better model years

[Skeldog]

I never monitor this section of the group because I'm riding an 82 Interstate, but I have a riding buddy who is interested in maybe moving up to a Goldwing. and I think he would prefer to get into the fuel injected era . I was just wondering if there are any particular year models that tend to be more troublesome as Honda progressed through the years.

[mterraci]

The early 1800's (2001 - 2004 / 2005) had issues with cracks developing in some of the frames. This was corrected with the later models; I'm not aware of any other frame issues after that.

[Ghostman]

I cant remember if it was in 06 or 07 Honda went to larger radiators for the cooling system for better cooling. But with 01 to 05 theyre starting to have an issue with the ECMs slowly dieing.

[Rambozo]

The first few years of every new version tend to have a some issues, but then they just keep getting better. So go as new as your budget will allow.

[GoldWingrGreg]

5th gens were made in America from 2001-10. The factory moved to Japan and GWs from 2012-17s where made there. Many 5th gens developed transmission issues which is an expensive to repair. Honda change 4th and 5th gear design in 2014. Therefore, if I were buying a used 5th gen, I'd get a 2014-17. Also, in some ways, the ones built in Japan are a better product.

[Greenwinger]

1988-2000 if you want complete honesty

[RThill4355]

I have owned 4 Wings, 86-03 currently 84 and 10, the 4 cylinder ones did not have stator issues, the 86, stator wires were soldered together eliminating the plug issue, the 84, was converted using the poor boy alternator kit. However, the 03 developed a cooling issue, that could not be solved, even after replacing ALL cooling system hoses, thermostat and water pump, along with cleaning our both radiators. I would stay away from 1800's made between 01 and 05. I understand that Honda increased the size of the radiator in 06. I know that Honda had a recall? for the 01 to 03 WIngs that replaced the ECM, some wiring to the temp gauge that somewhat solved the issue, but all I thing it did was to add a resistor to the wiring to the temp gauge. Just my 2 cents, but i poured plenty of $$ into my 03 to solve (never did) cooling issues. May suggestions were posted a the time. Sorry for being so long winded. Happy with both my 84 and 10.

[Bigred92]

I have a 92 1500 with 134,500 miles on it. Runs great.
I also have a 2021 1800 with 1,300 miles on. Jury is still out on this one.

[keithg64]

I had a 2000 for 6 years and loved that bike but it definitely was a land cruiser. I now have a 2007 gl1800 with 100k miles that has had no issues when I bought it with 43k miles. I really like this bike. Very sporty and easy to ride. I believe the 01 to 05 also had an internal bearing issue.

[Asphaltmaniac]

My 2006 bought new has been nothing but a pleasure to own. 06 gets my vote.

[jerehawn]

My only experience is my 08'. I've had is for 5 years and haven't had a problem with anything )other than Alaska having a relative shorter riding season and wildlife higher than me on the food chain.) I did have to train myself to take the key out of the ignition - i drained the battery a few time and had to replace it. With the ignition on and not running I would not notice the lights every time. So i just put the keys in the cup holder when it' off and in the garage.

[toanogreen]

It's all about the bells-and-whistles. The newer the model, the more you can get in accessories. Generally from '01 - '05, then '06 - '10, same basic bike, different packages. '12 - '17 slight body style changes, but same bike. New bike '18+. They are ALL Goldwings! Technology improvements move the buyer. But I still loved my 1500s!

[browndogg]

06 and up had bigger,better alternators.