Honda Gold Wing turns 30

Honda Gold Wing turns 30 05/02/2005 - In the ever-changing world of motorcycling, technological advancements press forward with such irresistible force that very few models survive a production life span of much over a decade. However, for the past thirty years, the Honda Gold Wing has done much more than merely survive: for five distinct generations, this remarkable machine has continued to create and define an entire segment of the motorcycling experience. 2005 will mark the thirty year anniversary for this legendary Grand Tourer. Starting with a prototype in 1972 developed by Soichiro Irimajiri, the man who directed the design of Honda’s five and six cylinder road racing engines of the 1960’s, the first GL1000 Gold Wing was released for sale in 1975. The bike opened new possibilities never before considered in terms of an open-class machine with world-class power and transcontinental capabilities. Customers unequivocally took to the Gold Wing in droves, helping to inspire an industry-wide shift toward long distance motorcycling. Five years later, the GL1100 was introduced with a new emphasis on torque rather than max horsepower, a longer wheelbase for more rider and pillion room, and an air-assisted suspension system for smooth riding. The Interstate was also introduced in 1980, offering the first Gold Wing available with factory installed fairings, panniers and top box, plus the option of a built-in stereo system. Another four years, and another 1000cc is added; plus an ultra-luxurious Limited Edition arrives, complete with computerised fuel injection, cruise control and a comprehensive electronic travel computer. After four years of further intensive development involving testing on 15 different machines in 60 prototype stages, the GL1500 debuted to unanimous acclaim in 1988. Mr Masanori Aoki, a sport bike enthusiast who led the development of such high performance bikes as the CBR2500RR and CBR600F3, took the honours of working on the next generation Gold Wing in the early 1990’s. 1975 – the GL1000 hits the streets According to Aoki, his focus was to “build a bike that would keep 80% of the touring capability whilst adding a ‘fun factor’ by giving it the kind of acceleration and handling people normally associate with sporting machines.” In 1998, a new full-scale model saw the light of day, whilst Honda celebrated the bike’s 20th anniversary a few years earlier in 1995. In the 21st century, and after over a quarter century in production, the remarkable Gold Wing turns the touring world upside down yet again with the release of a ‘from the ground up’ model – the GL 1800. This amazing project resulted in Honda patenting no less than 20 technological innovations that were incorporated into this high performance luxury machine. In 2005, the Gold Wing lights the candles for its unprecedented 30th anniversary and Honda is celebrating by including a beautifully executed set of commemorative emblems on the bike to highlight its innovation and longevity. There are also new Australian release colours for the ’05 model now available including Bloodstone Red Metallic and Nova Blue Metallic. The 30th Anniversary Gold Wing comes standard with a six stacker CD, heated grips, front and rear speakers, fog lights, rider’s intercom headsets and nylon Goldwing innerbags for panniers. Recommended Retail Price is $39,990 plus on road costs.