GL1500 vs GL1800
I’m getting a Goldwing later this season/early next season, and I can’t decide which I want. If I went with a GL1500 I’d probably go for a 94 Aspencade in green. If I were to do GL1800 I don’t really know. I don’t really care about the onboard tech. I want reverse, heated seat and/or grips, and luggage that can fit two full face helmets. I don’t want one repair to essentially kill the bike because the part doesn’t exist anymore either. I’ve got enough of that anxiety with a 2002 Buell.
The GL1500 by my understanding is more comfortable for the passenger, has more spacious luggage, and weighs a bit less with a slightly more “characterful” engine. It’s what I think of when I think Goldwing and I love the look.
The GL1800 loses some comfort and luggage space, but has more modern conveniences and uses a timing chain instead of a timing belt. Parts are going to be more common because it’s newer. It looks kinda like a mid-2000s Chevy product to me with the light design, not my favorite, but I’d get used to it.
Which should I go for?