I was at a coming out event for the new 1800 on Saturday and the air filter Q came up. I already new the answer. There was a Collective groan when the Honda rep told them “air filter change didn’t change”.
With the basic design almost the same as earlier versions, I doubt any of us really anticipated, or expected, any change in the filter location.....Still one of the best bikes on the market these days in my opinion.....Ride safe