Honda has launched two variants of the Gold Wing in India to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the grand touring motorcycle which will compete with Harley-Davidson offerings in our country.
Honda showcased the Gold Wing at the 2014 Auto Expo and has launched the motorcycle in India, priced from Rs. 28.5 lakhs. The automaker is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the iconic touring bike and the GL1800 model is offered in two variants – Gold Wing Audio Comfort and Gold Wing Airbag. Yes you read that right, the Gold Wing comes with a rider airbag. While the standard version is offered in dual-tone candy prominence red colour, the airbag variant comes in pearl glare white shade.
Powering the Honda Gold Wing is a 1832cc, flat-six engine which outputs 118 PS of power at 5500 RPM with a peak torque of 167 Nm. However, it’s really the equipment on board which makes the Gold Wing stand out. This luxury Honda 2-wheeler offering has a luggage capacity of 150-litres thanks to the large panniers while a surround-sound audio system with 6-speakers is also offered that connects to an iPod, iPhone or USB. Other features include CBS, ABS, cruise control and also a slow speed electric reverse gear!
The Honda Gold Wing is underpinned by a twin-spar aluminium frame and a single-sided Pro-Arm swingarm. The bike also gets 5-position heated grips, foot warming and heated seats which are independently adjustable. While the Gold Wing price range starts at Rs. 28.50 lakhs, the airbag variant costs Rs. 31.50 lakhs (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi), making it very expensive. With Honda launching products showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, the lower capacity CBRs too seem on the anvil (Honda showcased the CBR500R to gauge response of the 300R’s styling).
