[Ep 3] Comparing 2018 Honda Gold Wing to Previous Model

[@noelbassett8730]

Hi Cruiseman. Thanks for your video work. You seem able to offer both positive and negative impressions of the new Wing, without interjecting anything derogatory at all. Thanks for that! I have just over 1,800 miles on my 2018 DCT Tour, and have yet to experience any of the "pogo" up and down resonance after riding over a bump that you mention. The bike seems very stable, controlled and precise at all times and never have I felt the bike to be at all unsettled. This includes both easy and fairly aggressive riding. Maybe its just me, or the way I ride, but I have been on all sorts of roads, both good and bad. Your comment mirrors some of those by Max at Traxxion Dynamics, and I just have not experienced that under-damped feeling myself that you mentioned. I purchased and have installed the trunk removal kit, as I wanted to be able to take off the rear top trunk when not going on longer rides/trips. The instructions for this installation, as you mention, are lacking, and I have been able find ways to accomplish the switch with MUCH less effort. One of the steps calls for removal of the rear trunk's side panels, which is practically impossible with the rear trunk in place. I'm ashamed of some of the colorful language uttered.... I found that the back end of the trunk's side panels only need to be freed up and moved outboard to accomplish the next steps. Again, thanks for the very professional video work you do! Most enjoyable. Safe riding!!

[@desmodromic640]

Thanks for the plug for Max and his suspension craft. For those that don't know suspension is indeed rooted in science. Both his and your own channel are complimentary.

[@danrahn9863]

My LED entry lights were installed by the dealership and the entry lights work consistently. I also had the dealership install LED brake light on the trunk's chrome rack, 12 volt socket, LED fog lights, HomeLink. Thereby, only having to remove body panels ONE time, and all the add-on electrical accessories work PERFECTLY! Credit to Honda Kawasaki KTM of Modesto, California.

[@gimmecom]

Hey just so you know, if the DCT is same as Africa Twin, the manual shifters are always active regardless of mode, that is, it does not have to be in Manual mode to use the shift buttons. Basically you can override the DCT gear choice.

[@robertharris9469]

I’ve found that except for a minor hiccup once in a while the system works good. My wife loves the clarity and clear intercom as compared to our older 1800 with J&M wired system. Getting used to what order things turn on and the Apple Car Play coming up and this and that almost like getting in the space shuttle and ticking off a checklist. Using evo 20 s with modular Shoie Neotech helmets.

[@johnnyshd8250]

I have a 16 and 18, so I compare them all the time. If I have to go grocery shopping or have a passenger on a long trip, I take the 16. For sporting around, I take my 1800B.

[@regfeener]

Great job Bud.. The view out front is the very best out there for sure.. I didn't find the audio too bad though as most other ones have the howling wind and other issues.. Love your videos ..

[@cruisemansgarage]

Sena is sending me a replacement unit. Hopefully, that will fix the problem.

[@TM15R]

This may be your best video yet...no loud and annoying sounds,(music)? Keep up the good work

[@cruisemansgarage]

I am slowly phasing out the background music.

[@roadglide]

This GoldWing as with all GoldWings, over time, we all know will go through it’s refinements. A DIY friendly approach to accessory installation is probably Honda’s least concern as it creates service opportunities for their dealership network to do the work. As I’ve noted on other CruiseMan Vlog responses, my concern is that with the many creature feature options quickly available for this GoldWing, the dealerships might be ill-prepared for competent/clean installations, at this time, due to the newness of the model. Time tells all. Thanks for the input CruiseMan.

[@cruisemansgarage]

My concern with dealer installations is that they are under a time-crunch. If you are not familiar with working on this Wing, you will DEFINITELY break something if you get in a hurry. A low of owners with dealer-installed accessories are going to find broken tabs, missing clips, etc.

[@jamesb.2064]

Great info. I found the pogo effect was much less as I went to 1up and luggage, or 2up. I ride 1up and luggage mostly. I’m 6ft, 160lbs

[@cruisemansgarage]

I am 6-1/180 and I have started using the Rider+Luggage setting. It does seem like it is helping.

[@mdscolt]

Great video. Keep them coming. The audio sounds fine to me.

[@Ruleof2plus1]

The biggest issues with the previous wings were stuck ADV and radial tire. disabling the ADV and changing to a lower pressure bias tire is a greater upgrade than going with the $3000 shock upgrades. I can see where this new front end may need some tweaking but again just changing the "primary suspension" or tire to a bias running 32 psi will make a very nice change. Nice video again and good job. The lunacy you see on the new wing is no different than that which exists on the new Indians and Harleys. Almost everything I do involves removing the front fairing just to loosen one bolt. Like cars engineers never actually work on what they design so it's a challenge and I see only getting worse.

[@pedroc6823]

My guess is that a different setting will help but I suspect there isn’t going to be enough adjustment available.

[@cruisemansgarage]

I set it to rider+luggage and it does seem better. But, I am only 180 pounds, so not sure who could use rider only setting.

[@chris4240]

The audio is not bad. Your voice is very clear.

[@johnb2602]

It's not static. The input gain is too high - that's what is likely to be causing the distortion. Don't know if you can adjust the gain, or whether the mic is too close to your mouth...

[@BTimmer]

Do you find the glare on the guage cluster distracting? On the video I certainly do. Thanks for the comments good and bad.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Glare is worse in the video than at eye level. The GoPro is mounted at chin level. But, it "could" be an issue if the sun is in the right position.

[@LTVoyager]

Every video I have seen of the new wing shows lots of glare off the flat dash cover. A little curvature or anti glare coating would help a lot.

[@cruisemansgarage]

It's really not that bad. No worse than the glare off the back of the windshield.

[@LTVoyager]

cruisemansgarage How bad is the glare off the windshield?

[@dnegrichjr]

love the blogs keep em going!

[@gimmecom]

I noticed it rarely uses 7th gear at the speeds you were cruising at in Tour mode, 50-55 maybe? With all the torque available above 1500 rpm, Econ mode may be a better choice for mileage. Begs the question though, does Econ mode make it a dog?

[@cruisemansgarage]

It sort of does, but I do use it around town when I remember to switch modes.

[@johnk12345100]

Hey Cruz man some good discussion here, little trick on your Sirius subscription, we finally figured out that if you call and threaten to cancel, they will drop down your service to about five bucks a month for 6 months, then you just put it on your calendar for when 5 and 1/2 months rolls around call back to cancel again and they keep repeating the same deal for you! Good way to get Sirius XM for about 5 bucks a month! Do I feel bad? Heck no, that stuff is way too expensive! On another note, I agree the difference between the 2018 and the previous generation, as far as which one is a better Commuter, or around town, the 2018 Goldwing touring blows away the GL 1800. But what you will not notice is any difference in that commuter great feeling from a 2018 touring to a previous generation F6B! Taking away the trunk and what they did to the center of gravity on the F6B, makes it as good of a around town bike as a 2018 touring all day long. I did notice when I test drove the 2018 Touring that it felt exactly like my F6B around town! Which is great because you get the trunk in the back rest with a 2018. But again sticking with my F6B for a while. And again one of my biggest gripes is the loudness of the new Goldwing stereo. How's that been treating you? I just hate to drop that kind of coin on a new bike, and have to upgrade the sound system the day after I buy it, Now I'll continue to watch your video

[@cruisemansgarage]

John, I am not a good one to ask about the audio system because I use Bluetooth headsets. Good info about the SIRIUS/XM.

[@wingrider6116]

Another good informative video Cruiseman, thanks! I'm afraid Honda has a lot of work to do before I would even consider buying new Wing.

[@cruisemansgarage]

You may have to wait another 16 years.

[@wingrider6116]

I know...glad I love my 2017! lol

[@eddiebenzz]

Cruiseman's Garage 😱😱😱🤥🤥😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@oscarrivera7341]

correction i installed mind without moving the saddle bag

[@csxhogger1]

Cruiseman, you can listen to music via thumbdrive from the left saddlebag fyi. Enjoyed the vlog and 411.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Wow, the Honda info says nothing about that. Thank.

[@danthechippie4439]

Hi, I was wondering with all the talk about how small the trunk is on the 2018 Goldwing is there an after market extra trunk that can be installed behind the existing one like some other bikes have? Also you probably have already addressed this question but as an upright rider do you have a preference on lids? I have an older Goldwing and my lid that I carried across from my previous bike a Harley is a Shoei Gt- air. Great videos, honest as always. Cheers man

[@cruisemansgarage]

Nothing yet. I pull a trailer when riding 2 up. When 1-up long distance, I am strapping a bag to the passenger seat.

[@LTVoyager]

I suspect either Honda will address this in a year or two or the aftermarket will respond. Hopefully, same with the puny fuel tank. I am hoping Honda will reconsider some of their design choices before I need to move away from my LT. I won't tow a trailer with a bike (I will get a Miata if it comes to that), so I need a bike that will fit a FF helmet in each side case and two in the trunk. That is my minimum size test for a two-up touring bike. The wing is currently a commuter bike as stated here or a solo touring bike. Hopefully, Honda will correct these deficiencies. And why is it still so heavy? The K1600 is 80 lbs lighter, has larger cases and a 7 gallon tank so the technology clearly exists to make a bike in this class much lighter without compromising fuel or case capacity.

[@dougstoutenborough6461]

Thanks again for this video along with all the others. I am subscribed and I just returned from a 2650 mi trip down into Texas Hill country along with stopping in Ft Worth, Tx for a Grand National AFT race there. I posted on this trip on your forum and mentioned very strongly the POGO affect on this trip. Just very unsettled on the 3 sisters or twisted sister roads down around Kerrville, TX. I can tell you on my bike when I would get it layed over into a sweeping corner and hit a dip the bike bounced an extra bounce and it was quite discerning to say the less because most of those roads there is not much room for error. My 2013 F6b will out handle and out ride my new bike on the rear end. I feel Honda got it better actually much better with the new front end but the rear is not right. As noted by another person on his channel the 4 presets are no good. The older bikes with variable is much better. I can also tell you when you take your first road trip the wind protection is not there around your elbows and shoulders no matter high the shield is ran up. I love the new electric screen and find myself leaving it just a couple quick jabs on the up/down button from bottomed out. And raising it full won't help with the wind on your elbows etc.

[@rayyillik968]

I haven’t done it yet, that’s why I was asking if you had a video showing how to do it.

[@frankteasley666]

Cruiseman, since the 2018 has so many issues that you don't know if you can live with, when are you going to sell it and get an older wing that you obviously prefer?

[@cruisemansgarage]

Just pointing out the differences.

[@egalitarianvegan8806]

I chose to get a used low mileage GL1800 because I really wanted the larger luggage space, comfy seat, and the proven smooth ride. The Goldwing has always been that gold standard touring bike. I think that the 2018 might have been a mistake in that their less spacious, and less comfy from the reviews I have seen. They are probably a great bike, but just not as great at long distance touring as the previous GL 1800 models. I guess time will tell.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Enjoy your new bike. You made a good choice.

[@jamesnusky6257]

I have not even rode the new bike yet. next spring for sure

[@oscarrivera7341]

you can use the 2nd usb for a iPod or usb drive, i installed mind with moving the saddle bag

[@danthechippie4439]

I see, and what would be your helmet of choice as an upright rider?

[@ut1004bp]

I bought a 2014 F6B, but the seat height, seat width and frame width under the seat was too much for me, and I hated the low gearing (1st- final gear), and I really need cruise control to avoid tennis elbow issue... (reverse could have been helpful) so off went the F6B back to the Yamaha Stratoliner 1900.. My question is your seating on this bike much easier to reach the ground (30 inch inseam talking here...lol). How is Manual model's 6 speed for overall use compared to your 2016 (if you know)?

[@Dreadnought9193]

I agree that honda instructions suck. I had a fun time installing my third brake light. The XM antenna I used was an eBay 15 dollar one. I just mounted to the brake reservoir with Velcro. I haven't subscribed yet either.

[@bubblehead7680]

Give Mike Payne and Chris Caliente a jingle on the Sena. Maybe even Two Wheel Obsession.

[@cruisemansgarage]

I watch Chris' videos regularly.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

Sounds just like my Triumph Trophy it took me 4 hours to install the GPS mount to the metal bracket under the main dash!!!

[@stuartbrock7586]

What do you normally use for the best headset?

[@MrPorter97]

Sounds like the pogo effect could be the shocks. Maybe it is like Max says they are under damped.

[@oklahomahank2378]

Do you have a toll transponder of some kind? If so, where did you put it?

[@cruisemansgarage]

I mounted mine under the front garnish.

[@p917pilot]

Now I'm tossed! I'm sure I could install the opera lights, fog lights, etc. on my own, but with the constantly changing "honey-do" list, an hour turns to 4, turns to 7 days! I, also, see what you say about dealerships, as I'm looking at a puddle of leaking coolant under my GL1500 that been in the dealership twice already to stop! Good thing I'm still waiting to get the fog lights I paid for when I got the bike! ☹

[@endurochris9104]

I really appreciate Cruiseman's videos but, the first five minutes was a comparison of the '16 to the '18, the rest was install of aftermarket parts. Trying to decide on a 5th or 6th gen bike and need some help. Outside of the handlebar feed back the video wasn't very useful. I'll search his page for others and you tube itself. If anyone has a link to a good comparison video please comment to help me out. Thanks!

[@MemphisMike901]

Hey is anything else paired to your Sena while doing this VLOG? When I log with my Sena setup i only pair to the backpack..no phone paired

[@cruisemansgarage]

Good question. I think I paired my phone, but I don't have my Bluetooth on my phone enabled during the ride. I would have to check. I have 2 headsets and I paired the phone to one, but cannot remember which one! Could be an issue. I will "unpair" my phone just to be sure. Sena is supposed to be shipping me a new unit to try. So, you are using the backpack with the 20s?

[@MemphisMike901]

Yes Sena 20S, GP10 Audio Pack. sometimes when more devices are in the mix it seems to generate that popcorn noise. Two Wheel Obsession wen thru this at one time as well. I would try making sure just the 20S and audio pack are only thing in the mix to eliminate possibilities. Great vid by the way!

[@cruisemansgarage]

I will definitely give that a try. I will clear all pairings and start over. Thanks. Why didn't Sena tech support suggest that?

[@MemphisMike901]

Keep us posted on what works. I hope it will help. Maybe do another hard reset as well.

[@eddiebenzz]

Lol- Apparently ... We have a ton of Goldwing “ Whiners “ Hahaha 😂😂 I test rode the DCT Touring bike few weeks ago at the Long Beach Motorcycle Show. I fell in Love with it. 95% chance I’m gonna buy it. I’ve seen a ton of videos on this bike already. NOBODY SEEMS TO BE 100% HAPPY 😃 !! To many CRYERS ! Reminds me of that saying .... How do you VIEW the glass ? 50 % FULL or 50 % EMPTY ?? Are you guys looking for the 100% Perfect 👌 Touring bike ? ( Looking for that 100% perfect Woman ? ) Let me know when you find it ! I think I will be purchasing this bike soon ! 😁

[@eddiebenzz]

Chad Shepherd Haha 😆 Well ... I ended up purchasing a new BMW K 1600 B ( very well pleased w/ it .... already 25,000 miles. Smooooth Silky ride w/ Rocket 🚀 Power ) 🤙

[@eddiebenzz]

Chad Shepherd Thankyou ! Ride safe brotha

[@salvatoremilazzo8227]

I admit it it’s me!!! I just HAVE TO hit that thumbs down, I can’t help it I’m a negative kinda guy! Shame! Kidding, couldn’t resist saying that, watch and love all your vids. PS: If you break a part because of lacking instructions please say so, you might be saving someone a lot of money 💰.

[@giantinside]

Great video. Thanks.

[@rayyillik968]

I heard you say you installed the fog lights. Do you have a video showing the install? I ordered my fog lights from the dealer but they were backordered so it looks like I’ll have to install them myself?

[@cruisemansgarage]

How did you route the cable?

[@pedroc6823]

its a suspension setting.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Could be. I have tried a stiffer setting and it definitely seems to help.

[@turgutugursoy3074]

"Comparing 2018 Honda Gold Wing to Previous Model" wrong title, this is not a comparison video....

[@brandonpittman5243]

Traxxion dynamics has suspension upgrade for that bike

[@arizonadroner5164]

The 2018 is not a "Goldwing" it's more like a "Sportwing" !! No Thank You !!

[@roberycutcher7189]

Perhaps you should have titled the video “Ramblings about accessories and DIY”? Perhaps one of the worst comparison bike videos I’ve watched.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Just curious, how come there is always 1 thumbs down? Is it the same guy?

[@regfeener]

A few guys with their own vlogs who are so jealous of what you have going here..

[@cruisemansgarage]

I think this is typical of any Moto Vlog. I know Chris Caliente has commented on that same issue with his channel (a good one, by the way). I guess there are always going to be naysayers.

[@AV84USA]

I think you’ve got to expect a couple of thumbs-down on any video. Getting too worked up about it will likely get you more of them. You can’t please everyone, and if you do, you’re doing something wrong.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Doesn't really bother me, I just find it curious if it is the same guy, why go back to a channel and watch a video if you didn't like the last one you watched?

[@MemphisMike901]

LoL....Welcome to Motovlogging! I have one as well!

[@towdybartlett9747]

This video makes me want to choke Honda!!! They are ridiculous in their engineering in all these ways!!! Makes me furious how the have dropped the ball, I still haven’t rode the new model!!!

[@kevincamilleri1695]

The 2018 looks like a cheap downward spiral of a wing👎