love my '05 Electra Glide Classic, had it since it was new (14 years), but just bought a '18 leftover new Gold Wing DCT Tour. Now I have both! No reason to leave Harley for a GW. The Harley and the GW are good friends now and get along just fine. For long rides (almost always 2 up) we'll take the Wing. For Patriot Guard Events and to feel the roar, we'll be on the Harley. Great video and yes, the bike is very "Smooth!"

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Best of both worlds. Both are great bikes. Thanks for watching.

[@outtahere321]

Good video on the 2018 Goldwing. Nice scenery.....New Hampshire is a beautiful state.

[@robertp457]

The engine is more efficient so the lost of fuel capacity shouldn’t be a mark against the motorcycle.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I calculated out the range based on the "miles to empty" feature. It may be down slightly, but is in the same ballpark as it's competition. I still think another 1/2 gallon of fuel would have helped, but it wouldn't be a deal killer for me. On long rides 200 miles is about the time I want to walk around for a few minutes. Ride safe.

[@steeveedee8478]

Yes. The engine is a re-design and the frame is much lighter so Honda say the range is about the same as before.

[@hughjass4838]

"You can't sit at a light and rev the engine" yes. He's a harley rider.

[@ellobo1326]

Simply hit the neutral button and you could. But no one would hear it anyway. lol

[@timthomas487]

It can be revved....just put it in neutral :)

[@scooby2142]

Superb ride there man - I loved every second .

[@mmungin100]

nice job on the demo. I looked at one today! I'm strongly considering it (automatic)

[@relaxingprawn]

Seen a lot of comments on Harley vs Japanese brands. Fact is Harley prices it's product to market where age 40 and above who are financially secure buy it as as a leisure ride. Honda and other Japanese brands have a wider product range that starts from 250 cc entry level to higher capacity bikes thanks appeal to a bigger market. In my country India, Enfield bullet is considered a modern classic, but Harley and other Japanese brands have made their presence in the smaller CC engines to grow the market. Being a motorcycle users myself, I personally own a Bajaj Avenger a small Cc Urban cruiser, an Enfield and my extended family owns old British motorcycles, I am not charmed by technology in motor vehicles. You cannot do roadside repair, parts are mostly replaced not repaired, and the vehicle is obsolete when software support for the control unit is stopped. That's why electrical and mechanical controls are better than electronic controls.

[@michaelbayliss1794]

You sound a bit old fashioned , do have a flat screen t.v. , microwave oven , cell phone , or a computer in your home ? Just wondering . Times are a changing .

[@TheFrank552]

Funny discussion....all bikes are great, otherwise we would all ride the same. Cheers from a ˋ94 Triumph rider

[@dman6267]

My last bike was a 94 Goldwing Aspencade that I had for 10 years. The 1500cc horizontal 6 cylinder was bullet proof. It had 98K miles when I sold it and all I ever did to the bike was maintenance. Never once had a repair bill. Would love to own a new one but I'm trying to save for retirement.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

Once you retire this would be a nice way to see the country. In the meantime maybe you can get a low mileage used bike, if you're not going to take long trips a Wing is probably overkill anyway. Thanks for watching.

[@beardedbiker2647]

My wife and I love our ultra. I’m contemplating adding this one to the stable so we can have an around town bike and a mile muncher!

[@Patriot-Logic]

Best thing you ever did would be to leave HD! The Gold Wing is amazing and the more people that leave hd for better bikes will Force hd to build a competitive bike

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I'm all for competition, but after riding every touring bike except the BMW, I don't think Harley is as far behind as you might think. This Wing rode magnificently, but it is still a first year model with a few small bugs to work out. I don't think you'd go wrong with either model. Thanks for watching. RSMF.

[@sgpsimonb]

"I am sure they don't want me to take their bike all day." Unless you go back with a cheque in your hand...

[@marcwouters6059]

Dear Jack , the Honda is a great motorcycle for touring . I'm driving a BMW now and i love it . You should definitely take a test drive , you will be impressed by the BMW v6 gt/gtl. I had a Harley fat -boy 25y ago , very expensive , bad brakes and oil everywhere i stopped to claim my teritorium . I don't want to undermine any brand but i say this because i was the owner of a AJS , Triumph , Harley , Honda and BMW .

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I hope to get out on the BMW this coming year. Although I don't think a 25 year old Fat Boy is representative of today's Harleys, I can see how they aren't the best choice if performance is your main concern. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Ride safe.

[@SuperfloDee]

What a beautiful machine..the perfect bike..the sort of bike you would buy one day,get on it and ride into oblivion🙏👍💪

[@txman951]

I have a Honda CTX with a DCT and it grows on you. You don't realize how much shifting occupies your thoughts when you're riding (what gear am I in, should I upshift, should I downshift, etc). On the CTX, the sport mode is the most "realistic" shifting, the regular mode is much too passive. Only problem I've found is sometimes it downshifts to first gear when going around a slow corner which is dangerous if you don't realize it because as soon as you get back on it, it's pretty jerky...enough that I almost dropped the bike the first time it did it. I hope to graduate to one of these in a couple years. I also have a '18 Softail Heritage.

[@ridingnewengland3192]

It is a strange feeling not having a clutch , and I like shifting, but Honda's DCT really works, and doesn't detract from the riding experience at all. If I had to choose, I'd probably get the manual, but if the deal was better on the DCT I'd go with it without regrets.

[@CKY420]

First video of yours i have seen. Good video and a badass bike you tested. If this scared you come take my R1 for a spin. Still scares the hell out of me lol. Ride safe man!

[@ridingnewengland3192]

I owned a CBR1000rr, but if your volunteering your R1, I'm up for it. Thanks buddy. Ride safe.

[@jeffreybiscoe6]

Thanks for this review ,I- been riding since age 7 ,55 now been a HD owner since age 19 ,man this is one sweet bike. I totally dig the automatic now my hands are full of arthritis.

[@danielhoskins976]

Jeffrey; yes- I've been riding since I was maybe 10, and I'm 66 now and hands (& body) have much arthritis! Hands are the worst, though. My road bikes have been Kawasaki, Honda Shadow Tour, and now I've been riding a Victory for a few years- but the arthritis just kills my hands on a multi-day trip! The automatic sounds great!

[@ghostpepperrides4805]

I'm afraid to ride the new one I need to keep my 2014 for a few more years. I'm just stuck something over 67,000 miles. Nice review. And again thank you and your family so much for helping me out

[@ridingnewengland3192]

They're both like riding a cadillac. It was my pleasure, we enjoyed the company. Looking forward to what journeys awaite in 2019.

[@philipjanes]

Good review. I have had 3 touring bikes. An 84 Goldwing, a 2002 Ultra classic, sold that and jyears later picked up an old Electra Glide. I liked them all, but I like the Harleys comfortable saddle more than anything. I dont need all the electronics, I never even listened to my radio when I had one. But all that said, I still like the Goldwing. If I couldnt have my Harley, Id gladly jump right back on the Wing. I'll say this about Honda too. I love the look, the paint, the chrome, the sound of the Harley. Too many trying to make their bikes look like that. Not Honda. Nobody could accuse them of trying to look like any other bike on the road. They do their own thing, and they do it extremely well.

[@taalibmuhammad7558]

Truly a GREAT video! I only have one question: Was it smooth?

[@easterncoyote1]

Hi Happy Jack. I really enjoyed watching your review of the new Goldwing. Thank you. I have a Honda NC750X with the DCT, and I really like it. I thought I would miss the clutching and changing gears, but I don’t at all.