As with all advertising on motorcycles, they 'sell a dream', they create an illusion that sucks you in. Once you are confronted with the reality of the product, your views may change. The Goldwing has always been, and always will be, designed to be the ultimate in a luxury cruising motorcycle. Been there, done that on both the 1500 and 1800. They are not designed to be spectacularly fast, or quick through the corners, or outstanding in any other area than comfort.There is a 'class' of person who buys one. I joined the Goldwing Owners club GB for a year. This shattered any and all illusions I may have anticipated of the camaraderie and indeed the bike itself. The bike was a pleasure to ride. Comfy, willing to go, not too bad on the MPG, insurance (UK thingy) was cheap! Parts???? Second mortgage or/and an organ sale was needed. As for the owners...what a pretentious, pathetic, money grubbing, social climbing bunch of wankers! But that's another story! The bike was more than capable but was NOT awe inspiring in any way, it didn't have the character and spirit that the Rocket has. It is just a plain 'Jane' and is a capable machine in any area but not exceptional except trying to park the B'stard. You needed that reverse gear!!
Just my honest impression of the bike and what its for!!