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New user
Posts: 2
| I am wondering if the Vision is as comfortable as a Goldwing. Could anyone give me a comparison from Personnel ownership of both Bikes. Take Care - jk-1 |
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Visionary
Posts: 1484
LaPorte,Tx. | One of my friends has a 2006 Goldwing and he took the Vision Test ride in Houston with me. He really like the bike especially the low seat height, which is around a couple inches shorter than the wing. His wife was also with him and liked it. I believe comfort on a certain bike is up to the person riding it. I would suggest getting a test ride. |
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Tourer
Posts: 550
Tacoma, WA | I rode both bikes within two hours of each other, and they are BOTH very comfy. My main issue with the wing is the lack of floorboards, and it is important to me to be able to move my feet around to be comfy on long rides. The electric windshield is a nice to have also. Down for twisties, up for freeway. WAY nice. The 'wing does have smoother power, and more of it, but not a whole lot. Basically, you can't lose with either bike!-----Metalguy |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 810
| Here are my impressions from riding a GL1800 this summer and buying a Victory Vision in the fall.
1) GL1800 has slightly more power/torque and smoother engine (1732cc versus 1831 cc, 2 cylinders versus 6 cylinders).
2) Both GL1800 and Vision have the same tire sizes, rake and trail.
3) Vision has way more comfortable driver foot positions.
4) Highway pegs on a Vision do not require a bow-legged leg position. I found the GL1800 fairing edges to cut into my inner thighs when using highway pegs.
5) Vision has better integrated electronics, Xenon HID, more up-2-date IPOD integration and current GPS.
(Honda could easily address this if they wanted to)
6) GL1800 offers ABS, Vision has linked brakes, no ABS.
7) Vision has lower seat height and feels lighter than the GL1800 even though it is slightly heavier.
8) Vision has an electric windshield, GL1800 is manual.
(Honda could add this as well)
9) GL1800 has the dual load presets. Vision uses a hand pump.
10) GL1800 has a lot of after market support, Vision is too young yet.
11) GL1800 has more storage capacity and strapping options than the Vision. =(.
12) Appearance, well, that is your personal tastes.
13) Honda has a better out the door warranty, but Victory offers a 5 year extended/transferable warranty.
14) Vision has a 6 speed overdrive, GL1800 is still 5 speeds.
15) Both were comfortable for the passenger, but the driver's leg position is limited on the GL1800.
The GL1800 has been out for a while. Honda can address virtually everything on the GL1800 with a face lift, but the leg positions might be a tough one with the flat 6.
The GL1800 was going to be my 2nd choice if the Vision didn't work out.
HTH,
Tim
Edited by TimS 2007-12-19 10:49 AM
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Cruiser
Posts: 143
Birmingham, AL 08 MC Tour Premium 2012 Bronze Mist | I've owned 2 GL1800's over a 2 year period (an 02 and an 04) and agree with TimS on most everything he's listed above.
One thing I noticed immediately was the comfort of the seat on my butt.
My tail bone has given me problems for years due to an old "war wound" lol. I even put a Road Sofa seat on my last GL and it helped a little bit. I've done a couple of 450 mile days in constant 44 degree air and below and never felt any discomfort.
Riding position is great. Would like a backrest though.
I like the Vision because it has more personality than the Honda. The GL is a great machine, both mine had ABS and I loved it, but to me it was kinda like getting in the same cookie cutter Accord everyday. That's why I moved to the Ultra Screaming Eagle, and now (to me) to the Vision the best of both worlds.
My 2 pennies! |
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Tourer
Posts: 562
SC, Bluffton | In response to TimS's comments:
1) GL1800 has slightly more power/torque and smoother engine (1732cc versus 1831 cc, 2 cylinders versus 6 cylinders).
The linear power curve on my Goldwing & Kawasaki is simply better. I still haven't figured out the Vision, but it rides smoother pushed hard. It isn't a smooth ride driving slow. The Vision is the 1st bike that I have had to shift into 1st when making a 90ยบ turn. 2nd is just way to high.
2) Both GL1800 and Vision have the same tire sizes, rake and trail.
Victory was smart to use an existing tire out there that won't be going away any time soon. I really don't understand all the different tires out there.
3) Vision has way more comfortable driver foot positions.
WAY more comfortable.
5) Vision has better integrated electronics, Xenon HID, more up-2-date IPOD integration and current GPS.
If you don't have a factory installed intercom, you don't qualify as a tourer. The Vision has a lot of nice electronics for a cruiser is how I say it. I wouldn't want Honda's integrated GPS, as it won't tell you your actual speed (Honda's speedo is intentionally way off)
6) GL1800 offers ABS, Vision has linked brakes, no ABS.
I am almost getting tired of this ABS obsession. My Goldwing has it, My Kawasaki & Vision don't. It didn't intentionally purchase it on the Goldwing, it was just there. I remember when a guy pulled out in front of me and totaled my truck. I was pushing the brakes, but couldn't get a lock up. It didn't feel right, but that was the ABS brakes kicking in.
8) Vision has an electric windshield, GL1800 is manual.
The Goldwing's windshield isn't distorted.
9) GL1800 has the dual load presets. Vision uses a hand pump.
The Goldwings suspension is rough to us whether it is on setting 1, or 25? I don't know what it adjusts besides height?
11) GL1800 has more storage capacity and strapping options than the Vision. =(.
Yep. I would have gone a different design route, but then it might not have catched my wife's fancy.
13) Honda has a better out the door warranty, but Victory offers a 5 year extended/transferable warranty.
I am still shopping around for a warranty on the Vision. I found a dealership in Virginia with the best deal right now. My dealership is asking the highest I heard of.
14) Vision has a 6 speed overdrive, GL1800 is still 5 speeds.
Honda's Ninja's have 6, but not their Flagship?
Now, the Seat issue. I used to walk up to the Goldwing like a dog approaching an its abuser. I hated the seat. I hated Honda for that. I finally spent over a Grand and bought an Ultimate seat for the Goldwing. It is now just a comfy on the butt as the Vision. But I didn't spend extra on the Vision. Does Honda get kick backs from the seat manufacturers?
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Cruiser
Posts: 64
Ma. | After riding my 2006 GL1800 W/ with all options including ABS brakes (excluding Air Bag) for 2 years I traded it in for My new 2008 Grey Vision Premium Tourer.
Although I often read what other riders write I rarely offer my own opinions. Alot of people seem to give opinions with very little actual riding experience with bikes they are comparing. I though it might tbe helpful to some if I gave my opinion on the two bikes which I actually owned.
I am 56 and have been riding since I was 16. I have owned 7 Hondas (3 Goldwings), 2 Yamahas and this is my second Victory. I spent a few dollars in extras and got my Goldwing reasonably comfortable for me (Wing Floor Boards; Mick-O-Pegs; Corbin Seat....). I drive up to Canada about once every 5-6 weeks to visit family. (My wife does not ride on any of my motorcycles) I meet her up there. The problem was that the Goldwing was so comfortable, quiet, smooth... I felt like I was riding in a two wheel Luxury Convertable Car. I have absolutely no complaints about the Goldwing... In my opinion it's still the Best Luxury Touring Motorcycle on the Market.
So why did I get the Vision..... Well, because I did not consider it to ba a Luxury Tourer... Not yet anyway. That being said it is alot more fun to ride then the Goldwing. I like the feel of riding a very well equipped motorcycle with storage. The Goldwing is much more refined, and probably because it has been around for so long, seems to have every thing figured out. The Vision's con's that have been expressed by most are atleast somewhat true. The heat off the engine, fit and finish not perfect are the two that come to mind. My wife asked me when I came in from my maiden ride after picking up the Vision "So what do you think... do you like it. My answer was yes. The next question was "More then your other one" (She does not know the names of any of my bikes) .Well I said there different, But I think I made the right choice.
If anyone is considering a Vision, and should have any specific questions, I will do my best to answer them as honestly as I can. I will check back on this thread over the next couple of days. Be safe riding and Good Luck to all. |
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Tourer
Posts: 495
Carrollton, TX | While I have only ridden the Vision twice I have put a few hundred miles on the Gold Wing 1800. I was going to buy a Gold Wing but heard about the Vision and waited to ride one before making a decision and I am glad I did. The Gold Wing is a good bike but I ordered a Vision and here are some of my thoughts.
1. In my opinion the Gold Wing needs a 6 speed transmission. At higher highway speeds it is just too wound up and I found myself looking for another gear all the time. While the bike is smooth the higher rpm creates a harmonic that wears on you. According to many I have talked to at Honda a 6 speed is the most requested change in their focus groups of existing users. The 6 speed in the Vision is one of its best features. I wouldn't own a bike without a 6 speed again.
2. Most people and I included are much more comfortable in a feet forward sitting position and this is evident by the majority of Gold Wing users installing highway peg options but these options provide limited comfort due to design constraints and having to spread your legs so far to get around the width of the engine.
3. To get the comfort package on the Gold Wing you have to get their navigation option that is a complete joke for a motorcycle and it is clear the product manager on this never rides a bike. Many users end up installing an aftermarket GPS even though they have the Honda factory option installed. The factory navigation system does not let you create routes on a PC choosing all the good back roads, sharing the routes with others you ride with, keeping tracks of where you have gone and turning them into routes, creating waypoints and many other features available in aftermarket units.
4. When riding the Gold Wing you just don't feel a part of the bike like you do on the Vision.
5. The Gold Wing lacks the power adjust windscreen and this is a big plus for the Victory Vision.
6. The IPod support on the Vision is also way cool and a big benefit.
7. Overall the electronics are better and more up to date on the Vision.
8. The Vision suspension provides a smoother and more comfortable ride on the highway.
9. While you have to order the CB radio to get an intercom system on the Vision the system provides better integration and functionality. I talked to a Victory engineer on this and after hearing his case I think they did the right thing.
10. While the Vision does not have ABS brakes yet it is rumored there will be an option for ABS brakes later in the 2008 model year. When I was looking at buying a Gold Wing the three dealers I talked with said only about 30 to 40 percent of Gold Wing buyers choose the ABS option. They said more experienced riders prefer non ABS brakes while inexperienced riders like the idea of ABS. The unique linked braking system of the Vision is plenty good for me and I probably would get the ABS option even if it was available. I have put over 100,000 miles on a bike in the last 6 years and I never had an instance I wished I had ABS.
11. The Gold Wing does have a little more power than the Vision but not by a lot. It is a lot easier and cheaper to get more power out of the V twin if you really want it.
12. I live in Texas where it gets hot and I have ridden both the stock Gold Wing and Vision in the hot Texas heat and I think the Gold Wing runs hotter than the Vision. No matter what touring bike you have you will want to add after market wind deflectors to better manage the heat coming off the engine. Victory has some coming out for the Vision as well as Arlen Ness and others.
13. Both the Vision and the Gold Wing handle the twisties very well but I think the Vision has a little edge due to its lower center of gravity.
14. The 2.6 inches lower seating height of the Vision is also a big plus. It makes for more comfort, easier mounting and dismounting and maneuvering while walking the bike.
15. The Gold Wing has a little more storage area but not enough to make a big difference. I would rather have the smooth integrated look and aerodynamics of the Vision than more of a bag bolt on look of the Gold Wing. One of the things I really like about the Vision is that everything is so well integrated and nothing looks like it was an afterthought or just bolted on.
16. The Victory Vision is an American bike made by an American company!
17. The Vision also has 5.8 inches of ground clearance versus the 5 inches of the Gold Wing.
18. The Gold Wing does not have a XM Radio option from the factory that fully integrates with everything.
19. The Vision has better aerodynamics and weather protection than the Gold Wing.
20. The Gold Wing has a well known front end wobble problem.
There are a lot of things to consider in a touring bike where you rack up a lot of miles. The most important to me are comfort, handling, and the riding enjoyment enhanced by great electronics that are well integrated together. Ride both bikes and I'll bet you will choose the Vision also. 
---------------------------------
Craig
Midnight Cherry Tour Premium on order
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Iron Butt
Posts: 721
| Spock,
As someone who has ridden dedicated touring motorcycles for 12 years, the last 8 being on Honda Goldwings, and with more than 350,000 miles ridden since 1991, I have to disagree with you on a couple of points you make about the GL1800.
"1. In my opinion the Gold Wing needs a 6 speed transmission. At higher highway speeds it is just too wound up and I found myself looking for another gear all the time. While the bike is smooth the higher rpm creates a harmonic that wears on you. According to many I have talked to at Honda a 6 speed is the most requested change in their focus groups of existing users. The 6 speed in the Vision is one of its best features. I wouldn't own a bike without a 6 speed again."
While another cog in the transmission could always be useful, it is not absolutely necessary on the GL1800 as the engine is so smooth, even when cruising on the highway at 80 mph with the engine running around 3500 rpms. As far as power goes, NOTHING on the market currently, including the Vision, can compare with the GL1800, my '03 which is completely stock dynoed at 106 hp and 113 ft/lbs torque at the rear wheel. On the GL1800 you can be cruising two up and towing a trailer at 80 mph and roll on the throttle hard and be up to 95 faster than any other stock motorcycle carrying the same load.
"3. To get the comfort package on the Gold Wing you have to get their navigation option that is a complete joke for a motorcycle and it is clear the product manager on this never rides a bike. Many users end up installing an aftermarket GPS even though they have the Honda factory option installed. The factory navigation system does not let you create routes on a PC choosing all the good back roads, sharing the routes with others you ride with, keeping tracks of where you have gone and turning them into routes, creating waypoints and many other features available in aftermarket units.
While this is somewhat true, you can add routes if you have Garmin's Mapsource software and a compact flash card reader/writer, there is a port in the GPS unit in the trunk where to insert the compact flash card. You are right in one respect, doing on bike routing with the factory installed Navi is a pain.
"7. Overall the electronics are better and more up to date on the Vision."
The ability to connect a factory accessory lead for an iPod or to connect a factory accessory XM receiver is an advantage for the Vision granted, but the integration of the handlebar switch gear to control function has a more finished look and feel on the GL1800 as compared to the Vision. The control pods located on the handlebars look like add-ons and the PTT switch for the CB is a joke in it's placement, that may not mean much to those that have never ridden in a group that uses CB communications, but coming from a former Goldwing rider it is of great importance.
"15. The Gold Wing has a little more storage area but not enough to make a big difference. I would rather have the smooth integrated look and aerodynamics of the Vision than more of a bag bolt on look of the Gold Wing. One of the things I really like about the Vision is that everything is so well integrated and nothing looks like it was an afterthought or just bolted on."
The GL1800 has about 30% less storage space than did my '98 GL1500, but has about 50% MORE storage space than the Vision. The storage capacity of the Vision's saddlebags is lacking although I do like the smaller storage bins to seperate such things as gloves, small purses (gotta keep momma happy!) and such smaller items. As far as integrated looks, come on, the lines of the Goldwing flow just as smoothly as the Vision's in a total package concept, especially the trunk.
"20. The Gold Wing has a well known front end wobble problem."
Again, partly true. Steering stem maintenance is one of the most overlooked items on all full dress touring motorcycles, I've experienced the front end wobble with my '03 Goldwing and it was fixed by a simple re-torquing of the steering stem bearings.
To each his own, me, I'm keeping my Goldwing and still getting a Vision, they will just be used for different types of riding that's all.
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Tourer
Posts: 495
Carrollton, TX | I looked up the stats on storage for both the Vision and the Gold Wing and the Gold Wing has 24.75% more total storage than the Vision. The Gold Wing has 8,970 cubic inches and the Vision tour has 6,750 cubic inches.
Craig
Travelin' Man - 2007-12-23 8:34 AM
"15. The Gold Wing has a little more storage area but not enough to make a big difference. I would rather have the smooth integrated look and aerodynamics of the Vision than more of a bag bolt on look of the Gold Wing. One of the things I really like about the Vision is that everything is so well integrated and nothing looks like it was an afterthought or just bolted on."
The GL1800 has about 30% less storage space than did my '98 GL1500, but has about 50% MORE storage space than the Vision. The storage capacity of the Vision's saddlebags is lacking although I do like the smaller storage bins to seperate such things as gloves, small purses (gotta keep momma happy!) and such smaller items. As far as integrated looks, come on, the lines of the Goldwing flow just as smoothly as the Vision's in a total package concept, especially the trunk.
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Iron Butt
Posts: 721
| Actually it comes out to about 33%, (using (8970-6750)/6750) for figuring), but even 25% is a significant difference, especially for doing something such as an overnight or weekend trip, for longer trips I always tow a cargo where storage space doesn't matter anyway. So, we were both off slightly.
The point I was trying to make here is that the Vision, while an excellent example of a touring motorcycle, lacks the refinement that Goldwing has to be considered a "luxury touring" motorcycle. I would expect though for Victory to refine the Vision in a similar way to how Honda managed with the Goldwing over the course of it's nearly 33 years in production. |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 28
| I had a 2001 GL1800. being 6'4'' tall my knees were stick into the fairing. Made for a bad riding position. Made the top of my legs cramp. This also caused by tail bone to have undo pressure causing a quick sore spot. The 1800 for short riders is great but for us tall folks no where to spread out. This was my reason for selling it and buying a King Pin back in 2004. Loved the King Pin but lacked touring space along came Vision and I was sold. Test rode one and with controls put in forward position lots of room to spread out. The 1800 has a very smooth engine if that is what you are looking. Myself i like the sound from a big twin which was another plus for the vision. Both bikes are great. best thing to do is ride both and decide for yourself. Guess you figured out what i decided on a 2008 midnight cherry premuim Vision |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 849
, FL United States | Do any of you Wingsters miss the reverse ? I have gotten my Vis is a couple of odd positions & could have used a reversing tool ( I know that "reverse" is actually the starter running backwards). I'll be much more aware of the downward slope of parking areas in the future. |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 721
| The lack of a reverse is one of the reasons I've decided to keep my Goldwing and still get the Vision. We will use the Goldwing for all our longer trips where we are riding two up and also using a cargo trailer, I will use the Vision as my daily ride and for trips up to two weeks where I am riding solo.
Those here who have ridden a Goldwing, or a BMW K1200LT for that matter, know how necessary the reverse is when you are two up with a trailer trying to back out of a downhill parking spot, even a slight grade makes it hard when solo riding.
This is also one of the things that Victory is PI$$ING me off about, they are trying to compete more against the likes of the Honda Goldwing than the H-D Ultra, they should provide their version of the same features, not string people along with a "Heard on the street..." that if demand is high enough they will offer one in the future. That's like putting the cart before the horse............. |
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Tourer
Posts: 548
Mount Vernon, WA United States | What is the current "street" price of a Gold Wing with all the stuff a Vision Premium Tour has. Basically what would be the approx cost to get an equally "equipped" Gold Wing? Serious question that I hadn't seen addressed.
Now as far as comparisons go, I have to keep reminding myself, there really isn't a comparison when you're talking about a company putting out less than 7000 units a year and companies that have been putting out 100's of thousands of units for MANY years. With lower numbers one would think issues like fit'n finish would be easier to address, but in fact, with lower numbers the slightest "improvement" has a much larger impact on "production cost per unit." I think the Vision is a fantastic bike for the 20K range. Would I be that enthusiastic about it if it was in the mid 30K range.... not so much.. I think the real tell is going to be 2009 and 2010. Do they address options like ABS, CVT, Reverse, Less Heat, iPod Tech, or do they just offer some other colors and chrome packages.
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Iron Butt
Posts: 721
| These are the discounted prices for 2008 Honda GL1800 Goldwings that Honda Direct Line is selling out of their Ohio store. The base bike is what you would have to compare a base Vision Tour to except that the Goldwing includes a rider/passenger intercom system, reverse, and a central locking system for both the saddlebags and trunk (including a key fob to lock and unlock besides using the key).
Features Model Color MSRP $ Our Price
Premium Audio-Level One
GL18P8 Black 19,599 $17,599
GL18PM8 Titanium 19,899 $17,899
GL18PM Pearl White 19,899 $17,899
GL18PM8 Metallic Red 19,899 $17,899
GL18PM Dark Red Metallic 19,899 $17,899
Premium Audio, Comfort Package & Navigation System-Level Two
GL18HPN8 Black 22,099 $20,099
GL18HPNM8 Titanium 22,399 $20,399
GL18HPNM8 Pearl White 22,399 $20,399
GL18HPNM8 Metallic Red 22,399 $20,399
GL18HPNM8 Dark Red Metallic 22,399 $20,399
ABS, Premium Audio, Comfort Package & Navigation System-Level Three
GL18HPNA8 Black 23,099 $21,099
GL18HPNAM8 Titanium 23,399 $21,399
GL18HPNAM8 Pearl White 23,399 $21,399
GL18HPNAM8 Metallic Red 23,399 $21,399
GL18HPNAM8 Dark Red Metallic 23,399 $21,399
ABS, AIRBAG, Premium Audio, Comfort Package & Navigation System-Level Four
GL18B8 Black 24,349 $22,349
GL18BM8 Titanium 24,649 $22,649
GL18BM8 Pearl White 24,649 $22,649
GL18BM8 Metallic Red 24,649 $22,649
GL18BM8 Dark Red Metallic 24,649 $22,649
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Visionary
Posts: 1324
So Cal | I dont think Victory had any idea how popular this model would be. I cant see them dumping a bunch of money and technology into something that theyre not sure will sell.
Sure they polled riders to get an idea of what people want. But what people want and what they buy are two different things.
I have never ridden a Goldwing, but I have ridden many Harleys. I can honestly say that the Vision is head and shoulders above the Harley. I think they were Victorys primary target.
Even the engine vibration mentioned on this sight is only noticeable above 4k rpm. and at that rpm, only a fraction of what a Harley is capable of.
The technology on the Vision is far more than I have ever had on any motorcycle I have ridden. Its nice to play with the buttons, but not really necessary.
I think Victorys major draw back is Polaris. Victory needs more separation from the ATV-snowmobile buyers. They are two entirely different markets. |
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Visionary
Posts: 3204
Memphis | C.H.Luke talked about being aware of any slope when you park the Vision. One reason it is so easy to take off of the kickstand is because it feels nearly vertical to start with. I thinks it's an optical illusion and has more to do with the low center of gravity rather than the actual lean angle. However, any hint of a slope to the right (throttle side) will likely lead to a tip-over. Much less margin than any other bike I've owned. I've parked my Vision on ground that looked fairly level but the bike did not feel secure on the kickstand. I could have pushed it over with one finger. Repositioned it until it leaned better. Just an observation. |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 721
| That's exactly why I like the rider adjustable electronic rear suspension preload capability on the Goldwing. If I have to park where there is a concern about either too much or not enough sidestand pressure I can simply reduce or increase the rear preload and raise or lower the bike thus changing the angle when leaned over.
cjnoho, your response is well suited if you are coming off an H-D, but if you want an idea of how most Goldwing riders are going to look at the Vision all you have to do is put yourself in the perspective of having ridden the Vision for years and now H-D introduces the "new" Ultra Classic. The Vision is in motorcycle comparisons (meaning the bike itself, not the electronics) similar to where Honda was when they came out the the GL1200 Goldwing back in 1984, but with modern electronics. A few of the things Victory needs to add to the Vision to draw more of the Goldwing riders away from their wings are an onboard compressor to adjust the rear suspension, include the intercom system as standard, and also include a reverse in the transmission, otherwise, as I stated in a previous post I am a Goldwing rider that will still keep my Goldwing and get the Vision to be my second bike.
JMHO, opinions will vary though............. |
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Visionary
Posts: 1324
So Cal | T.M. I agree 100% . The point I was trying to make was that Victory didnt want to put all their eggs in one basket until they knew this bike would sell. For many its an improvement for some its a step backwards. Now that Victory knows the Vision is a hit, I cant wait to see the changes from year to year. I feel the styling will hold its own for quite a while, the only thing left is to make improvements on tech. If a company made the ultimate product the first year, there would be nothing left to look forward to in the comming years. Not good for sales.
Harley wrote the book as far as accessories are concerned. I remember back in the early 70"s, every piece of chrome pictured in a HD brochure was extra. The price of the bike and the price as pictured was way diffrent. Victory has a lot of experience in off road toys, but little experience when it comes to world class motorcycles. The bottom line for any company is profit. In this point in time new models are a scary business. I do have to give Victory credit for succeeding where other american companies have failed, in competing with HD. Even the custom built bikes, people consider HD because theyre based on HD design. For a company to come this far in less than 10 years is impressive. Companys like HD, that want you to spend 30k for a bike and expect you to spend more on accessories, and other companies that try to give the consumer everthing in one package, would both be better off beating their head against the wall. Spend enough time with any product and you will eventually encounter some drawbacks, dislikes or just plain old annoyances. Especially when your making a monthly payment. Bottom line is that we all love to ride, or we wouldnt be taking the time to post our opinions on this or any other website. I still have my daughters honda 50 in the garage and still ge a kick out of blasting it down the alley. Because it has two wheels? or it brings back happy memories? either way, motorcycles have been a major part of my life. I met a man in his 80's that he had ridden motorcycles all over the world. He was riding a trike when I met him, because he didnt have the leg strenght to hold up two wheels. I want to be just like him, when I grow up. |
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New user
Posts: 2
| WOW ! Thanks for all the responses,
I really Appreciate the Honest comparisons between the Wing and Vision and if the two Portland Or. Dealers ever get a Vision in , I will get to test ride one. Thanks again - Jim |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | I revisted this post, because I have a friend that has 2003 GL1800 and when we talk Vision, he claims head to head that the GL1800 is better. He's never riden a Vision, nor I an GL1800 so there is little qualified comparison. However, it is hard to imagine any other motorcycle to handle and corner as a Vision does. Sure footed is what I say when trying to discribe running the twisties. I've pulled some curves and find myself exceeding the threshold far and above that I ever could on my GL1200. I find myself pulling exit/entrance ramps on interstates to the max and scraping floorboards something I've never come close to on the GL1200. I always notice that the GL1200 would "walk" around the hard turns, and the Vision is like it is locked in a rail with no give. The Honda also it always seem that I was sitting on the bike, whereas the Vision, I'm sitting in it, making it one with man and machine. Thought I comment on this post to bring it back to the top for more discussion.  |
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Tourer
Posts: 495
Carrollton, TX | varyder - 2008-02-07 8:19 PM I revisted this post, because I have a friend that has 2003 GL1800 and when we talk Vision, he claims head to head that the GL1800 is better. He's never riden a Vision, nor I an GL1800 so there is little qualified comparison. However, it is hard to imagine any other motorcycle to handle and corner as a Vision does. Sure footed is what I say when trying to discribe running the twisties. I've pulled some curves and find myself exceeding the threshold far and above that I ever could on my GL1200. I find myself pulling exit/entrance ramps on interstates to the max and scraping floorboards something I've never come close to on the GL1200. I always notice that the GL1200 would "walk" around the hard turns, and the Vision is like it is locked in a rail with no give. The Honda also it always seem that I was sitting on the bike, whereas the Vision, I'm sitting in it, making it one with man and machine. Thought I comment on this post to bring it back to the top for more discussion. I have already posted my thoughts above in December but there have been at least two new reviews of the Vision where they compared the vision to the Gold Wing and the Harley Ultra and both picked the Vision. The Gold Wing was a closer competitor to the Vision than the Harley Ultra but they both said the most important thing in a touring bike is comfort and the Vision was clearly the most comfortable bike they had ever ridden. This is what I determined also.
While waiting for my Vision to come in I have ridden the GL1800 a few more times to do more comparison and the only things I could put in the GL1800’s favor are the following:
- Engine performance
- ABS brake option
- A little more Storage
- Reverse
Everything else I like better on the Vision including:
- Comfort
- Handling
- Suspension
- Aerodynamics
- Weather protection
- Electronics and instrumentation
- iPod integration
- XM Radio
- Navigation
- Looks – design
- 6 speed transmission |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Thanks for the feedback Spock, I just needed to read yet another qualified speaker to this matter. The friend with the GL1800 is a die-hard Goldwinger and even eluded to "discussion" that the wingers are having about the Vision. However, though the forums are open, I can't seem to find anything that talks about a true comparison. All the Harley rider's say is that the Vision is "ugly". Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder and rider. I finially picked me a winner.... |
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Visionary
Posts: 1324
So Cal | I worked with a guy that has ridden GL's since before 1985. He still has the 1985 (first year with FI) also has a 2007. Nice bike, but all the accessories arent integrated. The only thing missing from his dash and windshield is the hula girl doll. |
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Goldwing - Vision
