But what if heritage and brotherhood are not priorities? What if the goal is simply a quiet, refined touring machine that covers long distances with minimal fuss and at a more reasonable price? Even better, what if that alternative could match or even surpass the functions of the American icon? For riders looking for just that, there’s encouraging news: One long-distance tourer really does beat Harley-Davidson, both in price and equipment.
The legendary touring bike that refuses to die
There are few touring motorcycles that last half a century. This goes on for someone else without breaking a sweat.
The Honda Gold Wing Tour beats Harley in two key areas
The Gold Wing is an icon of touring and has gone from strength to strength in the half century it has been on sale. The last major update was in 2018, when a few big changes made it a more useful motorcycle for a wider audience, while still retaining everything that makes it so popular. Today it starts at $25,200, and with so many features, unbeatable refinement and a pair of world firsts, there’s no doubt that the Gold Wing Tour is the long-distance tourer that beats Harley on both price and features.
Please note that the price mentioned above is the base price. Although there is no real difference in terms of equipment, for some extra money you do get the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, or you can opt for the automatic with airbag. With a manual transmission you cannot have an airbag.
Highlights of the Honda Gold Wing Tour
The world’s only horizontally mounted six-cylinder engine in a motorcycle
The only motorcycle in the world with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
The world’s only motorcycle with an airbag
10 most practical touring motorcycles for 2025
These tourers are tops when it comes to practicality, whether it’s gas mileage, fuel range or luggage space
Honda Gold Wing engine: Six Appeal
Engine | Horsepower | Couple |
|---|---|---|
1,833cc six-cylinder | 124.7 hp | 125.3 LB-FT |
The Gold Wing shares a rare distinction with the BMW K 1600 series as one of only two motorcycles currently available with a six-cylinder engine. However, Honda’s powerplant is itself the only six-cylinder configuration in production motorcycles today. Producing 125 hp and 125 Nm of torque, this engine has recently received upgraded cylinder heads with four valves per cylinder, while Honda’s Unicam SOHC technology keeps those heads compact and overall engine width to a minimum. The latest version loses 13 pounds compared to the previous generation, or 8 pounds in DCT form.
Transmission options include a six-speed manual that retains the electric reverse motor for parking lot maneuvers, or – for an extra $1,000 – the world’s only seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission available in a motorcycle. The DCT version adds a crawl mode that moves the bike forward or backward at low speeds. Honda engineers have configured the transmission’s output shaft to rotate opposite the engine’s crankshaft, effectively neutralizing the rocking motion inherent in longitudinal engine layouts. The power reaches the rear wheel via cardan drive. The electronic refinement comes courtesy of a six-axis IMU and ride-by-wire throttle, allowing multiple riding modes, traction control, cruise control and hill hold assist.
8 six-cylinder engines that you should not ignore in 2025
Although a dying breed of motorcycle, these bikes all make a case for themselves with some solid USPs
Honda Gold Wing Tour Chassis: Unique all around
The Gold Wing uses a cast aluminum frame with double beams, but there have been some significant changes over the years. The front suspension has been changed to a double wishbone setup (much like BMW’s Duolever system). This increases the lean angle under braking, making the motorcycle more stable when you need it most. It has also allowed the engine to be moved further forward in the chassis, as the front wheel now moves vertically up and down rather than the upward and backward movement of a conventional front fork setup. The result is better weight distribution, and moving the rider further forward has contributed to the feeling of control.
The rear suspension consists of a Pro-Link monoshock on a single-sided swingarm. This monoshock has electrically adjustable spring preload, with four different modes accessible via the menus on the display. The damping is also electronically adjustable. The brakes are fitted with twin 320mm discs at the front, each fitted with a massive six-piston caliper. At the rear, a 316mm disc is paired with a 3-piston floating caliper. Honda’s C-ABS system distributes braking force as best for the situation.
10 powerful touring bikes that short riders can enjoy
These touring bikes have a more universal appeal than most thanks to their low seat height
Honda Gold Wing Tour Features: Everything you need
The Gold Wing may be priced lower than the full-dress Harley tourers, but it certainly doesn’t lag behind when it comes to equipment. There’s a huge list of standard features, some of which we’ve listed below. Heated grips are standard, and the seats for both the rider and passenger are also heated. Two full-face helmets can be stored in the trunk, which also serves as a backrest for the pillion passenger. The saddlebags open at the touch of a button, or are locked and unlocked remotely with the key. Other notable accessories include passenger armrests, passenger audio controls, an upgraded audio system, a tall windshield and wide rider footrests.
Notable features of the Honda Gold Wing Tour
Optional airbag
Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Adjustable windshield with memory
Paint developed by BASF
Checking the tire pressure
A button that allows you to open your garage door
#longdistance #tourer #beats #HarleyDavidson #price #equipment