2021 Gold Wing Tour launched in India – Prices start from 37 lakhs

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. today launched the 2021 Gold Wing Tour in India. The new model will make its way to the Indian market through CBU route from Japan (Completely Built-Up / fully imported). The 2021 Gold Wing Tour will be available in two variants – Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with airbag & Manual Transmission.

The 1,833cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke 24-valve SOHC flat-6 engine produces peak power of 124.7 HP @ 5,500 rpm and peak torque of 170 Nm @ 4,500 rpm. The bore size of 73 mm matches the stroke of 73 mm; the left and right cylinders are offset by 4 mm and the cylinder sleeves are aluminum. Throttle By Wire (TBW) engine management adds 4 rider modes to alter character and power delivery, linked to suspension damping and the Dual Combined Brake System (D-CBS) – Tour, Sport, Econ & Rain.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) seamlessly monitors and maintains rear wheel traction, in all riding conditions, for an extra layer of riding confidence. Its level of input, too adjusts via TBW relative to riding mode selection. Complementing engine’s deep bass signature the exhausts emit a powerful throb, without excessive noise.

The Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) combines the generator and starter motor into one component, with the generator effectively becoming the starter motor when supplied with reverse power. Helical gears are employed for the ISG driving gears, which reduces mechanical noise.

Key characteristics of Idling Stop (on the DCT option) are the ultra-quiet start-up of the engine thanks to the use of ISG, and the smooth starting feeling achieved through a combination of DCT and TBW control. When stopping at a traffic light with Idling Stop on, the engine automatically stops after 3 seconds and, when restarting, the rider only needs to turn the throttle, which immediately starts the engine.

The Gold Wing Tour has Hill Start Assist (HSA) on both Manual and DCT variants. This eases the effort of starts on different grade of slope. When setting off – even when the brake lever is released – the hydraulic pressure temporarily retains braking force (for about 3 seconds) so starting on the uphill slope with the throttle is possible.

The 6-speed manual gearbox is fitted with a ‘cam damper’ between the clutch and transmission, separating each inertial mass, reducing noise and improving shift quality/durability. A cam assist and slipper clutch (with fewer discs and reduced hydraulic friction in the release mechanism) replace the traditional hydraulic assist clutch. This reduces clutch load at the lever by 20% and smooths downshifts; the slipper mechanism also contributes to the high-quality downshift feel. It also includes electric reverse feature.

The third generation Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) features 7-speeds, with clutch feel, shift speed and rpm range of up/downshifts tailored specifically to each riding mode. It also features a creep forward and back function. It is optimized for low speed maneuverability, with close ratios reducing shift-shock. In the higher speed range, they are set wider apart to reduce engine rpm. In both speed ranges comfort is improved as shifting up or down is of the highest quality.

Luxurious instrumentation creates a unique cockpit. Different low-contrast colours with dark tones applied to the dials, of which the peripheral areas form cone-shaped slopes to create a feeling of depth.

The 7-inch full-colour TFT liquid crystal display screen provides all the information for the audio and navigation systems, as well as managing riding modes and suspension adjustment. Information is displayed in differentiated segments in a very functional order, so the rider can get all the relevant data with the minimum of eye movement. Brightness adjusts automatically and the rider can also choose from 8 brightness levels. Tyre pressure is displayed as a numerical figure in the bottom left area of the instruments.

The Smart Key activates all the motorcycle’s systems and incorporates the emergency key. The ignition and handlebar lock can be turned on/off while just carrying it.

For 2021, an additional 11 litre for the rear top box brings total capacity to 121 litres. With the Smart Key present, a push button opens all of the boxes which makes the luggage operation simple. The unlock button on the Smart Key enables the passenger instant pannier access.

The Gold Wing Tour is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so the rider can utilise the personalised information and content inside their smartphone, such as telephone numbers and music playlists. Bluetooth connectivity is also available and there are two USB Type-C ports to plug into.

Upgraded lightweight speakers achieve superb sound quality with vivid presence. A passenger audio control switch is available to ensure an even more pleasant riding experience.

The navigation system is displayed in the central area of the instruments and includes a gyrocompass – which ensures continued guidance even inside a tunnel.  The capacity of the fuel tank is 21.1 litre.