Honda took the wraps off the 2020 Goldwing at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. The Japanese bike maker’s flagship tourer has been updated to enhance its riding experience, especially at low speeds.
Given the fact that the Honda Goldwing is a massive machine, it takes some getting used to, and Honda has hence optimised the motorcycle’s fuel-injection system to improve low-speed manoeuvrability. While the fuel-injection system has been refined, there is no clarity about whether Honda is updating the 1,883cc flat-six engine to meet Euro 5 emission norms. For now, the engine’s 126hp at 5,500rpm and 170Nm at 4,500rpm figures remain the same as before.
Besides improving its fuel-injection system, Honda has also updated the Goldwing’s 7-speed DCT (dual clutch automatic transmission) hardware and software – once again, in the quest to improve low-speed rideability. The third-generation DCT system is smoother and quieter in its operation and Honda says they’ve achieved this by using noise damping rubber on both ends of the fork guide and master arm in its transmission. In addition, a spring damper has been installed between the clutch and the main shaft to absorb the torque in the rotational direction, thereby reducing noise and shock when the clutch and main shaft come in contact while shifting gears.
The Honda Goldwing Tour version is the bike’s higher-spec variant that is also available with a top box and an airbag. The Tour trim now benefits from a tweaked suspension for better comfort, especially when riding two up.
Honda has also introduced two new colours for 2020, a Matte Black Metallic in the DCT trim and a Pearl White available in the Tour variant with DCT and airbag.
Honda had introduced the new Goldwing in 2018 and this is the first time that the model has received a significant update. Being a top-level tourer, the Goldwing is loaded with electronic gizmos, including rider modes, Apple CarPlay and a reverse gear as well. The DCT versions also have a creep function to make it easier to crawl while riding on traffic-infested streets. Other features include a 7.0-inch TFT colour screen, full-LED lighting and for 2020 the Tour model also gets LED fog-lamps as standard.
This generation of the Goldwing uses a new chassis that is lighter and stiffer than the one on its predecessor. However, the highlight is the motorcycle’s unique double-wishbone front suspension. The Honda uses a preload-adjustable, pro-link monoshock at the rear.
At present, India gets the 2019 DCT version, priced at Rs 28.2 lakh (ex-Mumbai). We expect Honda to launch the updated 2020 Goldwing in India soon.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
