F6B modifications

F6B modifications

[@jessebacke]

Your bike is a spectacle in the middle of so many Gold Wings, congratulations !

[@troylogan3449]

Really love the way you have this bike setup. My last bike was the 2010 Road King Classic and I'm now looking at the F6B. I must confess that if and when I get one, I will probably mimic some of your ideas. LOL

[@mnavrrojr]

Very, very nice! I love what you did. My next bike will hopefully be an F6B. Keep us updated.

[@regfeener]

Wonderful job on the rig Brud.. Love the ride and love the post.. Great stuff..

[@nutrientcobra]

Very nice bike Jim. I like the mods you have done!

[@crashstitches79]

I been obsessed with this model ever since it came out, and before that I always liked hotrod Wings. Sooooo sweet! Much is my envy for you.

[@jaredparsons44]

I just bought a gray 2015 F6B Deluxe in Franklin, Tennessee about three weeks ago and love it.

[@odowdski]

Jared, I'm in Franklin, too. Call me at 615-604-2100 if you want to ride sometime.

[@tennwingman3350]

Jim, just down the road in Murfreesboro and just came across this video. I have twin sons and they both bought the first two F6B's in Tenn. from Southern Powersports when they first came out. I have a 1989 GL1500 and a 2012 GL1800 with the airbag. Come visit us sometime I am with Chapter Y GWRRA. We meet the 3rd Sat morning at 10am at the Farmers Rest in the Boro. and if you are out and about give me a shout I am always up for a ride as I am now retired.

[@agreatdaytoride7116]

Very clean look, Jim. Fantastic!

[@nojnoj3069]

Very very nice. I am 100% with you all the way with your amazing lighting. We must be seen. I totally believe that it's never us on the bike's but the cars and wagons abuse us on the road everyday. For me, the more lights on, the greater the chance of being seen, the greater the chance of getting home safely....... Take care outthere on that dream machine of yours. God bless you and keep you safe.

[@copdwarriormcdonald7968]

Awesome upgrades Big Cat and beautiful Machine! Ride On

[@davidfalgout7304]

Love the add ons... well done and very useful! I too hope to get a F6B in the not to distant future.

[@kevinsmith2747]

Great video. Even 5 yrs later I’m still looking for a F6b

[@odowdski]

Kevin, that was a great bike...sometimes I still miss it! But moving to the 2019 DCT was the right move for me. Lighter, more nimble, and the DCT is a gas! If you ever get an opportunity to test ride one, I would highly encourage it...but have your checkbook ready!

[@kevinsmith2747]

@@odowdski since you have owned both I would like to get your opinion on something. Based on the current market where I live I think I can find for a a clean F6B for $10-12k range. Do you think I should instead spend the extra to get a 18yr model or newer? I think could get an 18+ used for $17-18k? Thanks 😊

[@odowdski]

@@kevinsmith2747 yes, I think it's worth it to spend the extra bucks for the newer DCT bike...but understand, I'm prejudiced towards having the benefits of the newer bike. Here are just a few of the benefits I am experiencing with the 2019 DCT: Lighter weight, slightly less wide, more nimble, engine slightly more powerful and definitely more fuel efficient, Android Auto integration is something I now use all the time and getting to love it, the DCT is a dream to ride, it just makes the ride more comfortable to take all the shifting out of the equation. I assume you ride solo...if not, the larger Goldwing Tour model is for you. Only drawback of the newer bike is the slightly smaller panniers, but that doesn't bother me much, as I carry my clothes and stuff in a waterproof bag on long trips anyway. My advice would be to get a good test ride on both an F6B and a DCT and let me know your impressions. I loved my F6B and had no intentions of buying a DCT...until I rode one, and it was love at first sight. Hope this helps.

[@kevinsmith2747]

@@odowdski that was exactly the information I was looking for. I think I will hold out for the new DCT version. Sitting on the new goldwing I’m so impressed how light it feels between the legs. Thank you for your feedback sir. Much appreciated.

[@thomasbrogan8036]

Whuta fine buncha upgrades. Exquisitely attended to bike. Nice.

[@Bass.Player]

My favorite MC, I can't afford one now that I'm retired... I'm riding a Valkyrie now and probably forever...

[@JohnS916]

Very nice upgrades, professional all the way. I'm in the first stages of thinking about buying a Goldwing and leaving Harley behind. I want a bike designed for the long haul, one with high marks for reliability as well. A recent 1,500 ride to Death Valley National Park and back confirmed my thoughts on this. I really like the F6B, but decided to go with the tour model GW just for the added storage capacity and budget constraints. I'm not going to buy a new bike, but one in the 2006-2009 range. The three of us on the DV trip all own Harleys and my 03 Road King was just tolerable, that is even after I had done some useful suspension and comfort upgrades, big improvement in handling, but still fell short on the long ride. A fellow rider on the trip rode his 05 Softail, bone stock and he suffered the most after feeling like he had just gone through a gauntlet of discomfort issues like noise, wind blast, vibration, seat and handlebar issues that created constant shoulder pain, so much so it sounded like he was going to give up on riding, at least any thought of multiday road trips. I sensed this and threw out there, "have you ever thought about the Goldwing?" I knew it had the reputation for reliability and comfort and I figured the Goldwing could keep him riding. Next thing I know the both of us pounced on Google and Craigslist, doing research and looking at what the used market offered. He is fortunate enough to be in a position where a new bike is doable financially, but knowing how cheap he is I told him he would be happy with a wing from 2012-2013 and price point of $14-$15K. He put his Softail up for sale, sold it in a few days and then set out looking for the right bike. He lucked out and found a mint 3K miles 2013 Touring model with all the bells and whistles less the airbag, so he bought it. It's been about three weeks now and he's in love with it, he can't believe how awesome the bike is and already he's talking about doing another road trip. My case is different, I have a smaller budget, I have to get my Harley repaired (leaking primary gasket) first before going out shopping. As usual (bad timing) I found the perfect bike, a couple grand over budget yet worth stepping up for, unfortunately, it wasn't the right time. I hope to get my Harley up for sale by next week and then the excitement of looking for the right Goldwing begins. Thanks for the upgrade ideas, anything to increase visibility for yourself or for others to see you always make sense. I like the clean look of your bike, I de-badged my Dodge Ram truck with the same impact, personal taste dictates this of course. I also like the look of the "Ribco?" Aero Pegs over the standard sloppy looking extended pegs. I have heard of issues with them regarding ground clearance in turns, was that the issue that contributed to your crashes? I never had a need to install them on my Road King, flat-footed on the boards was OK and besides, I thought riders with their legs all splayed out on those highway pegs looked weird, lol. I'm kind of anal when it comes to wind blast, I hate it. It was an issue that caused me to sell my Ducati Multistrada (older model 2009) and this was after trying three different windshields. You mentioned getting those underside view mirror deflectors, are they designed to minimize what I call "bobblehead" helmet wind blast, or are they for keeping the wind off your torso? On my Harley, I had fantastic results by installing fork mounted wind deflectors. These deflected the wind from coming in below the windshield and up and over the front of the gas tank and into your face. Just like anything else, opinions differ on this, mostly positive, for me, they did the job. I'm not into installing a bunch of those aftermarket wind deflectors I see mainly on older Goldwings and I think many are designed for the comfort of the passenger, I'm speculating on this. I think the newer Goldwing fairings are better designed and all I care about is my comfort since my wife is afraid to ride on the back.

[@odowdski]

John, sounds like you are on the right track now. But since your wife doesn't ride (mine doesn't either) and since she no longer allows me to date anymore...I made the decision to go F6B over Goldwing and I've been glad I did it. The only thing I miss is the storage on long trips, but not really...I just tie on a waterproof bag to the luggage rack and problem solved. The F6B is lighter and more nimble than the Goldwing, and uses a little less gas. Thanks for your comments on the Rivco Aero pegs. I love the look and function is swell...and yes, the Mick-O-Pegs, which I had used on three previous Goldwings, did contribute to my low-side crashes as they reduced the ground clearance when I leaned over too far. The Baker hand wings really make quite a difference in the amount of air coming across my hands. In the cold weather, I keep them closed, open in summer. Closed in rain. You might keep an eye out for a nice used F6B, if you don't want a 2018. Or, come down to Nashville and make me a fair offer on mine, and I'll go buy the '18!

[@mspyjed]

Way cool - and great presentation. Looks very stealthy - maybe you didn't need the radar detector. Nice Christmas present to yourself, and I can tell you will enjoy the hell out of it. Happy holidays.

[@odowdski]

Front and rear badges removed with heat gun, dental floss and a lot of patience. WD40 for the final clean-up. Side cover badges removed by body shop, holes filled and re-painted.

[@bogdanvelica]

this is not an f6b anymore sorry to say so... this is the star ship Enterprise :). good job!

[@rksmith5273]

I'm in Clarskville but I ride the GL1800, 2014 model. Thinking about purchasing the F6B for my home in California. That way I will never miss riding.

[@odowdski]

RK, you wouldn't regret it! Many feel that the F6B is actually more nimble than the GL1800.

[@rksmith5273]

Not sure that is true but I understand what you are saying. Just not sure I want to own both bikes. I am going through a slide deck I built on choosing a cruiser, FJR1300ES, F6B, Indian Chief Dark Horse, HD Road Glide, Vulcan 1700 Vacuero or the Boulevard C90T. As it stands, I am leaning towards the FJR1300 or the HD Road Glide.

[@odowdski]

Wow, all great bikes, but vastly different. For me, it was the riding position comfort of the F6B over the FJR...but the proof is in the riding. If you ever get down this way, drop me a line and we'll hook up for a ride down the Natchez Trace. I live real close to the northern terminus. Happy to have you ride my F6B .

[@edwinkubena9944]

Love the F6B but my C90 will have to do for now great job great bike!

[@scooby0006]

Nice bike and great job on the mods. Love the shelf. I am torn between the gw and the f6b. I love them both.

[@RRatedCustoms]

Those are such amazing bikes. Part of me is leaning to getting one of those. By the way, HI, from over in Cheatham County. I hope to see you out on the beautiful roads this fall as I tend to wander over that way on rides.

[@odowdski]

Anthony, I ride over that way often. Just last Sunday rode through Narrows Of The Harpeth on my way to Hwy. 49 to Charlotte, Vanleer, Erin, etc. Get you one of these F6Bs and let's go riding!

[@mechengr2k2]

Absolutely great job! This is my dream bike. I love everything you did to it.

[@odowdski]

Mike, those foam sleeves are called "Grip Puppies" and they are the lease expensive and easiest to install accessory I know of. Just Google Grip Puppies, they should be easy to find.

[@1motomanic]

I'm the same way....I don't need no stinking badges!!!

[@odowdski]

Ha! John Vidal, a year ago I wouldn't have considered selling this bike, but I must say, the new 2018 models appeal on several levels. Maybe you can come down here to Franklin, TN and take her off my hands!

[@chriscaliente5033]

Looks amazing, I like it.

[@luc1ferblack]

modulators are a great idea it looks like your flashing people bear that in mind the next time someone is waiting to pull out

[@fersnchez69]

nice bike, I love it. make fill to go get one now.. love the mods u 've done.

[@nuclear_option4676]

Great looking bike. Your modifications were tastefully done, while many offer safety enhancements, that hopefully make you more noticeable to cagers. Looks like a comfortable touring ride to cross the continent on, in style. Be safe.

[@Jodyrides]

headlight modulator’s and tail light modulator’s here are two stories I had the back off tail light flashing system on my Honda Pacific coast that I commuted to work on for24 years. I was waiting my turn at that stop sign when I got plowed into by a car. I had my aero stitch one piece suit on, touring motorcycle boots, deerskin gloves, modular full face helmet. When I was coming to the ambulance was already there, and the police were there. The man that ran into me while I was stopped at that stop sign at the four-way intersection, I was explaining to the policeman, “I saw his tail light flashing and I thought he was pulling out “ story number two Montana is a very sparsely populated very large state. Montana state police cars were starting to have modulating headlights installed. Even though Montana has a very low population relative to other states, they had the highest incidence of head on collisions in the nation. It was the cars that had modulating headlights that were being ran into head on.. there is a scenario that is called “target fixation”--that is, when your subconscious sees something like a modulating headlight approaching. That person unconsciously will stare at that light until they figure out what it is because the subconscious has not seen that before. And as we all know, we tend to drive where we are looking. for what it’s worth. I know that when I got hit on my Honda pacific coast, that’s flashing tail light caused the accident. That knocked me out of work for nine months and totaled my machine.. I am permanently injured/shoulder subluxation. The good things are,it was best nine month paid vacation of my life, I got a new motorcycle, and I paid my house off 16 years early with the settlement.. but my shoulder still grinds, my wife has to cut the grass, and I can’t sleep on my left side. it was not worth it. I have been driving motorcycles and trucks and cars since 1968, I have almost 2,000,000 miles driving, I have over 700,000 miles just writing Street bikes. That is the first time I ever got hit from behind on a motorcycle One other thing to consider when you’re delving into the electrics of your machines. You void the warranty when you “ modify” witn “ non standard parts..The manufacturer can actually do reject your engine failure claim if you are not using a honda oem oil filter.. read your owners manual. Do use of non-factory parts Will cause your claim to be denied in the event of a failure. If you have engine problems and you are using a K& N oiled Air filter, instead of the OEM Honda air filter, and you have sensor problems, valve problems, injector problems, catalytic converter failures, oxygen sensor failures, it’s not covered. that is in your owners manual also.. I worked at five different dealerships when I was younger as a mechanic/builder/salesman. I remember when some chinese co was making-selling chromed oil filters, and a few gold wings were having engine failures while using these chrome oil filters that were defective supposedly. even though the bikes were not even a year old when they failed, Honda would not pay for the repairs. around that time, I remember Yamaha was a lot more lenient. A customer bought a secondhand XS 1100 Yamaha and he had some catastrophic engine failure. The bike was even three years old, and Yamaha told the dealership I work for, give them a new engine and they sent a new engine for free. we were all shocked that Honda would not cover Goldwing engine failures because of the oil filters that were not standard OEM filters. That was a shock to us in the business. I never tamper with intake, computer, exhaust on any of my motorcycles. The factory has the resources and the development teams to make sure those things are perfect when they leave the factory. I realize they know more than I do so I leave everything stock. I will upgrade seat, windshield, suspension, brake pads, tires ,But I leave the electrical and mechanical systems bone stock

[@odowdski]

Chad, you are probably referring to the wireless controller for my Gerbings heated clothing. The two knobs control heated jacket and gloves independently.

[@ManoCharlie]

Excellent job.

[@SmoothbassmanStudios]

Like the changes!!!

[@53patsfan]

Nice Job, when can I send my bike to you for upgrades?

[@dbest1aVlogs]

Nice bike with some awesome mods...

[@mml1224]

hi Jim, great vid, its in great shape, any new thots on the pros/cons on the bike? do u know where/website i can find one of these used pal? thanks!

[@odowdski]

Thanks for your comments! I have now had a new 2019 DCT Goldwing for the past two years. Although I love my new bike, there are things I miss about the F6B, mainly, the comfort, the look of the bike, the increased storage and easier access to accessories via the shelf I had attached to the Windbender windshield. IMO the F6B is still a great-looking bike, very comfortable and fun to ride, and one of the nicest bikes Honda has ever made. If I ever found it necessary to replace my 2019 DCT, I would go right back to the F6B. Hope this helps you! Check out Cycle Trader or find the Honda Powersports dealer closest to you...or check out www.gl1800riders.com and search for used bikes.

[@mml1224]

@@odowdski thanks jim, classy of you2reply....so if u dont mind me askin, wat did you sell your awesome upgraded fb6 for, the buyer got a steal i bet? lol...any reason you went with a 'shiftless dct' on the new GW? how can you say it was more comfortable than your new GW, same chasis/frame, shock system so i figure both comfortable? thanks for the link!

[@odowdski]

@@mml1224 I got $10,000 trade-in allowance for my 2015 F6B...I might have been able to get as much as $12,000 if I had sold it myself. Why did I buy an automatic? Well, I didn't set out to! I just happened to take one for a test ride and fell immediately in love with it. It's smooth and it's fast! The reasons I say the old bike was more comfortable are, the 2018+ bikes are definitely smaller. They weigh around 75 lbs. less, the gas tank is 1 gallon smaller, they are not as wide, the saddlebags are smaller, etc. There are lots of differences...the 2018+ is NOT the same bike as previous models. Interestingly, even though I have 1 gallon less gas, I get better range than before. The new motor is that much more fuel efficient.

[@mml1224]

@@odowdski geez only 10k$?you gave it away free, if ur selling your house this year, let me know im sure ull gve me a great deal!lol....so how many miles did ur fb6 have? i appreciate the descriptive reply on differences, those r great points!nvr knew that, the newer GW is a rip off compared to the extras you get w/the old fb6, no wonder they stopped makin them in 16', Honda wld go broke today.... well if your honda friends havea fb6 4sale, ,do your best 2 kindly reach out 2me and let me know, thanks.

[@odowdski]

This beautiful bike is now for sale at Southern Powersports in Chattanooga, TN. I traded her in on a new 2019 Goldwing DCT in the Majestic Matte Silver color. I will be doing a walk-around video of the new bike and will post any modifications in the future.

[@IRISH4486]

So you took the badges off and changed the light bulbs.

[@diversionplateau3857]

did I miss your front windshiled up-grade details, I love it. what is that ?

[@odowdski]

If I recall correctly, that windshield was a Windbender from Firecreek Accessories. I loved that setup, and got much good use out of the farkle shelf that I also purchased from Firecreek. It was the perfect place to mount accessories, in plain view, close to eye level.

[@dougfresh1341]

Good looking bikes. I'm waiting for the microwave.

[@mayhemmike1789]

Whyd ya debadge it? I think The badges are pretty against the matte gray/black

[@michaeloloughlinsr.7809]

Great job who did the work and how much did it cost? Thanks mahalo

[@odowdski]

Michael, I did all the work in my garage. Nothing too difficult, the rear lighting mods were painstaking but nothing too extreme. I suppose the total cost of all the accessories ran somewhere between $1,000 and $2,000.

[@zatoich1st]

Hello Jim, nice work, what rear rack bag are you using.

[@BGD.2980]

In talks with my local deal. Trading in my CTX1300 for this bad boy. Cannot wait!

[@odowdski]

You will not be disappointed. Lots of power, low-end torque, and comfort. You may want to check out the chatter on the F6B forum: www.hondaf6b.com

[@BGD.2980]

Hello good sir! I got a true number on a 2015 Deluxe at $17,800 OTD. I want to add the TBS Exhaust, Luggage Rack, Klock Werks windshield and Fog Lights. So, I'm waiting on the final number with accessories plus labor.

[@odowdski]

Bill, that's a good price. I paid $18,000 for my 2015 Deluxe. I am not familiar with the TBS exhaust, but the other accessories will surely enhance your bike. I used the 14" Klockwerks Flare on mine before I switched out to the Windbender...and the only reason I went to the Windbender was so I could install the farkle shelk to mount my GPS, radar detector, and heated gear controller. The OEM exhaust on my 2015 Deluxe is a little louder than a stock Goldwing, and I have had numerous comments on how good it sounds. If these TBS pipes come in too high...and most aftermarket exhaust pipes are fairly expensive...you might consider running stock for awhile and then decide if you really need to go louder later on. For the ultimate in sound and performance, I have found the Torq Loopz are pretty hard to beat.

[@dry509]

+Jim O'Dowd So your exhaust pipes are stock? Also, any words of wisdom..I am thinking of getting a Harley Ultra or Road King. Have you ridden them..if so why do you like the F6b better? Appreciate your honest input. Is this fun to ride?

[@odowdski]

My pipes are stock...just a tad deeper than the OEM Goldwing, but nowhere near as loud as a Harley. I have not ridden the Harleys, but understand them to be fine bikes. It is my perception...and this is strictly my opinion...that the Honda F6B will be less maintenance and probably outperform the Harleys. I'm not bashing Harleys...there's nothing quite like the sound of a Harley...but I wouldn't hesitate to jump on my F6B and ride across the country at a moment's notice. The Honda may be better for a more "sporty" rider, the Harley may be better for more "social" riding? Ask the Harley guys what they think...

[@ResistNFlee]

Hi Jim, I forgot to mention, Nice upgrades. I found Hand Deflectors, but if you have the model for Headlight Modulator that would be great.

[@odowdski]

+ResistNFlee that is a Kisan Pathblazer headlight modulator system: Subtotal $169.95 Shipping & Handling $0.00 Tax $0.00 Grand Total $169.95 P115W­D $169.95

[@randallcurtis1]

Is this 2013 model. If not what model is it?

[@turnkeyproperties5372]

How did you remove the Honda logos without damaging the flat paint?

[@Barry-26]

Nice number plate

[@odowdski]

Yes, I installed it. They run a little over $300.00.

[@johnvidal806]

When you get ready to sell this, let me know!,

[@odowdski]

Mimic all you want, Troy..."Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery"...besides, everything I did was learned from someone else!

[@garyrosenquist4071]

I live in Chicago and ride my wing in the winter and dont need no heated gear.

[@jesuschrist4515]

Nice whip bro

[@chadsalter9961]

Jim you sure did some great clean installs, it looks great! What's that controller on the far right of the dash? I just stumbled upon the F6B recently (I'm a custom V-twin guy) and can't believe how inexpensive the new leftovers are going for with all the big changes in the pipeline for 2018. I hope to find one in this same color soon, but now I'll want all these cool things I don't have time to install :)

[@PBRStreetGang68]

Lovely looking bike 👍. Just wondering if the modulating front lights might be a bit misleading to drivers thinking you are letting them pass. Also, goes the tray obscure your vision and what's the thing attached to the grip used for? 🤠

[@odowdski]

David, great question on the modulating front lights. In fact, I seldom turn on the modulating feature...this is just my personal choice...but I use it mainly to alert "left lane loafers" to get over and let me pass...and it works very well for that. The tray does not obscure my vision in any way, as I am looking over the windshield, not through it. My experience has been that I can see better when my eyes are 1" to 2" above the windshield. Lastly, the "thing" on my grip is likely the "cramp buster" which is actually kind of useful. It allows me to rest the butt of my hand on the throttle, which relaxes my grip on the throttle. Unnecessary when using cruise control, but useful in town and in the twisties.

[@slsl-ud2me]

really nice without the trim hows the stock seat

[@ivancardenas2860]

You put a desk for the GPS??? 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@odowdski]

Dave, there is no backrest on the bike. You may be referring to the rear carrier rack, which is a Honda accessory. Check out wingstuff.com, you'll find it there.

[@Kolsch221]

Did you install it? How much was it?

[@PaleRider1162]

very good gadgets 👍

[@bamahi7142]

I looked at the Honda Website and it doesn't list that backrest that you have. Where did you get it?

[@maggie3ification]

Can you tell me what tint is on your windshield? Dark tint or Bronze?

[@OzBloke]

Very Nice.

[@mikeberube93]

Jim, what's on your hand grips? It looks like a some kind of foam sleeve? I want to increase the diameter of the factory grips and still researching the best way with heated grips.

[@northerniltree]

I am negotiating on a new 2016 F6B now, replacing my BMW 1600GTL. Both are exemplary cruisers, both 6 cylinders. But the Honda's 40 year's experience with the Wing, along with their commitment to rider comfort was always known to me. When they developed this bike, and gave it ABS and cruise control- well, I'm trading horses. I like your mods, and the thought you put into them. Is the brake light string a Honda accessory? Where can I get that? Seriously, regarding the adjustable windshield, does that 2-piece setup whistle in the wind? And, do you like the stock seat? I've heard good things about the Russell Day Long saddle, what's your take on this?

[@odowdski]

Sorry to be late responding, but let me answer your questions. The brake light string is not a Honda accessory. I put a fair amount of time and effort into configuring and installing this. Not a lot of money, but probably a good 20 hours in labor. The 2-piece windshield does not whistle in the wind. Lastly, I do not use the stock seat, I went with the Ultimate King seat, which is light-years improved over the stock seat. I haven't heard much good about the stock seat, and I've changed mine out on the last three Goldwings I've owned. Plus, the Ultimate King moves you back a couple of inches, which I find more comfortable for my aging knees.

[@northerniltree]

Thanks for the reply, Jim. I did trade the BMW for the F6B. I will look into the Ultimate King seat. Motorcycle manufacturers build the stock seats for the bike, and not the rider. If the string was a genuine Honda accessory, it would MSRP at $119.95. And they would probably sell!

[@mikeberube93]

Jim im following your lead on the rear of my f6b, can you please tell me where you hooked up your whelen tir3, everything else is done, thanks for the great video

[@odowdski]

Mike, that's an easy question. I wired the TIR-3 to the rear brake light. Just splice on to the existing wiring, it's easy. Just make sure you attach to the brake light, as you don't want the thing on all the time!

[@mikeberube93]

Awesome thanks for replying. The directions are horrible cause it tells you to run the positive and negative to your battery, I'm thinking that will keep it on all the time. So just to make sure, the red and black to the brake light? Now I can finish.

[@odowdski]

Yes, Mike, you are correct. You certainly don't want to run it to the battery. I don't recall the wire colors, but red and black sounds right. Just take off the brake light assembly and you should be able to see the wires easily. Then, just to make sure you have the right wires, make a test connection to make sure everything works correctly, i.e., the TIR-3 fires up only when the brakes are squeezed. BTW, you have a variety of different flash patterns you can select from...good luck!

[@eddiecarmichael414]

When did you go darkside with this one...how long before you traded it in? I'm looking at the Southern Powersports website and noticed it.

[@odowdski]

Eddie, I replaced the original tire with a car tire as soon as that original wore out... probably around 7,000 miles.

[@odowdski]

I just traded a couple of weeks ago. It's an awesome bike...I miss it already!

[@sergedupiche5703]

Looking to purchase that windshield, what brand is it.

[@odowdski]

Windbender windshield.

[@thomasmesser7651]

Hey Jim. Nice bike. I just bought an F6B about a month ago and the only complaint I have is that you have to use the key to unlock every compartment on bike. I don't mind it for the saddlebags but i'd like to be able to access the fuel cap and forward storage compartment without having to turn the bike off. Do the radio knob keys replace to factory locks? If so, where can i buy them from?

[@odowdski]

Thomas, you can buy the radio knobs from Shinhopples...but you will still have to buy extra keys and cut them off to fit the radio knobs. I've done it several times, no big deal. I get the keys made at Ace Hardware, then use JB Weld to "weld" the key to the radio knob. There are several "how to" threads about this on the GL1800Riders.com website. Or if you just need someone to walk you through it, call me at 615-604-2100.

[@thomasmesser7651]

Thank you. I appreciate the info.

[@TunedRAMS]

Beautiful!! I want to hear it

[@odowdski]

Come on down to Franklin, TN and you can hear all you want! It's just a little louder/deeper than a standard GL1800...no huge difference. If you want the best sound, consider TorqLoopz and custom pipes. It's a fair amount of work and money to do, but man, does it sound awesome! Better performance, too.

[@rellmonger7935]

This bike is nice

[@deanb3033]

Hi Jim, how are you finding those highway pegs? Someone else told me he found his feet would slide off of them, so he removed them! Do you find that as well? Thanks

[@odowdski]

Dean, I sold that bike last October and have a new 2019 DCT model...same pegs, though. And I have never had my feet slide off of them. There is a raised edge at the end of the peg that keeps feet from sliding off. I still think these are great pegs and especially because they're up so high and won't drag when you lean way over.

[@zachgray746]

Hey Jim! My dad rode an old 1983 gold wing and loved the comfort. How would this compare with overall comfort for a guy in his 60's with bad hips as far as feeling good riding it?

[@odowdski]

Zach, I guess that would depend on how bad the hips are. One point to note is that the knee bend position is right at 90 degrees, which is among the most comfortable seating positions for big touring bikes. That should help the hips some...but the best suggestion would be for him to rent an F6B and ride it several hours at one time to see how it goes. I can ride 300-mile days easily, up to 700 or so...but no question it is tiring. Someone with real bad hips may find otherwise.

[@slamgybe1]

Great video. You mentioned a f6b forum. Would you happen to have the link?

[@odowdski]

Sure! hondaf6b.com

[@slamgybe1]

Thanks Jim!

[@chriscaliente5033]

The F6B is beautiful, what part of Tennessee are you in?

[@odowdski]

Chris Caliente I'm in middle Tennessee, Franklin to be exact.

[@chriscaliente5033]

Very good roads up on you end to ride.

[@fredzuccarelli]

Hey Jim.... Still riding your F6B? Curious to know your thoughts and opinions on it vs the new goldwing 1800 dct? Im torn between the 2. Thanks! Freddy

[@odowdski]

Hey Freddy, no, unfortunately I no longer have my beautiful F6B, having traded her in on the 2019 DCT. I do miss that bike, and think it was one of the best-looking and most comfortable rides I've had. Now, having put the first 30,000 miles on the 2019 DCT, I can tell you that I prefer riding it over the F6B. Why, you might ask? Well, the DCT is somewhat smaller in scale and more agile than the F6B. It weighs less by some 60-70 lbs. or so, and it's a tad bit narrower. And the DCT is to die for! I had no idea how much I would come to love the DCT! It's freaky fast and smooth...just twist the throttle and hang on! And the paddle shifters allow me to downshift into curves a little more aggressively if I want to. Not that you really need to that much...the Sport Mode provides much more aggressive shifting (up and down) and more sensitive throttle control. One thing I didn't do on the DCT is to move the seat and handlebars back. I decided to retain the stock seating position, although I did replace the OEM seat with an Ultimate seat. I have come to believe, rightly or wrongly, that messing with the seat position can adversely change the center of gravity. In other words, I feel (for me anyway) that the bike handles better when I don't move the seat back. My experience was that the free test ride was very helpful in making my final decision. All that said, I'm real happy with the 2019 and glad I upgraded. The only downsides I can think of are, smaller saddlebags and less storage space, and harder to hang accessories off the handlebars. Hope this helps! Jim O'Dowd (Big Cat)

[@fredzuccarelli]

@@odowdski thanks for the detailed response, BIG Cat. I hadn't realized you switched over to the dct....I went and saw your other videos on it....you gotta love that dct!!!! Enjoy the goldwing and ride safe!!!!

[@LaEscuelaDelEncanto]

Can someone please explain something to me. I own a 2014 Valkyrie. When I dial thru it’s display settings it reads, “Valkyrie F6B”. So is my bike this bikes precursor? Did Honda just drop the “Valkyrie “ name for whatever reason?

[@odowdski]

Alexandro, the Valkyrie is a more stripped-down version of F6B. It has no fairing, no windshield, no saddlebags and carries 1/2 gallon less fuel. It is also 100 lbs. lighter and a lot more peppy. Although you could call the Valkyrie the precursor to the F6B, perhaps it's more accurate to say they're just different versions of the same bike...in much the same way as the F6B is a different version of the Gold Wing. As far as I know, you could still buy a Valkyrie as recently as 2019, so it doesn't appear that Honda has dropped the name...it's just a different flavor of the same basic bike...a "muscle bike" if you will, compared to the "luxury tourer" Goldwing.

[@chiefjoseph8154]

Can you add reverse to that bike?

[@odowdski]

No.

[@garage1829]

Looks amazing 👍 can you send color code for me please??

[@odowdski]

Sorry, I have sold the bike. I think it was called matte silver.

[@odowdski]

Not so, Mcgrogan...I did all that work at one time over about 2 weeks and haven't touched her since...except to ride to Montana and back last year. Why don't you come buy it so I can get a new one!

[@phillhirondelle8025]

how do I get on the forum just bought a f6b at an auction BC Canada

[@odowdski]

Phil, just go to www.gl1800riders.com and sign up. It's free. There is another forum for F6B owners, at www.hondaf6b.com as well. I find the gl1800riders.com forum to be the most informative, however.

[@tommyb6422]

Jim, which shield height do you have on you bike, the 11" or 15"? Bronze or dark smoke tint? Thanks, bike looks fantastic!

[@odowdski]

Tommy, that's the one invoice I don't have, since I bought the shield from another biker. Pretty sure it's the dark smoke tint. And I'm going to guess it's the 15" height.

[@tommyb6422]

thanks, Jim!

[@slsl-ud2me]

jim can you hear the radio at highway speeds thanks

[@odowdski]

Never have turned the radio on! But I do listen to my "tunes" via Bluetooth helmet headset, works just fine! I can also make and answer phone calls and hear GPS instructions...all via the Sena Bluetooth headset.

[@brianbowman9127]

Hey Jim, I'm really looking at the F6B as my future ride but every time I see it, it reminds me that Honda needs to refresh the dash on the Gold Wing series. What are your thoughts on that? Digital maybe?

[@odowdski]

+Brian Bowman, I suppose you may be right, an upgrade to digital gauges would be nice. But if it ain't broke don't fix it may be Honda's motto. My experience as a Goldwing owner for the past 10 years has been that Honda is very slow to make major changes. Now, if you're thinking about the F6B as your future ride, all I can say is, it's a ball to ride...and I get so caught up in riding, I don't even pay much attention to the gauges! I just returned home yesterday from a 700-mile straight through ride from Texas...took me 11 hours, which isn't bad considering I had three leisurely gas stops...and it was like riding a Porsche...never missed a beat...smooth as silk. Go ride one, and then tell me you don't want it!

[@brianbowman9127]

+Jim O'Dowd Jim, you're right of course. In the end, the gauges won't matter much in light of the ride quality etc. I will take a test ride. Plus you can't beat the options you can add to the bike after the sale, too many to name. I'll let you know. Thanks for the help.

[@JimRoadDog]

Nice/

[@Kolsch221]

How did you take the badges off??

[@BN1960]

You're right, they're obnoxious.

[@robertcoe9196]

Where did you get the led plate/brake light?

[@odowdski]

Robert, that flashing brake light is a TIR 3, which can be purchased online from Srobes 'N More, among other places. It is a piece of cake to install, and is programmable to allow you to choose from several different flash patterns. As I recall, it cost around $80. I have used them on all of my bikes and wouldn't be without one!

[@CosmicTourist]

Still happy with the wind shield? How tall are you, and does the wind clear your head?

[@odowdski]

Peter Pan, yes, I am very happy with the Windbender windshield from Firecreek Accessories. I am 6' tall, and the wind does flow right over my head. Keep in mind, the windshield is adjustable, up or down. I have it down almost as far as it will go...I believe I could raise it 3 more clicks if I wanted to, but I like a fairly low windshield. I bought it mainly because I wanted to install the farkle shelf behind it, and I am 100% happy with that accessory. Having all my electronics (GPS, radar detector, heated gear controller) in one place in front of me is very functional.

[@randylewer3844]

Jim, Great mods on this and I hope you're liking the new GW. I'm wondering where you got your "cap" for the heated plug in. I've been searching around and can't find any that I think would work without alot of mods done. "let me in on your secret" Thanks

[@odowdski]

Randy, what you are looking at is a 12V Powerlet socket, available from Amazon: Powerlet (PSO-007) Powerlet Socket - Low Profile Socket Kit Brand: Powerlet 4.2 out of 5 stars 18 ratings Price: $28.95 FREE One-Day & FREE Returns Unfortunately, you would have to install it by drilling a hole through the fairing plastic and connecting the wire either to your battery or preferably to an auxiliary fuseblock. The cap you refer to is an integral part of the assembly and is connected via a spring hinge to the socket. It's a little work to install it, but once it's done you can forget about it and it works great. I put one on every new bike I buy...

[@farrgone]

Hey Jim! Great mods. How tall are you?

[@ResistNFlee]

Hi Jim, can you give me a model # for your Headlight Modulator and the National Cycle Hand Deflector.

[@sierrafoxtrotgolf3638]

Jim, what kind of range/mileage do you get at Iron Butt freeway speeds?

[@odowdski]

Range about 180 miles at 80 mph. Probably a little under 30 mpg. Again, that's at 80 mph, which is where I run on the interstate. Performance much better at slower speeds...

[@yochino615]

Im about 30 miles from you. This might be my next bike. Any regrets? Every mod you have done is everything I want :D

[@odowdski]

Jason, no regrets whatsoever. I finally have the bike set up perfectly for me. Just put a new runflat car tire on the rear, and will be heading out west in late August If you want a closer look, come and see for yourself! I'll be happy to share my sources so you can do some of the same things if you want. Yes, I may have one small regret...the matte paint finish is a little soft and is hard to match when custom painting. You need to be careful not to rub too hard when cleaning or it will lose the matte finish, and you also need to be careful when using chemicals to clean bugs, etc. Other than that, no regrets.

[@yochino615]

Jim O'Dowd well. Just waiting on my Kawasaki vaquero to sell and them I defiantly getting one. I'll take you up on that offer. I'd like to see what you did in person and compare.

[@fidelramsey8953]

Jim where did you get the switchback bulbs?

[@odowdski]

Switchback kit came from SoCalMotoGear.

[@fidelramsey8953]

@@odowdski thank you so much. Stay safe and keep up the informative videos.

[@PhiloM]

Great work Jim the mods there are really nice can you reply to me with the link address to your F6B Forum that you have joined, thank you sir and safe riding.

[@odowdski]

Philo, that would be www.hondaf6b.com. Lots more good info there.

[@PhiloM]

Thanks Jim.

[@billerhighlife1891]

what windshield is this ? thanks

[@odowdski]

This is a Windbender by Firecreek Accessories.

[@billerhighlife1891]

@@odowdski Thanks looks like the principal of the madstad but not so ugly

[@Winter1256]

Is the F6B came with cruise control? Or this is retrofit?

[@odowdski]

This model came with factory cruise control.

[@Winter1256]

@@odowdski may i know the model exactly as im planing to buy F6b. thanks alot jim regards from France

[@odowdski]

According to the bill of sale, it is a 2015 GL1800BDF.