1980 Honda GL1100 from United States of America

Summary:

A Gentleman's ride

Faults:

Cam belts at 30k (PO).

Carbs rebuilt at 36k (PO).

Gas tank rusty. Cleaned at 38k.

Anti squeal glue applied to brake pads at 39k.

General Comments:

What a smooth well mannered bike.

This is the standard without fairing, and it is still heavy, nearing 700lbs.

Heavy to lift off the center stand heavy to roll around, heavy but rock solid when under way. But well balanced, smooth and yet quite fast when you ask it to be.

She will purr on the high-way at 60, 70, 80+ mph. Rock solid with zero vibration and clear mirrors.

Back roads are still entertaining with a lot of counter-steer. There is adequate ground clearance and no bad quirks.

Gas mileage can be as high as 48 MPG (US) at regular pace and as low as 38 when driven aggressively. The 5.3 gal tank appears to be empty after four gallons are used, so I keep track with the trip meter.

Interestingly this year, 1980, has both a gas gauge and a petcock.

The brakes, although they are triple disks, have single pot calipers. Meh in the rain, OK when dry, but have a persistent squeal when applied. (Bus tractor trailer, subway, etc..) like.

Front and rear air assisted shocks.

Suspension is one of the most compliant I have ever experienced; road irregularities and small potholes aren't even noticed. Big ones of course still are noted, but even they seem not as bad.

My final assessment is that she is a wonderful pig, built like a sport tractor, and at 40000 miles she is still comfortable, still runs wonderfully, and at the end of a long ride, I have less fatigue, and I'm entertained but not as tired as I am on other bikes I've owned.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th August, 2013

1980 Honda GL1100 from United States of America

Summary:

The Goldwing is one of the best bikes ever built

Faults:

The water pump failed at 80,000 miles.

The air cut off valves in the carbs needed replacement at 100,000 miles.

A gasket leak between the engine and tranny needed replacement at 80,000 miles.

General Comments:

A very comfortable bike with power and reliability. If you maintain this bike, it will serve you well for years.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd September, 2009

29th Oct 2011, 18:58

I have an 80 wing, and besides the carbs needing annual attention, they are great bikes, and comfortable.