The Honda Gold Wing has been the gold standard for luxury touring since 1975, turning road trips into symphonies of comfort and power. For its 50th anniversary in 2025, Honda didn’t reinvent the wheel—they polished it to a mirror shine, keeping the flat-six soul intact while adding subtle touches that make it feel even more effortless. If you’re the rider who dreams of endless highways, packed saddlebags, and a machine that feels like an extension of yourself, this is your ticket to bliss. Starting at $25,200, it’s not cheap, but it’s the investment that pays dividends in miles and memories.
A Silhouette That’s Timeless Yet Fresh
Slide up to a Gold Wing, and it’s like greeting an old friend who’s aged like fine wine—still commanding, but with a few new lines that tell stories of adventures past. The 2025 model celebrates the milestone with Bordeaux Red Metallic paint and gold pinstripes that nod to its heritage, all wrapped around that iconic low-slung touring frame. At 96.7 inches long and 802-856 pounds (depending on options), it’s a beast, but the double wishbone front suspension and Pro-Arm rear swingarm make it handle like a dream. The 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels with tubeless tires grip the road confidently, and 5.1 inches of ground clearance keeps it planted without scraping on driveways. Saddlebags swallow gear for days, and the 29.3-inch seat height welcomes riders of all sizes. It’s not just a bike; it’s a rolling lounge that says, “Let’s go far.”
The Dash That Whispers Directions
Forget fumbling with maps or yelling over wind noise—the 7-inch color TFT display is your quiet co-pilot, showing speed, revs, fuel, and nav in a layout you can tweak to your liking. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto beam your phone’s world onto the screen, so Spotify playlists or Google Maps feel native. The “Since 1975” splash screen hits you with a wave of nostalgia, and handlebar controls let you switch tracks or modes without letting go. Two USB-C ports keep gadgets alive, and it’s all distraction-free—perfect for those 600-mile days where focus is everything.
Power That’s Smooth as Silk
Crack the throttle, and the 1,833cc flat-six unfurls like a symphony—125 hp at 5,500 rpm and 125 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm pull you forward with that signature Honda refinement, no jerk or drama. The 7-speed DCT (or manual) and shaft drive make shifts invisible, whether you’re in traffic or blasting past trucks. Top speed sails past 140 mph, 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, and 40 mpg means you can chase sunsets without constant stops—the 5.6-gallon tank stretches 200-220 miles. Inverted forks up front and advanced rear shocks swallow bumps like they’re nothing, turning rough patches into afterthoughts. It’s not about raw speed; it’s about that effortless glide that makes 500 miles feel like 50.
Safety That Lets You Relax
Honda’s cornering ABS on the massive 320 mm front and 316 mm rear discs bites hard when needed, while traction and wheelie control keep things composed. The real standout? An optional airbag between rider and tank—unique in the touring world, cushioning impacts without bulk. No cameras or night vision, but the aluminum frame and low center of gravity make it forgiving on wet curves or gravel slips. LED lights ensure you’re seen, and it’s all tuned for that “set it and forget it” peace of mind on long hauls.
Fuel That Fits the Journey
With 40 mpg and a 5.6-gallon tank, you’re looking at 200-220 miles per fill-up—enough for a full day without hunting pumps. Refuel in under 2 minutes, and the liquid cooling keeps it cool under pressure. It’s thrifty without feeling underpowered, letting you focus on the road, not the gauge.
Connectivity and Comfort Touches
Dual LED headlights pierce the dusk, and the TFT pairs with Bluetooth for seamless phone integration—music, calls, nav, all hands-free. The 7-speaker audio system with Apple Music fills the air with your playlist, while four riding modes (Tour, Sport, Econ, Rain) let you dial in the vibe. Hill hold and TPMS add peace, and the adjustable windscreen blocks wind without blocking views. It’s touring luxury wrapped in subtlety.
Price and Getting Your Hands on One
From $25,200 for the base to $33,500 for the Tour Airbag DCT, it’s a range that matches the options—launched February 2025 at Honda dealers, with deals up to $1,000 off. Maintenance is $500-800 yearly, and the 3-year unlimited-mile warranty has your back. Wait times? 1-2 months, but worth it.
What Riders Are Saying
Owners can’t get enough of the flat-six smoothness and touring comfort—the 5.1-inch clearance suits highways, and the TFT nav is a lifesaver for cross-country runs. DCT and audio get endless praise. Gripes? The weight (802-856 lbs) is a handful in lots, low clearance nicks bumps, and mileage dips at speed—servicing isn’t cheap for a big tourer.
How It Stacks Up
Against the K 1600 GTL, it’s more comfortable but less exotic; the Road Glide has Harley soul but less tech; Roadmaster matches luxury, but Honda’s refinement edges long hauls.
Wrapping It Up
The 2025 Honda Gold Wing isn’t just a bike—it’s a 50-year love letter to the open road, blending power, poise, and pure joy. At $25,200-$33,500, it’s an investment in freedom that pays back in stories and sunsets.