[pipelinepete]

I'm getting too old for sport biking and need something more comfortable. Am considering a used GL1500 or GL1800. From what I've read, the 1800 was a significant upgrade to the 1500. But I like the look of the 1500 a lot more, and used ones are more affordable. What are the significant differences between the two? I'm wondering about power, comfort, handling, and maintenance in particular. BTW I've never owned a Wing, and I still have lots of "sports bike" left in me (i.e. power and performance are important). I'm 6-3, 180 lbs. Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
Peter

 

[LarryinSeattle]

Welcome to the GWOF from Seattle.

What ever floats your boat. I ride the cheapest wing there ever was.... the Interstate (94 1500) and I enjoy it. I would keep my 1500 until I was sure that I liked the 1800..... if I ever buy an 1800.

There are differences in the two. Some people prefer the 1500.... some the 1800. The front tire is the same size.... other than that, they are different.

We really enjoy detailed ride reports with pictures... so whatever bike you do buy, be sure to post pictures on here.

If you post in your profile where you are from, we would be able to see that.

 

[Cantankerous]

Try reading through this thread, as I asked the same question.


http://www.goldwingowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7405

 

[fossil92]

pete,

1500 is a bit more plush ride, a little top heavy, are carburated & a bit antiquated by todays standard. Having said that they are still one heck of a ride & you can put many many miles on them.

1800 is more of a sport bike feel, lower center of gravity, fuel injected, more power & has some geewhiz stuff like GPS (although some people don't care for factory one).

Here is some good reading for you to help you on your quest.

Good luck & welcome to the site.

http://www.goldwingfacts.com/goldwinghistory.htm

 

[Chopin]

At 6'3" you would probably find the 1500 easier to get cruising comfortable on. It's a compromise of power vs. style and comfort. You can have it all just not all at once.

 

[trike lady]

Hello and welcome to the forum.
If you like the styling of the 1500 and they can be found for very reasonable prices.
While the GL1500 may have twin carbs, it does have hydraulic lifters.

 

[budoka]

I'd say try them both if you get the chance and then see which fits you better. Loved my 1500, but I personally wouldn't go back. Welcome to the site Where in Alberta are you located?

 

[willmax]

I'm 6'2" & 225 and ride a GL1800. Took a bit of getting use to at low speed, but love it.

 

[detdrbuzzard]

hello pete, welcome to GWOF. get the newest wing you can afford

 

[LarryinSeattle]

hello pete, welcome to GWOF. get the newest wing you can afford

That is the most sense in the least amount of words, ever.

 

[budoka]

That's our doc Larry, clear and concise as always!

 

[fossil92]

That's our doc Larry, clear and concise as always!

One of these days the Doc is going to shock us all, come out of his shell & post more dribble than the Maestro does.

Naaahhh only kidding.

 

[LarryinSeattle]

One of these days the Doc is going to shock us all, come out of his shell & post more dribble than the Maestro does.

Naaahhh only kidding.

I think the good doctor uses his two front fore fingers and pecks and pokes the keyboard. So getting the point across in the least amount of key strokes is vital.

We do need his thoughts around here.

 

[detdrbuzzard]

One of these days the Doc is going to shock us all, come out of his shell & post more dribble than the Maestro does.

Naaahhh only kidding.

it will only take six more posting to this thread
but nobody here could post as much dribble as the maestro

 

[Bill Reber]

Welcome to the forum , never have I seen a wing I did not like 1500 1800 1200 1100 1000 all spot on bikes

 

[Two Wheel Wing]

I loved my 1500 and love my 1800. You can't go wrong with either one. Good luck and ride safe...

 

[Jim Jackson]

GL1500 = Cadillac or GL1800 = Corvette - Your choice.