HONDA has unveiled a new naked version of the Gold Wing using the same 1832cc six-cylinder engine but weighing 70kg less.
The Gold Wing F6C has a new aluminium subframe, new styling and steering geometry and radiators mounted on the sides instead of the front.
Honda says it ‘injects a shot of adrenaline into the performance cruiser arena, with the incredible flat-six 1800cc engine at the heart of a motorcycle with commanding style and show-stopping presence’.
It’s the third model in the Gold Wing range, joining the GL1800 full-dress tourer and the F6B Bagger, a faired cruiser.
Honda intends the new F6C as ‘a bridge’ between the recently launched CTX1300, a cruiser using the Pan European’s engine, and the other Wings.
It makes 123ftlb peak torque at 4,000rpm and 115hp at 5,500rpm. The weight is 341kg, even after the diet.
Our main picture shows the US-spec version, which is called the Valkyrie, after an earlier naked cruiser using the six-cylinder engine from the old GL1500 Wing.
The F6C was unveiled today at the Tokyo show alongside an updated version of the retro naked CB1100. The new CB1100EX has spoked wheels, twin rear silencers, a higher headlight and six gears instead of five. The fuel tank is now 17.5 litres, up from 14.6.
Honda has confirmed both models are coming to the UK.
Honda's release on the F6C says: 'A new aluminium subframe lowers the F6C’s tail. Easy ground reach – seat height is just 734mm – and a comfortable, carefully shaped seat that’s just 300mm wide at the critical portion aids rider confidence at standstill.
'The 45mm telescopic forks are matched to a Honda Multi-Action System (HMAS) monoshock that can be adjusted manually for spring preload; it works through Pro-Link on the single-sided aluminium swingarm. Spring and damping rates front and rear have been modified to suit the F6C’s weight reduction and urban cruiser intent.
'Compared to its siblings, the F6C’s steering geometry is stretched out: rake is set at 30.5° with 121.5mm trail. Overall dimensions are 2,473mm (L) x 942mm (W) x 1,154mm (H) with wheelbase of 1,707mm.'
