Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT review. This isn't just any motorcycle; it's Honda's flagship touring machine, loaded with features and promising unparalleled comfort. But with a hefty price tag, is it really worth the investment? Let's break it down.

Overview of the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT

The Honda Gold Wing has always been synonymous with luxury touring, and the 2022 model continues this tradition with a host of updates and refinements. The most significant feature, and what we're focusing on today, is the DCT, or Dual-Clutch Transmission. This automatic gearbox offers seamless shifting and makes long rides significantly less tiring. Beyond the DCT, the Gold Wing boasts a powerful engine, advanced suspension, a premium audio system, and a suite of electronic rider aids. The 2022 model refines these features, promising an even more refined and enjoyable riding experience. For riders who prioritize comfort, convenience, and cutting-edge technology, the Gold Wing DCT is a serious contender. Its reputation for reliability and longevity further enhances its appeal. However, its size and weight can be intimidating for some riders, and the price point places it firmly in the premium category. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview, helping you determine if the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT is the right bike for you. We'll delve into its performance, handling, technology, and overall value proposition, offering insights from both technical specifications and real-world riding experiences. So, buckle up and let's explore what makes this motorcycle a legend in the touring world.

Engine and Performance

Let's talk about the heart of the beast: the engine! The 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT is powered by a 1,833cc horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. This engine is an absolute masterpiece, delivering smooth, responsive power across the entire rev range. You've got plenty of torque for effortless acceleration, whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling twisty mountain roads. The engine's refinement is truly impressive. Honda has worked hard to minimize vibrations, making for a remarkably comfortable riding experience, even on long journeys. The power delivery is incredibly linear, meaning there are no sudden surges or dips – just consistent, predictable performance. And let's not forget the sound! The Gold Wing's engine produces a distinctive, throaty rumble that's music to any rider's ears. This isn't an obnoxious, attention-seeking roar, but a refined and sophisticated soundtrack that enhances the overall riding experience. The engine's performance is further enhanced by the Gold Wing's electronic fuel injection system, which ensures optimal fuel delivery and smooth throttle response in all conditions. This translates to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, making the Gold Wing a surprisingly efficient machine for its size. Overall, the engine is a standout feature of the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT, providing a perfect blend of power, smoothness, and refinement. It's an engine that's equally comfortable cruising at highway speeds or tackling challenging terrain, making the Gold Wing a truly versatile touring machine. For riders who demand the best in performance and reliability, the Gold Wing's engine is a major selling point.

The DCT Experience

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). This is where the 2022 Honda Gold Wing really sets itself apart. The DCT offers seamless, automatic gear changes, eliminating the need for a traditional clutch lever. This can be a game-changer, especially on long rides where repetitive clutch work can lead to fatigue. The DCT offers several riding modes, including Drive (D) for relaxed cruising and Sport (S) for more aggressive riding. In Drive mode, the transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort. Sport mode holds gears longer and downshifts more aggressively, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging riding experience. For those who prefer manual control, the DCT also offers paddle shifters that allow you to manually upshift and downshift gears. This provides a level of control and engagement that's often missing in automatic transmissions. The DCT's smoothness is truly remarkable. Gear changes are virtually imperceptible, making for an incredibly refined and comfortable riding experience. This is especially noticeable when accelerating or decelerating, where the DCT eliminates the jerky motions that can sometimes occur with traditional transmissions. The DCT also offers a low-speed reverse function, which can be a lifesaver when maneuvering the Gold Wing's considerable weight in tight spaces. This feature makes parking and maneuvering much easier, especially for riders with limited strength or mobility. Overall, the DCT is a major highlight of the 2022 Honda Gold Wing, offering a unique blend of convenience, performance, and refinement. It's a feature that's sure to appeal to riders who value comfort and ease of use, while still providing the option for manual control when desired.

Handling and Suspension

Despite its size, the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT handles surprisingly well. The bike features a sophisticated suspension system that provides a smooth and controlled ride, even on rough roads. The front suspension is a double-wishbone design, which offers improved stability and reduced dive under braking. The rear suspension is a Pro-Link system, which provides excellent damping and support. The Gold Wing's suspension is electronically adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to your preferences and the road conditions. You can choose from several pre-set modes, or customize the settings to your liking. The bike's low center of gravity also contributes to its stable and predictable handling. This makes it easier to maneuver at low speeds and inspires confidence on the open road. The Gold Wing's brakes are powerful and responsive, providing ample stopping power in all conditions. The bike features ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, which helps to prevent wheel lockup under hard braking. The combined braking system (CBS) further enhances safety by distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels, ensuring balanced and controlled stopping. The Gold Wing's tires are specifically designed for touring, providing excellent grip and long wear life. They offer a comfortable ride and inspire confidence in both wet and dry conditions. Overall, the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT offers a surprisingly nimble and confidence-inspiring handling experience, thanks to its advanced suspension, low center of gravity, and powerful brakes. It's a bike that's equally comfortable cruising down the highway or tackling twisty mountain roads, making it a truly versatile touring machine.

Comfort and Features

When it comes to comfort, the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT is in a league of its own. The bike features a plush and supportive seat that's designed for long-distance riding. The seat is heated, providing warmth and comfort in cold weather. The Gold Wing's riding position is upright and relaxed, reducing strain on your back, arms, and wrists. The handlebars are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the riding position to your liking. The bike features a large windscreen that provides excellent wind protection, keeping you comfortable and protected from the elements. The windscreen is electronically adjustable, allowing you to easily adjust the height to your preferences. The Gold Wing's audio system is top-notch, delivering clear and powerful sound. The system features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or other devices. The bike also features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to access your favorite apps and navigation services on the bike's large display screen. The Gold Wing offers ample storage space, with two large saddlebags and a trunk. The saddlebags are lockable and waterproof, protecting your belongings from the elements. The trunk is large enough to hold two full-face helmets, making it ideal for couples traveling together. Other notable features include cruise control, heated grips, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Overall, the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT is packed with features that enhance comfort and convenience, making it a truly luxurious touring machine. It's a bike that's designed for long-distance riding, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience mile after mile.

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

So, after all that, is the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT worth the money? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for the ultimate in touring comfort, convenience, and technology, the Gold Wing is hard to beat. The DCT transmission, powerful engine, advanced suspension, and luxurious features make it a truly exceptional motorcycle. However, the Gold Wing's size and weight can be intimidating for some riders, and its price tag places it firmly in the premium category. If you're on a tight budget or prefer a lighter, more agile bike, there are other options to consider. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT is right for you is to take it for a test ride. Experience the DCT transmission firsthand, feel the smooth power of the engine, and see if the bike's size and weight are a good fit for you. If you value comfort, convenience, and cutting-edge technology above all else, the Gold Wing is likely to be a worthwhile investment. But if you're looking for a more budget-friendly or minimalist touring experience, there are other bikes that may be a better fit. No matter what you decide, we hope this review has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy riding!