All-new Honda Goldwing coming soon

The fifth-generation Honda Goldwing has been around for 15 years. In comparison to other motorcycles it is a significantly long time run for one generation. Honda’s flagship machine will finally be replaced in 2017 and will come with an all-new DCT gearbox, reengineered suspension and much more.

We can expect the next Goldwing to have all Honda’s latest technology and more. Firstly, a dual clutch semi-auto transmission is a surety. Honda had filed patents for the Goldwing’s version of its twin-clutch gearbox sometime back. It is also expected to have electronically adjustable, semi-active suspension and several patents point at an unusual front suspension system for the next-gen bike. It will have multi-link arrangement which will give them the opportunity to allow a smooth ride without compromising on handling dynamics. Ride-by-wire and all the traction control and multiple riding modes will of course be standard on the next gen Goldwing. A TFT screen is certainly going to be part of the new console design.

There will be a new bodywork and chassis wrapped around all this technology. The new frame is believed to be a two-piece cast-aluminium unit, with separate front and rear sections using the engine as a load-bearing centre part.

One final element that's also under development, but may not make it to the next-gen Goldwing, is a hybrid drive system. It incorporates an electric motor into the engine/transmission unit. Which means Honda could use a flat-four version instead of the existing Goldwing six-cylinder engine as seen on the concept.

Once introduced, the next generation Honda Goldwing is expected to be priced slightly higher than the outgoing model.