Honda UK is celebrating 30 years of a machine that's grown into one of history's definitive motorcycles - the Honda Gold Wing, affectionately known as the Lead Sled.
The story started in October, 1974 when the first Honda GL1000 Gold Wing was unveiled to the news media in time for the 1975 model year.
The original bike was a 999cc, liquid-cooled flat four that was - at the time - one of the sportiest motorcycles on the market. As the years rolled by the machine grew in size and capacity and its abilities grew with it.
In 1980 the Wing's engine capacity was increased to 1085cc and the GL1100 came enclosed in a fairing while panniers and a top box indicated its new touring capability.
In 1984 Honda introduced the GL1200 and another major overhaul of the machine. The engine was now 1182cc and the bike came with a radio/cassette stereo and uprated air suspension.
Four years it grew again - this time by adding two more cylinders.
This GL1500 had a 1520cc, six-cylinder engine and even a reverse gear, needed on such a large machine!
The radio/cassette stereo was also joined by cruise control and an intercom for use between rider and pillion.
With mild updates over intervening years, the all-new GL1800 Gold Wing appeared in time for the 2001 model year.
This completely new motorcycle had an 1832cc, six-cylinder engine and gave touring bikes a completely new tone as it handled as good as it looked.
A CD player and anti-lock brakes were options and new materials made the bike lighter than the previous machine.
Today's GL1800 is a class-leading machine that adds fine handling to the seamless torque of that glorious flat-six engine.
The Gold Wing 30th Anniversary Edition, Honda UK says, celebrates the whole history of the best horizontally opposed bikes yet made by carrying three 30th Anniversary emblems on the front cowl, top box and the lower cockpit control panel.
Chromed 'Gold Wing' emblems also feature on the side covers while the Wing's large liquid-crystal display has a unique commemorative display during start-up and shut-down.
The cost of the latest GL1800 Gold Wing in the UK is £16 999 (about R200 000) on the road.
- Honda SA does not import the Gold Wing into South Africa. The flagship tourer of its SA line-up is the ST1300.