The 2012 Gold Wing, at dealers from May this year, is virtually identical to the model it replaces. Major changes are limited to a partly redesigned fairing with better protection from the elements, slightly larger panniers and revised suspension settings.
Other modifications include an MP3 player interface, clear-coated wheels, a reshaped taillight, urethane seat coverings, updated instruments and an improved satellite navigation system.
Despite Honda’s decision to shift Gold Wing production from Ohio to Japan, the United States will undoubtedly remain an important market. So it’s no surprise that the first public display of the revised version will be at the International Motorcycle Show in Greenville, South Carolina (25 - 27 February 2011), followed by an appearance at the Daytona Bike Week in Daytona Beach, Florida (5 - 12 March 2011).
Pricing for the US has been confirmed at $23,199 to $28,499. Given current exchange rates, UK buyers should therefore have to pay no more than £17,700, right? No, sadly not - the 2011 Gold Wing is currently listed at £23,125, so something similar to that is a more realistic prospect.
The Gold Wing might have an extremely dedicated following, but it seems that the 2012 model is a missed opportunity. Next to the fresh six-cylinder competition from BMW, Honda’s offering is beginning to look overly bulky and old-fashioned.
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