2012 Honda Gold Wing Tour: Day 3

If you’ve read with us so far (Day 1, Day 2), you already know we’re on a journey from Virginia to Tennessee on the 2012 Honda Gold Wing. Yesterday we shared how the Wing, improved for 2012, reacted on a rainy day in the curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This time, I can report the stately Wing effortlessly pounds out superslab miles. It all starts with terrific wind protection, while hands are treated to adjustable levers and five-position heated grips. In front of a rider is a classy analog instrument panel with outsized dials, underlined by a large color screen that displays your choice of more things than I have time to write about here!

A CB radio kept us in touch with the group, while an XM radio with surround sound provided a vast array of music selections. Three cockpit storage bins (two lockable) give the pilot space for small items, while two fold-out bins in the passenger’s armrest provide room for your better half’s things.

And speaking of better halves, mine has never had a better place to sit on a motorcycle. Carolyn appreciated the Gold Wing’s wide base that provides broad support even as the miles roll on, and she loved having her own controls for the heated seats. Low floorboards supply acres of legroom. If you’ve got a fussy passenger, this might be the motorcycle throne that will keep them quiet!

So we made to Asheville, North Carolina, and the last leg of our trip will blow away any cobwebs created by interstate travel, as we’ll be pointing the trusty Wing down the infamous Tail of the Dragon! Stay tuned.

By Kevin Duke