Clash of the titans: harley davidson road glide vs honda goldwing – which king rules the road?
What To Know
- Both motorcycles are equipped with advanced suspension systems, with the Road Glide utilizing a Showa Dual Bending Valve fork and a mono-shock rear suspension, while the Gold Wing employs a double-wishbone front suspension and a Pro-Link rear suspension.
- The Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Honda Gold Wing come loaded with a host of features and technology to enhance your riding experience.
- The Gold Wing, on the other hand, features a 7-inch touchscreen display with voice recognition, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium audio system.
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Honda Gold Wing are two iconic touring motorcycles that have captured the hearts of riders for decades. Both machines offer a unique blend of power, comfort, and style, making them ideal for long-distance journeys and weekend getaways alike. But which one is the better choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Honda Gold Wing, helping you make an informed decision.
Powertrain
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a 1,923cc V-twin that produces 121 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. The Honda Gold Wing, on the other hand, boasts a 1,833cc flat-six engine that generates 126 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. While the Gold Wing has a slight edge in power, both engines deliver plenty of grunt for cruising and overtaking.
Handling and Suspension
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide features a raked-out front end and a long wheelbase, providing stability at highway speeds. The Gold Wing, however, has a more upright riding position and a shorter wheelbase, resulting in more agile handling in corners. Both motorcycles are equipped with advanced suspension systems, with the Road Glide utilizing a Showa Dual Bending Valve fork and a mono-shock rear suspension, while the Gold Wing employs a double-wishbone front suspension and a Pro-Link rear suspension.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is paramount for long-distance touring, and both the Road Glide and the Gold Wing excel in this regard. The Road Glide offers a spacious saddle with adjustable lumbar support, while the Gold Wing features a luxurious two-piece seat with integrated armrests. Both motorcycles have adjustable handlebars and footpegs, allowing riders to find their optimal riding position. The Gold Wing, however, has a slight advantage in terms of wind protection, thanks to its large fairing and adjustable windscreen.
Features and Technology
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Honda Gold Wing come loaded with a host of features and technology to enhance your riding experience. The Road Glide boasts a Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Gold Wing, on the other hand, features a 7-inch touchscreen display with voice recognition, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Additionally, the Gold Wing offers a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking.
Style and Customization
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide exudes classic American muscle with its low-slung profile and distinctive batwing fairing. The Gold Wing, on the other hand, has a more futuristic design with its sleek lines and high-tech fairing. Both motorcycles offer a wide range of customization options, allowing riders to personalize their machines to their liking.
Price and Value
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide has a starting price of $21,999, while the Honda Gold Wing starts at $29,200. The Gold Wing commands a premium over the Road Glide, but it also offers a more comprehensive feature set and advanced technology. Ultimately, the value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the Honda Gold Wing are both exceptional touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a classic American cruiser with plenty of power and a distinctive style, the Road Glide is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize comfort, technology, and advanced safety features, the Honda Gold Wing is the superior option. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and riding style.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which motorcycle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Honda Gold Wing has a slightly more powerful engine, producing 126 horsepower compared to the Road Glide’s 121 horsepower.
Q: Which motorcycle handles better?
A: The Honda Gold Wing has more agile handling in corners, while the Harley-Davidson Road Glide is more stable at highway speeds.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable?
A: Both motorcycles offer excellent comfort, but the Honda Gold Wing has a slight edge in terms of wind protection and seat comfort.
Q: Which motorcycle has more features and technology?
A: The Honda Gold Wing has a more comprehensive feature set and advanced technology, including a larger touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced safety features.
Q: Which motorcycle is more expensive?
A: The Honda Gold Wing has a higher starting price than the Harley-Davidson Road Glide.