Test drove a 2018 6 speed Tour today

[Verismo]

That's cool. I'm looking forward to riding the 6 speed. I loved the DCT version, but not enough to go that far in debt. I hear the 6 speed is a smoother transmission than the B, though it's hard to think how that's possible. However, I would welcome the 6th gear and lower RPM's up top. Can't count the times I've phantom shifted into nothingness while already in 5th, lol.

Jason

[VStarRider]

That's cool. I'm looking forward to riding the 6 speed. I loved the DCT version, but not enough to go that far in debt. I hear the 6 speed is a smoother transmission than the B, though it's hard to think how that's possible. However, I would welcome the 6th gear and lower RPM's up top. Can't count the times I've phantom shifted into nothingness while already in 5th, lol.

Jason

It's an old topic, but still relevant. 2800 rpms at 60 and 3200 at 70 is an unnecessary waste of fuel. Plenty of power on tap -500 rpm at both speeds.

[Zteve]

That's cool. I'm looking forward to riding the 6 speed. I loved the DCT version, but not enough to go that far in debt. I hear the 6 speed is a smoother transmission than the B, though it's hard to think how that's possible. However, I would welcome the 6th gear and lower RPM's up top. Can't count the times I've phantom shifted into nothingness while already in 5th, lol.

Jason

I really wanted to test the DCT LOL. The gearbox did have very close and crisp shifting. At about 60-65 MPH 6th felt too (in tour mode) high and I had to drop down to 5th to pass with any authority. Maybe if I had flicked it to sport it would have been better. Again JMHO.

[JGF6B]

I'm intrigued by the 2018 but I really don't care about the transmission, DCT or 6 speed, I'm content with my 5 speed 2013 F6B.
The things I am intrigued by are ride by wire, reduced weight, and the improved front suspension. I have a 2013 FJR and a 2013 F6B. The throttle control on the FJR is much, much better than on my 2013 F6B, which is what makes me so interested in ride-by-wire. When I'm riding 2-up on narrow streets with stop-and-go and hills involved, the F6B doesn't compare to the throttle control of the FJR. Also, I think the FJR suspension handles bumpy roads much better than the F6B.
If forced to keep only one of my bikes I'd keep the F6B over the FJR. My main complaints with my F6B seem to be addressed with the 2018 Gold Wing (on paper only, haven't ridden one yet).
I do prefer the sound (or lack of sound) of my F6B compared to my FJR.
I guess it depends on what you are seeking out of the new wing. I'm still intrigued (unfortunately, I don't want to be).

[Zteve]

I'm intrigued by the 2018 but I really don't care about the transmission, DCT or 6 speed, I'm content with my 5 speed 2013 F6B.
The things I am intrigued by are ride by wire, reduced weight, and the improved front suspension. I have a 2013 FJR and a 2013 F6B. The throttle control on the FJR is much, much better than on my 2013 F6B, which is what makes me so interested in ride-by-wire. When I'm riding 2-up on narrow streets with stop-and-go and hills involved, the F6B doesn't compare to the throttle control of the FJR. Also, I think the FJR suspension handles bumpy roads much better than the F6B.
If forced to keep only one of my bikes I'd keep the F6B over the FJR. My main complaints with my F6B seem to be addressed with the 2018 Gold Wing (on paper only, haven't ridden one yet).
I do prefer the sound (or lack of sound) of my F6B compared to my FJR.
I guess it depends on what you are seeking out of the new wing. I'm still intrigued (unfortunately, I don't want to be).

I installed a Booster Plug (https://www.boosterplug.com/shop/hon...ries-53c1.html) on my 2013 B and it greatly improved drive-ability. Smoothed the throttle right out. https://www.webbikeworld.com/booster-plug/