In 1975, when Honda introduced the Goldwing it was aimed completely at the American market. Soichiro turned loose his engineers and the ‘Wing came out with quite a few ‘firsts’. Start with the liquid cooled flat 4 motor, and belt driven camshafts. The alternator was gear driven from the crankshaft and rotated counter to the crank to reduce ‘shaft whip’. The gas tank was under the seat and fuel was delivered via pump. Not only did it keep the weight lower, it left a great storage area for the rider.
The ‘76 Goldwing had a 1000cc (61 CID) motor, 5 speed transmission and shaft final drive. It produced 80 HP and claimed a top speed of 125 MPH. Brakes were 2 disc front and a single disc in the rear. Fuel tank held an enormous 5 gallons.
This particular ‘76 Goldwing is the very limited LTD model put out to honor the American Bicentennial. It is a 18,xxx mile survivor with all the special bits that made it an LTD. [Editor’s Note: According to the Goldwing Owners Club of Great Britain, approximately 3,400 LTDs were made at a MSRP of $3,295 (a $335 premium).] It has had lots of recent work done to bring it to perfect running condition. Located in Fort Worth, Texas, it is priced at $5,495. You can find it right here on Cycle Trader.