I am sure it rides and handles really well considering how rotund it is, but I just can't get past certain aspects of the goldwing... - cost. It's $20k. I can buy a civic for less than that, and carry a ton more stuff, all while getting comparable (if not better) mileage in the car - weight. I don't care if it handles well while riding, it's still 900 lbs. Motorcycles should not need a reverse gear. - stereo. Again, there are certain things motorcycles just should not need. A radio is one of them. I understand the desire to have tunes on long-ass highway hauls, but helmet speakers for such occassions seems less... I don't know... less pussy-douche-couch. I completely understand why some people adore the goldwing, and it is certainly great for touring - I just can't get over the fact that it has crushed (what I think of as) the soul of motorcycling. There is supposed to be a little noise, a little wind, and a little discomfort. Those are the trades you make for the thrill of riding. It's kind of like owning an older convertible: They flex in turns, the top leaks when it rains, they're noisy on the highway, etc. - but then every so often, there's that one perfect 77 degree day, when the sun is out, and you just love your convertible. That's how I feel 90% of the time I'm on a motorcycle, in spite of all the sacrifices. The goldwing is too polished for me. Almost numb. Like a player-piano. Technically correct, but no soul.