Bill Geist once did a story on men that hit 50. No, they don't get a Mr. T starter kit and hang around college bars.
They have a new appreciation for stretch pants. Socks and shorts are now OK. They look at Cadillacs with a different eye. When exiting said Caddy, they realize not there's a handle over the door, they use it but now with a "double pump" to get your butt out of the seat.
I'm not quite there, but I am >50.
My BMW R-1100 RT is being a PITA. Something is draing the battery, I can't find it. The stock seat tends to roll you forward so after riding a bit, your skivvies are all bunched up behind you.
I find myself eyeballing GoldWings in a new light.
I will retire in a year or two, I think Mrs. 914 would take road trips if the bike were more comfortable. I've been wrong before.
Do you have any heads up advice or reviews on Wings? Bad models, features etc. Things to watch for?
Dan
I am still in love with my Wing. There is a lot to be said for comfort- especially after you reach "that" age. I've looked at the newer( 1800) models because I like the looks a bit better than my 1500, but the ergos are different and I've found the 1800s not as comfortable. The navi system is cool but I do just fine with my TomTom. The built in satellite system is neat, but I do just fine with my MP3 through the cassette player or my mobile XM. The best part is there a lot of 1500s out there w/ low miles that won't break the bank and leave you a lot of change. BUT- if she doesn't like going with you now, just because the 'Wing is more comfortable isn't going to change that.
It may not corner like a Ninja, but the old Goldwing will take you to YOUR cornering limits, and has surprised more than a few riders with it's response when you turn up the wick. I'll be coming your way early June. I can stop and both of you can try it on for size for a day.
I haven't gotten to wind pants or jogging suits yet, but after a weekend at N.J. Motorsports Park, I do have an eye for a Cadillac!
Are you sure you haven't mistaken Goldwing with the BMW K1600GTL? 160hp inline 6?
and Minimac....I would consider heading to the darkside with this bike.
Kind of a shallow V- 6, but way over my budget anyway.
My friend has an LT he would sell me for $9,000. Thinking ....
I learned to ride on a 1200 wing, and after owning a few crotch rockets getting back on dads wing one day was a revelation. I was seriously just going to take it down the road, 4 hours later I brought it home....
If 2 up is in the plans with any mountain riding I would stick to a 1500. Dad complained a lot about having to really work the gears in the uphill twisty stuff. On his buddies 1500 he was able to just roll on the throttle and motor, where his 1200 would require a downshift with two people. Oh and take a riding class with an instructor that is familiar with wings. Picking one up without the right technique is not for the feint of heart or those with crappy medical insurance. That being said, its been 20 years since I've been on a GWRRA ride, they used go be a hell of a group of guys to be around.
^^^^worlds most expensive vibrator! That said, he did say he wanted his wife with him! 
Dr.Linda calls it "The Thrown."
When it comes to the Wing, it's a Honda. There is no bad model. Sure, there are weaknesses, but a Honda weakness is generally other makers strong points.
As with any bike, plunk your butt on one, ride it, and see how it fits. In your bit about turning older and being willing to wear shorts and socks, there is also the increased unwillingness to accept something that doesn't fit right. Make sure the likes of a Wing really do fit you.
Try on some others as well. I accidentally tried on a Harley, and ended up buying one myself. I didn't know it until I went riding on one, it was what I was looking for.
