The Best Motorcycle I've Ever Ridden? 2024 Honda Goldwing DCT

[@ahernjohn]

I am 61 and riding bikes for 45 years. Thought I’d never have a goldwing but fancied this version bagger, have it 3 years and it’s the bike I use for overseas touring. Nothing else compares for ultra reliability all day comfort and dare I say fun when you get to the twisties. IMO you cannot beat it.

[@RickChardet]

@@ahernjohn agreed! Love the looks of the bagger as well

[@A861967]

Gorgeous ❤ it’s a bike very few can afford but all can appreciate 😊

[@Jonhenrysneip]

The best bike in the world is the one i own today.

[@RickChardet]

@@Jonhenrysneip that's a nice thought!

[@NRALifeMbr]

Me too but mine happens to be a 2019 DCT Tour and I just hit 105,500 miles this week. I've ridden a lot of bikes and I agree with you, this is the best.

[@PopsRacer61]

..at 63 Y.O. a CBR 650 is one of the sport bikes I own. The rest ofmy friends have graduated to Gold Wings, Harley's, Indians, Triumphs, BMWs and a few Yamaha and Kawasaki Tourers. I've ridden all of them including a good friend of mine's latest Gold Wing which I will say Hands down was the smoothest, most comfortable and superbly built bike I rode ! Maybe I'll buy one when I'm 83, but I grew up on sport bikes in the 80s ...and haven't outgrown them yet 🤔

[@gwilliamwallace]

I hear you. I have a DCT Bagger at age 67 but will never give up my CB1000R super naked.

[@PopsRacer61]

@@gwilliamwallace ..that's what I'm talkin' bout!

[@villejuntunen5851]

One thing to say. This bike is surprisingly capable in the twisties. I have held up well with younger guys with their liter sport bikes. Obviously on straights they leave me to dust but sections with no straights I dont loose much at all. ”I did not know a GW can be that fast” I often hear from the sport bike guys. Being such a heavy machine this bike bleeds speed like nothing else. The breaks are incredible.

[@RickChardet]

@@villejuntunen5851 yeah it's also surprisingly fun on smaller roads! Very well balanced and confidence inspiring

[@frankward8003]

@villejuntunen5851 Upgrade the soft OEM suspension with a Traxxion Suspension tuned for the weight of the rider and passanger and this bike is so much better than it already is. The Gold Wing is no old man's bike like some like to say...its just older men are the only ones who can afford the Gold Wing in most cases..but its amazing how much performance there is with a touring machine that is comfortable on long distance rides...but that's not to say the Gold Wing is perfect ..the OEM seat was horrible, but RDL fixed that issue with my 2018 and now 900 miles days are comfortable

[@Dundertaker1]

@@frankward8003+1. I have the Traxion suspension. Makes a good bike great! This stock setup is under sprung.

[@robdonell9915]

@@frankward8003 If I may ask, how much was the RDL seat upgrade ?

[@villejuntunen5851]

@@frankward8003 A lot of good feedback for the Traxxion suspension. The stock seat however, is just fine for me.

[@villejuntunen5851]

Very professional work with the video and spot on analysis. I bought mine in April this year (manual transmission version) and now, in October, 18 tkm later it feels better and better every time I ride it. I did not expect to ride this much, previous bikes I could hardly top 10tkm per season (6months). It is like making excuses all the time to have to go somewhere lol. I wish people would try these out at a younger age (like you). The bike is expensive but so is trading bikes every year or so. Eventually, you end up with a Goldwing anyway 😂and regret not doing it sooner. It is the ego (and money) that stands on the way mostly. Greetings from Finland.

[@RickChardet]

@@villejuntunen5851 happy to hear you are enjoying the Goldwing life so much 😄 definitely agree on the ego and money part haha, it's a fantastic bike otherwise

[@strikeeagle6871]

I had a 2006 goldwing in this new body configuration and it was brilliant. It will haul @$$ if you want and in flawless fashion . It however is not meant for that . Confidence and comfort in style . Heated seats , grips , cruise , great wind protection . ABS . Long distance comfort and heavy enough not to get blown around . Strong lighting to let someone know you are coming up on them . Air bag if you want to pony up for the model . The best

[@RickChardet]

@@strikeeagle6871 it's a brilliant bike!

[@MTEnth]

4.48L/100km (52.5mpg / 11.54mpl) in 20000km (12400mi) on a 2020 bagger, driving within the speed limit. Loving it!

[@RickChardet]

@@MTEnth wow that's excellent!

[@philippep5924]

Merci pour cette vidéo , merci pour votre honnêteté et votre qualité d'essayeur .

[@davidmccall4776]

I was sold on the Goldwing in 1982, when I purchased a gray/silver Aspencade. Great bikes! Seeya

[@RickChardet]

@@davidmccall4776 lovely! Thanks for watching ✌️

[@UltimateDazzle]

I’ve got a 2019 DCT Tour, I have to say you’re 💯 correct, I have never ridden another bike that comes close, I’ve owned and ridden all the other tourers too, some are good some not so good but nothing else compares, my criticism is luggage size and cost, but Bentleys don’t come cheap!

[@MrBrutekracht]

Interesting to hear your thoughts on this bike Rick! I feel like your cinematography and audio quality were great in this video. Would have loved to have seen or heard about your thoughts on the pillion seat as well since it is so prevalent on the Goldwing

[@RickChardet]

@@MrBrutekracht thanks bro! More quality coming soon 👀

[@rebellucy6200]

I rode one once. The engine was so buttery smooth. Unlike anything I have ever ridden.

[@RickChardet]

@@rebellucy6200 very unique indeed!

[@frankward8003]

@rebellucy6200 smooth, and over 100ftlbs of torque at the rear wheel at 1200 rpms and holds that up til 5000 rpm's...while easily getting 50 mpg riding legal speeds...six speed transmission with its slipper clutch is crisp and smooth shifting...plus the DCT option if you choose....Honda's flat six is an awesome engine

[@bartwood756]

I’ve got a 2018 duct and you’re right. Best bike I’ve ever owned. Best bike there is.

[@RickChardet]

@@bartwood756 glad to hear you are still loving it!,

[@philsgarage64]

Very nice review. I have exactly the same one since January 2024 and drove 10.000k on it. A bit of highway, but mainly country roads and narrow mountain roads in the Pyrenees in the South of France. The bike is so easy to manoeuvre. Once you override your fear of banking it frankly in the twisties, it’s pure fun, and the DCT is really helpful. It’s so much easier to drive than all my previous bikes. You just forgot to talk about the fantastic and powerful brakes , the fact that the bike never dive on braking (thanks to its great « fork »). I run 5,0 to 5,5l/100 km so I do confirm the good fuel efficiency. One thing to change : the GPS/apple car play is out of age (but at least it’s here !) cheers from France 🇫🇷

[@RickChardet]

@@philsgarage64 thanks for watching! Glad to hear you're loving the Goldwing so much 😀

[@philsgarage64]

@@RickChardet I had the previous generation 10 years ago; it was more comfortable for pilot & passenger, but this one is really more dynamic and easy. In between I had a Bonneville, a Tiger 800 and the new Tiger 1200. All nice bikes, but the Goldwing is, in my opinion, easier to drive (except on gravel roads ah ah !!). It’s rock solid on the trajectory, it gives a lot of pleasure. It can go surprisingly fast but it’s not a sports bike due to its huge weight . You can have fun with it, but arriving too fast in a corner is probably not a good idea ! Oh: other weak point : bagage capacity is not the best (the old one could load more)

[@Ethan-xq6et]

Great video, I'd love to see you review the 2025-year model when it comes out and speak about the differences you personally find.

[@RickChardet]

@@Ethan-xq6et i plan on taking the 2025 model on a euro trip when it becomes available!

[@Skipow10]

Looks great! I wish they would offer this color in the U.S. again.

[@RickChardet]

@@Skipow10 it suits the bike very well 👌

[@UltimateDazzle]

I’ve got a 2019 DCT Tour, I have to say you’re 💯 correct, I have never ridden another bike that comes close, I’ve owned and ridden all the other tourers too, some are good some not so good but nothing else compares, my criticism is luggage size and cost, but Bentleys don’t come cheap! I would say the backache is your posture, best get to the Pilates or Yoga classes before that causes you more issues

[@RickChardet]

Thanks for the comment, glad to hear you're still so in love with the Goldwing! I'll look into pilates classes 😂

[@4940markhutchins]

Loved your review and your video production. A couple of things about the bike's shortcomings: I agree about the old tech in the dash. My DCT Tour is a 2018 and there has been no updates since then. CarPlay is visible only if it's connected to a helmet communicator like Sena or Cardo. The total upright seating position is goofy looking and uncomfortable, especially with my 6'5" self. I solved this with a Corbin aftermarket seat. It sits me 2" further back and gives me a forward sport touring lean. I found Sport mode to be too twitchy to use as well. I solved this by remapping the CMU with a tune by BT Moto. It also ads 15 HP and distributes torque curve. Not sure if it is sold outside the U.S. the bike is heavy to move around, but coming from a top-heavy BMW K1600 GTL, the Goldwing is a piece of cake. But when you're going, it handles beautifully.

[@RickChardet]

@@4940markhutchins thank you so much for your insightful comment! Glad to hear you've also found the same shortcomings as me. That being said, it's an absolutely fantastic bike! Thanks for watching ✌️

[@frankward8003]

@4940markhutchins the Navi firmware/maps has been updated around 5 times now since 2018...still could be improved but better now than it was in 2018

[@k-rod2453]

The gtl is not topheavy.

[@MTEnth]

Try updating your firmware. I had the same issue and I used a dongle before. After update I don't use it anymore. I only plug the phone. No other device connected/paired to the motorcycle. L.E. Oh, CarPlay (apple), I use Android Auto. But do try it out!

[@alfonsodennis8450]

I love the Goldwing but I only issue is the lack of leg comfort. I have one in my garage right now, and will never depart from it.

[@Wil-70-NL]

I am absolutely in love with this Goldwing. But only when i can shift it myself by foot, with a clutch pedal on the steering wheel. I am in charge and not the machine. I hate automatic gearboxes. For cars and bikes. Great review Rick. Goed gedaan man! 👍

[@RickChardet]

@@Wil-70-NL dankjewel Wil! I understand that 👌

[@james2578]

and am sure many hate people who hate.

[@LowIQPigeon]

Love the silver paintjob mature color

[@RickChardet]

@@LowIQPigeon yes it's very elegant!

[@bcdave206]

It’s an incredible bike..

[@RickChardet]

@@bcdave206 truly is!

[@larsbreuren8124]

Splendid video! How does this compare to the ex-Grom you referenced in your previous video?

[@RickChardet]

@@larsbreuren8124 grom*8

[@marcobellomo9034]

Bel video, ottima spiegazione. Come altezza sella/pedane come ti sei trovato? Sono alto 190cm. e temo di piegare troppo le ginocchia. Ciao.

[@RickChardet]

Ciao Marco, I am 185cm and it was very comfortable for me! I think 190 will be just about okay. Maybe there are higher seat options as well, the stock seat is very low. Grazie mille!

[@jeffcoleman-j1p]

Why is silver not available in the US ?

[@AnkitMaji007]

Bro Love From India 🇮🇳🙏❤️👑 Kolkata ❤️❤️ Bro My Dream Bike ✍️✍️💯💯💯🇮🇳🇮🇳👑👑

[@RickChardet]

@@AnkitMaji007 thank you from Holland!

[@rayweeks1056]

Good review… Are you going to review the BMW R1250RT anytime soon..?

[@RickChardet]

@@rayweeks1056 not a bike that was on my radar, but I might look into it if bmw is down!

[@rayweeks1056]

@@RickChardet I own one (2021) and I think you would be surprised at how it handles.

[@garyedwards8142]

Good review… pre 2018 goldwing are far better for touring on…they look so much better too….👍

[@RickChardet]

@@garyedwards8142 thanks for watching! I'll have to ride an older model then 😀

[@joycecottingham9432]

@@RickChardet Hi I thought you old model wingers had accepted defeat ! Most non motorcyclists much prefer the looks of the new one ,all my motorcyclist friends do also. With a passenger and luggage the old one was quite a handful.The thing old model fans complain about is the small side panniers If you fit a tow bar ,buy a luggage rack and bag ,that solves the problem. This way you’ll have more fun and use a lot less fuel. ( I’ve done 200k on old wings and 40k on the 2018) Richard Cottingham 😊😊

[@Bob-huisbaas]

How would you compare the riding position to the old (and new) GS?

[@RickChardet]

@@Bob-huisbaas Less sporty and more laid back :)

[@michaeldobson8859]

I was 19 when i owned my Goldwing, certainly not an “Old Man”. Having already ridden across the USA before, I considered myself an adventurist and touring rider. After I dressed out the Wing bike with a Windjammer fairing, engine guards, bates deluxe saddlebags, an FM Radio, a CB radio and a luggage rack with an adjustable backrest for rider or passenger. I rode the bike around New England and within 5 months I was really hating the Wing Thing bike, so i added rear air suspension. Nope, I still hated that bike, a 1977 Honda GoldWing. A real PIG of a bike. It handled like crap, suspended like crap, miss-fired on cold days and didn’t like to start on cold days. So my final assessment was that the Wing was crap! I just couldnt stand riding that Wing Thing. Did I say that the seat sucked, it did. The solution was reached and executed. The Wing or (Buick) as i referred it to be was traded on a 1976 BMW R90/6. A wonderful wonderful bike for sure. Never again would i ride such a Buick of a motorcycle. Lousy bike and poorly engineered at that. To celebrate the R90/6, i rode her from Connecticut to San Diego, Ca. With a smile on my face!

[@RickChardet]

@@michaeldobson8859 sounds like quite the adventures!

[@photomorti]

Not a bike i would probably buy in the upcoming years but maby some day when im 50+ and just want to ride as comfy as possible . They are still very uniue bikes to see . Like the trucks of the motorcycle world.

[@RickChardet]

@@photomorti I get that! But once you do hit 50, you'll love it:)

[@bjrnarthur9272]

@@photomorti ride it in sport mode and you will love it long before you become 50 years of age

[@frankward8003]

I thought the same way at one time...was always a Gold Wing fan since the 80's and knew I would one day own a Gold Wing to tour on when I was older...then Honda came out with the sporty GL1800 in 2001..I was hooked by its performance, handling, and its comfort... bought a 2003 Gold Wing at age 43 and rode it for 15 years...this newest Gold Wing is all of what my 2003 Wing was and much more...lighter, better brakes, suspension, electronics, 20 % better fuel economy... don't under estimate the Gold Wing, it's a fun motorcycle to ride on the twisty roads and comfortable on 900 mile days

[@photomorti]

@@bjrnarthur9272 haha yeah but a new goldwing is way out of my budget.

[@photomorti]

@@RickChardet Ill probably get one some day.

[@chopperbobsuzi1250]

The new F6B would want to have better rear suspension than the old one. Very underwhelmed!

[@wheelieking3976]

Correction. How many motorbikes have you ridden to make this judgement? You are very young. Cheers.

[@RickChardet]

@@wheelieking3976 I've owned probably around 15 and ridden more than 50 I'd say! I've been riding every day for the past 8 years 😄

[@james2578]

stop being so handsome. give the rest of us men a chance with the ladies!!

[@RickChardet]

@@james2578 😂❤️

[@bjrnarthur9272]

Great bike, not perfect but still the best choice if you are seeking comfort for two and want to have a bike that lasts more than 5 years.

[@RickChardet]

@@bjrnarthur9272 definitely!

[@wheelieking3976]

Yes, but her mummy motorbikes have you written to make this judgement? You’re very young.

[@Kornholeeoo]

Didn’t impress me. Bought a BMW.

[@FredScuttle456]

Some lines from the Bible: "On the eighth day the LORD God looked at the world, saw it was good and decided to buy Himself a reward. So on the ninth day the LORD God bought Himself a Harley Davidson. And on the tenth day He traded it in for a Gold Wing".

[@RickChardet]

@@FredScuttle456 amen brother

[@alfonsodennis8450]

If you think that’s the best motorcycle, you need to ride a Harley Davidson

[@philtil8977]

4 days of evaluation!? You have no clue...

[@JJ-uz9vc]

Saddle bags are horrible trunk is ok if you a taller rider forget it im 6'3 and it is super uncomfortable the sound system sucks and there are no aftermarket parts

[@JJ-uz9vc]

🤣🤣🤣 its ok but in reality is a pos get a real bike i had a 21