Honda GL1800 Goldwing. Owners Manual

Multi Information Display

Display Type Selection

(Models equipped with Navigation System)

Press the DISP button to toggle between:

The Multi Information Display (time, odometer, and tripmeter)

A Navi full screen map with the time

A split screen with the Multi information condensed in a bar below the map.

For USA

For Canada

DISP button

Instruments & Controls

Multi Information Display

Changing the Information Display

The display changes as follows each time the INFO button is pushed.

When approximately 5 seconds pass without operating a button, the display

automatically returns to the previous display.

(Models not equipped with Navigation System)

INFO button

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Ignition Switch

OFF

ACC

LOCK

The ignition switch is used for starting and stopping the engine (page73) and to

lock the steering for theft prevention (page

89). Insert the key and turn it to the

right for the ON and ACC (accessory) positions.

Push down on the key and turn it to the left to the LOCK (steering lock) position.

Key Position

Function

Key Removal

ACC

Only the accessory circuits

cannot be

function.

removed

Electrical circuits on.

cannot be

removed

OFF

No electrical circuits function.

can be

removed

LOCK

No electrical circuits function.

can be

(steering lock)

Locks the steering head.

removed

To unlock the steering lock, insert and push down on the key and turn it to the

right to the OFF position.

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Engine Stop Switch

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

engine stop switch

CRUISE CONTROL master switch

RESUME/ACCEL switch

SET/DECEL switch

reverse (RVS) switch

start/reverse button

OFF

RUN

The engine stop switch is used to stop the engine in an emergency. To operate,

turn the switch to the OFF position. The switch must be in the RUN position to

start the engine, and it should normally remain in the RUN position even when

the engine is OFF.

If your motorcycle is stopped with the ignition switch ON and the engine stop

switch OFF, the headlight and taillight will remain on, resulting in battery

discharge.

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Start/Reverse Button

The start/reverse button is used for starting the engine. Pushing the start/reverse

button in starts the engine. See

Starting Procedure,

page

When the start/reverse button is pushed, the starter motor will crank the engine;

the headlight will automatically go out, but the taillight will stay on.

The starter motor will not operate if the engine stop switch is in the OFF

position when the start/reverse button is pushed.

The start/reverse button is also used for reverse riding. See Riding in Reverse,

page

Reverse (RVS) Switch

The reverse switch is used to shift into reverse gear so you may back up your

motorcycle. For instructions, see

Riding in Reverse,

page

Cruise Control Switches

Three switches are used to activate, adjust, and de-activate the cruise control

system: a CRUISE CONTROL master switch, a SET/DECEL switch, and a

RESUME/ACCEL switch. For operating instructions, see Riding with Cruise

Control, page

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Headlight Dimmer Switch

The headlight dimmer switch is used to change between the high and low

headlight beams. To operate, push the button to HI for high beam, LO for low

beam.

Turn Signal Switch

The turn signal switch is used to signal a turn. To operate, move the switch all

the way to the left or right and release it.

The appropriate turn signal lights will start blinking. The lights will

automatically stop when you complete the turn. (You can manually cancel the

lights by pushing the switch in.)

To signal a lane change, move the switch all the way to the left or right and

release it. The turn signal lights will automatically stop in 7 seconds or after

riding 110 yards (120 m).

Horn Button

The horn is used to alert other motorists. To operate, push the button.

Audio Control Switches

The audio control switches mounted on the left handlebar and above the fuel fill

compartment are used to operate the radio. For specific features and operation

instructions, see

Audio Systems,

page 97 .

LEFT HANDLEBAR

audio control switches

headlight dimmer switch

turn signal switch

horn button

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Hazard Switch

The hazard switch is used to activate the hazard lights on your motorcycle if you

need to stop near heavy traffic or if your motorcycle is disabled.

To operate, turn the ignition key to the ON or ACC position, and push the

hazard switch. The front and rear turn signals will blink simultaneously until

you push the switch again.

If you anticipate using the hazard system for an extended time, use the ACC

position and turn off all unnecessary accessories to conserve battery capacity.

Be sure to turn the switch off when the hazard warning is no longer required, or

the turn signals will not work properly and may confuse other drivers.

LEFT SIDE

hazard switch

rear suspension spring pre-load adjustment switch

headlight beam adjustment knob

Instruments & Controls

Controls & Features

Headlight Beam Adjustment Knob

The adjustment knob is used to raise or lower the height of the headlight beam.

You may need to adjust the headlight if you change to a lighter or heavier load

than you normally carry on your motorcycle.

If you carry a heavier or lighter than normal load, you may need to adjust your

headlight beam so you can better see the road ahead and don’t blind oncoming

drivers. Obey local laws and regulations concerning headlight adjustment.

To operate, start the engine.

To lower the beam, turn the headlight beam adjustment knob counterclockwise.

To raise the beam, turn the knob clockwise.

Rear Suspension Spring Pre-load Adjustment Switch

The rear suspension spring pre-load adjustment switch is used to adjust the rear

suspension to suit your load and riding conditions. For instructions on when and

how to adjust the rear suspension, see Rear Suspension Spring Pre-load

Adjustment, page

181

Ventilation Controls

The windscreen ventilation louver is used to direct the flow of fresh air

(page

The side ventilation louvers and foot warmer ventilation louvers are used to

direct the flow of warm air (pages65,66).

Windscreen Height Adjustment

The windscreen height adjustment levers are used to raise or lower your

windscreen to suit your riding preference. For instructions, see page

Instruments & Controls

Before Riding

Before each ride, you need to make sure you and your Honda are both ready to

ride. To help get you prepared, this section discusses how to evaluate your riding

readiness, what items you should check on your motorcycle, and adjustments to

make for your comfort, convenience, or safety. This section also includes

important information about loading.

For information about adjusting the suspension on your Honda, see page

181

Are You Ready to Ride?

Protective Apparel

Rider Training

Is Your Motorcycle Ready to Ride?

Pre-ride Inspection

Load Limits & Guidelines

Load Limits

Loading Guidelines

Cargo Compartment

Travel Trunk & Saddlebags

Remote Transmitter

Fairing Pockets

Trunk Side Pockets

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

Windscreen Height Adjustment

Windscreen Ventilation Louver

Side Ventilation Louvers

Foot Warmer Ventilation Louvers

Handgrip Heater

Seat Heater

Accessories

Accessory (ACC) Terminal

Before Riding

Are You Ready to Ride?

Before you ride your motorcycle for the first time, we urge you to:

Read this owner’s manual.

Make sure you understand all the safety messages.

Know how to operate all the controls.

Before each ride, be sure:

You feel well and are in good physical and mental condition.

You are wearing an approved motorcycle helmet (with chin strap tightened

securely), eye protection, and other protective clothing.

You don’t have any alcohol or drugs in your system.

Make sure your passenger is ready to ride, too, and is wearing proper gear

including a helmet.

If you are not riding with a passenger and want to carry an extra helmet, use a

commercially-available elastic cord, strap, or net to secure the helmet to the seat.

The travel trunk may also be used to store an extra helmet.

Protective Apparel

For your safety, we strongly recommend that you always wear an approved

motorcycle helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved

shirt or jacket whenever you ride.

Although complete protection is not possible, wearing proper gear can reduce

the chance of injury when you ride.

Following are suggestions to help you choose the proper gear.

Before Riding

Are You Ready to Ride?

Helmets and Eye Protection

Your helmet is your most important piece of riding gear because it offers the

best protection against head injuries. A helmet should fit your head comfortably

and securely. A bright-colored helmet and reflective strips can make you more

noticeable in traffic.

An open-face helmet offers some protection, but a full-face helmet offers more.

Regardless of the style, look for a DOT (Department of Transportation) sticker

on any helmet you buy (USA only). Always wear a face shield or goggles to

protect your eyes and help your vision.

Not wearing a helmet increases

the chance of serious injury or

death in a crash.

Be sure you and your

passenger always wear a

helmet, eye protection, and

other protective apparel when

you ride.

Additional Riding Gear

In addition to a helmet and eye protection, we also recommend:

Sturdy boots with non-slip soles to help protect your feet and ankles.

Leather gloves to help protect your hands.

A motorcycle riding suit or jacket for comfort as well as protection.

Bright-colored and reflective clothing can help make you more noticeable in

traffic. Avoid loose clothes that could get caught on any part of your

motorcycle.

Before Riding

Are You Ready to Ride?

Rider Training

Developing your riding skills is an on-going process. Even if you have ridden

other motorcycles, take time to become familiar with how this motorcycle works

and handles. Practice riding the motorcycle in a safe area to build your skills. Do

not ride in traffic until you get accustomed to the motorcycle’s controls, and feel

comfortable with its size and weight.

We urge all riders to take a certified course approved by the Motorcycle Safety

Foundation (MSF). New riders should start with the basic course, and even

experienced riders will find the advanced course beneficial. For information

about the MSF training course nearest you, call the national toll-free number:

(800) 446-9227.

Other riding tips can be found in the

Riding Tips

booklet that came with your

motorcycle (USA only).

Before Riding

Is Your Motorcycle Ready to Ride?

Before each ride, it’s important to inspect your motorcycle and make sure any

problem you find is corrected. A pre-ride inspection is a must, not only for

safety, but because having a breakdown, or even a flat tire, can be a major

inconvenience.

Improperly maintaining this

motorcycle or failing to correct a

problem before riding can cause

a crash in which you can be

seriously hurt or killed.

Always perform a pre-ride

inspection before every ride and

correct any problems.

Pre-ride Inspection

Check the following items before you get on the motorcycle:

Tires

Look at the tires. If a tire appears low, use an air pressure gauge

to check its pressure. Also look for signs of excessive wear

Wheels

(page 191 ) or damage to the tires and wheels.

Leaks,

Walk around your motorcycle and look for anything that appears

Loose

unusual, such as a leak or loose cable.

Parts

Lights

Make sure the headlight, brakelight, taillight, and turn signals are

working properly.

Before Riding

Is Your Motorcycle Ready to Ride?

If you are carrying a passenger or cargo, also check the following:

Load Limits

Make sure you do not exceed the load limits (page

Cargo

Check that all cargo is secure.

Adjustments

Adjust the rear suspension (page

180

) according to your load.

Check these items after you get on the motorcycle:

Throttle

Rotate the throttle to check it moves smoothly without binding.

Brakes

Pull the brake lever and press on the brake pedal to check that

they operate normally.

Indicators

Turn the ignition on and check for normal operation of the

indicators (page

Gauges

Check the fuel level and other gauges (page16).

If you haven’t ridden the motorcycle in over a week, you should also check

other items, such as the oil level and other fluids. See

Periodic Maintenance

(page143). Periodic maintenance should also be done at least once a month, no

matter how often you ride.

Remember, be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your Honda

dealer correct it before you ride.

Before Riding

Load Limits & Guidelines

Your motorcycle has been designed to carry you and one passenger. When you

carry a passenger, you may feel some difference during acceleration and

braking. But so long as you keep your motorcycle well-maintained, with good

tires and brakes, you can safely carry loads within the given limits and

guidelines.

However, exceeding the weight limit or carrying an unbalanced load can

seriously impair your motorcycle’s handling, braking, and stability. Non-Honda

accessories, improper modifications, and poor maintenance can also reduce your

safety margin.

How much weight you put on your motorcycle, and how you load it, are

important to your safety. Anytime you ride with a passenger or cargo, you

should be aware of the following information.

Overloading or improper loading

can cause a crash and you can

be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other

loading guidelines in this

manual.

Before Riding

Load Limits & Guidelines

Load Limits

Following are the load limits for your motorcycle:

maximum weight capacity:

410 lbs (186 kg)

includes the weight of the rider,

419 lbs (190 kg)

passenger, all cargo, and all accessories.

(Canada only)

maximum cargo weight:

71 lbs (32 kg)

includes following maximum compartment

(Models not equipped

weights:

with Airbag)

66 lbs (30 kg)

(Models equipped with

Airbag)

travel trunk

20.0 lbs (9.0 kg)

each saddlebag

20.0 lbs (9.0 kg)

each fairing pocket

(Models not equipped with Airbag)

4.5 lbs (2.0 kg)

fairing pocket

(Models equipped with Airbag)

4.5 lbs (2.0 kg)

each trunk side pocket

1.0 lbs (0.5 kg)

The weight of added accessories will reduce the maximum cargo weight you can

carry.

Before Riding

Load Limits & Guidelines

Loading Guidelines

Improperly loading your motorcycle can affect its stability and handling. Even

if your motorcycle is properly loaded, you should ride at reduced speeds and

never exceed 80 mph (130 km/h) when carrying cargo.

Follow these guidelines whenever you carry a passenger or cargo:

Check that both tires are properly inflated (page

190

If you change your normal load, you may need to adjust the rear suspension

(page

180

To prevent loose items from creating a hazard, make sure that all cargo is tied

down securely before you ride.

Place cargo weight as low and close to the center of your motorcycle as

possible.

Balance cargo weight evenly on both sides.

Make sure all cargo compartments are securely closed.

Check the headlight beam adjustment if you change your normal load.

Do not attach large or heavy items (such as a sleeping bag or tent) to the

handlebar, forks, or fender.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Your motorcycle comes with a lockable travel trunk and dual saddlebags, plus

two trunk side pockets and front fairing pockets.

Instructions on how to open, close, and lock these compartments follow.

Travel Trunk & Saddlebags

The travel trunk and saddlebags are for lightweight items.

Cargo in the travel trunk and both saddlebags should not exceed:

20.0 lbs (9.0 kg) each

However, regardless of compartment capacity, be sure you do not exceed the

maximum load and cargo weight limits (page50).

To Lock & Unlock the Travel Trunk & Saddlebags

LOCK UNLOCK

The travel trunk and saddlebags can be locked and unlocked with the ignition

key or remote transmitter.

To use the remote transmitter, see page

To unlock:

Insert the ignition key and turn it clockwise.

To lock:

Insert the ignition key and turn it counterclockwise.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

To Open & Shut the Travel Trunk & Saddlebags

latch levers

OPEN

left saddlebag

travel trunk

right saddlebag

To open the travel trunk, pull the middle latch lever down.

To open the right or left saddlebag, pull the right or left latch lever down.

TO CLOSE:

To shut each compartment, place your hands flat on the edges of its lid and press

down until it is firmly closed and check the travel trunk & saddlebags open

indicator is not displayed.

To lock the all compartments, use the ignition key or transmitter.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Remote Transmitter

You can lock and unlock your motorcycle’s trunk and saddlebags with the

remote transmitter.

If the ignition switch is left off for more than one month, the remote transmitter

will no longer operate the remote control system. To reset the system, turn the

ignition switch ON.

To lock the compartments

push the lock button.

(The front and rear turn signal lights will blink once.)

lock button

To unlock the compartments

push the unlock button.

(The front and rear turn signal lights will blink two times.)

unlock button

If you unlock the compartments with the transmitter, but do not open any of the

compartments within thirty seconds, the compartments automatically relock.

You cannot lock the compartments with the remote transmitter if any

compartment is not fully closed. (The front and rear turn signal lights will blink

ten times.)

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

To open the trunk, push and hold the trunk release button for approximately

one second.

trunk release button

Call Mode

The call mode is provided to let you locate your motorcycle when it is parked in

a large lot.

Push and hold the CALL button, the horn will sound and the turn signal lights

will blink two times.

CALL button

When the ignition switch is in the ON or ACC position:

You can lock and unlock the compartments.

The trunk release button will not operate.

The call mode will not operate.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Replacing the Battery

When the remote transmitter’s battery begins to get weak, it may take several

pushes on the button to lock or unlock the compartments, and the LED will get

dim. Replace the battery as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR2025

Recycle or dispose of batteries properly, according to local regulations.

Improper battery disposal can harm the environment.

LED

1. Use a coin to turn the round cover on the back of the transmitter

counterclockwise.

2. Remove the old battery and note the polarity. Make sure the polarity of the

new battery is the same (ʴ

side facing up), then insert it in the transmitter.

Align the

mark on the cover with the

mark on the transmitter, then

set the cover in place and turn it clockwise.

˜ mark

LOCK

OPEN

˕ mark

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Transmitter Care

Avoid severe shock to the transmitter, such as dropping or throwing it. Also,

protect it from extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Clean the transmitter case with a soft cloth. Do not use strong cleaners or

solvents that could harm the case. Immersing the transmitter in any liquid will

harm the transmitter and cause it to not function properly.

If you lose a transmitter, you will need to have the replacement programmed to

your motorcycle’s system by your Honda dealer. Any other transmitters you

have will also need to be reprogrammed.

As required by the FCC:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the

f ollowing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmf ul interf erence,

and (2) this device must accept any interf erence received, including

interf erence that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modif ications not expressly approved by the party responsible f or

compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with Industry Canada Standard RSS-210. Operation is

subject to the f ollowing two conditions: (1) this device may not cause

interf erence, and (2) this device must accept any interf erence that may cause

undesired operation of the device.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Fairing Pockets

LEFT SIDE

(Models not equipped with Airbag)

RIGHT SIDE

PUSH

OPEN

button

ignition key

left fairing pocket

right fairing pocket

The fairing pockets are for lightweight items.

Cargo in each fairing pocket should not exceed:

4.5 lbs (2.0 kg)

To open the left fairing pocket, push the button.

(Models not equipped with Airbag)

To open the right fairing pocket, insert the ignition key, turn it clockwise.

To close the fairing pocket, place your hands flat on the edges of its lid and

press down until it is firmly closed.

Make sure the fairing pockets are closed before riding.

Be careful not to flood this area when washing your motorcycle.

Take care to keep gasoline, brake fluid, or other chemical solvents off the

pocket covers. They will damage the surface of the pocket covers.

Do not store valuables in the fairing pockets.

Before Riding

Cargo Compartment

Trunk Side Pockets

trunk side pockets

lid

lever

The trunk side pockets are for soft, lightweight items.

Cargo in each trunk side pocket should not exceed:

1.0 lbs (0.5 kg)

Do not put sharp or hard objects in the trunk side pockets. Such objects could

interfere with opening the lids or damage the pockets.

To open the lid, pull the lever up.

To close the lid, pull the lid up. Check that latch is secure.

Make sure the trunk side pockets are closed before riding.

Be careful not to flood this area when washing your motorcycle.

Before Riding

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

Your motorcycle has many features you can adjust to suit your personal

preference and increase your comfort and convenience, and your passenger’s as

well.

We recommend that you take time to check the following items and make any

desired adjustments before each ride:

Suspension

The rear suspension spring pre-load (page181) can be adjusted

for a softer or firmer ride using an electrical adjustment

system. You may want to adjust your suspension whenever

you change your normal load.

Windscreen

Your windscreen height can be adjusted slightly higher or

Height

lower (page63).

Ventilation

If you need to adjust the ventilation louvers (pages64ʵ66),

Louvers

do it before you ride.

Handgrip

The range of the handgrips heater can be adjusted higher or

Heater

lower (page

Make sure the handgrip heater switch moves easily over the

full adjustment range.

Select the heat level you want before your ride (with the

engine running).

Seat

The range of the seat heater can be adjusted higher or lower

Heater

(page

Make sure the seat heater switch moves easily over the full

adjustment range.

Select the heat level you want before your ride (with the

engine running).

Before Riding

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

Windscreen Height Adjustment

The windscreen adjuster has 6 positions.

You can adjust your windscreen height slightly higher or lower.

If possible, we recommend you adjust your windscreen height to below eye

level for better visibility.

To Adjust Windscreen Height

FRONT

upper edge

RELEASE

SECURE

upper mark

lever

1. Pull both levers up to release the windscreen.

2. To raise:

Move the windscreen up to the desired position.

To lower:

Move the windscreen up to the upper mark (

), lower it all the way (to

reset the ratchet mechanism), then raise it to the desired position.

3. On both sides, align the mark on the windscreen with the upper edge of the

instrument panel.

4. Push the levers down to secure the windscreen.

Before Riding

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

Handgrip Heater

(Models equipped with Comfort Package)

The handgrip heater warms up the right and left handgrips of the handlebar for

comfortable riding on a cold day.

The handgrip heater switch is located on the right side of the ignition switch.

To operate, adjust the handgrip heater switch with the engine started. The

handgrip heater switch has 6 positions (OFF, 1, 2, 3, 4, MAX).

RIGHT SIDE OF THE IGNITION SWITCH

handgrip heater switch

To warm up the handgrip heaters, turn the handgrip heater switch toward the

MAX position.

To cool down the handgrip heaters, turn the handgrip heater switch toward the

OFF position.

Do not leave the handgrip heater in the high position for a long time on a warm

day.

Wear gloves to protect your hands from the heated grips.

Do not use the handgrip heater with the engine at idle for a long time. It may

result in a low (or dead) battery.

Before Riding

Comfort & Convenience Adjustment

Seat Heater

(Models equipped with Comfort Package)

The seat heater warms up the driver’s seat (and the passenger’s seat) for

comfortable riding on a cold day.

The front seat heater switch is located on the left side of the ignition switch.

The rear seat heater switch is located under the left trunk side pocket.

To operate, adjust the seat heater switch with the engine started.

The front and rear seat heater switches have 6 positions (OFF, 1, 2, 3, 4, MAX).

LEFT SIDE OF THE IGNITION SWITCH

front seat heater switch

UNDER THE LEFT TRUNK SIDE POCKET

rear seat heater switch

To warm up the seat heater, turn the seat heater switch toward the MAX position.

To cool down the seat heater, turn the seat heater switch toward the OFF

position.

Do not leave the seat heater in the high position for a long time on a warm day.

Do not use the seat heater with the engine at idle for a long time. It may result in

a low (or dead) battery.

Do not use the seat when it is torn, cut or damaged as you can get burned.

Do not apply excessive stress to the seat, e.g. by securing articles to it with tie-

down straps during transportation.

Before Riding

Accessories

Accessory (ACC) Terminal

fuse box

accessory (ACC)

terminal

For your convenience, your motorcycle is equipped with an accessory (ACC)

terminal and optional accessory socket. The terminal and socket provide 12V

DC power for electrical accessories. When both terminal and socket are being

used, the combined power rating of each accessory should be 60 watts (5 amps)

or less. Before installing any accessories, read Accessories and Modif ications,

page

If you install any accessories, check the battery frequently to determine the state

of charge. Higher current demands may blow a fuse or discharge the battery. For

more information, see

Battery,

page

197, and

If a Fuse Blows,

page

232

Connect accessory electrical leads securely, and keep them insulated, away from

hot parts and sharp edges.

Before Riding

Basic Operation & Riding

This section gives basic riding instructions, including how to start and stop your

engine, and how to use the throttle, clutch, and brakes. It also provides important

information on riding with a passenger or cargo, and operating your cruise

control.

To protect your new engine and enjoy optimum performance and service life,

refer to Break-in Guidelines (page

248

To protect the catalytic converters in your motorcycle’s exhaust system, avoid

extended idling and the use of leaded gasoline.

Safe Riding Precautions

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Preparation

Starting Procedure

Flooded Engine

Bank Angle Sensor Ignition Cut-off System

How to Stop the Engine

Shifting Gears

While You Are Riding

Riding in Reverse

Braking

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

ABS Indicator Light

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Low Tire Pressure Indicator

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator

Changing a Tire with TPMS

Parking

Theft-prevention Tips

Riding with a Passenger or Cargo

Riding with Cruise Control

Cruise Control

To Set Cruise Control

To Change the Set Speed

To Cancel Cruise Control

Riding in Bad Weather

Basic Operation & Riding

Safe Riding Precautions

Before riding your motorcycle for the first time, please review the Motorcycle

Saf ety

section beginning on page 1, and the

Bef ore Riding

section beginning on

page

Even if you have ridden other motorcycles, take time to become familiar with

how this motorcycle works and handles. Practice in a safe area until you build

your skills and get accustomed to the motorcycle’s size and weight.

Make sure flammable materials such as dry grass or leaves do not come in

contact with the exhaust system when riding, idling, or parking your motorcycle.

Basic Operation & Riding

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Always follow the proper starting procedure described below.

For your safety, avoid starting or operating the engine in an enclosed area such

as a garage. Your motorcycle’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide

gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause illness or death.

Your motorcycle can be started with the transmission in gear by pulling in the

clutch lever before operating the starter.

Your motorcycle is equipped with a side stand ignition cut-off system. If the

side stand is down -- the engine cannot be started unless the transmission is in

neutral. If the side stand is up -- the engine can be started in neutral, or in gear

with the clutch lever pulled in. After starting with the side stand down, the

engine will stop if the transmission is put in gear before raising the side stand.

Preparation

Before starting, insert the key, turn the ignition switch ON, and confirm the

following:

The transmission is in neutral (neutral indicator is ON).

The engine stop switch is set to RUN.

The low oil pressure indicator is ON.

The PGM-FI malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is OFF.

The ABS indicator light is ON (models equipped with ABS).

The airbag indicator is OFF (Models equipped with Airbag).

The low oil pressure indicator and airbag indicator (models equipped with

Airbag) should go off a few seconds after the engine starts. If the low oil

pressure indicator lights during operation, stop the engine immediately and

check the engine oil level.

If the airbag indicator stays on or lights during operation, have your motorcycle

inspected as soon as possible by an authorized Honda dealer (models equipped

with Airbag).

Basic Operation & Riding

Honda GL1800 Goldwing. Owners Manual - page 2