Do Honda Gold Wings Hold Their Value?

Yes. In today’s used market, Honda Gold Wings typically retain value better than most large touring motorcycles. Well-maintained examples often keep roughly 65–75% of their original MSRP after five years and around 45–60% after ten years, with clean GL1800s from the 2000s still commanding strong prices due to their reputation for durability and long-distance comfort.

The 2025 resale landscape

Recent nationwide listings and dealer transactions indicate solid demand across generations, with prices tracking condition, mileage, trim, and luggage capacity. Below is a general snapshot of what buyers and sellers are seeing in North America in mid‑2025.

• 2021–2024 Gold Wing Tour (esp. DCT, low miles): commonly advertised around the low-to-mid $20,000s, sometimes higher for Airbag models in pristine condition.
• 2018–2020 Gold Wing/Gold Wing Tour: frequently in the high‑$17,000 to low‑$22,000 range depending on mileage, luggage configuration, and service history.
• 2012–2017 GL1800: strong activity between roughly $10,000 and $15,000 for clean, lower‑mileage units with maintenance records.
• 2006–2011 GL1800: often $7,000 to $11,000, with pricing sensitive to accessories, cosmetic condition, and miles.
• Early GL1800s (2001–2005): many rideable, well-kept examples found in the $5,000 to $8,500 range, with premium for exceptional condition.

These ranges reflect broad market tendencies; individual bikes can sell above or below based on local demand, seasonal timing, and documented care.

Why Gold Wings keep their value

Honda’s flagship tourer has several traits that prop up resale: robust engineering, a huge owner community, and utility that remains relevant even as models evolve. The flat‑six is renowned for longevity, routine maintenance is straightforward for touring owners, and the platform’s comfort and carrying capacity keep it in demand for long-distance riders.

Key value drivers

Several specific factors consistently support stronger resale prices for Gold Wings.

• Reliability and longevity: Many examples pass 100,000 miles with proper care, making higher-mile bikes still viable to buyers.
• Touring capability: Weather protection, ergonomics, and luggage keep the bike competitive versus new alternatives.
• DCT availability: Honda’s dual-clutch transmission holds particular appeal and can command a premium.
• Dealer network and parts: Readily available service and aftermarket support reduce buyer risk.
• Owner demographics: Many Wings are meticulously maintained and lightly modified, which helps resale.

Together, these attributes reduce perceived ownership risk and keep demand steady even as new models arrive.

What can hurt resale

While the Gold Wing is resilient in the market, certain items will pull prices down faster than average.

• Inadequate records: Missing service documentation or deferred maintenance.
• Crash history or corrosion: Cosmetic neglect or structural damage quickly narrows the buyer pool.
• Very high mileage without proof of care: The platform tolerates miles, but buyers still want evidence of upkeep.
• Heavy non‑reversible mods: Especially electronics or lighting that complicate diagnostics.
• Pre‑2021 luggage capacity concerns: 2018–2020 models had smaller top trunks; some touring buyers specifically seek 2021+ revisions.

Addressing maintenance, keeping take‑off parts, and documenting repairs can mitigate most of these headwinds at sale time.

Depreciation curve: what to expect

Gold Wings tend to follow a moderate initial drop and then a gentler slope than many other motorcycles.

• Years 0–1: Approximately 10–15% dip from out-the-door pricing, influenced by seasonality and financing incentives.
• Years 2–5: Values flatten; well-kept bikes often retain 65–75% of original MSRP by year five.
• Years 6–10: Gradual decline to roughly 45–60% of MSRP, with condition and records driving variance.
• 10+ years: Clean GL1800s stabilize; collector‑grade or exceptionally maintained bikes can outperform averages.

Local supply, macroeconomic shifts, and fuel prices can nudge the curve, but the overall pattern has been consistent in recent years.

How they compare to rivals

Against other heavyweight tourers, the Gold Wing is consistently competitive on resale performance.

• Harley‑Davidson Touring (e.g., Ultra Limited, Street Glide): Often retain a similar or slightly higher percentage due to brand loyalty and a deep custom culture, though absolute ownership costs can vary.
• BMW K1600 series: Typically steeper depreciation in the first 3–5 years than the Gold Wing, with electronics complexity and dealer density influencing used demand.
• Other metric tourers/baggers: Most depreciate faster than a Gold Wing, particularly niche or discontinued models.

In short, the Gold Wing sits near the top cohort for value retention, with only certain Harley models outpacing it in specific markets.

Model‑year notes that influence value

Subtle generational differences matter to shoppers and can move prices meaningfully.

• 2018 redesign: New chassis, reduced weight, Apple CarPlay, and the introduction of DCT; also smaller luggage compared with earlier GL1800s.
• 2020 update: Wider availability of Android Auto improved infotainment appeal.
• 2021 revision: Larger top trunk and passenger‑comfort tweaks on Tour models, widely regarded as correcting early luggage complaints.
• 2022–2025: Iterative refinements and color updates; Airbag option remains a halo configuration with a narrower but motivated buyer set.
• 2001–2017 GL1800 era: “Bulletproof” reputation; later years (2012+) benefit from updates and can fetch higher prices at equal mileage.

When buying or selling, aligning trim and model‑year features with the target buyer’s priorities can add leverage at negotiation time.

Tips to preserve resale value

Owners can meaningfully influence their eventual sale price with a few deliberate habits.

1. Keep complete service records and follow factory intervals.
2. Protect cosmetics: Store indoors, use paint protection, and address chips promptly.
3. Choose reversible accessories and keep stock parts.
4. Maintain consumables: Fresh tires, brake pads, and a healthy battery reassure buyers.
5. Detail thoroughly and photograph well when listing.
6. Time the market: Spring and early summer often deliver quicker sales and stronger offers.

These steps reduce buyer uncertainty, expanding your audience and helping the bike command a premium.

Bottom line

Honda Gold Wings do hold their value. Strong reliability, real‑world touring capability, and a committed owner base keep demand durable across model years. While all motorcycles depreciate, the Gold Wing’s curve is gentler than most, placing it among the best in its class for long‑term resale.

Summary

Gold Wings retain value better than the average big bike, commonly keeping about two‑thirds of MSRP after five years and roughly half after a decade, provided they’re well maintained. DCT trims, later‑model luggage improvements, and complete service documentation all boost resale. Against competitors, only select Harley tourers consistently match or beat the Gold Wing’s value retention; most other metric tourers lag behind.

What years to avoid Goldwing?

Years to avoid on a Honda Gold Wing include the 2001-2005 models due to potential ECM failures, though some frame recalls exist for 2001-2002 models that should be checked and addressed. Other models to be cautious of are the early 1980s GL1100/GL1200s due to carburetors and later model issues like sticky switches (pre-17) and potential shift fork/alternator drive gear failures (pre-14).
 
Years and models to be cautious of:

• 2001-2005 (GL1800): These models are known for potential Electronic Control Module (ECM) failures. 
• 2001-2002 (GL1800): Some models from these years had frame recalls for cracking welds near the center stand, so check the VIN for completed recalls. 
• Early 1980s (GL1100/GL1200): While older models have simpler maintenance, their carburetors can require knowledge to keep running, and parts for these fuel-injected (FI) models can be hard to find. 
• Pre-17 (GL1800): These models can experience sticky switch issues, particularly with the starter/reverse button. 
• Pre-14 (GL1800): Some of these models had potential issues with the shift fork and alternator drive gear, though this can be a random failure. 

What to look for in other models:

• Post-2006 GL1800: These models saw upgrades to the cooling system and ECM, which helped address some early 1800 issues. 
• 2014+ models: Generally considered well-built, with the 2015 anniversary edition highlighted for its aesthetics. 
• Post-2012 (GL1800): The electronics, including the radio, are better on these models. 

Important considerations when buying:

• Recalls: Always check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for any open recalls, even if you are buying a pre-owned bike. 
• Aftermarket electrical components: These can make diagnosis difficult, so be wary of bikes with excessive aftermarket electrical work. 
• Maintenance history: A well-maintained bike is more important than the specific model year, and owners’ forums can be a good resource for checking common issues. 

Which bike has the highest resale value?

Top Bike Models with High Resale Value

• Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 350. The Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 350 is a timeless classic known for its sturdy build and iconic design.
• Honda CB Unicorn 150.
• Hero Splendor Plus.
• Hero Passion Pro i3S.
• Royal Enfield Classic 500.
• TVS Star City Plus.
• Honda CB Shine 125cc.

Do goldwings hold their value?

Price Range: $18,000 – $26,000
While most Honda motorcycles hold their value pretty well, it stands to reason that we will see a little more depreciation on the Gold Wing. For one, it is a high-end luxury vehicle, and depreciation will always affect such a vehicle a little more.

What motorcycle holds its value best?

Harley-Davidson and BMW motorcycles are known for holding their value well, with Harley-Davidson being particularly renowned for its strong brand loyalty and classic designs, and BMW for its precision engineering and technological advancements. Other brands like Indian and Ducati also tend to maintain good resale value due to their unique appeal and performance. 
Factors contributing to high resale value:

• Brand Reputation: Brands with strong reputations, like Harley-Davidson and BMW, often have a built-in demand that helps maintain value. 
• Classic Designs: Motorcycles with timeless designs, like certain Harley-Davidson models, tend to attract buyers even in the used market. 
• Performance and Reliability: Motorcycles known for their performance and reliability, such as those from Honda and Yamaha, are often more sought after in the used market. 
• Rarity and Exclusivity: Limited edition or special models, like some Harley-Davidson CVO models, can command high prices due to their rarity. 
• Maintenance and Condition: Motorcycles that have been well-maintained and are in good condition will always fetch a higher resale price. 
• Rider Preference and Local Market: The demand for specific brands and models can vary depending on the region and the preferences of local riders. 
• Minimal Modifications: Modifications can sometimes decrease resale value, especially if they are not universally liked or well-done. 

Specific models to consider:

• Harley-Davidson: . Opens in new tabPopular models like the Sportster, Softail, Touring, and Road Glide are known for holding their value, according to Cash 4 Motorcycles. 
• BMW: . Opens in new tabThe GS series and S series are popular choices, known for their engineering and technology, according to Top Speed. 
• Indian: . Opens in new tabModels like the Pursuit Elite have high resale values, particularly due to their iconic American cruiser appeal and powerful performance, according to Top Speed. 
• Ducati: . Opens in new tabDucati motorcycles, especially the Monster series, maintain value due to their performance and aesthetics. 
• Honda: . Opens in new tabModels like the Gold Wing, CBR series, and CRF series are known for their reliability and broad appeal, according to Yahoo Finance. 
• Yamaha: . Opens in new tabYZF series, MT series, and FJR1300 are popular models, according to Cash 4 Motorcycles.