I've owned a Goldwing since 2005 when I bought one new. I like the seating position as it's not the "sit up and beg" with your feet stretched out in front of you, instead there's a natural bend for the hands and your feet are underneath you. They are geared low enough in first and have a ton of torque off idle to make easy to get under way. Once underway, the big flat six and gas under the seat keeps the weight low making them hide their significant poundage.
That six cylinder has enough grunt to keep you entertained and will cruise easily over the limit, fully loaded, two up, all day. I've done it.
Handling is not heavy, I also ride a 690 SMC Sumo so I know what light handling is. As I mentioned, it carries a lot of weight, but you really don't notice the weight and it instills confidence tipping it into corners. The peg feelers will let you know when you've gone far enough and I'd recommend heeding their "advise".
Sitting "in" the Goldwing I look just over the wind screen and there is a definite still air space for the rider given the size of the fairing. Passenger accommodations are similar to a bucket seat, with the high, curved back, small arm rests and the seat has a hump right behind the rider's seat that hold the passenger in place. The seat is a stepped seat, so the passenger doesn't always look at the back of your head, but a 10 year old just might. But the seating is very secure for a younger pillion. In many peoples' opinion, the passenger arrangement on the Goldwing is second to none.
I've done all my own maintenance and like most Honda's, its pretty simple, plugs and valves are easy because of it's boxer design. Changing fluids, radiator, rear shaft gear oil and engine oil are all simple, routine oil changes are especially easy; spin on filter, one drain plug and one snap on body part to refill. The only job I do not want to do again was changing the air filter. It's hidden beneath a lot of body work and electrical. I thought it needed it after a trip out to Bodie State park where the last 3-4 miles are on dirt road. But I changed since it was so much trouble to get to even though it wasn't dirty.
For me, I will most likely always have a Goldwing, even though I could never see it as my only bike in the stable. My wife assured me that if I ever sell the Goldwing, unless it was to buy another one, I'd have to get a divorce. And yes, that would be a bad thing, she's hooked on the trips we take and spoiled by the Goldwing.
