Honda Goldwing GL1800: Top Accessories & Customization
The Honda Goldwing GL1800, a legendary touring motorcycle, is renowned for its comfort, performance, and technology. To enhance your riding experience and personalize your machine, a wide array of accessories are available. Let's dive into some of the top accessories and customization options for your Honda Goldwing GL1800.
Audio and Communication Accessories
Audio and communication accessories are essential for any long-distance tourer. The Goldwing's already impressive sound system can be further enhanced with upgraded speakers and amplifiers. Options include premium speaker systems that deliver crystal-clear audio even at highway speeds. For those who prefer a more immersive experience, consider adding a subwoofer to bring out the bass. Bluetooth connectivity is a must-have, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or connect to a headset for hands-free communication. Many riders opt for integrated communication systems that allow them to talk to their passenger or other riders in the group. These systems often include noise-canceling technology to ensure clear communication even in windy conditions. Beyond just music and communication, GPS navigation systems are invaluable for touring. Modern GPS units offer features like real-time traffic updates, weather alerts, and route planning, making your journey safer and more enjoyable. Some GPS units are specifically designed for motorcycles, with glove-friendly touchscreens and rugged construction. Mounting options are also crucial; ensure your GPS unit is securely mounted and easily visible while riding. Keep in mind the power requirements of your accessories. You may need to install additional power outlets or a USB charging port to keep your devices running on long trips. With the right audio and communication accessories, your Goldwing can become a rolling entertainment and communication hub.
Comfort and Ergonomic Accessories
Comfort and ergonomic accessories can significantly improve your riding experience, especially on long journeys. Upgrading your seat is one of the most impactful changes you can make. Aftermarket seats often feature improved cushioning, lumbar support, and customizable heating options. Some seats even incorporate air bladders for adjustable comfort. For added comfort, consider a backrest, which provides extra support for your lower back. Backrests are available in various styles and sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body type. Handlebar risers and extensions can also make a big difference in your riding posture. These accessories allow you to adjust the height and reach of your handlebars, reducing strain on your wrists, shoulders, and back. Footpegs are another area where customization can enhance comfort. Adjustable footpegs allow you to fine-tune your leg position, reducing fatigue on long rides. Highway pegs are a popular addition, allowing you to stretch out your legs and change your riding position on the open road. Heated grips are a godsend in cold weather, keeping your hands warm and comfortable even in freezing temperatures. Similarly, a heated seat can make a huge difference on chilly mornings. Windshields play a crucial role in protecting you from the elements. An adjustable windshield allows you to customize the amount of wind protection you receive, depending on the weather conditions. Taller windshields can provide more protection from wind and rain, while shorter windshields offer better airflow in hot weather. With the right comfort and ergonomic accessories, you can transform your Goldwing into a true long-distance touring machine.
Luggage and Storage Accessories
Luggage and storage accessories are essential for any motorcycle tour. The Goldwing already offers ample storage space, but there are always ways to expand its carrying capacity. Top cases are a popular addition, providing extra storage for helmets, jackets, and other gear. Look for top cases that are waterproof and lockable to keep your belongings safe and dry. Saddlebags are another must-have for touring. Aftermarket saddlebags often offer more capacity than the stock bags and may include features like integrated lighting and remote locking. Inner bags are a great way to organize your gear and make it easier to pack and unpack your saddlebags and top case. These bags are designed to fit perfectly inside your luggage and often include compartments for different items. Tank bags are a convenient way to store small items like your phone, wallet, and sunglasses. They attach to your gas tank with magnets or straps and provide easy access to your essentials. Luggage racks are a versatile accessory that can be used to carry extra gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, and camping equipment. Look for luggage racks that are sturdy and easy to install. Cargo nets and bungee cords are essential for securing your luggage to your motorcycle. Always use high-quality cargo nets and bungee cords to prevent your gear from shifting or falling off during your ride. Remember to distribute the weight evenly when packing your luggage. Unevenly distributed weight can affect your motorcycle's handling and stability. With the right luggage and storage accessories, you can carry everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable tour.
Lighting and Visibility Accessories
Lighting and visibility accessories are crucial for safety, especially when riding at night or in adverse weather conditions. Upgrading your headlights is one of the most effective ways to improve your visibility. LED headlights are much brighter and more energy-efficient than traditional halogen bulbs. They also last much longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Auxiliary lights, such as driving lights and fog lights, can further enhance your visibility. These lights are typically mounted on the front of your motorcycle and provide additional illumination in dark or foggy conditions. Turn signals are essential for communicating your intentions to other drivers. LED turn signals are brighter and more visible than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also offer a more modern and stylish look. Brake lights are another critical safety feature. Upgrading to LED brake lights can make your motorcycle more visible to drivers behind you. Running lights, also known as daytime running lights, increase your visibility during the day. These lights are typically mounted on the front of your motorcycle and are always on when the engine is running. Reflective tape and stickers can also improve your visibility, especially at night. Apply reflective tape to your helmet, jacket, and motorcycle to make yourself more visible to other drivers. Consider adding a light bar to your Goldwing. Light bars typically include multiple LED lights and can provide a significant boost in illumination. Ensure that all your lighting accessories are properly installed and wired. Poorly installed lighting accessories can be a safety hazard. With the right lighting and visibility accessories, you can ride with confidence, knowing that you are as visible as possible to other drivers.
Protection and Safety Accessories
Protection and safety accessories are essential for protecting your motorcycle and yourself in the event of an accident. Engine guards are designed to protect your engine and frame from damage in a crash. These guards are typically made of steel or aluminum and bolt directly to your motorcycle's frame. Frame sliders are another type of protection accessory that can help prevent damage to your motorcycle in a fall. These sliders are typically made of durable plastic or nylon and are designed to absorb impact energy. A motorcycle cover is a great way to protect your Goldwing from the elements when it's parked. A good motorcycle cover will protect your bike from rain, sun, dust, and scratches. A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can help you maintain proper tire pressure, which is essential for safe handling and fuel efficiency. A TPMS will alert you if your tire pressure is too low or too high. A radar detector can alert you to the presence of speed traps, giving you time to adjust your speed and avoid a ticket. However, be aware that radar detectors are illegal in some areas. A GPS tracker can help you locate your motorcycle if it's stolen. GPS trackers typically use cellular or satellite technology to track your motorcycle's location. An alarm system can deter thieves from stealing your motorcycle. Alarm systems typically include a loud siren and may also include features like remote starting and GPS tracking. Always wear a helmet when riding your motorcycle. A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear you can wear. With the right protection and safety accessories, you can ride with greater peace of mind, knowing that you're prepared for the unexpected.
Aesthetic and Customization Accessories
Aesthetic and customization accessories allow you to personalize your Goldwing and make it stand out from the crowd. Chrome accents are a popular way to add a touch of style to your motorcycle. Chrome parts are available for virtually every part of your Goldwing, from the handlebars to the exhaust pipes. Custom paint jobs are a great way to make your motorcycle truly unique. You can choose from a wide range of colors, designs, and finishes to create a one-of-a-kind look. Fairing accents can enhance the appearance of your Goldwing's fairing. These accents are available in various shapes, sizes, and materials. LED accent lighting can add a subtle glow to your motorcycle, making it more visible at night. LED accent lights are available in a variety of colors and can be mounted in various locations on your bike. Custom seats are a great way to improve both the comfort and appearance of your Goldwing. You can choose from a wide range of materials, colors, and designs to create a seat that perfectly matches your style. Custom wheels can dramatically change the look of your motorcycle. You can choose from a wide range of styles, sizes, and finishes to create a set of wheels that perfectly complements your bike. Exhaust tips can add a touch of style to your exhaust system. You can choose from a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials to create a look that's all your own. With the right aesthetic and customization accessories, you can transform your Goldwing into a true work of art.
By exploring these Honda Goldwing GL1800 accessories, you can tailor your ride to perfectly suit your needs and preferences, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of this iconic touring machine. Remember to prioritize safety and choose accessories that complement your riding style and intended use. Safe travels!
