The Honda Goldwing is more than a motorcycle — it’s an institution. It’s long been the gold standard when it comes to luxury, comfort and technological advancement on two wheels. It’s the bike you buy not just to ride, but to use to travel across continents with near-automobile levels of comfort. The 2025 Honda isn’t out reinventing the wheel; it’s refining it. The latest version of the Goldwing polishes an already sublime package with a selection of exclusive new colors and steadfast performance for the long distance rider with discerning tastes.
We take a look under the fairings to see what makes the 2025 Honda Goldwing the ultimate transcontinental touring machine.
Unchanged Grandeur: The Heart of the Matter
At the core of the Goldwing experience lies its mechanical masterpiece: the horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. For 2025, this iconic engine still takes centre stage.
The 1,833cc Flat-Six Engine: This liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine is an engineering marvel of smooth, linear power. It generates a claimed 126 horsepower and a gargantuan 125 lb-ft of torque that can be had at a very low 2,500 RPMS. The result is a smooth, tractor-like pull from any gear, which makes two-up touring with full bags an absolute cinch.
The 7-Speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission): The optional DCT remains a technological tour-de-force. It features lightening-fast, seamless shifts and has various riding modes (Tour, Sport, Econ, Rain) and even a “Walking Mode” for easy low-speed maneuvering. A 6-speed manual transmission is, incidentally, still available for the purists.
Comfort & Chassis: A Magic Carpet Ride
Designed with the rider to be comfortable on, the Goldwing chassis keeps the rider separated from the drudgery of the road, making long hauls a real joy.
- Double-Wishbone Front Suspension: This exclusive design delivers superior stability, precise steering and a plush ride, without the dive common to telescopic forks.
- Pro-Link Rear Suspension: The single-sided swingarm and rear shock combine with the front end to absorb ground imperfections and take the sting out of your ride whether you are on the interstate or a twisty back road.
- Ergonomics: Plush, supportive seats for rider and passenger with plenty of back rest. The riding is comfortable and casual – everything is pretty much right where you’d expect it to be.
Technology & Features: A Rolling Command Center
The Goldwing’s cabin is loaded with features for convenience, safety, and entertainment. MORE: 2008 Honda Goldwing: Daring Step Backwards in Time Moved forward power windows, too.
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Full-color TFT display allows you to seamlessly connect with your smartphone to enjoy navigation, music and communications. Available GPS AIRBAG on Tour models provides an additional layer of protection.
- Premium Audio System: Goldwing is synonymous with its amazing audio system. With a host of speakers and amplifiers, the sound quality is concert hall like and incredibly clear even while running at high speeds.
- Honda Smart Key: Keyless ignition and locking systems give you the added convenience of smart living.
Whats new for 2025? Style aside
Honda’s updates for the 2025 model year always add a fresh twist to how you can get your hands on this iconic machine.
- New for 2025: Gray Metallic The most notable change is the availability of an elegant Gray Metallic color option. This color way for the Goldwing looks more contemporary, stealthy and premium, compared to the more classic colors.
- Carry-Over Colors: The tried and true Pearl Glare White and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic hues are back for those adding a little class or darkness to their ride.
- Trim Levels: The Goldwing is available in two main variants:
- Goldwing: The nicely equipped base version.
- Goldwing Tour: It includes the top trunk with passenger backrest, a stronger audio system, navigation, GPS-linked airbag and bigger capacity saddlebags.
The Competition & The Verdict
The Goldwing is in a class on its own, but its ethos is tested by the BMW K 1600 Grand America and the Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited.
- Honda’s Edge: The Goldwing has a special character—thanks to the unrivaled smoothness of its flat-six engine, its lower weight, and its more nimble handling for a bike of its size—that makes it feel luxurious and surprisingly agile. Who should buy the 2025 Honda Goldwing:
- Touring DINKs Who Care About Comfort: Comfort, storage, and seamless power delivery are the very minimum requirements.
- The Long-Distance Motorcyclist: Who is bent on traveling great miles in ultimate comfort and convenience.
- The Rider Who Wants The Best: Someone who recognizes engineering brilliance and thinks the trip is the ultimate destination.
The 2025 Honda Goldwing continues to dominate the touring market. It’s a bike that demands very little while giving you absolutely everything, showing that the best luxury on two wheels really is to just be able to go next to effortlessly, comfortably, and with a strong sense of grand occasion. It is still the benchmark for motorcycle touring.
