With its front fairing
and headlights shaped like the spread wings of the Gold Wing logo, it?s easy to identify Honda?s flagship
touring bike coming
your way. (Photos by Kevin Wing)

Honda?s first complete motorcycle, the D-Type, was built in 1949, just four years after the end of World War II. The D-Type was also known as the Dream, and although the exact origins of that name are unknown, the new motorcycle was a significant step toward realizing Soichiro Honda?s vision for the company that bore his name.

A former race-car driver and brilliant engineer, Mr. Honda was the charismatic, outspoken leader of Honda Motor Company, Ltd. for decades. From humble beginnings, Honda became the world?s largest engine and motorcycle manufacturer, as well as one of the world?s largest automobile manufacturers. The company also makes ATVs, power equipment, aircraft, and robots, and it has competed in and won championships in nearly every form of motorcycle and car racing.
Honda has created many groundbreaking motorcycles in the 72 years since the D-Type first emerged, from the Super Cub C100 ? with more than 100 million units built since 1958, it?s the most produced motor vehicle in history ? to the CB750 to the Gold Wing.

The 2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour is available in Candy Ardent Red (above) and Metallic Black.

A Wing Fit for a King?

As one of Honda?s most long-lived models, the Gold Wing has been critical to the company?s success, particularly in the U.S. Inspired by Ho...