The 2006 Honda Gold Wing GL1800 uses five forward gears in its manual transmission, with a separate reverse gear to aid maneuvering.
For context, the Gold Wing line moved to the GL1800 platform in 2001 and retained a conventional five-speed setup through the mid-2000s. A dual-clutch automatic option (DCT) was introduced later on some Gold Wing models, but it did not appear on the 2006 version.
Transmission basics
Below are the core features of the 2006 Gold Wing’s gearbox to help readers understand how the gearing works on this model year.
- Five forward gears in the standard manual transmission
- Hydraulic clutch for smooth operation
- Electric reverse gear to assist with parking and low-speed maneuvering
Note: The gear count refers to forward driving gears; the bike also includes a reverse function, which is separate from the forward gears.
Context and evolution
Historically, the GL1800 generation (introduced in 2001) kept a five-speed transmission through the 2006 model year. Honda later introduced the DCT option on the Gold Wing for some model years, offering an automatic/semi-automatic experience, but the 2006 model did not include this feature.
Model-year specifics
In 2006, riders could expect a traditional five-speed manual gearbox with a hydraulic clutch and a reverse assist. Any changes to the transmission format came in later years with the introduction of DCT on subsequent Gold Wing generations.
Summary
The 2006 Honda Gold Wing GL1800 has five forward gears in its standard transmission, plus a separate reverse gear for easy maneuvering. The automatic DCT option would appear on later models, not the 2006 version.
What is the recall on the 2006 Honda Gold Wing?
Honda has undertaken a SAFETY RECALL on certain model year 2006-2010 GL1800-8A motorcycles to replace the airbag module. The airbag module in affected motorcycles includes a potentially defective inflator manu- factured by Takata.
What is the top speed of the 2006 Gold Wing?
The GL 1800 GOLDWING 2006 is capable of reaching a top speed of 210 km/h (130.50 mph) on the track.
What year did Goldwings have frame issues?
American Honda is conducting a Safety Recall on affected 2001-2002 GL1800/A Gold Wings to inspect frame welds. Certain frame welds may not have sufficient strength. High loads created when riding on rough road surfaces or through potholes can cause the affected welds to crack.
How much horsepower does a 2006 Gold Wing have?
Powered by a 1832cc six cylinder engine with a 5-speed transmission, the Goldwing produces 118 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 123 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. It has a seat height of 29.1" and a dry weight of 799 lbs.