Skip to main content

The Honda Gold Wing has been around for almost 50 years and carries the brand’s renowned reputation for reliability. It’s also become the gold standard when it comes to touring bikes and continues to offer riders of all skill levels a stable cruising platform to ride on. If you’re in the market for a new or used Gold Wing, you might be wondering how many miles you can expect to get out of one during the time you own it. Apparently, you can get a lot.

The Gold Wing upholds Honda’s reputation for being reliable

a couple riding a Honda Gold Wing Tour in Candy Ardent Red |
Honda Gold Wing Tour in Candy Ardent Red | Honda

Honda has always been known for making great products that extend past its car line. The Japanese company is also known for its lawnmowers, scooters, and ATVs. Regardless of which product you choose, you can bet that it will likely be reliable and the Gold Wing is no exception.

According to Engine Patrol, the Honda Gold Wings are incredibly reliable as many owners have reportedly racked up close to 400,000 miles on their bikes. That means that even if you were to ride a Gold Wing for 10,000 to 20,000 miles per year, you can expect it to last around 20 to 40 years before it finally gives up the ghost. That shouldn’t be too surprising considering it’s a touring bike, which is mainly meant for long-distance travel.

Additionally, the Honda Gold Wing is a large bike that’s outfitted with a 1,833cc horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, which is cooled by a radiator, a water pump, and a thermostat. This type of equipment means that the bike stays cool, especially at speed, which contributes to the bike’s longevity.

Realistically speaking, if you don’t plan on keeping a Honda Gold Wing for that long, or for 400,000 miles, then you can rest assured that the bike will last for at least 50,000 miles during the time you own it. However, just remember that routine maintenance is key.

Tips for keeping your Gold Wing in top shape

A couple on a Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT traveling on the highway
Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT | Honda

Whether you buy a new or used Gold Wing, it’s important to keep it in the best shape possible, even you only ride it on the weekends. Motor and Wheels notes that the following should be inspected and changed regularly or when needed:

  • Fluids: Honda recommends changing the oil and coolant every 8,000 miles. Don’t forget the clutch and brake fluid though, those need to be changed every 12,000 miles or two years.
  • Tires and wheels: Make sure to inspect the bike’s tires and wheels regularly to ensure their proper operation. After all, they’re what connects this touring bike to the road.
  • Lights: Inspect the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights regularly. This is important on a car and even more important on a bike for good visibility at all times.
  • Nuts and bolts: The Honda Gold Wing is known for its smooth-riding characteristics. If you want to make sure that it continues to ride smoothly, do a quick check of all of the nuts and bolts on the bike on a regular basis.

The Honda Gold Wing is built to last

a rider on a Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT
Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT | Honda

The Honda Gold Wing has been a staple in the motorcycle world since the early 70s and there’s no doubt that it will stick around in the future. Its easy-to-ride nature, potent engine, and renowned reliability make it a fan favorite. Fortunately, whether you plan on buying a new or used one, you can be sure that it will last you for many years to come and possibly even 400,000 miles.

Related

Is the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Better Than the Honda Gold Wing?