GL1200D GOLDWING 1985 (F)

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GL1200D GOLDWING 1985 (F)

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The GL1200 arrived for the 1984 model year and continued the trend set by it's predecessor. There was the un-faired Standard, the dressed Interstate and the top of the range Aspencade, which had the Type 3 audio system.

New, stiffer frame with major improvements, bigger and more responsive 1182cc version of the flat-four engine with bags more torque and hydraulic valve adjusters, better suspension and handling were the main attractions on the new Goldwing.

Carried forward from the previous Aspencade were the now better air suspension controls, linked brakes and the new Aspencade had a more advanced audio system and upgraded LCD dash. The front wheel was a rather unusually small (for such a large machine) 16" and this gave the steering a very light feel. The styling of the plastics was more aggressive than the GL1100, the fairing, Top-Box, panniers and lights all had a ‘square’ look which was evident on many motorcycles and cars for a while in the eighties.

The flowing lines of the previous model were not quite as subtle on the GL1200, but the integration of the luggage was much better now because there were less gaps and spaces between the panels.

1985 saw Honda drop the Standard un-faired Goldwing.

The final year of production for the GL1200 was 1987 with few changes, after a four year reign as King of touring motorcycles.

The GL1200, like it's 1100 and 1000 ancestors, enjoyed a reputation for reliability and endurance and this is one of the reasons that the model remains a popular buy today, and is capable of colossal mileages.