Yes, I know I had more hair when the big pic was taken – it was almost 10 years ago !!
Anyway, here’s what your Gravatar will look like on any comments you make, once you’ve been to the website http://www.Gravatar.com and sorted it.
Hope to see many more smiling faces on posts very soon ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
You can use a different Gravatar for each e-mail address ๐
November 13th, 2011
Norman Scott
I did it also hope it works
Norman
May 10th, 2012
Nigel and Sue Tyler
Great commentary on the weekend Izzy, and we too thank Rick and Francoise for their planning to create a most enjoyable and entertaining few days. Nigel enjoyed the publicity he received when you all discovered just why we were both missing for half an hour on Sunday evening !!!??? Those of you who were there will see the results of his “cool pose ” in the coming year. However by Monday morning his wand had faded ! Story of his life !!
May 12th, 2012
Rodger and Edit Broad
Our thanks to both Rick and Francoise for orgnising such a great weekend, to Izzy for remembering and recording all the places we visited and things we did (although you did miss Mark and Pam preparing their shot for the 2013 Calendar in the Hotel Car Park – and Pam’s very cold hands as she helped Mark with his pose!!) – and, as always, the great company.
PS I do wish Izzy hadn’t allowed Edit to try on her heated jacket – as that will now cost me!!
Safe riding and best wishes to all,
Rodger and Edit
May 16th, 2012
Richard & Christine Chatham
Thanks to Rick & Francoise for a great weekend and for Izzy remembering where we went which is surprising as she got lost in a car park recently !!! Seems a long time to Wales on the 1st June however the roads are fantastic and i am sure Nigel will be selecting some great routes. cheers Richard & Christine
October 24th, 2012
Nigel and Sue Tyler
Thank you to everyone for another lovely weekend. All familiar country to Nigel, however he really enjoyed the alternative country route we took ( when one is working, one needs to take the fastest route, not the pretty scenic route ! )
The photo shoot is over—- thank heavens for the DELETE button on Alans camera !!!!!
Looking forward to the next time we meet.
October 25th, 2012
Jo & Terry
Yes another top class week-end and hotel with some good friends and company. The ‘camera person’ who accompanied me brow-beat yet another two unfortunate fellers into getting close to the their vitals with the results already passed on to Izzy & Joe. We missed Alan’s cake but DID’NT MISS SPOTTING DENNIS READING ‘THE SUN’ NEWSPAPER’ That must be a first.
We loved it too. The Sunday visit to the Castle in Warwick was great – Alan&Ann were still there !! They were expecting to leave mid afternoon but there was so much stuff to see & do they stayed untill it closed at 5.00 and came out with the rest of us. The firing of the Trebuchet was brill, its amazing how they managed to design & build such weapons, it was awesome.
The ride home on Monday went according to plan – we used the first part of Sundays route and we actually saw some countryside this time as it wasn’t as misty as the previous day. The ride home was cool, and damp but very interesting. Coffee stop was at the Doveleys garden centre cafe just north of Uttoxeter and we got home around 2.00ish.
A veryu enjoyable weekend, Thanks to all who joined us.
Cheers,
Ian&Denise.
December 3rd, 2012
Celia Steventon - Elite Wings
More people are signing up to take part in the chat on our Face book site, why don’t you join in to?
Remember it is only open to Elite Wing members or approved “friends”.
This Gravatar thingy works really well. Since we first put this post on here I’ve changed my Pic a few times and I’ve got different ones for each email address I use.
Its great – all of you who havent already got a picture showing by your posts should take a look – its real easy to do – even I can do it ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
February 10th, 2013
Roy
Checking it works
February 14th, 2013
Rob Ellis
Testing Testing
February 14th, 2013
IanC
Not worked this time Rob.
Did you make sure you added the Gravatar to the same email address that you use on this site?
I ask because I have 3 emails and at my first attempt I only added a Gravatar to one of them and it didnt register on here because I hadn’t done the correct email. I’ve now got a different Gravatar for each email address and they all work fine.
February 15th, 2013
Rob
Hi Ian yes checked that I cant see why it don’t work I will have to speak to my Lad again might be something to do with MAC.??
I’ve just learned that the new software isn’t available to the dealers just yet –
I got this email from Honda UK today explaining the procedure they go through before the dealers will get the update –
Good Afternoon Mr Cardwell,
Honda Motor Europe is in the last stage of issuing the service bulletin to the Head Offices in Europe. This will be reviewed by Honda (UK)’s Technical Team and then parts will be available to the network. I have pushed for a specific date to share with you but they are awaiting the service bulletin sign off before releasing this.
In regards to the map updates availability, we have contacted Honda Japan to clarify our position in relation to Garmin – this is the response we are awaiting. Apologies again that I have not yet specific information to fed back to you on this as of yet.
Thanks & Kind Regards,
Steve Fitzpatrick
Customer Relations Manager
Honda (UK) Customer & Aftersales
May 10th, 2016
Stefan
Hello Ian,
Iยดm writing from Germany and Iยดm searching a new Software since years.
Do you have a contact to Honda Europe where I can write too or some more informations where to buy the new Software?
My dealer is to small and he is not really willing to help.
Many thanks in advance for your kindly Support.
Best regards
Stefan
May 10th, 2016
IanC
Hi Stefan, can you tell me please –
the Year and model of your Goldwing.?
Which Map year do you have on your bike?
Where in Germany do you live ?
I may be able to help if you can send me the info.
My email address is ian@winginit.org
Regards
Ian.
April 21st, 2013
joe
Hi Everyone
It looks like everyone had a great time in Ireland and from what I have heard the hotel was really good. As I was unable to make the trip can I ask one of you to write a review on Tripadvisor on your stay at the Belfray.
Thanks
Joe
Despite the “Unusual” start, I had a great time. In reality the early morning ride was a very nice ride, Dublin towards Belfast up the M1. All in all a good ride. Hotel was great and of course a great crowd of people. A big thanks you to all for the warm welcome. Much appreciated. Many thanks indeed to all involved, not least for all the hard working planning organising etc.
Sadly, because of my working summer season it is tough for me to get to many (if any) events during summer months. Whilst others are out to play on bikes during the summer, Iโm pretty much tied to work. May till end of September is my only chance to make a living, so work it has to be. I might (?) be able to get a quick visit on the Kent trip, but yet again, very much determined by work and issues at that time. Hope everyone has a great summer on the various trips.
Many many thanks, great to meet everyone and look forward to another trip.
Regards to all.
Tony.
May 20th, 2013
Gren
Hi Ian and other members.
I registered with Branson’s in Yeovil re the new software. They emailed me today and stated the new SD card had arrived. They very kindly said they would send it registered post and print off the instructions for me to do!? I could have taken it there of course. So just to let you know my dealer had received the update bulletin. Good work by Ian and thanks.
Well, all I can say is “we had a really great time” and its a shame it only lasted 18 days !!
Can you believe it –
2 weeks ago today we were touring the Audi factory in Ingolstadt
Then we did Route 69 in Austria
then we explored Porec Croatia for 4nights/3 days
Then Verona, pizza, wine tasting & tour, sight seeing
Then it was Interlaken !! – fantastic scenery, Dare Devil stunts on high wires in the Alps etc etc
AND…
What a great ‘Last Night of Tour’ dinner we had at a lovely little hotel restaurant in France
(I didnt know it was named after a SongBird untill Lord&Lady P kindly informed me ๐ )
All in All we thought it was a great tour and wereally enjoyed ourselves.
Thanks to all.
Best wishes,
Ian&Denise x
September 16th, 2013
Dave Muckle
Had mine done 4 weeks ago, it’s basically a new sd card with the software on it, took about 30 minutes at Kent Motorcycles
September 17th, 2013
Gren and Jan
Well, this was our first ever European motorcycle tour. We both knew it would be long, hard, tiring and were both quite apprehensive at times. As some of you know Jan is very new to being a pillion and likewise, I am VERY new to riding a Goldwing! But, if you donโt try you will never know. At the end of the day how else could you ride and travel in such luxury without Elite Wings!
We were very well looked after and were both given advice which hopefully we have taken onboard. A big special thanks to our โOur Drakesโ (Jimbo and Lord P) for spending a great deal of time with us, (looking after the ducklings so to speak) while riding the many miles across Europe. All the group were most supportive which was really encouraging. The routes were really good and okay, we did bottle a couple of the โBโ routes! But who knows what will happen in the years to come.
The hosts Ian and Denise had clearly spent a great deal of time planning the trip and all the stops/hotels were really great, so many thanks.
Tremendous scenery throughout the holiday in all the different countries. Porec was great and even had a nice warm sea to have a few swims in. All the stops were good, but do you know Switzerland just had the edge for us. Looking at those gorgeous mountains and the lake from your balcony was most spectacular.
The wine tasting trip was good fun and we must agree with Ian, the last night in Verdun was most enjoyable. The French cuisine was just great, (But they will never ever get me to eat snails though!).
Glad we stayed in Calais on the Sunday as we missed that awful weather. On the return trip along the M25 who should we meet in the traffic jam? Mick and Netty weaving through all the traffic! Shouted out โGrenvilleโ and was gone! So Hi both. (Ex coppers ehโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆ).
So would we go again? OH YES! I have also ordered a pair of Bifocals to read the Satnav properly and all being well stop too many โPimpernel Momentsโ.
We really enjoyed ALL your company and many thanks for making us welcome. All we ask now is another new member goes next time so they can get all the flack!!
Kind regards, Gren and Jan x
September 19th, 2013
Lord P
What an excellent tour.
The Audi factory was superb.
The Adriatic was just as I remembered it in 1970.
The Winery was unforgettable. Must be worth an order.
Verona is a lovely place to rest awhile
Switzerland never ceases to impress.
Great organisation by IC.
Great back-marking from Herr Shirt.
The Fire and Rescue service came in handy!
September 21st, 2013
Richard &Christine
What a great trip! Started well ? struggled to find McDonalds in Hull even before we got on the boat.
However what a trip- the Audi Factory was fascinating,route 69 was one of the best biking roads ever and Croatia was fantastic and good value especially as we were lucky enough to get a free upgrade to a suite overlooking the sea.
Driving through Italy was great fun as long as you ride like an Italian and dispersing the Harley throng was interesting.Verona was beautiful with the Winery visit ( thanks to Faye ) great restaurants and loads to do and see.
A few great passes.very cold on top in airflow jackets but Rob and I managed then into Interlaken and stunning views everywhere. local bus.train and cable car and your on top of the world at FIRST at over 7000 ft and then you’r sliding down a zip wire for 800m what on earth is going on?
Last night in Verdun was a gourmet experience with plenty wine in a pretty typical French country hotel and a lovely way to finish the trip with everyone together .
For the eight of us on the ferry this was not the end as there were ticket problems for some and then a stormy night at sea but this was probably the best bike trip ever.
Thanks to Ian for all his hard work and patience .
Regards to all Richard & Christine
September 23rd, 2013
Mike Cox
cracked it
September 23rd, 2013
JIM Shirt
We’ll everyone has said just what we all thought what a fantastic trip best yet Great road good stops and top company. Even the “Pimpernel ” events were fun Well done Mr C and many thanks for broadening our horizons.
Jim and Jill
September 24th, 2013
Jo & Terry
Nettie, it was like being there with you,you’ve missed your calling in life, you should have been an author of short story’s.
September 25th, 2013
Jim and Jill
Fabulous report Nettie shall we do it all again . Can’t wait for my next swimming lesson .x
September 30th, 2013
Gren
I should have photocopied your wonderful report on the trip and given it to my mother instead of boring her to death for two hours!!!!! Jan C x
hi we have a 2008 wing and can only update to 2011 not good for 2006 up to 2011
December 5th, 2013
IanC
Hi Darren, the problem with the 2006-2010 UK bikes is that the satnav uses the ‘old style’ mapping which was discontinued several years ago.
The new satnav system on the 2012+ model year Wings is a completely different unit and it uses the latest NT type mapping.
Unfortunately I can’t find any Honda dealer that can do a map update on the Goldwing. I think Honda havent got any system in place for doing map updates to the Goldwing range whatever year it may be.
December 9th, 2013
Norman Scott
Hi All
Spoke with Phoenix Honda in Grangemouth yesterday about my mapping issue (2013 reg bike with 2011 maps and 2.6 firmware) still no further forward no firmware update and no map update this is beyond a joke now I find out that Ian contact named above has left Honda so I have no way to resolve this but through Phoenix who are not interested they said you know what was on the bike when you bought it.
Any ideas on the next step?
December 9th, 2013
IanC
If I were you I’d contact Honda UK and tell them of your problem. They’ll sort it with Phoenix to get you the latest firmware ie 2.80 BUT THEY WONT BE ABLE TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE MAPS.
Regarding Phoenix deal, you might need to contact the salesman and get him to confirm tour agreement to get any financial compensation out of them ๐
December 13th, 2013
Norman Scott
Ian
Do you have a new contact at Honda UK as I understand that Steve Fitzpatrick is no longer with them.
Norman
December 13th, 2013
Gren
Hi Norman,
If I may be permitted to assist. Andre` at Bransons Motorcycles in Yeovil Tel 01935 474998 may be able to help. I`am sure if you speak with him and mention me he will know what you are on about! He kindly sorted mine out with the upgraded SD card and will know who to contact at Honda. He may even be able to do it for you if you supply him with all your bike data?? From my experience don’t bother speaking with Honda in Bulgaria, (as that’s who I ended up speaking with a few times) as they wont have a clue and will only refer you back to your dealer anyway. It is down to YOUR supplying dealer to sort it out and a good one will do it for you. For your info the card number that comes with the bike is 39250-MCA-G21. The card that replaces it is 39250-MCA-G22. It worked fine and I have upgraded it to the 2014 (Not with Honda and Mum’s the word on that one) maps as well. Hope all works out for you. ๐
December 13th, 2013
george
i have a 2007 wing with sat nav i have got software 2.60 wit 2014 nt maps all working no search for large points of interest but good maps now if there is a firmware update for our model ?
Hi George,
As you have already discovered – if you install the later software and maps to the old GPS unit it loses alot of functions eg search facility etc and also voice prompts can be affected too.
We tried this a couple of years ago when the ‘intermediate’ satnav was installed on the US 2010 bikes and we didnt have any real success with it.
We decided it was best to mount a Zumo 660 to the bike and forget about the built in unit !! ๐
December 21st, 2013
Norman Scott
Ian
Sent yet another email to Honda this time to Phil Dix and to the Chairman [took a punt at his email address once I found out his name] and I got a reply from Amanda Fisher
Hello Norman,
I have pleasure in confirming that Honda (UK) will cover the cost of the software update on your Satnav as a gesture of goodwill.
I then asked to confirm that it will be the maps and the firmware and I got the below reply.
Hi Norman,
Yes it is the firmware and the map data which the dealership must please action for you.
As always, any queries, please make me your first port of call.
A result at long last only took six odd months to get there.
Norman
December 22nd, 2013
IanC
Hi Norman,
I’m pleased to hear you finally got a result and it looks like Honda will now update the software to 2.80 and your maps to 2013 !!! (now they’ll only be 18months out of date!!! ๐ )
If you’d like up to date maps please give me a call ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
December 25th, 2013
darren simmons
HI ,
WHEN YOU BUY A BIKE THAT COST ยฃ25000 AND YOU ARE TOLD THAT YOU CAN NOT GET MAP UPDATES FOR IT THAT IS NOT GOOD AT ALL FROM HONDA UK . MAY WIFE GOT THIS BIKE 2008 FOR ME AS I ALLWAYS WISHED FOR ONE , AND THE BIGGEST THING WAS THE SATNAV ON THE BIKE WOULD BE SO GOOD OF HONDA UK NOT TO SELL A BIKE THAT CAN NOT BE UPDATE FOR THE REST OF ITS LIFE , NOT VERY GOOD FROM HONDA UK…
December 29th, 2013
IanC
Hi Darren,
I sympathise with you BUT unfortunately the old Navi system that is used in the European spec 2006-11 GL1800’s was built to use the older style maps. Unfortunately the company that produced the maps for the Navi unit decided to drop that type of mapping in 2009.
They moved to the newer NT style maps, which give alot more info and 3D views etc, from 2009 and that was the end of any map updates for the ’06-’11 Goldwings.
If its any consolation for you – the Navi unit in those ’06-’11 bikes wasn’t brilliant – it didnt have a very large memory or processor and it wouldnt do 3D map views and it couldnt take Custom routes – it was only any use for doing A to B routes.
I’ve had 4 bikes of that model ’06-’10 and I fitted a Zumo 660 on every one – the Zumo 660 is a MUCH better navi unit than the one fitted to these bikes and if you really need a good Navi unit I’d recommend the Garmin Zumo 660.
If you have any questions about the Navi unit or Garmin satnavs please dont hesitate to ask.
Regards,
Ian.
January 7th, 2014
george
gl 1800 2007 with sat nav
I have new 2014.30 nt maps on my Goldwing you need firmware 2.60 to read them but it takes you from a to b no problems you just cant search for all poi but it will give you nearest up 15 mils so I think it is all ok its all you need ?
January 7th, 2014
IanC
Hi George,
the 2.60 firmware might work ok if you only use the satnav to get from point A to point B but its of no use at all if you want to use a Custom Route.
I suppose its better than nothing but if you ride with a group that use custom routes for weekends away or European trips I think the Custom Route facility as is available on the 2012+ model year bikes and the Zumo’s is essential.
Cheers,
Ian.
We had a really great time and enjoyed the week end despite the little shower on Sunday.
Thanks to Ian & Denise for organising the trip. Looking forward to Northumbria.
Regards
Joe & Izy
April 23rd, 2014
Alan & Gill
Well done to all involved in organising it, as it was a super weekend spoilt only by just a small shower or two.
Had a great couple of days in Glastonbury admiring the people from the parallel universe ๐
See you in Northumbria soon……
Alan + Gill
April 25th, 2014
Nigel and Sue
We had a great time, good to catch up with everyone, and to meet friends Alan & Cheryl again. Shame we couldn’t do the biking but we did go to Bath. We stopped at Burford, then Bourton – on -the -Water on the way home, which was really nice but cold !
Thank you all for your support and kind thoughts, we have had quite a shock. Nigel says one or two of Izy’s cherry vodkas certainly did him the world of good :)))) He is now attending Rehab ( for his heart, not his alcohol consumption !! ) and is still very tired, but getting there. He hopes to return to work Monday.
Hope to see you all soon, thanks to Ian and Denise for organising it all.
Sue & Nigel
April 28th, 2014
Richard
Thanks Ian once again for a great weekend,some of you know that Christine had a neck problem which we thought was a strain but on my arrival back from a wet weekend in Scotland which she didn’t feel like going on she has been told she has shingles in her neck,back and left arm.
She is very sore at the moment and taking her medicine so hopefully will be ok soon.
Cheers Richard
May 1st, 2014
Mike Cox
Hi Christine.
Sorry to hear of your problem and we hope you are back to health soon so as to enjoy our forth coming holiday abroad.
Best wishes Mike and Nettie
May 3rd, 2014
Gren and Jan
Hi Christine,
You MUST get well soon and see you (and all) in Portsmouth ready for Spain/Portugal.
Feet up and let Richard take the strain?!
Kind regards,
Gren and Jan. ๐
May 9th, 2014
Nigel and Sue
Hi Christine,
Sorry to hear you have shingles, From experience they are extremely painful. No wonder you feel poorly. Kind thoughts are with you, and we hope you make your trip.
The speeding thingy incident just goes to prove my theory though – I was the slowest bike in the group so it couldnt have been me who was switching the lights to red when we were in Portugal ๐ ๐
Great holiday, thanks to all for making it such a memorable one.
Cheers,
Ian.
June 9th, 2014
Mike Cox
Great report Celia. It brings it all back to you in detail as though we were still there. Yes I was the fastest bike but whose counting?
Great report Celia, I’d forgotten some of the detail but you covered it nicely, and yes it was a great trip with some fantastic roads and scenery.
A big thank you to Ian for the planning, implementation and lots of other tasks he performed to make the trip such a huge success for me and everyone else.
Cheers
Dave
June 10th, 2014
Rick Faulkner
Reading the Report brought back wonderful memories. I was with you all the way!
June 10th, 2014
Richard
Well done Celia ,very good report and congratulations to Ian for the great roads and excellent hotels .
However you have missed out the 36 (approx) hot chocolates you consumed some of which were of stand alone spoon thickness.
I am only guessing on the number and have kept it low to save any further comment
Cheers
Richard
June 10th, 2014
IanC
You’re such a gentleman – I bet it was more like 50+ ! ๐ ๐ (19nts x 3 = 57)
Some of them couldnt be drunk they had to be spooned out, almost like eating a chocolate moose ๐
Of course – they were all low calorie, non fat items ๐
June 10th, 2014
Martin & Kate
Well what can we say, what a trip, we had a fantastic time and would like to thank you all for making us feel so welcome on our first trip with Elite Wings. It was like we have known you all for years rather then a few days.
The quality of the riding and the company was superb. Thank you Rob for leading, John for watching at the rear and for Alison looking after John!
The hotels and locations we also all very good.
I was all good fun and we had some greats laughs together.
So thank you very much everyone.
June 10th, 2014
Celia
Okay, okay! I also missed out Rodgers dancing, Netty’s medal winning 45th wedding anniversary to Mick, and the chocolate covered doughnuts Denise and I enjoyed for breakfast!!
June 10th, 2014
chris
this was my first tour with elite wings and i had a most enjoyable holiday thanks to everyone for making me so welcome and many thanks to rob and coleen for arranging it all . it is a holiday i shall never forget but like they say what happened in germany stays in germany –well for now anyway . it was a real pleasure spending time with you and i’m sure a great time was had by all–
cheers everyone
June 12th, 2014
Gren and Jan
Okay,
Nice report and a good holiday.
Nobody told me that once you have passed your IAM Test you keep getting stopped by those enforcer chaps!!??
However, my riding is now over for the Summer. ๐
Just a quick update on the arm injury……
I have to have an op this weekend to put the bicep tendon back where it should be on the forearm! (Apparently not the most easy of jobs, but that’s the story of my life).
Thanks once again for the company and the good riding and laughs etc.
Gren and Janx
June 12th, 2014
Celia Steventon
Hi sorry you are off the bike for a while take care, you can always join us by car
June 12th, 2014
Jo & Terry
Well what can you add, comments like these from two first time tour members and John’s daily ‘letters home’ which have become a feature of every tour emphasise the enjoyment we all had. The hotels, food, routes and weather all helped to make this trip memorable, Thanks to Rob and Colleen for the planning and to everyone else who made this trip ‘ENTERTAINING’
June 14th, 2014
Richard & Christine
Hope the op goes well Gren look forward to seeing you both as soon as you feel ok. It would be nice if you could join us at Northumberland even in the car. good luck .
Richard & Christine
June 16th, 2014
Mike Cox
Hi Gren. Hope your operation went well. I am sure nurse Jan will look after you.
Mick & Nettie
June 19th, 2014
Gren
Shame about Spain being out of the World Cup!!!!!!!!!! ๐
June 19th, 2014
Celia Steventon
Sounds as though you really really mean it, we also cheered when they went out!
June 19th, 2014
Roy
I watched the match last night, but all I could think about was. HOPE THEY LOSE, HOPE THEY LOSE. HOPE THEY LOSE. My prayers were answered, well done Chile, you played well and deserved it. Now I am not one to let a grudge linger, but I hope they lose in four years time as well, and in eight years, and in twelve years etc. etc.
I will not be donating anymore of my money to the countries finances, I think the Police over there are doing a wonderful job, they are creating there own bankrupt country.
August 25th, 2014
Norman Scott
Great report Ireen and I forgot how funny it was most of the time.
October 7th, 2014
mike j
Hi guys just about to purchase a 2013 wing from hunts in manchester it will be drand new on a 64 plate asked them about the v2.8 firmware update and thay say its not free and and want ยฃ270 to update it before i take delivery.not happy but what can i do
October 7th, 2014
mike j
By the way thay day it will cost because i am getting ยฃ2000 of the bike
October 7th, 2014
IanC
Hi Mike,
I’m sure you’ll be very happy with your new Wing even if the satnav doesnt work quite as it should, its a lovely bike to ride. What colour are you getting ?
When the bike was launched it had 2.7 firmware in it and it was useless when using a Custom route (ie a route that we’d made on our pc usung Garmin Basecamp) thats why I complained to Honda and thats why Honda got together with Garmin and eventually gave us the 2.8 firmware.
While Honda were sorting out the new firmware there were still lots of bikes being built so hence lots of 2012 and 2013 bikes were produced with the 2.7 firmware installed into the satnav.
My new 2014 bike was delivered to me with 2.8 firmware in it.
As far as I know Honda, if asked, will supply a new card with 2.80firmware free of charge – like they did with Norman, see above posts.
I huess your options might be –
1. speak with Honda Customer ‘Care’ and ask them if you can have a free firmware update if you buy a 2013 bike.
Norman spoke with Amanda Fisher 01753 590746 shes in Customer & Aftersales
2. Ask Hunts if they can get a free update from Honda
3. Speak with the guy we got our bikes from at Dobles – Ian Gladman 020 8668 8851 he’s in Sales and he is keen to sell Goldwings and does some really good deals for us.
IF all else fails, call me and I’ll stick 2.8 firmware into it for you ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
October 7th, 2014
mike j
Hi ian thanks for the info.im getting the titanium blade metalic colour it was that or white or black.ive had 3 wings in the past 02-03-and a 59 plate that i wished id never sold.ive had a daliance with a bmw k 1600gtle for the last 10 months and although a very good bike it has it short commings ie sat nav mount is badly postioned shaft drive slap is very bad and the my wife gets a lot of buffiting on the back.so we have come back to a goldwing.in the end if my wife is happy then im happy.
December 4th, 2014
Jo & Terry
We have to agree, just another fantastic Autumn week-end, or was it still Summer. The weather girl did her job once again and apart from the rain late into the carnival parade, the sun shone brightly believe it or not.
It is difficult to explain or understand how much work goes into preparing the 100 + Carnival floats that are adorned with thousands of coloured lights, not to mention the local residents who fully support the event. We were like ‘kids at the fair’ watching and appreciating and feeling the heat from the light bulbs. This Carnival should go into everybody’s bucket list.
Yes I feel a 2015 trip on the horizon , I hope not to miss it next year
March 26th, 2015
Rob and Karen
On a slightly different subject that could cause delays do we have any info about the Dartford crossings and the pre payment of the tolls.Do we have to pre register or are there bike only lanes?
March 26th, 2015
Celia
Hi Rob,just checked the official QE bridge site and Motorcycles are still free. Hope that helps
March 28th, 2015
Neale
Hi I use the crossing on a regular basis. No specific lanes for bikes, just get in where you can and watch for idiots changing lanes. Strict 50mph limit dropping to 30mph as you reach the bottom of the QE2 bridge with active spped cameras. Going into Kent is very easy. All toll booths now removed. Going into Essex toll booths still in place. Tolls no longer taken but you have to wait for the barriers to raise. Can sometimes be a tailback.
March 29th, 2015
Celia
Thanks Neale, very useful information, I was wondering how they had it working
April 2nd, 2015
Gren
EUROTUNNEL PROCEDURE.
Just received this re our Trip away from the Caravan Club, but all relevant and certainly for September.
The UK government is introducing Exit Checks at all UK ports from Wednesday 8th April in an effort to more closely monitor immigration abuses.
This means that the passports or national identity cards of each individual traveller will have to be checked by the ferry or tunnel operator prior to departure and the data passed to the UK authorities. This is similar to the current process at UK airports for International flight departures.
Whilst the ferry companies are simply checking these details at port, Eurotunnel has decided to collect the required information PRIOR to travel.
Eurotunnel have decided to adopt this approach because of the higher frequency of scheduled train departures and the need to keep their check-in process as quick and efficient as possible. They don`t have sufficient space at Folkestone for vehicles to wait should a delay occur in checking the passport or national identity card for every single traveller.
ACTION REQUIRED BEFORE ARRIVAL AT FOLKESTONE
All Eurotunnel passengers need to register the following details for each of the passengers travelling in your vehicle:
ยท Name
ยท Surname
ยท Gender
ยท Date of birth
ยท Nationality
ยท Document type
ยท Document number
ยท Issuing state
ยท Expiry date
You can do this by calling the Eurotunnel Contact Centre on 0330 1233207.
You may have seen that it is possible to register your details on the Eurotunnel website but we do not advise that you do this as there is currently a technical fault affecting bookings made via agents. As you have booked via The Caravan Club there is an issue when you input your own e-mail address on the form because the confirmation of your booking has been sent to a Caravan Club e-mail address. Eurotunnel have confirmed that all the Advanced Passenger Information already submitted via their website is being manually processed but they will not have the manpower to process them in future and this could mean that you are delayed at check-in.
The Caravan Club, like other travel agents, cannot collect the passport details at time of booking as we are not equipped to store this sensitive data nor to transmit it via a secure link to the Eurotunnel database.
More information about the introduction of Exit Checks can be found at the gov.uk website. Should you have any difficulties or queries about your Overseas booking please do not hesitate to contact us.
Carole Evans
Contact Centre Manager โ Travel
THE CARAVAN CLUB
East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, RH19 1UA
+44 (0)1342 316101 http://www.caravanclub.co.uk
This email is sent from the offices of The Caravan Club Limited, a company limited by guarantee (Registered in England No 00646027). The registered office and correspondence address is East Grinstead House, London Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1UA.
WARNING โ This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and may also b
April 12th, 2015
Alan and Cheryl
Wow, I didn’t realise we had done so much. Although the 769 mileage we did should have been a clue. Great write up Celia. Thanks for reminding us of a lovely weekend, spent with old (as in known a while) and new friends ๐
April 15th, 2015
Alan and Cheryl
HELP !!! I changed my photo on Gravatar and now there is nothing showing on my posts. Does anyone know why this is please ??
Cheryl
Don’t ask me, all I’d do is to go back to Gravatar and do it all again – maybe you made some sort of mistake in the upload or something.
Sorry I cant be more help ๐
Ian.
April 22nd, 2015
Norman Scott
What a good write up, had forgotten half of that. Our total miles for the trip was 1,239 just what my new tyres needed before our Italian trip in July.
Thanks to everyone who was on the trip you made it most enjoyable for Ireen and I.
Norman
April 24th, 2015
Nigel
Ian’s advice is sound.
April 26th, 2015
Haze & Pete Cook
We enjoyed the trip and the write up and signed up as new members. Thanks to all and hope we will see you in the future. Hazel & Pete.
Honda GoldWing 2012 release and older, can install software version 2.90 and City Navigator Europe 2015.40 NT ๐
April 26th, 2015
IanC
Already tried 2.90 and am currently running 2015.20.
2.90 gave me some problems very reminiscent of the old 2.70 firmware when I went off route and it did a recalculate. The new routes was over 100miles longer than the original.
I’ve now switched back to 2.80 which I know works well.
On routes affects not only version of the software, but the basic version and a detailed map.
May 18th, 2015
Gren
Good morning, I received something about this and I think we will all be okay until 1st January 2016.
๐
May 18th, 2015
Celia
Hi Gren, knowing our luck we will meet the French equivalent of the Spanish Police we met last year! I think if we can find room on the bike we will squeeze in a couple of vests.
June 1st, 2015
Mike Cox
Great report Celia it brought it all back. Can’t wait for our next trip.
Mike andNettie
June 23rd, 2015
Martin & Kate
I would just like to say a very big thank you to John for organising the trip. Kate and I, once again, had a fantastic time with great company and have got a few more cities ticked off the ‘must see’ list and we had some fun along the way!!!. This was our second big trip on the wing and when I think back to how nervous I was on our my first elite wings outing, I neednt have worried at all.
I look forward to the next one, when we have saved up some more pennies!
Take care all.
August 9th, 2015
Brian
Ian will the 2.80 firmware work in the CF carded units.
Will the 2.80 firmware work in the 2011 SD carded units.
Thanks.
August 9th, 2015
IanC
Hi Brian, the quick answer is “I don’t know” I’ve not tried it.
My thoughts are that it might work on the 2009 2010 bikes with the Navi that uses the SD card but I’m not sure the old unit in the 2006-2010 bikes that uses the CF card will be compatible.
Call round and I’ll load it onto a card for you to try ๐
Cheers,
ian.
March 8th, 2016
Steve Morris
Hi Guys,
just got a 2011 GL1800 with a 2.3 Satnav firmware and chance someone could e-mail me version 2.8 to try, would appreciate it
Thanks
Steve
March 8th, 2016
IanC
Hi Steve, unfortunately the 2.80 software isn’t compatible with the old gps units on the 06-11 bikes.
If you read the previous comments you’ll see several people have asked about 2.80.
Sorry we cant help you
Regards,
Ian.
March 8th, 2016
Gren
Mine has it all loaded and ready to go!!?
April 11th, 2016
Phil D.
Green your comment suggests you have been able to load 2.8 onto an older wings sat nav using CF cards with new map updates. Is this the case. Have you lost any functionality in doing it? I have such a wing and am desperate to upgrade.
July 28th, 2020
PHILIP BARKER
Hi. I have a 2013 1800GL and my head is spinning with all the good comments about the bad Goldwing sat nav that cannot be updated. I have been in touch with main Honda dealers (HGB, CJ Ball etc) and they seem uninterested and inform me that ‘if’ it were possible to update the sat nav it would be around ยฃ300 per update.
I have purchased a TomTom Rider 550, with lifetime free updates (ยฃ399.00) and fitted it using the clutch grip bolts.
It looks and works really well but I am extremely annoyed that for such an expensive motorcycle Honda have let us down. An update for N America is only $100
I also contacted Garmin direct and again there was no interest and was told to contact a main Honda dealer, so round in circles.
In this age where sat navs are so common how hard can it be. Pull your finger out Honda and stop cheating the customers who pay the most
April 19th, 2016
Gren
I am far from an expert on the Satnav systems as they will all tell you!
However, my understanding is that you can only do it from 2012, (Second generation) models onwards. I may be wrong, but Ian Cardwell is your main man.
May 7th, 2016
Mark jaffe
IanC.
I read with interest your trail about this. Is there a simple quick way to get 2.8. I am off to Germany on Saturday 14th May and my Goldwings clutch has failed (another story ) and I have been lent a 2013 Wing with 2.70 loaded on the sat nav.
What’s the quickest way to get the upgrade ready for my trip in 7 days time.
Thanks
May 7th, 2016
IanC
Hi Mark, I’m away on holiday myself until the 19th so unfortunately I can’t help you.
If you’re using Custom Routes that you’ve created on Basecamp you may have a problem if/when you go off route BUT if you stay on route or if you’re just using waypoints and asking the satnav to go shortest or fastest between points it should be ok for your trip.
Sorry I can’t help this time
Cheers
Ian.
May 16th, 2016
Mark Jaffe
Thanks Ian. Maybe i can touch base with you when you get back as i have a few more (very simple to you i dare say) issues that i could pick your brains about
September 26th, 2016
Tony Moate
Hi Both, Hope your keeping well, I would like to book on the Scottish Tour but only require a single room do you have a room rate for single occupancy. Kind Regards Tony Moate.
April 14th, 2017
darren simmons
hi ian.
just asking if you can help with updating sat nav to 2017 on the Goldwing with cf cards /uk and European ., like to now if it can be done thanks Darren
April 21st, 2017
Gren
Bloody hell, you sure you are on your wing!! ๐ณ
You even frightened the skinny bikes off. ๐
Nice one. ๐
May 16th, 2017
paul and ann king
can not get the durham dales clip, the filtering one, was ok, looks scary when watching it, i know now why ann grips the seat so tight, when i am doing it, lol
May 16th, 2017
IanC
Hi Paul, good morning from sunny Florida,
Sorry you can’t see the Durham Dakes clip, it’s exactly the same format as the filtering clip, and it works every time I click on it. I wonder if anyone else has had the same problem as you when trying to view it ???
Some clips, also shot on a Virb, are also available on my Facebook Page https://m.facebook.com/winginit.org/
Please let me know if you manage to view the clip on this website post.
Cheers
Ian.
May 22nd, 2017
Mike Cox
Working fine for me Ian .
June 25th, 2017
Haze & Pete Cook
Just wanted to thank everyone who joined us at Bakewell today. It was a really good turnout and lovely to catch up with everyone. Thanks to one and all. Haze & Pete x
October 26th, 2017
Richard
Looks great and all sensible improvements but I hope the ground clearance is improved as it looks like progressives will be no more. No crash bars so rubber buffers may be ok and they claim improved MPG but a mistake in reducing tank size. luggage capacity reduction seems wrong (where do they do their research-2 to 3 day trips only ? what about rear racks and the large no of trailers on wings).
I hate to think what the new price will be but sadly not a concern for me as I am not allowed !!!
Ian – What colour have you ordered ?
Cheers
Richard
October 26th, 2017
Lord P
I can’t decide on the colour for me. My “half” of the luggage will clearly have shrunk to match the increase in price. Should be circa 30k next year, her ladyship is saving up,she likes the sporty more aggressive profile
October 27th, 2017
Ken
I prefer the styling of my ’07 wing, the 2018 model looks too much like the BMW K1600, which would be around ยฃ13,000 cheaper, (pay the money & make the choice) but I can’t help feeling Honda have missed a trick and have taken away the indivduality of the wing! It’s becoming the same as cars, ” they all look the same”.
October 28th, 2017
Gren
Actually I quite like the “Modern” look and anything lighter must be an advantage.
The colour scheme is quite nice too.
Perhaps designed to compete with BMW in a lot of ways? just an opinion……….
Agree with Richard’s comments in particular no crash bars. It has this plastic/rubber gizmos, but how much protection would they give in those “Car park mishaps!!”. I reckon a bit expensive……
The more I look the more I like it, (Jan’s not here at the moment). ๐
Perhaps run a sweep stake to see who buys first?
But again agree it must be Ian!
July 27th, 2018
mike hiulme
I have bought 2018 wing done 1500 miles great bike nearly every way one big big fault sat nav a night mare any out there has one would love to hear from
July 30th, 2018
IanC
Hi Mike,
My only experience of the 2018 Navi system is of the demonstrator dct bike which I had here for 12days.
I decided I’d load a route to it for folk to use when they went for a test ride – it took me ages !!
I’m quite used to creating routes and loading them to GPS units but I could not get this unit to accept a route which I’d created in Basecamp in GPx format.
In the end I used the online Honda TripPlanner and made the route in their own software and then downloaded it to a USB stick to transfer it to the bike.
During this process I found out just how inadequate the 2018 Navi unit is IF YOU WISH TO USE CUSTOM ROUTES.
It will only accept a max of 8 waypoints per route (which is a lot of waypoints for one route) BUT it doesn’t allow you to insert Via Points/Shaping points so you have to use Waypoints strategically placed to try to make the route go along the roads you actually wish to ride.
This is do-able if the routes is short as in the 28mile test route I created BUT expand the route to 250miles and its impossible.
I create most routes using waypoints for the start, morning coffee, lunch, refuel, afternoon tea, and destination hotel, (only 6 waypoints), BUT then I drag and drop the route onto the roads we want to ride and this can add 30-40 viapoints/shaping points.
I have heard that Honda is aware of this problem and is seeking a software update but they dont know if or when this will be available.
The Navi unit should be ok for riding from point A to point B but anything else and its next to useless.
If you use Custom Routes for tours or holidays you’ll probably need to fit a Garmin Zumo or BMW Nav6 to the bike ๐
Sorry I can’t be more positive about the new Wing but for me its just too full of compromise ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
October 15th, 2018
philip tyler
I had mine 6 weeks now its the dct model sat nave passable if you dont expect to much of it love the rider modes its like having 4 different bikes
July 30th, 2018
IanC
2018 DCT test ride report.
A big thank you to Doble Honda and Ian Gladman for sending me their 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT demo bike to try.
It was delivered last Thursday and it will be collected on Friday, Iโve had it for a full week.
Iโd love to be able to say โI love it, itโs amazingโ but sadly I canโt โน๏ธ
For me, there are just too many things I donโt like about it, itโs just full of compromise and I didnโt enjoy the ride.
In fact, today (Wednesday) I left it in my garage and went for a ride on our 2018 old model Wing and it was a pleasure to be back on a really nice bike.
I really didnโt like the DCT gearbox at all.
I found full manual mode was best for me but it wasnโt great on downshifts and the throttle response in Sport mode was far too sensitive.
In D, auto mode, it changes up too early, 5th gear by 30mph and 6th or 7th by 40mph. This made it feel awful in the bends as it was always in too high a gear and not balanced at all.
Maybe the 6speed manual will be a much better ride.
The suspension wasnโt firm enough for me and it always had a soft spongy feel to it even with just me on it and set to 2up+luggage mode. I could not find a suspension setting to make it feel stable and smooth however much I tried.
The wind and weather protection isnโt as good as my old model bike, and I hated riding it in the wet, I just didnโt feel in control with the DCT gearbox. It was too unpredictable for me and I didnโt like how it would change gear mid corner or mid roundabout !!
Couple the above to the lack of luggage space and the small top box that wonโt take my XL and Deniseโs XS size helmets, a navi system thatโs no good for our custom routes, and youโve got a touring bike which, to me, seems like a step backwards rather than an advancement.
Iโm sorry to say, we wonโt be having a Tour DCT, itโs just not my cuppa tea at all โน๏ธ๐๐
There are some things I did like though –
The brakes are great,
The upshifts on the gearbox are seamless (shame about the downshifts)
The stability at low speeds in a straight line such as filtering is really good.
The exhaust sound is cool, it growls๐
The seat is comfy
The keyless ignition is worth having
๐
Letโs hope Honda decide they would
Like to produce a bike which appeals to us long time Wing owners and they launch a Grand Tour version sometime soon.
Fingers crossed
July 30th, 2018
IanC
Someone said the New 2018 Goldwing Tour is MUCH NARROWER than the model its replaced ๐
Really ??
Ok, I read a post saying the new bike is up to 8โ (20cm) narrower than the old model.
Well, thatโs not correct.
The approx sizes are-
Mirror-mirror = old 43โ (110cmm) new42โ (107)
Saddlebags = old 34โ (87cm) new 33โ(84)
Engine width = approx same both.
Fairing width = New is approx 4โ (10cm) narrower
Therefore the weather protection is significantly worse.
I tried to take pics of this but I need 2pairs of hands to hold the tape and camera so I only managed the mirror to mirror size ๐
On both bikes the same rule applies when filtering (lane splitting in the US )- if the mirrors go through the rest of the bike will too.
THE NEW MODEL IS APPROXIMATELY 1″ (25MM) NARROWER THAN THE OLD MODEL – WOW!!
September 20th, 2018
mike hiulme
Ian a little more on 2018 wing sat nav 1 = only connect to head set if bike set first if you forget say at a petrol stop you have to turn off re set nav turn headset on to talk to you 2 = if you miss a way point by as little as 30 feet nav will turn you back for the next 200 mile way round is to stop turn everything off go into setting cancel that way point restart and off you go 3 = beware of picking bendy roads the nav will sometimes optomise route and go its own way no provision to turn this off Honda know of these problems as they gave me ยฃ200 gift tokens plus a food hamper and say they are working on this problem ????
September 27th, 2018
ANTHONY BREWIN
A voice from the past. I had a weekend out with you guys some time ago, but, just, just too busy with work. Anyhow, as Ian knows I have bought a 2018 DCT Model. I’ve done 8,000 miles on mine now. In brief Iโd say the following.
The Good.
1. I like the slimmer, lighter weight bike. Itโs more sports tour than serious tour. It’s not a serious comfortable, serious luggage bike as we all know/knew it.
2. Personally I love (Love) the DCT. My upshifts down shifts are virtually seamless. What “Drive” you use is of course determined by your style of riding. Mine lives in auto Eco mode, odd switch to Tour and never use the Sports mode. That said I hardly ever use the manual mode (When I do its just to play because itโs there) as I find the auto mode so good.
3. The new front suspension is ok, itโs fine….it’s not “Incredibleโ its ok. Is it miles better than the 2012 model…not sure it is?
4. Electronic suspension is fine, easy…it’s ok, not “Mind blowing”
5. Electric screen is great. That said apart for changing because of rain whatever, im the kind of rider who sets it and forgets it. But, a worthy improvement. Iโd love it a whole lot more if Mr Honda and his team established a quick easy release that allowed both sides of screen to be quickly easily cleaned. Canโt be rocket scienceโฆ..surely?
6. Brakes I fell are a good deal better.
7. Apple play? Love or hate for many. Personally I love it.
8. General handling I feel is far better, far better, lighter, more nimble easier to manoeuvre.
9. Stop start for me is a winner. Why stand wasting fuel at lights when engine can be cut and starter so easily.
10. Hill assist? Itโs ok. It’s not a deal maker for me, it’s ok.
11. M. P. G. is better. Thatโs always good.
12. The instruments, and information available, when it works is good. Tyre pressure, temperature, available mileage, in tank etc, and much more, when it works is great. Sadly it often does not work.
13. I like big bikes; I always liked my 20112 model. That said I do like the lighter weight of this machine
Points that are not so good.
1. Sat Nav is less than useless, let alone importing of routes and other stuff, mine works sometimes seizes up much of the time. Less than useless and quite shameful for Honda to release this bike with such a pitiful (Truly pitiful) system. I kicked off and my dealer got a Zumo 550 fitted at no cost. A truly pitiful Sat Nave
2. Reduction in luggage beggars belief. For two people riding off for say two weeks it is woefully inadequate compare to previous model. Im a solo rider, not doing huge trips, for me its ok. For many it is just not fit for purpose.
3. 3. The position of horn is something I hateโฆseriously hate. Ergonomically for me it is just not in the right place for me to react and hit it fast enough in an emergency. On the 2012 model it say in the right place for me thumb and I could hit it in a Nano second. Really donโt like it on the new bike. Iโd go further (Can only speak as I find myself) Iโd say itโs even potentially even dangerous. Others may be ok with itโฆ.I hate it.
4. Seat, I donโt find as comfortable as the 2012 model. OK for daily trips but ive regular done 600-800 1000 miles in a day. I donโt fancy that kind of mileage on this new bike.
5. The electronics on this bike are really not fit to be released. A machine of this cost should come out the door fit for purpose and or quickly sorted if there are issues. There are issues and at this time, Honda seemingly has no plan to fix? I mention the following and have forgotten some. Sat Nav worthless, Tyre pressure monitoring does not work, Display reef miles left in tank does not work, Temperature does not work,
6. The little cubby box on right hand side of DCT model houses a button that open fuel filler cap. Driving home this week, low on fuel, but not sure because the read out is not working saying how many miles left in tank, the cubby box (At petrol station) would not open. I had no choice but to run the risk and carry on riding back to my nearest point (Office) I ran out of fuel the side of the rd on a 30,000 quid motor bike looking like an idiot. The number of electronic failures just is not good enough. Even more than this my bike needed to be recovered. No problem call Mr Honda recovery. First firm that came out simply said โCanโt do this, too difficult, nowhere to strap the bike downโ I get on the phone to Mr Honda recovery โCan we get a specialist firm out who knows what they are doing to recover my Bike?โ Yes indeed Mr Brewin. They sent out a second firm who said โcanโt do this. No crash bars front or rear grab rails can no longer be used to strap down. They threw arms up in the air, threw the towel in, and drove off. My bike still awaits recovery.
7. Hand brake works fine. I had to have mine adjusted after about a 1000 miles as it would not hold the bike, it now needs doing again.
8. No crash bars? A bit worrying, we have all dropped our bikes. (have we?) That said regret to say dropped my new oneโฆ.the rubber pads did the job. Not a scratch on the bike. Think id still like to see crash bars?
9. It beggars belief that the trunk will not hold two helmetsโฆ.simply staggering. If rider and passenger have heads the size of an orange with now head sets on, you might be in with a chance. I have a Schubert with built in electronics (nothing on the side) no hope whatsoever of two helmets in the trunk
10. Security clip for attaching helmet to the exterior of bike. Almost worthless on its own. The helmet hangs down side of body work, chances are rain would get in. Ive had a modified security steel wire loop made up so I can fix helmet to seat and fix/secure to bike.
11. No strap down points for luggage on the bike
12. Weather protection this bike falls significantly short of the 2012 model. I was never cold on my 2012 bike; I have to take a bit more care on this one.
The overall deal for me, I like it. The DCT and lighter feel for me is the deal maker, I love it. For many DCT will never be a motorbike, I love it. Sadly, I regret to say Mr Honda has over promised and under delivered. On so many points. Let us not forget this is not a five bob motor bike. For most it will be about 30k or more. For this kind of money I can buy a decent Mercedes or BMW and chances are electronics, Sat Nave etc. will work perfectly. All balanced up i like the bike. Sadly it falls short in a number of areas.
Several of us had planned to buy the new bike when it was announced, but gradually changed our minds as the main deficiencies became known. I think you have identified a few more!
Would you mind us repeating your comments elsewhere, with credit to you of course, as it is excellent information which deserves a wider audience than it might get here?
October 15th, 2018
IanC
Heres another two update from Tony,
1. Message as he was preparing for the tour to Scotland
Anyhow, the new bags came today, Iโm pretty much loaded for the weekend. Truth is my wife has bigger make up bags than the Honda pannier bags. Iโve got some camera kit (itโs a photo shoot holiday more than a bike holiday actually) not a hope in hell of taking the kit I need without strapping another bag on back, and thatโs me on my own. Fair enough most folk would manage with a very modest size camera and I have got a few bits of camera kit. But, wifeโs make up bags are bigger. Two up? Two weeks and more? โWith our climate and clothing needsโ a mighty struggle for most!โ
2. Message after the ride to Scotland –
I can now confirm without a shadow of a doubt weather protection on 2018 bike is pitiful compared to previous model.
Arrived in Edinburgh after being peed on relentlessly for four-five hours. Would never have made it without new heated jacket I bought last week. Had heated gloves for years, never had heated jacket. Just crossed my mind, but without heated jacket, would not have made it here.
Riding my old wing, in Scotland & Poland etc…, much more in cold weather, I was never once cold and didnโt have a heated jacket!!
Regards.
Tony.
June 3rd, 2019
Nigel Mackintosh
Is there some reason why you have uploaded such tiny pictures, Mike? It’s a shame for your excellent photos not to be seen as well as they might be.
June 19th, 2019
Mike Issitt
I agree Nigel but I believed that there was an individual image file size restriction set by yourself of 200kb – hence I re-sized them all down to that level as I have done so with previous uploads
June 20th, 2019
Gren
Touche!
July 26th, 2019
Mike Issitt
Well that was quick !!!… Good news is that Zoe will now be joining Nigel on the Triumph visit sad news is that Stuart looks unlikely to attend.
July 26th, 2019
Mike Issitt
I have updated the post in the members events area August for this trip – the catering link now shows all are paid up, your food choices and if you are participating, which Factory Tour you are on –
July 30th, 2019
Gren
Hi all on this tour.
If anyone changes the oil/oil filter themselves and needs a filter wrench cup removal tool and going on this tour let me know and I will bring it with me.
(Just sitting on the shelf).
FREE.
Cheers.
July 31st, 2019
Michael James Issitt
I have started to reload the Croatia pictures – they are no longer being re-sized downwards by the website so should make better viewing
August 10th, 2019
Tony Pate
Anyone else having issues with the date & time on their Goldwing? 4/5 months ago I noticed the time was wrong, tried adjusting the time and noticed the date was October 1999!! If you try adjusting the time/date they both revert back to October 1999…
I have 2012 C
August 12th, 2019
Michael James Issitt
Happily I have a new (old) Wing … Sadly I no longer have an onboard Sat Nav ๐
I never had date Issues on my 2013 Bike but did have the instructions and display regularly turning to Dutch !!
It was amusing / entertaining the first time and then really flippin annoying ! I was going to phone Nettie for translations ๐
I deleted all the languages on the system apart from UK English which cured it ๐
August 12th, 2019
IanC
Garmin say –
Weโve identified an issue with this product that causes the date to be wrong after the GPS Rollover on April 6th, 2019. However, all functions not dependent on date and/or time will continue to work normally. Due to the age of the device we have determined we will not fix this issue.
What does that mean for my Garmin?
o The date determined by the GPS will be wrong
o Position, velocity, navigation, and all other functionality not dependent on date and/or time will continue to work normally
What is GPS Week Rollover?
The GPS satellite system communicates the date via a week number that is limited to 1024 weeks (about 20 years). On April 6th, 2019 the week numbers broadcast by the satellites will โrolloverโ to zero. If GPS receivers donโt account for this rollover in their software, it will calculate the wrong date and/or time.
August 12th, 2019
IanC
This means you may notice the screen switching to night time mode (darker background etc) at the wrong time of day because even though the time may display correctly the date of the time clock is out of sync. eg it thinks its autumn when its still summer months.
Otherwise the Navi should work OK ๐
September 25th, 2019
Richard Chatham
My 660 had the wrong time etc which I sorted but each morning last weekend on a trip in Scotland the sat nav set off when attached to the bike in night mode which in sunlight is impossible to read but after about 15 minutes it went ok to day time mode ! I have now changed the setting to day time mode only so I hope this will sort it.!! . Ian do you think that will work.
Hope you all had a great trip.
Richard
September 25th, 2019
IanC
Hi Richard, yes we had a great time on the France Spain tour, some great riding, I’m sure you’d have loved it ๐
Setting to Daytime Mode may well work OK as it over rides the auto function for the screen dimming.
Hope we get to catch up with you & Christine sometime soon.
Best wishes,
I&D x
September 25th, 2019
IanC
The 660 is now quite old tech. I must have had mine for 10 years or more and it was a really good bit of kit, BUT, technology has moved on and the 660 is now very dated when compared to the newer units.
My Navigator6 is absolutely brilliant, its VERY quick, has loads of useful functions, its easy to use, and it works fine with all the latest mapping and route making software.
Its about time you 660 owners started thinking about upgrading if you still want to use Custom Routes.
There is still a market for used 660’s and if I still had one I’d be thinking of selling it and putting the dosh towards a newer model ๐
October 4th, 2019
Richard Chatham
Hi Ian
Switching to daytime mode sorted the problem but I will not be able to update the Garmin for the new model even though it works through the XR handlebar wheel system as I don’t do enough touring.
Lorenzo my old touring buddy has sold his FJR1300 and bought a new S1000XR with the new compatible Garmin and has just done 3,000 miles in Europe two up and confirms that it is a great system and works through the bikes information set up perfectly.
When I say I don’t do enough touring I mean I have been told !!! I don’t do enough touring to justify the cost !!!
Cheers
Richard
October 7th, 2019
Gren
We all know where you are coming from! ๐
December 13th, 2019
IanC
We now have SEVEN couples booked onto this tour already (as of Sun 19th Jan’20) ๐
See details in the Members Only area, Events, Set Tab.
Full itinerary and hotel booking sheet can be downloaded from the Members Only area.
ALL 7 couples are on bikes, no sports car contingent at the moment.
If you have any questions please let us have them ๐
December 22nd, 2019
IanC
Hi ALL, if anyone has any questions regarding this tour or needs any help with the ferry and hotel reservations please let me know and I’ll do my best to help.
I’ve put the basic itinerary into the post in the Members Only Area, Event details, Sept tab, for you to view and it has links to all the hotels too.
Please don’t leave it too long to make your reservations as the ferry is already filling up and their motorcycle capacity is limited.
Have a great Christmas & New Year ๐
December 28th, 2019
IanC
Heres another clip of us on a section of route 05 Penhas de Saude to Evora back in 2017.
We’re doing this again in 2020 ๐
Hi to all and great to see a strong biking contingent already booked.
For us, we will be travelling out via Portsmouth – only 40 miles from home.
If anyone is interested in using this route, we are booked on the 17:00 Ferry from Portsmouth to Santander – on the 4th – as the only suitable ferry.
We will fill in with a couple of overnights and meet everyone on the 7th at the Parador Fuento De for the remainder of the trip.
Looking forward to it although have yet to try and book the hotels!!
.
January 19th, 2020
Snapper
Hi Rodger – Hope you are all booked up now – I couldnt find any space at the Inn on Thurs 17th at Aranda de Duero so have booked us into Hotel Torremilanos 4-star hotel Ctra N-122 Km 274, 09400 Aranda de Duero, Spain https://www.hoteltorremilanos.es/en/
Really looking forward to the trip
January 28th, 2020
Rodger Broad
Mike
I’ve got the same problem.
What have you actually booked at this hotel?
I can see B&B – are you planing to go to the other hotel for Dinner? (with the others).
February 21st, 2020
Mike Issitt
Hi Rodger – Yes that is our plan to either ride over or get a cab as its not that far
January 4th, 2020
IanC
Hi ALL, Ive now posted the Itinerary along with the Hotel booking form onto the Events Page, Sept Tab, in the Members only area.
You can view from there and download it too if you wish.
If you have any questions please get intouch with me.
Ian.
January 17th, 2020
IanC
I think we have around 18persons booked in for Tea with Haze & Pete.
Hope to see you there ๐
January 24th, 2020
Haze & Pete
We will be 17 altogether as Alison and Josie are also joining us and unfortunately David and Meg are unable to come. Looking forward to seeing everyone Sunday from 2pm for afternoon tea.
January 27th, 2020
Haze & Pete
Thank you to all who were able to make the Afternoon Tea yesterday. It was great to catch up with so many of our Elitewing friends. Looking forward to some good biking weather and the chance to get out on our Wing and some more meet ups.
January 28th, 2020
Rodger Broad
Mike
I’ve had the same problem and then gave up so, I’ve not yet booked any of the hotels – had no idea any would be booked up this far ahead.
Ferry long booked but, this could yet be a problem for the trip if any more are booked out!!!
Will have another go but, can’t do until next week.
Thanks for the warning.
January 28th, 2020
IanC
Hi Rodger,
The earlier you book the better the price is. Leave it late and youโll risk maybe not getting a room at a hotel, OR, the rate will go up.
Less availability usually means higher prices.
I think you should be OK at the majority of the hotels if you act soon but if you need any help with the bookings please let me know.
Donโt forget to use the AMIGO membership number when booking at any of the Parador.
If you arenโt already a AMIGO member please join, itโs free, and then youโll be able to access the Special Amigo Gastro DB&B rate.
I did include links to all the hotels and the Amigo Club in the booking sheet ๐
Good luck with it ๐๐
January 28th, 2020
Richard Chatham
Thank Pete & Hazel you for a lovely afternoon and it was great meeting up with everyone again.
February 19th, 2020
IanC
Booked on as of today 19.02.20 are –
Ian & Denise x locals
Pete & Haze x 2nts
Rob Wilks x 2nts
AL & Deb x locals
Jim & Jillo x locals
Mike & Nettie x 2nts
Richard & Christine x 1nt
If anyone else fancies the Amazon tour, or staying over please let me know
Thanks,
Ian.
February 22nd, 2020
Gren
Ahhh already fully booked.
Found out about the trip today.
Enjoy all. ๐
February 22nd, 2020
Mike Issitt
Sorry Gren – went like hot cakes !! ๐ณ – i’ve asked them to let me know if they get any cancellations ๐
February 25th, 2020
Mike Issitt
Gren – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
February 22nd, 2020
Richard Chatham
Please book us on the Amazon trip for the Friday visit and overnight stay on Friday.
Richard& Christine
February 22nd, 2020
Richard Chatham
Just noticed this trip please book us on if any places become available.
Richard & Christine
February 23rd, 2020
Snapper
Will do Richard ๐
February 25th, 2020
Mike Issitt
Richard – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
February 25th, 2020
Mike Issitt
Al and Nigel – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
February 25th, 2020
Gren and Jan
Mike you are a star!
Thanks for the email and all booked and paid up. ๐ ๐
February 25th, 2020
Mike Issitt
You’re welcome – glad we were able to sort it for everyone ๐
February 25th, 2020
Richard Chatham
Well done Mike all booked as per my email
February 26th, 2020
Mike Issitt
That’s great Richard – Looking forward to seeing you and Christine again ๐
March 25th, 2020
Richard Chatham
Fine by me Mike- carry on the good work.
Richard & Christine xx
March 25th, 2020
Mike
Richard – see latest post on here and Facebook – Hotel bookings have been cancelled due to CV
March 25th, 2020
Gren
Hi,
Received an email cancelling our hotel booking . ๐
Checked the web site and they have cancelled all bookings until the end of May.
Probably quite a few would have booked the Burleigh Court Hotel and Leisure?
Agreed we all need some sort of gathering and WINE!
But who knows now……………
Your efforts are aways very much appreciated.
Gren and Jan x
March 25th, 2020
Mike
Hi Gren – sent a reply to your e-mail plus see latest post on here
March 30th, 2020
Richard Chatham
Hi Mike No preference we will go with the majority.
Cheers
Richard
November 27th, 2020
IanC
This tours FULL ITINERARY & HOTELS LIST are available to view to e-w members in the Members area of this website.
Click on Members area, enter the Password, Click on Events, click on Sept 21 tab
Booked onto this tour as of 28 Nov ’20 are –
Ian&Denise
Norman
Mike&Nettie
Rob&Karen
Rodger&Edit
Fireman AL&Debbie
Jim & Jillo
If you fancy joining us you’ll be very welcome.
If you have any questions please dont hesitate to contact me – Ian ๐
Richard Chatham March 30th, 2020 at 1:45 pm on Great Central Railway – CancellationHi Mike No preference we will go with the majority. Cheers Richard
Mike March 25th, 2020 at 6:26 pm on Great Central Railway UpdateRichard - see latest post on here and Facebook - Hotel bookings have been cancelled.....
Mike March 25th, 2020 at 6:25 pm on Great Central Railway UpdateHi Gren - sent a reply to your e-mail plus see latest post on here.....
IanC
Yes, I know I had more hair when the big pic was taken – it was almost 10 years ago !!
Anyway, here’s what your Gravatar will look like on any comments you make, once you’ve been to the website http://www.Gravatar.com and sorted it.
Hope to see many more smiling faces on posts very soon ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
Nigel and Sue Tyler
Just added a photo, lets hope it works !!
Nigel
Celia
It has Nigel.it is so easy, well done
Ian C
You can use a different Gravatar for each e-mail address ๐
Norman Scott
I did it also hope it works
Norman
Nigel and Sue Tyler
Great commentary on the weekend Izzy, and we too thank Rick and Francoise for their planning to create a most enjoyable and entertaining few days. Nigel enjoyed the publicity he received when you all discovered just why we were both missing for half an hour on Sunday evening !!!??? Those of you who were there will see the results of his “cool pose ” in the coming year. However by Monday morning his wand had faded ! Story of his life !!
Rodger and Edit Broad
Our thanks to both Rick and Francoise for orgnising such a great weekend, to Izzy for remembering and recording all the places we visited and things we did (although you did miss Mark and Pam preparing their shot for the 2013 Calendar in the Hotel Car Park – and Pam’s very cold hands as she helped Mark with his pose!!) – and, as always, the great company.
PS I do wish Izzy hadn’t allowed Edit to try on her heated jacket – as that will now cost me!!
Safe riding and best wishes to all,
Rodger and Edit
Richard & Christine Chatham
Thanks to Rick & Francoise for a great weekend and for Izzy remembering where we went which is surprising as she got lost in a car park recently !!! Seems a long time to Wales on the 1st June however the roads are fantastic and i am sure Nigel will be selecting some great routes. cheers Richard & Christine
Nigel and Sue Tyler
Thank you to everyone for another lovely weekend. All familiar country to Nigel, however he really enjoyed the alternative country route we took ( when one is working, one needs to take the fastest route, not the pretty scenic route ! )
The photo shoot is over—- thank heavens for the DELETE button on Alans camera !!!!!
Looking forward to the next time we meet.
Jo & Terry
Yes another top class week-end and hotel with some good friends and company. The ‘camera person’ who accompanied me brow-beat yet another two unfortunate fellers into getting close to the their vitals with the results already passed on to Izzy & Joe. We missed Alan’s cake but DID’NT MISS SPOTTING DENNIS READING ‘THE SUN’ NEWSPAPER’ That must be a first.
Thanks to all once again
Ian C
We loved it too. The Sunday visit to the Castle in Warwick was great – Alan&Ann were still there !! They were expecting to leave mid afternoon but there was so much stuff to see & do they stayed untill it closed at 5.00 and came out with the rest of us. The firing of the Trebuchet was brill, its amazing how they managed to design & build such weapons, it was awesome.
The ride home on Monday went according to plan – we used the first part of Sundays route and we actually saw some countryside this time as it wasn’t as misty as the previous day. The ride home was cool, and damp but very interesting. Coffee stop was at the Doveleys garden centre cafe just north of Uttoxeter and we got home around 2.00ish.
A veryu enjoyable weekend, Thanks to all who joined us.
Cheers,
Ian&Denise.
Celia Steventon - Elite Wings
More people are signing up to take part in the chat on our Face book site, why don’t you join in to?
Remember it is only open to Elite Wing members or approved “friends”.
Ian C
This Gravatar thingy works really well. Since we first put this post on here I’ve changed my Pic a few times and I’ve got different ones for each email address I use.
Its great – all of you who havent already got a picture showing by your posts should take a look – its real easy to do – even I can do it ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
Roy
Checking it works
Rob Ellis
Testing Testing
IanC
Not worked this time Rob.
Did you make sure you added the Gravatar to the same email address that you use on this site?
I ask because I have 3 emails and at my first attempt I only added a Gravatar to one of them and it didnt register on here because I hadn’t done the correct email. I’ve now got a different Gravatar for each email address and they all work fine.
Rob
Hi Ian yes checked that I cant see why it don’t work I will have to speak to my Lad again might be something to do with MAC.??
Rob
Well just like magic it appears to work
Ian C
I’ve just learned that the new software isn’t available to the dealers just yet –
I got this email from Honda UK today explaining the procedure they go through before the dealers will get the update –
Good Afternoon Mr Cardwell,
Honda Motor Europe is in the last stage of issuing the service bulletin to the Head Offices in Europe. This will be reviewed by Honda (UK)’s Technical Team and then parts will be available to the network. I have pushed for a specific date to share with you but they are awaiting the service bulletin sign off before releasing this.
In regards to the map updates availability, we have contacted Honda Japan to clarify our position in relation to Garmin – this is the response we are awaiting. Apologies again that I have not yet specific information to fed back to you on this as of yet.
Thanks & Kind Regards,
Steve Fitzpatrick
Customer Relations Manager
Honda (UK) Customer & Aftersales
Stefan
Hello Ian,
Iยดm writing from Germany and Iยดm searching a new Software since years.
Do you have a contact to Honda Europe where I can write too or some more informations where to buy the new Software?
My dealer is to small and he is not really willing to help.
Many thanks in advance for your kindly Support.
Best regards
Stefan
IanC
Hi Stefan, can you tell me please –
the Year and model of your Goldwing.?
Which Map year do you have on your bike?
Where in Germany do you live ?
I may be able to help if you can send me the info.
My email address is ian@winginit.org
Regards
Ian.
joe
Hi Everyone
It looks like everyone had a great time in Ireland and from what I have heard the hotel was really good. As I was unable to make the trip can I ask one of you to write a review on Tripadvisor on your stay at the Belfray.
Thanks
Joe
Tony Brewin
Despite the “Unusual” start, I had a great time. In reality the early morning ride was a very nice ride, Dublin towards Belfast up the M1. All in all a good ride. Hotel was great and of course a great crowd of people. A big thanks you to all for the warm welcome. Much appreciated. Many thanks indeed to all involved, not least for all the hard working planning organising etc.
Sadly, because of my working summer season it is tough for me to get to many (if any) events during summer months. Whilst others are out to play on bikes during the summer, Iโm pretty much tied to work. May till end of September is my only chance to make a living, so work it has to be. I might (?) be able to get a quick visit on the Kent trip, but yet again, very much determined by work and issues at that time. Hope everyone has a great summer on the various trips.
Many many thanks, great to meet everyone and look forward to another trip.
Regards to all.
Tony.
Gren
Hi Ian and other members.
I registered with Branson’s in Yeovil re the new software. They emailed me today and stated the new SD card had arrived. They very kindly said they would send it registered post and print off the instructions for me to do!? I could have taken it there of course. So just to let you know my dealer had received the update bulletin. Good work by Ian and thanks.
Ian C
Well, all I can say is “we had a really great time” and its a shame it only lasted 18 days !!
Can you believe it –
2 weeks ago today we were touring the Audi factory in Ingolstadt
Then we did Route 69 in Austria
then we explored Porec Croatia for 4nights/3 days
Then Verona, pizza, wine tasting & tour, sight seeing
Then it was Interlaken !! – fantastic scenery, Dare Devil stunts on high wires in the Alps etc etc
AND…
What a great ‘Last Night of Tour’ dinner we had at a lovely little hotel restaurant in France
(I didnt know it was named after a SongBird untill Lord&Lady P kindly informed me ๐ )
All in All we thought it was a great tour and wereally enjoyed ourselves.
Thanks to all.
Best wishes,
Ian&Denise x
Dave Muckle
Had mine done 4 weeks ago, it’s basically a new sd card with the software on it, took about 30 minutes at Kent Motorcycles
Gren and Jan
Well, this was our first ever European motorcycle tour. We both knew it would be long, hard, tiring and were both quite apprehensive at times. As some of you know Jan is very new to being a pillion and likewise, I am VERY new to riding a Goldwing! But, if you donโt try you will never know. At the end of the day how else could you ride and travel in such luxury without Elite Wings!
We were very well looked after and were both given advice which hopefully we have taken onboard. A big special thanks to our โOur Drakesโ (Jimbo and Lord P) for spending a great deal of time with us, (looking after the ducklings so to speak) while riding the many miles across Europe. All the group were most supportive which was really encouraging. The routes were really good and okay, we did bottle a couple of the โBโ routes! But who knows what will happen in the years to come.
The hosts Ian and Denise had clearly spent a great deal of time planning the trip and all the stops/hotels were really great, so many thanks.
Tremendous scenery throughout the holiday in all the different countries. Porec was great and even had a nice warm sea to have a few swims in. All the stops were good, but do you know Switzerland just had the edge for us. Looking at those gorgeous mountains and the lake from your balcony was most spectacular.
The wine tasting trip was good fun and we must agree with Ian, the last night in Verdun was most enjoyable. The French cuisine was just great, (But they will never ever get me to eat snails though!).
Glad we stayed in Calais on the Sunday as we missed that awful weather. On the return trip along the M25 who should we meet in the traffic jam? Mick and Netty weaving through all the traffic! Shouted out โGrenvilleโ and was gone! So Hi both. (Ex coppers ehโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆโฆ).
So would we go again? OH YES! I have also ordered a pair of Bifocals to read the Satnav properly and all being well stop too many โPimpernel Momentsโ.
We really enjoyed ALL your company and many thanks for making us welcome. All we ask now is another new member goes next time so they can get all the flack!!
Kind regards, Gren and Jan x
Lord P
What an excellent tour.
The Audi factory was superb.
The Adriatic was just as I remembered it in 1970.
The Winery was unforgettable. Must be worth an order.
Verona is a lovely place to rest awhile
Switzerland never ceases to impress.
Great organisation by IC.
Great back-marking from Herr Shirt.
The Fire and Rescue service came in handy!
Richard &Christine
What a great trip! Started well ? struggled to find McDonalds in Hull even before we got on the boat.
However what a trip- the Audi Factory was fascinating,route 69 was one of the best biking roads ever and Croatia was fantastic and good value especially as we were lucky enough to get a free upgrade to a suite overlooking the sea.
Driving through Italy was great fun as long as you ride like an Italian and dispersing the Harley throng was interesting.Verona was beautiful with the Winery visit ( thanks to Faye ) great restaurants and loads to do and see.
A few great passes.very cold on top in airflow jackets but Rob and I managed then into Interlaken and stunning views everywhere. local bus.train and cable car and your on top of the world at FIRST at over 7000 ft and then you’r sliding down a zip wire for 800m what on earth is going on?
Last night in Verdun was a gourmet experience with plenty wine in a pretty typical French country hotel and a lovely way to finish the trip with everyone together .
For the eight of us on the ferry this was not the end as there were ticket problems for some and then a stormy night at sea but this was probably the best bike trip ever.
Thanks to Ian for all his hard work and patience .
Regards to all Richard & Christine
Mike Cox
cracked it
JIM Shirt
We’ll everyone has said just what we all thought what a fantastic trip best yet Great road good stops and top company. Even the “Pimpernel ” events were fun Well done Mr C and many thanks for broadening our horizons.
Jim and Jill
Jo & Terry
Nettie, it was like being there with you,you’ve missed your calling in life, you should have been an author of short story’s.
Jim and Jill
Fabulous report Nettie shall we do it all again . Can’t wait for my next swimming lesson .x
Gren
I should have photocopied your wonderful report on the trip and given it to my mother instead of boring her to death for two hours!!!!! Jan C x
darren simmons
hi we have a 2008 wing and can only update to 2011 not good for 2006 up to 2011
IanC
Hi Darren, the problem with the 2006-2010 UK bikes is that the satnav uses the ‘old style’ mapping which was discontinued several years ago.
The new satnav system on the 2012+ model year Wings is a completely different unit and it uses the latest NT type mapping.
Unfortunately I can’t find any Honda dealer that can do a map update on the Goldwing. I think Honda havent got any system in place for doing map updates to the Goldwing range whatever year it may be.
Norman Scott
Hi All
Spoke with Phoenix Honda in Grangemouth yesterday about my mapping issue (2013 reg bike with 2011 maps and 2.6 firmware) still no further forward no firmware update and no map update this is beyond a joke now I find out that Ian contact named above has left Honda so I have no way to resolve this but through Phoenix who are not interested they said you know what was on the bike when you bought it.
Any ideas on the next step?
IanC
If I were you I’d contact Honda UK and tell them of your problem. They’ll sort it with Phoenix to get you the latest firmware ie 2.80 BUT THEY WONT BE ABLE TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE MAPS.
Regarding Phoenix deal, you might need to contact the salesman and get him to confirm tour agreement to get any financial compensation out of them ๐
Norman Scott
Ian
Do you have a new contact at Honda UK as I understand that Steve Fitzpatrick is no longer with them.
Norman
Gren
Hi Norman,
If I may be permitted to assist. Andre` at Bransons Motorcycles in Yeovil Tel 01935 474998 may be able to help. I`am sure if you speak with him and mention me he will know what you are on about! He kindly sorted mine out with the upgraded SD card and will know who to contact at Honda. He may even be able to do it for you if you supply him with all your bike data?? From my experience don’t bother speaking with Honda in Bulgaria, (as that’s who I ended up speaking with a few times) as they wont have a clue and will only refer you back to your dealer anyway. It is down to YOUR supplying dealer to sort it out and a good one will do it for you. For your info the card number that comes with the bike is 39250-MCA-G21. The card that replaces it is 39250-MCA-G22. It worked fine and I have upgraded it to the 2014 (Not with Honda and Mum’s the word on that one) maps as well. Hope all works out for you. ๐
george
i have a 2007 wing with sat nav i have got software 2.60 wit 2014 nt maps all working no search for large points of interest but good maps now if there is a firmware update for our model ?
Ian C
Hi George,
As you have already discovered – if you install the later software and maps to the old GPS unit it loses alot of functions eg search facility etc and also voice prompts can be affected too.
We tried this a couple of years ago when the ‘intermediate’ satnav was installed on the US 2010 bikes and we didnt have any real success with it.
We decided it was best to mount a Zumo 660 to the bike and forget about the built in unit !! ๐
Norman Scott
Ian
Sent yet another email to Honda this time to Phil Dix and to the Chairman [took a punt at his email address once I found out his name] and I got a reply from Amanda Fisher
Hello Norman,
I have pleasure in confirming that Honda (UK) will cover the cost of the software update on your Satnav as a gesture of goodwill.
I then asked to confirm that it will be the maps and the firmware and I got the below reply.
Hi Norman,
Yes it is the firmware and the map data which the dealership must please action for you.
As always, any queries, please make me your first port of call.
Kindest regards
Amanda Fisher
Amanda Fisher
Customer Relations
Honda (UK) Customer & Aftersales
Telephone: 01753 590 746
A result at long last only took six odd months to get there.
Norman
IanC
Hi Norman,
I’m pleased to hear you finally got a result and it looks like Honda will now update the software to 2.80 and your maps to 2013 !!! (now they’ll only be 18months out of date!!! ๐ )
If you’d like up to date maps please give me a call ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
darren simmons
HI ,
WHEN YOU BUY A BIKE THAT COST ยฃ25000 AND YOU ARE TOLD THAT YOU CAN NOT GET MAP UPDATES FOR IT THAT IS NOT GOOD AT ALL FROM HONDA UK . MAY WIFE GOT THIS BIKE 2008 FOR ME AS I ALLWAYS WISHED FOR ONE , AND THE BIGGEST THING WAS THE SATNAV ON THE BIKE WOULD BE SO GOOD OF HONDA UK NOT TO SELL A BIKE THAT CAN NOT BE UPDATE FOR THE REST OF ITS LIFE , NOT VERY GOOD FROM HONDA UK…
IanC
Hi Darren,
I sympathise with you BUT unfortunately the old Navi system that is used in the European spec 2006-11 GL1800’s was built to use the older style maps. Unfortunately the company that produced the maps for the Navi unit decided to drop that type of mapping in 2009.
They moved to the newer NT style maps, which give alot more info and 3D views etc, from 2009 and that was the end of any map updates for the ’06-’11 Goldwings.
If its any consolation for you – the Navi unit in those ’06-’11 bikes wasn’t brilliant – it didnt have a very large memory or processor and it wouldnt do 3D map views and it couldnt take Custom routes – it was only any use for doing A to B routes.
I’ve had 4 bikes of that model ’06-’10 and I fitted a Zumo 660 on every one – the Zumo 660 is a MUCH better navi unit than the one fitted to these bikes and if you really need a good Navi unit I’d recommend the Garmin Zumo 660.
If you have any questions about the Navi unit or Garmin satnavs please dont hesitate to ask.
Regards,
Ian.
george
gl 1800 2007 with sat nav
I have new 2014.30 nt maps on my Goldwing you need firmware 2.60 to read them but it takes you from a to b no problems you just cant search for all poi but it will give you nearest up 15 mils so I think it is all ok its all you need ?
IanC
Hi George,
the 2.60 firmware might work ok if you only use the satnav to get from point A to point B but its of no use at all if you want to use a Custom Route.
I suppose its better than nothing but if you ride with a group that use custom routes for weekends away or European trips I think the Custom Route facility as is available on the 2012+ model year bikes and the Zumo’s is essential.
Cheers,
Ian.
Alan and Cheryl
just testing ๐
Ian Cardwell
Just testing my new @elite-wings email address and the gravatar ๐
celia steventon
It worked !!
Tony Motto
Got to be careful with a hear of cows. No telling what they will do to a bike. Take a look at this!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymqrl7F60U8
Joe & Izy
We had a really great time and enjoyed the week end despite the little shower on Sunday.
Thanks to Ian & Denise for organising the trip. Looking forward to Northumbria.
Regards
Joe & Izy
Alan & Gill
Well done to all involved in organising it, as it was a super weekend spoilt only by just a small shower or two.
Had a great couple of days in Glastonbury admiring the people from the parallel universe ๐
See you in Northumbria soon……
Alan + Gill
Nigel and Sue
We had a great time, good to catch up with everyone, and to meet friends Alan & Cheryl again. Shame we couldn’t do the biking but we did go to Bath. We stopped at Burford, then Bourton – on -the -Water on the way home, which was really nice but cold !
Thank you all for your support and kind thoughts, we have had quite a shock. Nigel says one or two of Izy’s cherry vodkas certainly did him the world of good :)))) He is now attending Rehab ( for his heart, not his alcohol consumption !! ) and is still very tired, but getting there. He hopes to return to work Monday.
Hope to see you all soon, thanks to Ian and Denise for organising it all.
Sue & Nigel
Richard
Thanks Ian once again for a great weekend,some of you know that Christine had a neck problem which we thought was a strain but on my arrival back from a wet weekend in Scotland which she didn’t feel like going on she has been told she has shingles in her neck,back and left arm.
She is very sore at the moment and taking her medicine so hopefully will be ok soon.
Cheers Richard
Mike Cox
Hi Christine.
Sorry to hear of your problem and we hope you are back to health soon so as to enjoy our forth coming holiday abroad.
Best wishes Mike and Nettie
Gren and Jan
Hi Christine,
You MUST get well soon and see you (and all) in Portsmouth ready for Spain/Portugal.
Feet up and let Richard take the strain?!
Kind regards,
Gren and Jan. ๐
Nigel and Sue
Hi Christine,
Sorry to hear you have shingles, From experience they are extremely painful. No wonder you feel poorly. Kind thoughts are with you, and we hope you make your trip.
Sue
Ian Cardwell
Thanks for the report Celia, well done ๐
The speeding thingy incident just goes to prove my theory though – I was the slowest bike in the group so it couldnt have been me who was switching the lights to red when we were in Portugal ๐ ๐
Great holiday, thanks to all for making it such a memorable one.
Cheers,
Ian.
Mike Cox
Great report Celia. It brings it all back to you in detail as though we were still there. Yes I was the fastest bike but whose counting?
Thanks to all on the trip for a great holiday.
Cheers Mick
Dave Stolting
Great report Celia, I’d forgotten some of the detail but you covered it nicely, and yes it was a great trip with some fantastic roads and scenery.
A big thank you to Ian for the planning, implementation and lots of other tasks he performed to make the trip such a huge success for me and everyone else.
Cheers
Dave
Rick Faulkner
Reading the Report brought back wonderful memories. I was with you all the way!
Richard
Well done Celia ,very good report and congratulations to Ian for the great roads and excellent hotels .
However you have missed out the 36 (approx) hot chocolates you consumed some of which were of stand alone spoon thickness.
I am only guessing on the number and have kept it low to save any further comment
Cheers
Richard
IanC
You’re such a gentleman – I bet it was more like 50+ ! ๐ ๐ (19nts x 3 = 57)
Some of them couldnt be drunk they had to be spooned out, almost like eating a chocolate moose ๐
Of course – they were all low calorie, non fat items ๐
Martin & Kate
Well what can we say, what a trip, we had a fantastic time and would like to thank you all for making us feel so welcome on our first trip with Elite Wings. It was like we have known you all for years rather then a few days.
The quality of the riding and the company was superb. Thank you Rob for leading, John for watching at the rear and for Alison looking after John!
The hotels and locations we also all very good.
I was all good fun and we had some greats laughs together.
So thank you very much everyone.
Celia
Okay, okay! I also missed out Rodgers dancing, Netty’s medal winning 45th wedding anniversary to Mick, and the chocolate covered doughnuts Denise and I enjoyed for breakfast!!
chris
this was my first tour with elite wings and i had a most enjoyable holiday thanks to everyone for making me so welcome and many thanks to rob and coleen for arranging it all . it is a holiday i shall never forget but like they say what happened in germany stays in germany –well for now anyway . it was a real pleasure spending time with you and i’m sure a great time was had by all–
cheers everyone
Gren and Jan
Okay,
Nice report and a good holiday.
Nobody told me that once you have passed your IAM Test you keep getting stopped by those enforcer chaps!!??
However, my riding is now over for the Summer. ๐
Just a quick update on the arm injury……
I have to have an op this weekend to put the bicep tendon back where it should be on the forearm! (Apparently not the most easy of jobs, but that’s the story of my life).
Thanks once again for the company and the good riding and laughs etc.
Gren and Janx
Celia Steventon
Hi sorry you are off the bike for a while take care, you can always join us by car
Jo & Terry
Well what can you add, comments like these from two first time tour members and John’s daily ‘letters home’ which have become a feature of every tour emphasise the enjoyment we all had. The hotels, food, routes and weather all helped to make this trip memorable, Thanks to Rob and Colleen for the planning and to everyone else who made this trip ‘ENTERTAINING’
Richard & Christine
Hope the op goes well Gren look forward to seeing you both as soon as you feel ok. It would be nice if you could join us at Northumberland even in the car. good luck .
Richard & Christine
Mike Cox
Hi Gren. Hope your operation went well. I am sure nurse Jan will look after you.
Mick & Nettie
Gren
Shame about Spain being out of the World Cup!!!!!!!!!! ๐
Celia Steventon
Sounds as though you really really mean it, we also cheered when they went out!
Roy
I watched the match last night, but all I could think about was. HOPE THEY LOSE, HOPE THEY LOSE. HOPE THEY LOSE. My prayers were answered, well done Chile, you played well and deserved it. Now I am not one to let a grudge linger, but I hope they lose in four years time as well, and in eight years, and in twelve years etc. etc.
I will not be donating anymore of my money to the countries finances, I think the Police over there are doing a wonderful job, they are creating there own bankrupt country.
Norman Scott
Great report Ireen and I forgot how funny it was most of the time.
mike j
Hi guys just about to purchase a 2013 wing from hunts in manchester it will be drand new on a 64 plate asked them about the v2.8 firmware update and thay say its not free and and want ยฃ270 to update it before i take delivery.not happy but what can i do
mike j
By the way thay day it will cost because i am getting ยฃ2000 of the bike
IanC
Hi Mike,
I’m sure you’ll be very happy with your new Wing even if the satnav doesnt work quite as it should, its a lovely bike to ride. What colour are you getting ?
When the bike was launched it had 2.7 firmware in it and it was useless when using a Custom route (ie a route that we’d made on our pc usung Garmin Basecamp) thats why I complained to Honda and thats why Honda got together with Garmin and eventually gave us the 2.8 firmware.
While Honda were sorting out the new firmware there were still lots of bikes being built so hence lots of 2012 and 2013 bikes were produced with the 2.7 firmware installed into the satnav.
My new 2014 bike was delivered to me with 2.8 firmware in it.
As far as I know Honda, if asked, will supply a new card with 2.80firmware free of charge – like they did with Norman, see above posts.
I huess your options might be –
1. speak with Honda Customer ‘Care’ and ask them if you can have a free firmware update if you buy a 2013 bike.
Norman spoke with Amanda Fisher 01753 590746 shes in Customer & Aftersales
2. Ask Hunts if they can get a free update from Honda
3. Speak with the guy we got our bikes from at Dobles – Ian Gladman 020 8668 8851 he’s in Sales and he is keen to sell Goldwings and does some really good deals for us.
IF all else fails, call me and I’ll stick 2.8 firmware into it for you ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
mike j
Hi ian thanks for the info.im getting the titanium blade metalic colour it was that or white or black.ive had 3 wings in the past 02-03-and a 59 plate that i wished id never sold.ive had a daliance with a bmw k 1600gtle for the last 10 months and although a very good bike it has it short commings ie sat nav mount is badly postioned shaft drive slap is very bad and the my wife gets a lot of buffiting on the back.so we have come back to a goldwing.in the end if my wife is happy then im happy.
Jo & Terry
We have to agree, just another fantastic Autumn week-end, or was it still Summer. The weather girl did her job once again and apart from the rain late into the carnival parade, the sun shone brightly believe it or not.
It is difficult to explain or understand how much work goes into preparing the 100 + Carnival floats that are adorned with thousands of coloured lights, not to mention the local residents who fully support the event. We were like ‘kids at the fair’ watching and appreciating and feeling the heat from the light bulbs. This Carnival should go into everybody’s bucket list.
Celia Steventon
Yes I feel a 2015 trip on the horizon , I hope not to miss it next year
Rob and Karen
On a slightly different subject that could cause delays do we have any info about the Dartford crossings and the pre payment of the tolls.Do we have to pre register or are there bike only lanes?
Celia
Hi Rob,just checked the official QE bridge site and Motorcycles are still free. Hope that helps
Neale
Hi I use the crossing on a regular basis. No specific lanes for bikes, just get in where you can and watch for idiots changing lanes. Strict 50mph limit dropping to 30mph as you reach the bottom of the QE2 bridge with active spped cameras. Going into Kent is very easy. All toll booths now removed. Going into Essex toll booths still in place. Tolls no longer taken but you have to wait for the barriers to raise. Can sometimes be a tailback.
Celia
Thanks Neale, very useful information, I was wondering how they had it working
Gren
EUROTUNNEL PROCEDURE.
Just received this re our Trip away from the Caravan Club, but all relevant and certainly for September.
The UK government is introducing Exit Checks at all UK ports from Wednesday 8th April in an effort to more closely monitor immigration abuses.
This means that the passports or national identity cards of each individual traveller will have to be checked by the ferry or tunnel operator prior to departure and the data passed to the UK authorities. This is similar to the current process at UK airports for International flight departures.
Whilst the ferry companies are simply checking these details at port, Eurotunnel has decided to collect the required information PRIOR to travel.
Eurotunnel have decided to adopt this approach because of the higher frequency of scheduled train departures and the need to keep their check-in process as quick and efficient as possible. They don`t have sufficient space at Folkestone for vehicles to wait should a delay occur in checking the passport or national identity card for every single traveller.
ACTION REQUIRED BEFORE ARRIVAL AT FOLKESTONE
All Eurotunnel passengers need to register the following details for each of the passengers travelling in your vehicle:
ยท Name
ยท Surname
ยท Gender
ยท Date of birth
ยท Nationality
ยท Document type
ยท Document number
ยท Issuing state
ยท Expiry date
You can do this by calling the Eurotunnel Contact Centre on 0330 1233207.
You may have seen that it is possible to register your details on the Eurotunnel website but we do not advise that you do this as there is currently a technical fault affecting bookings made via agents. As you have booked via The Caravan Club there is an issue when you input your own e-mail address on the form because the confirmation of your booking has been sent to a Caravan Club e-mail address. Eurotunnel have confirmed that all the Advanced Passenger Information already submitted via their website is being manually processed but they will not have the manpower to process them in future and this could mean that you are delayed at check-in.
The Caravan Club, like other travel agents, cannot collect the passport details at time of booking as we are not equipped to store this sensitive data nor to transmit it via a secure link to the Eurotunnel database.
More information about the introduction of Exit Checks can be found at the gov.uk website. Should you have any difficulties or queries about your Overseas booking please do not hesitate to contact us.
Carole Evans
Contact Centre Manager โ Travel
THE CARAVAN CLUB
East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, RH19 1UA
+44 (0)1342 316101
http://www.caravanclub.co.uk
This email is sent from the offices of The Caravan Club Limited, a company limited by guarantee (Registered in England No 00646027). The registered office and correspondence address is East Grinstead House, London Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1UA.
WARNING โ This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and may also b
Alan and Cheryl
Wow, I didn’t realise we had done so much. Although the 769 mileage we did should have been a clue. Great write up Celia. Thanks for reminding us of a lovely weekend, spent with old (as in known a while) and new friends ๐
Alan and Cheryl
HELP !!! I changed my photo on Gravatar and now there is nothing showing on my posts. Does anyone know why this is please ??
Cheryl
Celia
No sorry, Ian would be your best bet
Ian Cardwell
Don’t ask me, all I’d do is to go back to Gravatar and do it all again – maybe you made some sort of mistake in the upload or something.
Sorry I cant be more help ๐
Ian.
Norman Scott
What a good write up, had forgotten half of that. Our total miles for the trip was 1,239 just what my new tyres needed before our Italian trip in July.
Thanks to everyone who was on the trip you made it most enjoyable for Ireen and I.
Norman
Nigel
Ian’s advice is sound.
Haze & Pete Cook
We enjoyed the trip and the write up and signed up as new members. Thanks to all and hope we will see you in the future. Hazel & Pete.
RTuERkaM
Honda GoldWing 2012 release and older, can install software version 2.90 and City Navigator Europe 2015.40 NT ๐
IanC
Already tried 2.90 and am currently running 2015.20.
2.90 gave me some problems very reminiscent of the old 2.70 firmware when I went off route and it did a recalculate. The new routes was over 100miles longer than the original.
I’ve now switched back to 2.80 which I know works well.
RTuERkaM
On routes affects not only version of the software, but the basic version and a detailed map.
Gren
Good morning, I received something about this and I think we will all be okay until 1st January 2016.
๐
Celia
Hi Gren, knowing our luck we will meet the French equivalent of the Spanish Police we met last year! I think if we can find room on the bike we will squeeze in a couple of vests.
Mike Cox
Great report Celia it brought it all back. Can’t wait for our next trip.
Mike andNettie
Martin & Kate
I would just like to say a very big thank you to John for organising the trip. Kate and I, once again, had a fantastic time with great company and have got a few more cities ticked off the ‘must see’ list and we had some fun along the way!!!. This was our second big trip on the wing and when I think back to how nervous I was on our my first elite wings outing, I neednt have worried at all.
I look forward to the next one, when we have saved up some more pennies!
Take care all.
Brian
Ian will the 2.80 firmware work in the CF carded units.
Will the 2.80 firmware work in the 2011 SD carded units.
Thanks.
IanC
Hi Brian, the quick answer is “I don’t know” I’ve not tried it.
My thoughts are that it might work on the 2009 2010 bikes with the Navi that uses the SD card but I’m not sure the old unit in the 2006-2010 bikes that uses the CF card will be compatible.
Call round and I’ll load it onto a card for you to try ๐
Cheers,
ian.
Steve Morris
Hi Guys,
just got a 2011 GL1800 with a 2.3 Satnav firmware and chance someone could e-mail me version 2.8 to try, would appreciate it
Thanks
Steve
IanC
Hi Steve, unfortunately the 2.80 software isn’t compatible with the old gps units on the 06-11 bikes.
If you read the previous comments you’ll see several people have asked about 2.80.
Sorry we cant help you
Regards,
Ian.
Gren
Mine has it all loaded and ready to go!!?
Phil D.
Green your comment suggests you have been able to load 2.8 onto an older wings sat nav using CF cards with new map updates. Is this the case. Have you lost any functionality in doing it? I have such a wing and am desperate to upgrade.
PHILIP BARKER
Hi. I have a 2013 1800GL and my head is spinning with all the good comments about the bad Goldwing sat nav that cannot be updated. I have been in touch with main Honda dealers (HGB, CJ Ball etc) and they seem uninterested and inform me that ‘if’ it were possible to update the sat nav it would be around ยฃ300 per update.
I have purchased a TomTom Rider 550, with lifetime free updates (ยฃ399.00) and fitted it using the clutch grip bolts.
It looks and works really well but I am extremely annoyed that for such an expensive motorcycle Honda have let us down. An update for N America is only $100
I also contacted Garmin direct and again there was no interest and was told to contact a main Honda dealer, so round in circles.
In this age where sat navs are so common how hard can it be. Pull your finger out Honda and stop cheating the customers who pay the most
Gren
I am far from an expert on the Satnav systems as they will all tell you!
However, my understanding is that you can only do it from 2012, (Second generation) models onwards. I may be wrong, but Ian Cardwell is your main man.
Mark jaffe
IanC.
I read with interest your trail about this. Is there a simple quick way to get 2.8. I am off to Germany on Saturday 14th May and my Goldwings clutch has failed (another story ) and I have been lent a 2013 Wing with 2.70 loaded on the sat nav.
What’s the quickest way to get the upgrade ready for my trip in 7 days time.
Thanks
IanC
Hi Mark, I’m away on holiday myself until the 19th so unfortunately I can’t help you.
If you’re using Custom Routes that you’ve created on Basecamp you may have a problem if/when you go off route BUT if you stay on route or if you’re just using waypoints and asking the satnav to go shortest or fastest between points it should be ok for your trip.
Sorry I can’t help this time
Cheers
Ian.
Mark Jaffe
Thanks Ian. Maybe i can touch base with you when you get back as i have a few more (very simple to you i dare say) issues that i could pick your brains about
Tony Moate
Hi Both, Hope your keeping well, I would like to book on the Scottish Tour but only require a single room do you have a room rate for single occupancy. Kind Regards Tony Moate.
darren simmons
hi ian.
just asking if you can help with updating sat nav to 2017 on the Goldwing with cf cards /uk and European ., like to now if it can be done thanks Darren
Gren
Bloody hell, you sure you are on your wing!! ๐ณ
You even frightened the skinny bikes off. ๐
Nice one. ๐
paul and ann king
can not get the durham dales clip, the filtering one, was ok, looks scary when watching it, i know now why ann grips the seat so tight, when i am doing it, lol
IanC
Hi Paul, good morning from sunny Florida,
Sorry you can’t see the Durham Dakes clip, it’s exactly the same format as the filtering clip, and it works every time I click on it. I wonder if anyone else has had the same problem as you when trying to view it ???
Some clips, also shot on a Virb, are also available on my Facebook Page
https://m.facebook.com/winginit.org/
Please let me know if you manage to view the clip on this website post.
Cheers
Ian.
Mike Cox
Working fine for me Ian .
Haze & Pete Cook
Just wanted to thank everyone who joined us at Bakewell today. It was a really good turnout and lovely to catch up with everyone. Thanks to one and all. Haze & Pete x
Richard
Looks great and all sensible improvements but I hope the ground clearance is improved as it looks like progressives will be no more. No crash bars so rubber buffers may be ok and they claim improved MPG but a mistake in reducing tank size. luggage capacity reduction seems wrong (where do they do their research-2 to 3 day trips only ? what about rear racks and the large no of trailers on wings).
I hate to think what the new price will be but sadly not a concern for me as I am not allowed !!!
Ian – What colour have you ordered ?
Cheers
Richard
Lord P
I can’t decide on the colour for me. My “half” of the luggage will clearly have shrunk to match the increase in price. Should be circa 30k next year, her ladyship is saving up,she likes the sporty more aggressive profile
Ken
I prefer the styling of my ’07 wing, the 2018 model looks too much like the BMW K1600, which would be around ยฃ13,000 cheaper, (pay the money & make the choice) but I can’t help feeling Honda have missed a trick and have taken away the indivduality of the wing! It’s becoming the same as cars, ” they all look the same”.
Gren
Actually I quite like the “Modern” look and anything lighter must be an advantage.
The colour scheme is quite nice too.
Perhaps designed to compete with BMW in a lot of ways? just an opinion……….
Agree with Richard’s comments in particular no crash bars. It has this plastic/rubber gizmos, but how much protection would they give in those “Car park mishaps!!”. I reckon a bit expensive……
The more I look the more I like it, (Jan’s not here at the moment). ๐
Perhaps run a sweep stake to see who buys first?
But again agree it must be Ian!
mike hiulme
I have bought 2018 wing done 1500 miles great bike nearly every way one big big fault sat nav a night mare any out there has one would love to hear from
IanC
Hi Mike,
My only experience of the 2018 Navi system is of the demonstrator dct bike which I had here for 12days.
I decided I’d load a route to it for folk to use when they went for a test ride – it took me ages !!
I’m quite used to creating routes and loading them to GPS units but I could not get this unit to accept a route which I’d created in Basecamp in GPx format.
In the end I used the online Honda TripPlanner and made the route in their own software and then downloaded it to a USB stick to transfer it to the bike.
During this process I found out just how inadequate the 2018 Navi unit is IF YOU WISH TO USE CUSTOM ROUTES.
It will only accept a max of 8 waypoints per route (which is a lot of waypoints for one route) BUT it doesn’t allow you to insert Via Points/Shaping points so you have to use Waypoints strategically placed to try to make the route go along the roads you actually wish to ride.
This is do-able if the routes is short as in the 28mile test route I created BUT expand the route to 250miles and its impossible.
I create most routes using waypoints for the start, morning coffee, lunch, refuel, afternoon tea, and destination hotel, (only 6 waypoints), BUT then I drag and drop the route onto the roads we want to ride and this can add 30-40 viapoints/shaping points.
I have heard that Honda is aware of this problem and is seeking a software update but they dont know if or when this will be available.
The Navi unit should be ok for riding from point A to point B but anything else and its next to useless.
If you use Custom Routes for tours or holidays you’ll probably need to fit a Garmin Zumo or BMW Nav6 to the bike ๐
Sorry I can’t be more positive about the new Wing but for me its just too full of compromise ๐
Cheers,
Ian.
philip tyler
I had mine 6 weeks now its the dct model sat nave passable if you dont expect to much of it love the rider modes its like having 4 different bikes
IanC
2018 DCT test ride report.
A big thank you to Doble Honda and Ian Gladman for sending me their 2018 Goldwing Tour DCT demo bike to try.
It was delivered last Thursday and it will be collected on Friday, Iโve had it for a full week.
Iโd love to be able to say โI love it, itโs amazingโ but sadly I canโt โน๏ธ
For me, there are just too many things I donโt like about it, itโs just full of compromise and I didnโt enjoy the ride.
In fact, today (Wednesday) I left it in my garage and went for a ride on our 2018 old model Wing and it was a pleasure to be back on a really nice bike.
I really didnโt like the DCT gearbox at all.
I found full manual mode was best for me but it wasnโt great on downshifts and the throttle response in Sport mode was far too sensitive.
In D, auto mode, it changes up too early, 5th gear by 30mph and 6th or 7th by 40mph. This made it feel awful in the bends as it was always in too high a gear and not balanced at all.
Maybe the 6speed manual will be a much better ride.
The suspension wasnโt firm enough for me and it always had a soft spongy feel to it even with just me on it and set to 2up+luggage mode. I could not find a suspension setting to make it feel stable and smooth however much I tried.
The wind and weather protection isnโt as good as my old model bike, and I hated riding it in the wet, I just didnโt feel in control with the DCT gearbox. It was too unpredictable for me and I didnโt like how it would change gear mid corner or mid roundabout !!
Couple the above to the lack of luggage space and the small top box that wonโt take my XL and Deniseโs XS size helmets, a navi system thatโs no good for our custom routes, and youโve got a touring bike which, to me, seems like a step backwards rather than an advancement.
Iโm sorry to say, we wonโt be having a Tour DCT, itโs just not my cuppa tea at all โน๏ธ๐๐
There are some things I did like though –
The brakes are great,
The upshifts on the gearbox are seamless (shame about the downshifts)
The stability at low speeds in a straight line such as filtering is really good.
The exhaust sound is cool, it growls๐
The seat is comfy
The keyless ignition is worth having
๐
Letโs hope Honda decide they would
Like to produce a bike which appeals to us long time Wing owners and they launch a Grand Tour version sometime soon.
Fingers crossed
IanC
Someone said the New 2018 Goldwing Tour is MUCH NARROWER than the model its replaced ๐
Really ??
Ok, I read a post saying the new bike is up to 8โ (20cm) narrower than the old model.
Well, thatโs not correct.
The approx sizes are-
Mirror-mirror = old 43โ (110cmm) new42โ (107)
Saddlebags = old 34โ (87cm) new 33โ(84)
Engine width = approx same both.
Fairing width = New is approx 4โ (10cm) narrower
Therefore the weather protection is significantly worse.
I tried to take pics of this but I need 2pairs of hands to hold the tape and camera so I only managed the mirror to mirror size ๐
On both bikes the same rule applies when filtering (lane splitting in the US )- if the mirrors go through the rest of the bike will too.
THE NEW MODEL IS APPROXIMATELY 1″ (25MM) NARROWER THAN THE OLD MODEL – WOW!!
mike hiulme
Ian a little more on 2018 wing sat nav 1 = only connect to head set if bike set first if you forget say at a petrol stop you have to turn off re set nav turn headset on to talk to you 2 = if you miss a way point by as little as 30 feet nav will turn you back for the next 200 mile way round is to stop turn everything off go into setting cancel that way point restart and off you go 3 = beware of picking bendy roads the nav will sometimes optomise route and go its own way no provision to turn this off Honda know of these problems as they gave me ยฃ200 gift tokens plus a food hamper and say they are working on this problem ????
ANTHONY BREWIN
A voice from the past. I had a weekend out with you guys some time ago, but, just, just too busy with work. Anyhow, as Ian knows I have bought a 2018 DCT Model. I’ve done 8,000 miles on mine now. In brief Iโd say the following.
The Good.
1. I like the slimmer, lighter weight bike. Itโs more sports tour than serious tour. It’s not a serious comfortable, serious luggage bike as we all know/knew it.
2. Personally I love (Love) the DCT. My upshifts down shifts are virtually seamless. What “Drive” you use is of course determined by your style of riding. Mine lives in auto Eco mode, odd switch to Tour and never use the Sports mode. That said I hardly ever use the manual mode (When I do its just to play because itโs there) as I find the auto mode so good.
3. The new front suspension is ok, itโs fine….it’s not “Incredibleโ its ok. Is it miles better than the 2012 model…not sure it is?
4. Electronic suspension is fine, easy…it’s ok, not “Mind blowing”
5. Electric screen is great. That said apart for changing because of rain whatever, im the kind of rider who sets it and forgets it. But, a worthy improvement. Iโd love it a whole lot more if Mr Honda and his team established a quick easy release that allowed both sides of screen to be quickly easily cleaned. Canโt be rocket scienceโฆ..surely?
6. Brakes I fell are a good deal better.
7. Apple play? Love or hate for many. Personally I love it.
8. General handling I feel is far better, far better, lighter, more nimble easier to manoeuvre.
9. Stop start for me is a winner. Why stand wasting fuel at lights when engine can be cut and starter so easily.
10. Hill assist? Itโs ok. It’s not a deal maker for me, it’s ok.
11. M. P. G. is better. Thatโs always good.
12. The instruments, and information available, when it works is good. Tyre pressure, temperature, available mileage, in tank etc, and much more, when it works is great. Sadly it often does not work.
13. I like big bikes; I always liked my 20112 model. That said I do like the lighter weight of this machine
Points that are not so good.
1. Sat Nav is less than useless, let alone importing of routes and other stuff, mine works sometimes seizes up much of the time. Less than useless and quite shameful for Honda to release this bike with such a pitiful (Truly pitiful) system. I kicked off and my dealer got a Zumo 550 fitted at no cost. A truly pitiful Sat Nave
2. Reduction in luggage beggars belief. For two people riding off for say two weeks it is woefully inadequate compare to previous model. Im a solo rider, not doing huge trips, for me its ok. For many it is just not fit for purpose.
3. 3. The position of horn is something I hateโฆseriously hate. Ergonomically for me it is just not in the right place for me to react and hit it fast enough in an emergency. On the 2012 model it say in the right place for me thumb and I could hit it in a Nano second. Really donโt like it on the new bike. Iโd go further (Can only speak as I find myself) Iโd say itโs even potentially even dangerous. Others may be ok with itโฆ.I hate it.
4. Seat, I donโt find as comfortable as the 2012 model. OK for daily trips but ive regular done 600-800 1000 miles in a day. I donโt fancy that kind of mileage on this new bike.
5. The electronics on this bike are really not fit to be released. A machine of this cost should come out the door fit for purpose and or quickly sorted if there are issues. There are issues and at this time, Honda seemingly has no plan to fix? I mention the following and have forgotten some. Sat Nav worthless, Tyre pressure monitoring does not work, Display reef miles left in tank does not work, Temperature does not work,
6. The little cubby box on right hand side of DCT model houses a button that open fuel filler cap. Driving home this week, low on fuel, but not sure because the read out is not working saying how many miles left in tank, the cubby box (At petrol station) would not open. I had no choice but to run the risk and carry on riding back to my nearest point (Office) I ran out of fuel the side of the rd on a 30,000 quid motor bike looking like an idiot. The number of electronic failures just is not good enough. Even more than this my bike needed to be recovered. No problem call Mr Honda recovery. First firm that came out simply said โCanโt do this, too difficult, nowhere to strap the bike downโ I get on the phone to Mr Honda recovery โCan we get a specialist firm out who knows what they are doing to recover my Bike?โ Yes indeed Mr Brewin. They sent out a second firm who said โcanโt do this. No crash bars front or rear grab rails can no longer be used to strap down. They threw arms up in the air, threw the towel in, and drove off. My bike still awaits recovery.
7. Hand brake works fine. I had to have mine adjusted after about a 1000 miles as it would not hold the bike, it now needs doing again.
8. No crash bars? A bit worrying, we have all dropped our bikes. (have we?) That said regret to say dropped my new oneโฆ.the rubber pads did the job. Not a scratch on the bike. Think id still like to see crash bars?
9. It beggars belief that the trunk will not hold two helmetsโฆ.simply staggering. If rider and passenger have heads the size of an orange with now head sets on, you might be in with a chance. I have a Schubert with built in electronics (nothing on the side) no hope whatsoever of two helmets in the trunk
10. Security clip for attaching helmet to the exterior of bike. Almost worthless on its own. The helmet hangs down side of body work, chances are rain would get in. Ive had a modified security steel wire loop made up so I can fix helmet to seat and fix/secure to bike.
11. No strap down points for luggage on the bike
12. Weather protection this bike falls significantly short of the 2012 model. I was never cold on my 2012 bike; I have to take a bit more care on this one.
The overall deal for me, I like it. The DCT and lighter feel for me is the deal maker, I love it. For many DCT will never be a motorbike, I love it. Sadly, I regret to say Mr Honda has over promised and under delivered. On so many points. Let us not forget this is not a five bob motor bike. For most it will be about 30k or more. For this kind of money I can buy a decent Mercedes or BMW and chances are electronics, Sat Nave etc. will work perfectly. All balanced up i like the bike. Sadly it falls short in a number of areas.
Gren
In a nutshell a load of crap then!
Nigel Mackintosh
That’s a great description, Tony – many thanks.
Several of us had planned to buy the new bike when it was announced, but gradually changed our minds as the main deficiencies became known. I think you have identified a few more!
Would you mind us repeating your comments elsewhere, with credit to you of course, as it is excellent information which deserves a wider audience than it might get here?
IanC
Heres another two update from Tony,
1. Message as he was preparing for the tour to Scotland
Anyhow, the new bags came today, Iโm pretty much loaded for the weekend. Truth is my wife has bigger make up bags than the Honda pannier bags. Iโve got some camera kit (itโs a photo shoot holiday more than a bike holiday actually) not a hope in hell of taking the kit I need without strapping another bag on back, and thatโs me on my own. Fair enough most folk would manage with a very modest size camera and I have got a few bits of camera kit. But, wifeโs make up bags are bigger. Two up? Two weeks and more? โWith our climate and clothing needsโ a mighty struggle for most!โ
2. Message after the ride to Scotland –
I can now confirm without a shadow of a doubt weather protection on 2018 bike is pitiful compared to previous model.
Arrived in Edinburgh after being peed on relentlessly for four-five hours. Would never have made it without new heated jacket I bought last week. Had heated gloves for years, never had heated jacket. Just crossed my mind, but without heated jacket, would not have made it here.
Riding my old wing, in Scotland & Poland etc…, much more in cold weather, I was never once cold and didnโt have a heated jacket!!
Regards.
Tony.
Nigel Mackintosh
Is there some reason why you have uploaded such tiny pictures, Mike? It’s a shame for your excellent photos not to be seen as well as they might be.
Mike Issitt
I agree Nigel but I believed that there was an individual image file size restriction set by yourself of 200kb – hence I re-sized them all down to that level as I have done so with previous uploads
Gren
Touche!
Mike Issitt
Well that was quick !!!… Good news is that Zoe will now be joining Nigel on the Triumph visit sad news is that Stuart looks unlikely to attend.
Mike Issitt
I have updated the post in the members events area August for this trip – the catering link now shows all are paid up, your food choices and if you are participating, which Factory Tour you are on –
Gren
Hi all on this tour.
If anyone changes the oil/oil filter themselves and needs a filter wrench cup removal tool and going on this tour let me know and I will bring it with me.
(Just sitting on the shelf).
FREE.
Cheers.
Michael James Issitt
I have started to reload the Croatia pictures – they are no longer being re-sized downwards by the website so should make better viewing
Tony Pate
Anyone else having issues with the date & time on their Goldwing? 4/5 months ago I noticed the time was wrong, tried adjusting the time and noticed the date was October 1999!! If you try adjusting the time/date they both revert back to October 1999…
I have 2012 C
Michael James Issitt
Happily I have a new (old) Wing … Sadly I no longer have an onboard Sat Nav ๐
I never had date Issues on my 2013 Bike but did have the instructions and display regularly turning to Dutch !!
It was amusing / entertaining the first time and then really flippin annoying ! I was going to phone Nettie for translations ๐
I deleted all the languages on the system apart from UK English which cured it ๐
IanC
Garmin say –
Weโve identified an issue with this product that causes the date to be wrong after the GPS Rollover on April 6th, 2019. However, all functions not dependent on date and/or time will continue to work normally. Due to the age of the device we have determined we will not fix this issue.
What does that mean for my Garmin?
o The date determined by the GPS will be wrong
o Position, velocity, navigation, and all other functionality not dependent on date and/or time will continue to work normally
What is GPS Week Rollover?
The GPS satellite system communicates the date via a week number that is limited to 1024 weeks (about 20 years). On April 6th, 2019 the week numbers broadcast by the satellites will โrolloverโ to zero. If GPS receivers donโt account for this rollover in their software, it will calculate the wrong date and/or time.
IanC
This means you may notice the screen switching to night time mode (darker background etc) at the wrong time of day because even though the time may display correctly the date of the time clock is out of sync. eg it thinks its autumn when its still summer months.
Otherwise the Navi should work OK ๐
Richard Chatham
My 660 had the wrong time etc which I sorted but each morning last weekend on a trip in Scotland the sat nav set off when attached to the bike in night mode which in sunlight is impossible to read but after about 15 minutes it went ok to day time mode ! I have now changed the setting to day time mode only so I hope this will sort it.!! . Ian do you think that will work.
Hope you all had a great trip.
Richard
IanC
Hi Richard, yes we had a great time on the France Spain tour, some great riding, I’m sure you’d have loved it ๐
Setting to Daytime Mode may well work OK as it over rides the auto function for the screen dimming.
Hope we get to catch up with you & Christine sometime soon.
Best wishes,
I&D x
IanC
The 660 is now quite old tech. I must have had mine for 10 years or more and it was a really good bit of kit, BUT, technology has moved on and the 660 is now very dated when compared to the newer units.
My Navigator6 is absolutely brilliant, its VERY quick, has loads of useful functions, its easy to use, and it works fine with all the latest mapping and route making software.
Its about time you 660 owners started thinking about upgrading if you still want to use Custom Routes.
There is still a market for used 660’s and if I still had one I’d be thinking of selling it and putting the dosh towards a newer model ๐
Richard Chatham
Hi Ian
Switching to daytime mode sorted the problem but I will not be able to update the Garmin for the new model even though it works through the XR handlebar wheel system as I don’t do enough touring.
Lorenzo my old touring buddy has sold his FJR1300 and bought a new S1000XR with the new compatible Garmin and has just done 3,000 miles in Europe two up and confirms that it is a great system and works through the bikes information set up perfectly.
When I say I don’t do enough touring I mean I have been told !!! I don’t do enough touring to justify the cost !!!
Cheers
Richard
Gren
We all know where you are coming from! ๐
IanC
We now have SEVEN couples booked onto this tour already (as of Sun 19th Jan’20) ๐
See details in the Members Only area, Events, Set Tab.
Full itinerary and hotel booking sheet can be downloaded from the Members Only area.
ALL 7 couples are on bikes, no sports car contingent at the moment.
If you have any questions please let us have them ๐
IanC
Hi ALL, if anyone has any questions regarding this tour or needs any help with the ferry and hotel reservations please let me know and I’ll do my best to help.
I’ve put the basic itinerary into the post in the Members Only Area, Event details, Sept tab, for you to view and it has links to all the hotels too.
Please don’t leave it too long to make your reservations as the ferry is already filling up and their motorcycle capacity is limited.
Have a great Christmas & New Year ๐
IanC
Heres another clip of us on a section of route 05 Penhas de Saude to Evora back in 2017.
We’re doing this again in 2020 ๐
https://youtu.be/A4i-ee0kl1k
Rodger Broad
Hi to all and great to see a strong biking contingent already booked.
For us, we will be travelling out via Portsmouth – only 40 miles from home.
If anyone is interested in using this route, we are booked on the 17:00 Ferry from Portsmouth to Santander – on the 4th – as the only suitable ferry.
We will fill in with a couple of overnights and meet everyone on the 7th at the Parador Fuento De for the remainder of the trip.
Looking forward to it although have yet to try and book the hotels!!
.
Snapper
Hi Rodger – Hope you are all booked up now – I couldnt find any space at the Inn on Thurs 17th at Aranda de Duero so have booked us into Hotel Torremilanos 4-star hotel Ctra N-122 Km 274, 09400 Aranda de Duero, Spain
https://www.hoteltorremilanos.es/en/
Really looking forward to the trip
Rodger Broad
Mike
I’ve got the same problem.
What have you actually booked at this hotel?
I can see B&B – are you planing to go to the other hotel for Dinner? (with the others).
Mike Issitt
Hi Rodger – Yes that is our plan to either ride over or get a cab as its not that far
IanC
Hi ALL, Ive now posted the Itinerary along with the Hotel booking form onto the Events Page, Sept Tab, in the Members only area.
You can view from there and download it too if you wish.
If you have any questions please get intouch with me.
Ian.
IanC
I think we have around 18persons booked in for Tea with Haze & Pete.
Hope to see you there ๐
Haze & Pete
We will be 17 altogether as Alison and Josie are also joining us and unfortunately David and Meg are unable to come. Looking forward to seeing everyone Sunday from 2pm for afternoon tea.
Haze & Pete
Thank you to all who were able to make the Afternoon Tea yesterday. It was great to catch up with so many of our Elitewing friends. Looking forward to some good biking weather and the chance to get out on our Wing and some more meet ups.
Rodger Broad
Mike
I’ve had the same problem and then gave up so, I’ve not yet booked any of the hotels – had no idea any would be booked up this far ahead.
Ferry long booked but, this could yet be a problem for the trip if any more are booked out!!!
Will have another go but, can’t do until next week.
Thanks for the warning.
IanC
Hi Rodger,
The earlier you book the better the price is. Leave it late and youโll risk maybe not getting a room at a hotel, OR, the rate will go up.
Less availability usually means higher prices.
I think you should be OK at the majority of the hotels if you act soon but if you need any help with the bookings please let me know.
Donโt forget to use the AMIGO membership number when booking at any of the Parador.
If you arenโt already a AMIGO member please join, itโs free, and then youโll be able to access the Special Amigo Gastro DB&B rate.
I did include links to all the hotels and the Amigo Club in the booking sheet ๐
Good luck with it ๐๐
Richard Chatham
Thank Pete & Hazel you for a lovely afternoon and it was great meeting up with everyone again.
IanC
Booked on as of today 19.02.20 are –
Ian & Denise x locals
Pete & Haze x 2nts
Rob Wilks x 2nts
AL & Deb x locals
Jim & Jillo x locals
Mike & Nettie x 2nts
Richard & Christine x 1nt
If anyone else fancies the Amazon tour, or staying over please let me know
Thanks,
Ian.
Gren
Ahhh already fully booked.
Found out about the trip today.
Enjoy all. ๐
Mike Issitt
Sorry Gren – went like hot cakes !! ๐ณ – i’ve asked them to let me know if they get any cancellations ๐
Mike Issitt
Gren – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
Richard Chatham
Please book us on the Amazon trip for the Friday visit and overnight stay on Friday.
Richard& Christine
Richard Chatham
Just noticed this trip please book us on if any places become available.
Richard & Christine
Snapper
Will do Richard ๐
Mike Issitt
Richard – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
Mike Issitt
Al and Nigel – See the update above – Have secured extra places for all who wanted to go ๐ Please book hotel room, make menu choices and send me over your dinner money ๐ – Thnx Mike
Gren and Jan
Mike you are a star!
Thanks for the email and all booked and paid up. ๐ ๐
Mike Issitt
You’re welcome – glad we were able to sort it for everyone ๐
Richard Chatham
Well done Mike all booked as per my email
Mike Issitt
That’s great Richard – Looking forward to seeing you and Christine again ๐
Richard Chatham
Fine by me Mike- carry on the good work.
Richard & Christine xx
Mike
Richard – see latest post on here and Facebook – Hotel bookings have been cancelled due to CV
Gren
Hi,
Received an email cancelling our hotel booking . ๐
Checked the web site and they have cancelled all bookings until the end of May.
Probably quite a few would have booked the Burleigh Court Hotel and Leisure?
Agreed we all need some sort of gathering and WINE!
But who knows now……………
Your efforts are aways very much appreciated.
Gren and Jan x
Mike
Hi Gren – sent a reply to your e-mail plus see latest post on here
Richard Chatham
Hi Mike No preference we will go with the majority.
Cheers
Richard
IanC
This tours FULL ITINERARY & HOTELS LIST are available to view to e-w members in the Members area of this website.
Click on Members area, enter the Password, Click on Events, click on Sept 21 tab
Booked onto this tour as of 28 Nov ’20 are –
Ian&Denise
Norman
Mike&Nettie
Rob&Karen
Rodger&Edit
Fireman AL&Debbie
Jim & Jillo
If you fancy joining us you’ll be very welcome.
If you have any questions please dont hesitate to contact me – Ian ๐