1987 Honda Gold Wing Specifications

• The 1987 Honda GL 1200 Gold Wing was the last model-year of the GL 1200; however, later Gold Wing models were produced. EIGHTFISH/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The Honda Gold Wing was first introduced in 1975 as the GL 1000. In the eyes of many, the Gold Wing is the quintessential touring motorcycle. Later iterations included the GL 1100 and the GL 1200. The GL 1200 was first produced in 1984, and production continued until 1987. The 1987 model had very few changes compared to 1984 through 1986 models, available in Aspencade and Interstate versions. More modern Gold Wings are offered with many sophisticated options and are comfortable long-range tourers.

Engine

• The 1987 GL 1200 Gold Wing is powered by a 1,181-cubic centimeter, horizontally-opposed, four-cylinder engine. This engine configuration is also known as a boxer engine, and the Gold Wing has a four-stroke, liquid-cooled engine. The Gold Wing has a compression ratio of 9:1 and a bore and stroke measurement of 75.5 mm by 66 mm. Fuel is delivered through a 32 mm carburetor, and there is electronic ignition.

Power and Transmission

• The 1987 Gold Wing generates 94 horsepower at 7,000 revolutions per minute. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Power is transferred to the rear wheel through a shaft (cardan) drive. The top speed of the Gold Wing is 122 miles per hour, and it can go from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.2 seconds.

Tires, Brakes and Suspension

• The front wheel of the Gold Wing is 16 inches in diameter, and the rear wheel is 15 inches. The Gold Wing's front tire is a 130/90R16, and the rear tire is a 150/90R15. Front brakes are dual disc units while the rear brake is a single disc unit. The front suspension consists of two telescopic forks, and the rear suspension is an auto-leveling unit.

Physical Dimensions and Capacity

• The seat height on the 1987 Honda Gold Wing is 30.7 inches. The curb weight of the Interstate version is 699 lbs., and the Aspencade is 743 lbs. All 1987 Gold Wings hold 5.8 gallons of unleaded, 87-octane gasoline. The GL 1200 Gold Wing model has a wheelbase of 63.4 inches in length.