Fifty years ago, Honda launched the iconic Goldwing GL1000 K0. A revolutionary motorcycle that captured the hearts of touring riders in 1975 with its powerful four-cylinder boxer engine, comfort, and unique character. The Goldwing was an instant hit and has been an indispensable part of the motorcycle world ever since.
In the 1970s, Honda had already built a solid reputation for reliable and powerful engines, but the Goldwing was aimed at a new target group: long-distance riders. It was Honda's answer to the successful BMW boxers, but with a twist: a liquid-cooled engine and a low-maintenance shaft drive. This meant that the touring rider did not have to worry about lubricating and cleaning chains during long rides. The bike was innovative in many ways, even the fuel tank was not where you would expect it to be. Under the 'fuel tank' there were instead handy storage places for tools and electronics.
The first Goldwing was introduced as a “naked bike”, without fairings or panniers. Companies such as Krauser and Vetter quickly jumped on this by developing accessories that perfectly matched the wishes of the touring riders. The 'Windjammer' fairing is well-known, with which one could ride sheltered even at higher speeds. From 1980 onwards, Honda would provide the Goldwing with a full touring equipment, with the introduction of the GL1100.
When you think of Goldwings in the Netherlands, you will soon end up at Biker's Best in Renswoude. John de Weerdt specialized in this model early on. With a large stock of new and used Goldwings, parts and accessories, he attracts customers from all over the world. "Goldwing riders are a special target group. With good care, these motorcycles will last a lifetime," says John. And that is evident: one of his customers rode no less than 650.000 km on his Goldwing. The only thing that had to be replaced? The piston rings!
The Goldwing is known for its reliability and longevity, as is also evident from the story of Ron Balkema from Appingedam. He bought his first GL37 1000 years ago and drove more than 365.000 km with it without any significant problems. Even after so many kilometers, the engine remained in top condition. For Ron, after a number of years without a Goldwing, it was clear: another GL1000 had to come.
These stories are just a few examples that illustrate why the Honda Goldwing, fifty years after its introduction, is still the favorite choice of many a touring rider. Comfort, reliability and a unique charm make this motorcycle legendary.
You can read the full story with photos in the October issue of Auto Motor Klassiek. It is now in the store.
Been riding Goldwings for years, I think at least 40 years
From 1000 to 1500
The 1000 just had a frame that was too weak and wasn't built to accommodate panniers and a fairing
Then came the 1100/1200 and lastly the 1500, never really any problems
I once fell off the wing and now that I haven't ridden it for 15 years, I traded in the last purchased 1500 for a Harley Fatboy
Sits a lot lower which gives me more confidence in the corners and yes, I also fell for the sound in the past, but back then those blocks were not so reliable, now with the EVO it is a lot better
It is also easier to move because the wing was a big machine and recently I started to get tired of removing all those parts before you can get to anything, that is a lot easier with the Harley, you can get to everything
Now that I'm turning 65 in December, the Harley is an easier bike than the Wing, in terms of weight and handling/maintenance
Lots of accessories bought new in the states 20 years ago I'm going to sell and then I'll close the goldwing era
And yes, as a Harley rider I also wave at Goldwings
In 1983 a GL 1000 became my second bike, with imitation Vetter fairing for passive safety. Within a year it was gone again because of .... yes, marriage.
10 years later, a 1200 Aspencade arrived as a second car. Five years later it was traded in for a 1500 first series from 1988, that was Christmas 1999. Km reading 79778. I drove it as my only transport until it was retired on September 15, 2021 (km reading 234842) to people who only drive it as a relaxation ... In June 2024 to Normandy!
I also bought a K1976 in 0, at the same time as 5 other members of our motorcycle club. Only the colours were not all the same. Red and yellow. We went with a whole group of the club to the FIM rally in Romania in Neptun on the Black Sea. That was a great experience. At that time I came from a Guzzi 850 T that kept breaking down. I didn't dare to drive to Romania with it. Only the size of the rear tyre worried us there deep behind the Iron Curtain. No bad luck at all and that year I drove 45000 km on this Goldwing. But after 51 weeks I traded it in again for a Guzzi from the Willy van Gent composed V7 Special that I rode for many years
But no bad word about the Goldwing, it just wasn't my bike.
My big brother has also been riding a GL1000 for ages.
And I borrow the thing sometimes.
Great bike.
Only problem, thing is a bit clumsy and heavy to lift on board.
So I'm up for a lighter moped