2018 Honda Gold Wing GL1800 Owner's Manual

Safety Guidelines

• Perform all routine and regular inspections.
• Stop the engine and keep sparks and flame away before refueling.
• Do not run the engine in enclosed or partly enclosed areas due to toxic carbon monoxide.
• Always Wear a Helmet: Helmets and protective apparel significantly reduce injury severity. Always wear an approved motorcycle helmet and protective apparel.
• Before Riding: Ensure you are physically fit, mentally focused, and free of alcohol and drugs. Instruct your passenger on riding procedures.
• Take Time to Learn & Practice: Practice in a safe area to become familiar with the motorcycle. Consider a certified course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Call (800) 446-9227 for information.
• Ride Defensively: Pay attention to other vehicles and do not assume they see you. Be prepared to stop quickly or maneuver.
• Make Yourself Easy to See: Wear bright reflective clothing, position yourself for visibility, signal turns, and use your horn when necessary.
• Ride within Your Limits: Never ride beyond your abilities or faster than conditions warrant.
• Don't Drink and Ride: Alcohol impairs response time and judgment.
• Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition: Maintain your motorcycle properly, inspect it before every ride, and perform recommended maintenance. Do not exceed load limits or modify the motorcycle unsafely.
• If You are Involved in a Crash: Prioritize personal safety. Assess injuries, call for emergency assistance if needed, and follow applicable laws. Evaluate motorcycle condition, checking for fluid leaks, loose parts, and controls. Have the motorcycle inspected by a qualified service facility.

Emergency Shut-down Procedure for Dual Clutch Transmission (GL1800BD/D/DA)

In case of a stuck throttle or unintended application of power, use the engine stop switch to shut down the engine immediately while maintaining electrical system functions.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas. Breathing it can cause loss of consciousness and death. Never run the motorcycle inside a garage or other enclosure. Only run the engine in a well-ventilated outdoor area.

Safety Labels

Safety and information labels provide important safety information and warn of potential hazards. Read them carefully and do not remove them. Contact your dealer for replacements if labels are damaged or unreadable.

Safety Precautions

• Ride cautiously, keeping hands on handlebars and feet on footpegs.
• Ensure passenger holds onto grab rails or your waist and keeps feet on footboards.
• Consider the safety of your passenger, other drivers, and riders.
• Protective Apparel: Wear an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, and high-visibility protective clothing.
• Helmet: Should be safety-standard certified, high-visibility, and fit securely. Look for DOT certification. Not wearing a helmet increases the chance of serious injury or death.
• Gloves: Full-finger leather gloves with high abrasion resistance are recommended.
• Boots or Riding Shoes: Sturdy boots with non-slip soles and ankle protection.
• Jacket and Pants: Protective, highly visible, long-sleeved jacket and durable long pants, or a protective suit.

Airbag System (GL1800DA)

The airbag system is an integral part of the motorcycle and can reduce injury severity in certain severe frontal impacts. It is not designed to replace a helmet. The airbag deploys in severe head-on or nearly head-on frontal impacts. It may deploy in severe angled frontal collisions, sideswipes, or if the front tire hits a hard object. It is not designed to protect a passenger. Do not install items over the airbag cover or between the rider's seat and handlebars, as this could interfere with deployment. Do not tamper with system components.

Riding Precautions

• Break-in Period: For the first 300 miles (500 km), avoid full-throttle starts, rapid acceleration, hard braking, and rapid downshifts. Ride conservatively.
• Brakes: Avoid excessively hard braking and downshifting. Sudden braking can reduce stability. Reduce speed before turning to avoid sliding. Exercise caution on low traction surfaces. Avoid continuous braking on long descents; use engine braking with intermittent brake use. Operate both front and rear brakes together for full effectiveness.
• Combined ABS: Distributes braking force between front and rear brakes. ABS does not reduce braking distance in all circumstances and does not function below 3 mph (5 km/h). Brake lever and pedal may recoil slightly, which is normal. Use recommended tires for correct ABS operation.
• Engine Braking: Helps slow the motorcycle when the throttle is released. Use with intermittent brake use on steep slopes.
• Wet or Rainy Conditions: Road surfaces and brakes are less effective. Exercise extra caution. Apply brakes at low speed to dry them if they get wet.
• Riding in Bad Weather: Ride carefully in rain, fog, or other bad weather. Wet surfaces reduce traction and increase stopping distances. Do not use cruise control in bad weather. Adjust windscreen height below eye level for better visibility if possible.

Parking

• Park on a firm, level surface. If parking on an incline or loose surface, ensure the motorcycle cannot move or fall.
• Ensure high-temperature parts do not contact flammable materials. Allow hot parts to cool before touching.
• Lock the handlebars and take the Honda SMART Key with you to reduce theft likelihood. Use an anti-theft device.
• Parking with Side Stand or Center Stand: Stop the engine, deploy the stand, lean the motorcycle onto it. Turn handlebars fully to the left for stability. Turn the ignition switch to (Lock) and take the Honda SMART Key.

Refueling and Fuel Guidelines

• Use only unleaded gasoline.
• Use recommended octane number.
• Do not use fuels with high alcohol concentration.
• Do not use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.
• Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (GL1800/D/DA)

This system limits rear wheel torque during acceleration when rear wheel spin is detected, based on the selected Torque Control level. It may not compensate for rough roads or rapid throttle operation. Consider road/weather conditions and your skills. Temporarily switching off Torque Control may help free the motorcycle if stuck or for off-road riding. Always use recommended tires for correct operation.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Monitors tire pressure while riding. If pressure is significantly low, a low tire pressure indicator turns on. Modifying the TPMS may make it ineffective.

Accessories & Modifications

Honda strongly advises against adding non-Honda accessories or making modifications that can make the motorcycle unsafe, void the warranty, or make it illegal to operate. Do not pull a trailer or attach a sidecar. Overloading or improper loading can cause a crash.

Loading: Carrying extra weight affects handling, braking, and stability. Ride at a safe speed for the load. Keep within load limits. Tie luggage securely, evenly balanced, and close to the center of the motorcycle. Do not place objects near lights or the muffler.

Parts Location

Diagrams illustrate the location of various parts on the GL1800/D/DA and GL1800B/BD models. Key components include:

• Throttle grip, front brake lever, front brake fluid reservoir, windscreen, fairing pocket, engine oil level gauge, cylinder head side covers, fog light covers, rear brake pedal, center stand, side covers, final drive oil drain bolt/fill hole, saddlebags, clutch lever, clutch fluid reservoir, shelter case, airbag (GL1800DA), fuel lid, travel trunk, helmet holder, coolant reserve tank, engine oil fill cap, shift lever, parking brake lever (GL1800D/DA), crankcase breather tube, engine oil filter, clutch oil filter (GL1800BD/D/DA), rear suspension spring preload adjuster.

Instruments

• Multi-information display: Shows various functions and settings. Some functions are disabled while the vehicle is in motion.
• Speedometer: Shows riding speed in mph and km/h.
• Tachometer: Indicates engine RPM. Avoid the red zone to protect engine life.
• Display Check: When the ignition is ON, all modes and digital segments should appear. If not, consult your dealer.
• INFO displays (INFO 1, INFO 2, INFO 3): Provide information such as fuel mileage, elapsed time, gear position, riding mode, coolant temperature, and indicator status.
• Interface dial and ENT switch: Used to navigate menus and set selections.
• 4-way key switch: Used on the left handlebar for menu navigation and selection.
• INFO button: Cycles through information on the information bar (audio source, vehicle info, help, system info).
• SEL button: Moves the cursor on the INFO 1 display.
• SET button: Selects desired display or resets tripmeter.
• Vehicle Setting Menu: Allows configuration of auto-cancel turn signals, idling stop (Canada model), suspension preload, units, and HSTC.
• Units: Change units for fuel consumption, distance, temperature, and air pressure.
• HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control): Enable/disable function.
• Auto Dimmer Meter Illumination: Adjust backlight brightness.
• Day/Night: Select timing for map color changes for visibility.
• Ext. Amp: Enable/disable audio output for external amplifier.
• EQ1/EQ2 (Equalizer): Select equalizer curves.
• Head Light Opening: Enable/disable headlight startup lighting.
• INFO 1 Display: Shows odometer, tripmeter, cruise control set speed, air temperature, available driving distance, tire pressure (GL1800/D/DA), and fuel gauge.
• INFO 2 Display: Shows gear position, riding mode, AT MODE indicator (GL1800BD/D/DA), Idling Stop OFF indicator (Canada), and Walking Speed mode indicator (GL1800BD/D/DA).
• INFO 3 Display: Shows indicators for trunk/saddlebag open status, seat heater status, grip heater status, suspension preload, side stand, and coolant temperature gauge.

Switches

• Center Panel: Interface dial, Home button, SEL button, INFO button, Back button, SET button, Handle grip heater button, Rider seat heater button (GL1800/D/DA).
• Left Handlebar: Headlight dimmer switch, 4-way key/ENT switch, Windscreen adjusting lever, VOL lever, Home switch, Back switch, Voice control switch, Source/Private Mode switch, Shift up/down switches, Horn button, Walking Speed mode switch (GL1800BD/D/DA).
• Right Handlebar: A/M switch, MODE button, Hazard switch, Engine stop switch/Start button, N switch, D switch, Idling stop button (Canada), Cruise control lever, Cruise control main switch.
• Honda SMART Key: ON/OFF button, LED indicator, UNLOCK button, Answer back button, Passenger seat heater switch (GL1800/D/DA).

Ignition Switch

Positions: OFF, ON, ACC, (Lock). Controls electrical system power and steering lock.

Steering Lock

Lock the steering when parked to prevent theft. Turn the ignition switch to OFF, turn handlebars fully left or right, then turn ignition switch counterclockwise to lock. Unlock by turning ignition switch clockwise with Honda SMART Key activated.

Honda SMART Key System

Allows operation of the motorcycle without a physical key. Uses low-intensity radio waves. May affect medical equipment like pacemakers. Operating range is limited. Deactivate the system when away from the motorcycle for extended periods. Anyone with the key within operating range can operate the ignition, start the engine, and open compartments. Always keep the key on your person and do not store it in compartments. If the system does not work properly, refer to troubleshooting.

Answer Back System

Locates your motorcycle by flashing turn signals and sounding the horn when the answer back button on the Honda SMART Key is pressed with the ignition switch OFF or (Lock). The system resets after 30 days or when the ignition is turned ON then OFF.

Parking Brake (GL1800BD/D/DA)

Apply the parking brake by squeezing the front brake lever and pulling the parking brake lever back to lock the rear wheel. Release the lever before riding and ensure the parking brake indicator is off.

Idling Stop System (GL1800D/DA Canada model only)

Stops the engine when stopped at intersections to reduce fuel consumption and noise. Can be switched on/off via button or menu. The engine restarts automatically when conditions are met or manually by opening the throttle or pressing the start button. Safety precautions apply, such as not leaving the motorcycle unattended while the engine is stopped.

Airbag System (GL1800DA)

Cushions impact force in certain severe frontal impacts. The system includes an airbag, impact sensors, and a control unit. It deploys based on deceleration data. The airbag deflates through vents. Service is required if the AIRBAG indicator alerts to a problem or if the airbag deploys. Do not attempt to service airbag components yourself.

Audio System

Features AM/FM radio, USB, iPod, iPhone, and Bluetooth devices. Operable via center panel and handlebar switches. Volume should be set to allow hearing external sounds. Some devices may not be compatible. Use audio devices at your own risk.

• Audio System Component Locations: Front speakers, rear speakers, USB connectors (travel trunk/shelter case), audio unit, antennas, and handlebar switches are detailed.
• Basic Operations: Interface dial, Home/Back buttons, INFO button, Source button for navigating menus, adjusting volume, changing stations, skipping tracks, and selecting audio output devices (speakers/headsets).
• Audio Mode Selection: Cycles through FM, AM, SXM (optional), USB, iPod, Bluetooth, AUX (optional).
• Volume Adjustment: Separate levels for speakers and headsets, with mute function.
• Audio Setting Menu: Includes Sound Setting (Bass, Treble, Bass boost, Fader, Auto volume for speakers/headsets, CB roger beep) and General Setting (Beep, Language, TTS Language, Clock, System Information, Apple CarPlay/iPod, System Reset).
• Playing FM/AM Radio: Tune stations manually or use auto seek. Store favorite stations manually or automatically.
• Connecting Devices: Supports iPhone, iPod, USB flash drives (FAT32, FAT16, HFS+). Compatible audio files include MP3, WMA, WAV. Use certified cables. Do not leave devices in the vehicle due to heat.
• Playing Audio: Select USB, iPod, or Bluetooth source. Navigate playlists, play, pause, skip tracks, change albums/folders, and select repeat/random modes.
• Apple CarPlayTM: Allows use of iPhone functions (calls, music, maps, messages) via the motorcycle display when connected via USB. Requires compatible iPhone and headset. Consent is needed for data sharing. Siri can be activated via voice command.
• Bluetooth Handsfree Calling: Make and receive calls using the motorcycle audio system and Bluetooth headsets. Phonebook and call history can be imported. Functions include dialing by number, speed dial, phonebook, call history, receiving/rejecting/ending calls, and call waiting.

Starting the Engine

Ensure Honda SMART Key is active and within range. Unlock steering. Turn ignition switch to ON. Shift transmission to Neutral (N indicator on). Press the start button with the throttle completely closed. For quick start, apply brake lever/pedal firmly and press start button. If engine doesn't start, try opening throttle slightly. To stop the engine, shift to Neutral and turn the ignition switch to OFF. Set parking brake when parking.

Shifting Gears

• GL1800/B: 6-speed transmission with one-down, five-up pattern. Recommended shift points are provided.
• Dual Clutch Transmission (GL1800BD/D/DA): Automatically controlled 7-speed transmission. Can be operated in AT MODE (automatic) or MT MODE (manual). Changing between modes is done via switches. Downshifting blipping control is available in MT MODE.

Walking Speed Mode (GL1800BD/D/DA)

Assists maneuvering the motorcycle at slow speeds for tight areas. Engage by starting the engine, ensuring Neutral, and pressing the Walking Speed mode switch while applying the brake. Move forward with the shift up switch (+) or backward with the shift down switch (-). Apply brake to stop or end the mode. Use caution on loose surfaces.

Moving in Reverse (GL1800/B Canada model)

Allows backing out of parking spaces at slow speed. Engage by starting the engine, ensuring Neutral, and pressing the Reverse mode switch. Hold the Reverse button to move backward. Release button to stop. Turn off the system by pressing the Reverse mode switch. Use caution on loose surfaces. Do not engage/disengage reverse while moving.

Riding Mode

Allows adjustment of engine output, brake feel, DCT characteristics, Torque Control, and suspension damping. Modes include TOUR, SPORT, ECON, and RAIN. Select mode via the MODE button.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (Torque Control)

Limits rear wheel torque when spin is detected during acceleration. Can be turned on/off via the multi-information display. Characteristics change with riding mode.

Cruise Control

Allows maintaining a steady speed on highways. Available speed range and operating gears are specified. Set speed by pressing cruise control main switch, accelerating, and pushing cruise control lever to [SET/-]. Change set speed by tapping or holding the lever. Cancel by pressing main switch or temporarily by applying brakes, closing throttle past closed position, or disengaging clutch/operating shift lever (GL1800/B).

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

Temporarily prevents the motorcycle from rolling backward or forward when stopped on an incline. Brake hydraulic pressure is maintained for about 3 seconds after releasing the brake. Activate by squeezing the brake lever quickly until the HSA indicator comes on white. Release brake and open throttle to start. HSA cancels if side stand is lowered or transmission shifts to neutral.

Refueling

Open fairing pocket, slide fuel lid opener, turn fuel fill cap counterclockwise. Use unleaded gasoline, 86+ octane. Tank capacity: 5.5 US gal (21 liters). Close cap by tightening clockwise until it clicks. Close fuel lid and fairing pocket. Handle fuel outdoors and wipe spills immediately.

Storage Equipment

• Travel Trunk, Saddlebags, Fairing Pocket: For lightweight items. Maximum weight limits apply per compartment and overall. Compartments can be opened with the Honda SMART Key within operating range or by pressing the UNLOCK button on the key. Close compartments firmly and ensure the "OPEN" indicator is off before riding.
• Shelter Case: For lightweight items (max 6.6 lb / 3.0 kg). Open/close via shelter case opener.
• Helmet Holder: Located on the left grab rail, for use only when parked. Attach helmet D-ring to hanger and lock. Store hanger in left saddlebag after use.
• Tool Kit, Owner's Manual, Helmet Holder Hanger: Stored in the left saddlebag (Canada model only).

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

• Handle Grip Heater: Warms hands. Operate via button on center panel. Select level by pressing button. Turn off by pressing and holding button. Do not use at idle for long periods to avoid battery drain.
• Seat Heater (GL1800/D/DA): Warms rider and passenger seats. Operate via buttons on center panel (rider) and left saddlebag (passenger). Select level by pressing/rotating switch. Do not use at idle for long periods.
• Adjustable Windscreen: Adjust height higher or lower using the windscreen adjusting lever. Adjust to below eye level for better visibility if possible. Windscreen lowers automatically when ignition is turned OFF.
• Windscreen Ventilation Louver: Directs fresh air flow. Press release button to pop up, push center to close.

Importance of Maintenance

Essential for safety, performance, reliability, and emission control. It is the owner's responsibility. Perform pre-ride inspections and follow the maintenance schedule. Improper maintenance can cause crashes.

Maintenance Schedule

Lists required maintenance for safe, dependable performance and emission control. Work should be performed by trained technicians. Keep maintenance records. All scheduled maintenance is an owner operating cost.

Maintenance Levels: I (Inspect), R (Replace), Clean. Service intervals are provided in miles/kilometers. Specific items like fuel lines, air cleaner, spark plugs, engine oil, brake fluid, etc., have recommended service intervals.

Maintenance Fundamentals

• Pre-ride Inspection: Check tires (pressure, wear), lights, horn, signals, throttle, brakes, fuel level, engine stop switch, oil level, coolant level, clutch fluid level (GL1800/B), side stand, parking brake (GL1800D/BD/DA).
• Periodic Checks: Perform monthly checks and follow the maintenance schedule.
• Replacing Parts: Use Honda Genuine Parts or equivalents. Non-Honda parts can make the motorcycle unsafe.
• Battery: Maintenance-free type. Do not remove cap seals. Clean terminals if corroded. Handle with care due to explosive hydrogen gas. Replace with same type.
• Fuses: Protect electrical circuits. Turn ignition OFF to inspect/replace. Use fuses of the same rating. Repeated fuse failure indicates an electrical fault.
• Engine Oil: Check level regularly. Use recommended oil (JASO T 903 MA, SAE 10W-30, API SG or higher). Change oil and filter as per schedule.
• Brake Fluid (Clutch Fluid): Use Honda DOT 4 fluid from a sealed container. Do not add/replace except in emergency. Have system serviced by dealer if low or leaking.
• Final Drive Oil: Recommended: Hypoid gear oil SAE 80. Check level and change as per schedule.
• Coolant: Use Pro Honda HP Coolant (50% antifreeze/50% distilled water). Check level in reserve tank. Change coolant as per schedule.
• Crankcase Breather: Clean regularly, especially when riding in wet conditions or at full throttle.
• Tires: Check air pressure (cold), inspect for wear, damage, and proper inflation. Replace tires when tread wear indicators are visible or tread depth is minimum. Use recommended tires and have wheels balanced.
• Tire Service Life: Recommended annual inspections after 5 years, replacement after 10 years from manufacture date (indicated by TIN).
• Air Cleaner: Viscous type, cannot be cleaned. Replace if dirty.

Removing & Installing Body Components

• Battery: Remove left side cover, disconnect terminals (negative first), remove holder, then battery. Reinstall in reverse order, connecting positive terminal first.
• Cylinder Head Side Cover: Remove fog light cover, screws, and prongs. Pull grommet and slide cover forward.
• Fog Light Cover: Remove screws, release tabs, and remove cover.
• Left Engine Side Cover: Release bosses from grommets.
• Side Cover: Open saddlebag, remove bosses, release tab, and remove cover.

Spark Plug

Replace spark plugs using recommended type and heat range. Remove covers, disconnect ignition coils, remove coils, clean spark plug bases, remove old plugs, install new plugs by hand, then tighten to specification (1/8 turn after seating). Reinstall components in reverse order.

Engine Oil

Checking: Warm engine, turn ignition OFF, wait, place motorcycle upright, remove and clean dipstick, insert without screwing, check level between marks. Adding: Remove oil fill cap, add oil to upper level mark. Do not overfill. Changing: Requires special tools; dealer service recommended. Drain oil via drain bolts (A, B, C for GL1800BD/D/DA; single for GL1800/B), remove oil filter, install new filter (lubricate seal), replace drain bolts with new washers, fill with new oil, check level, and check for leaks.

Coolant

Checking: With cold engine, remove left engine side cover, check coolant level in reserve tank between UPPER and LOWER marks. Adding: Remove reserve tank cap, add recommended coolant to UPPER mark. Do not remove radiator cap when hot. Changing: Recommended to be done by dealer.

Final Drive Oil

Checking: Hold motorcycle upright, remove oil fill hole cap, check oil level flush with lower edge of hole. Adding: Add oil to lower edge of hole. Changing: Drain oil, remove cap and O-ring, install new sealing washer on drain bolt, tighten. Fill with recommended oil, check level, install new O-ring on cap, tighten.

Brakes

Checking Brake Fluid: Check level in reservoirs (front/rear) is above LWR mark. If low or leaking, inspect pads. Inspecting Brake Pads: Check wear indicators on front and rear calipers. Replace pads if worn to the indicator. Replace both pads simultaneously.

Checking Parking Brake (GL1800D/BD/DA): Check efficacy by pushing motorcycle while brake is set. Adjust if weak.

Adjusting Brake Light Switch: Adjust nut to ensure correct operation timing.

Side Stand

Checking: Ensure smooth operation, lubricate pivot if stiff. Check spring. For GL1800/B, start engine in gear with side stand up; lowering side stand should stop the engine. For GL1800D/BD/DA, start engine in AT MODE (D); lowering side stand should stop the engine. If not, consult dealer.

Clutch

Checking Clutch Fluid (GL1800/B): Check reservoir level is above LWR mark. Inspect for leaks or hose damage.

Throttle

Check that the throttle rotates smoothly from closed to fully open. Have inspected by dealer if not smooth or does not close automatically.

Crankcase Breather

Clean the breather tube and plug. Drain deposits into a container. Service more frequently in wet/dusty conditions or after washing.

Other Adjustments

• Headlight Aim: Adjust vertical aim using adjusting knobs.
• Clutch and Brake Levers: Adjust distance from handle grip using adjusters. Check lever operation after adjustment.
• Electrical Adjustable Suspension (GL1800/D/DA): Adjust rear suspension preload via multi-information display (four levels). Front/rear damping adjusts automatically with riding mode.
• Rear Suspension (GL1800B/BD): Adjust spring preload using adjuster (clockwise for increase, counterclockwise for decrease). Standard position is 9 clicks from minimum.

Other Replacement

• Honda SMART Key Battery: Replace CR2032 battery when indicator flashes or range is unstable. Push release button, remove built-in key, pry open key body, replace battery (+ side up), reassemble. Warning regarding chemical burn hazard if battery is swallowed.

Engine Will Not Start

Check engine stop switch is in (Run) position. Ensure Honda SMART Key is active and within range. Unlock steering. Turn ignition switch to ON. Shift to Neutral. Press start button with throttle closed. If engine does not start, try opening throttle fully and pressing start button once, then repeat normal procedure. If idling is unstable, slightly open throttle. If engine still won't start, wait before trying again. Consult manual for specific procedures or if engine will not start.