The 2013 Honda Goldwing F6B marked a pivotal shift in the touring motorcycle market, debuting as a stripped-down, aggressive "Bagger" variant of the legendary GL1800 platform. Produced from 2013 through 2017, the F6B combined Honda’s iconic 1832cc flat-six engine with a lighter, trunk-less frame designed to appeal to a younger, style-conscious demographic of long-distance riders.
The Genesis of the "Bagger" Concept (Pre-2013)
Before the F6B arrived, the Honda Goldwing was widely perceived as the "couch on wheels"—a peerless long-haul touring machine but perhaps too conservative for riders who wanted performance without the bulk. By the early 2010s, the "Bagger" trend—motorcycles with side saddlebags but no top trunk—was dominated by American manufacturers like Harley-Davidson with their Street Glide.
Honda’s engineers recognized that the GL1800 chassis was an incredible performance platform hidden under layers of luxury plastic. To create the F6B (which stands for "Flat Six Bagger"), Honda removed the massive top trunk, lowered the windshield, and replaced the chrome-heavy aesthetic with blacked-out components. This reduced the motorcycle's weight by approximately 62 pounds compared to the standard Goldwing, fundamentally changing its center of gravity and handling characteristics.
2013: The Debut of the GL1800B
The 2013 Honda Goldwing F6B was officially launched as a mid-year model, catching the industry by surprise. It was available in two trims: the Standard and the Deluxe. Both shared the same core mechanical architecture but differed in rider-focused amenities.
Technical Specifications at Launch
- Engine: 1832cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder.
- Transmission: Five-speed including over-drive (notably, the 2013 model lacked the standard Goldwing's electronic reverse).
- Weight: 842 pounds (Curb weight).
- Fuel Capacity: 6.6 gallons.
- Colors: Graphite Black and Red.
The 2013 model was praised for its "low and lean" look. By removing the trunk and the passenger wrap-around backrest, the F6B gained a sleek, horizontal profile. However, the first-year model was also criticized for what it lacked: specifically, it did not include cruise control or a self-canceling turn signal, features many expected on a Goldwing-derived machine.
2014: Refining the Aesthetic
Following the successful reception of the 2013 model, the 2014 F6B saw minimal mechanical changes but focused on expanding the color palette and refining the user experience.
- New Colors: Honda introduced "Pearl Yellow" to the lineup, providing a high-visibility alternative to the darker 2013 tones.
- Standard Features: The Deluxe trim remained the popular choice, offering a passenger backrest, center stand, and self-canceling turn signals—the latter being a common point of feedback from 2013 owners.
During this period, the aftermarket began to explode for the F6B. Owners sought out tall windshields to replace the "shorty" factory screen and added highway pegs to the engine guards. The 2014 model year solidified the F6B’s place as a reliable, high-performance alternative to V-twin baggers.
2015: The 40th Anniversary Milestone and Major Upgrades
The year 2015 was a landmark for the Goldwing family, marking 40 years since the original GL1000 was introduced in 1975. Honda used this anniversary to address the most significant criticisms of the F6B.
The Inclusion of Cruise Control
The most significant update for the 2015 F6B was the addition of Electronic Cruise Control as a standard feature. Since the F6B was still a long-distance touring machine at heart, the absence of cruise control on the 2013–2014 models had been a deal-breaker for many.
Performance and Commemorative Styling
- Exhaust Tuning: The 2015 model received slightly revised exhaust internals to give the flat-six a deeper, more "soulful" growl, further leaning into the Bagger persona.
- 40th Anniversary Badging: Every 2015 F6B came with commemorative emblems on the fairing and key fobs.
- Matte Silver Paint: A new Matte Silver color was introduced, which became one of the most sought-after finishes for the model due to its modern, industrial appearance.
2016–2017: The Final Years of the First Generation
By 2016, rumors of a complete Goldwing redesign began to circulate. As a result, the F6B entered its final two years with few mechanical changes, focusing primarily on paint and finish options.
- 2016 Changes: Focus remained on the Matte Silver and specialized graphics packages. The bike continued to use the venerable SOHC two-valve-per-cylinder engine architecture, which by now was legendary for reaching 200,000+ miles with only routine maintenance.
- 2017 Final Run: The 2017 model year was the last for the F6B in its original form. Honda consolidated the trims, and the bike remained a favorite for those who preferred the analog feel of the 5-speed transmission and the massive 1832cc displacement over the technologically complex 2018 redesign.
Comparison of Key F6B Model Milestones
The following table highlights the evolution of standard features and specifications throughout the F6B's primary production run.
| Feature / Year | 2013 (Inaugural) | 2015 (40th Anniversary) | 2017 (Final Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Not Available | Standard | Standard |
| Reverse Gear | No | No | No |
| Exhaust Note | Standard Goldwing | Enhanced "Bagger" Growl | Enhanced "Bagger" Growl |
| Turn Signals | Manual (Standard Trim) | Self-Canceling | Self-Canceling |
| Standard Curb Weight | 842 lbs | 844 lbs | 844 lbs |
| Key Colors | Black, Red | Matte Silver, Blue | Matte Silver, Black |
The Mechanical Soul: Why the 2013 Platform Endures
Even in 2026, the 2013–2017 F6B remains a highly sought-after motorcycle on the secondary market. To understand its longevity, one must look at the specific engineering choices Honda made during this era.
The Flat-Six Engine
The 1832cc engine is essentially two three-cylinder engines sharing a common crankshaft. This layout provides perfect primary balance, meaning the engine is incredibly smooth. For the F6B, this smoothness translates to less rider fatigue on 500-mile days. Unlike V-twin competitors that vibrate heavily at idle, the F6B engine feels like an electric motor but provides instantaneous torque (125 lb-ft) across the rev range.
The Aluminum Twin-Spar Frame
While most cruisers and baggers of 2013 used steel frames, the F6B utilized the Goldwing’s massive aluminum twin-spar frame. This frame was originally designed to handle the weight of two passengers and a full luggage set. When stripped down for the F6B, it provided a level of chassis rigidity and cornering stability that was unheard of in the bagger segment.
Suspension and Braking
The F6B features a 45mm front fork with an anti-dive system. The rear uses a Pro-Link single shock with hydraulic spring-preload adjustment. While it lacks the electronic semi-active suspension of modern 2020s-era bikes, the simplicity of the 2013 setup makes it incredibly reliable and easy to service for DIY mechanics.
Ownership and Maintenance Considerations in 2026
If you are looking at a 2013 Honda Goldwing F6B today, there are several era-specific factors to consider regarding maintenance and longevity.
- Air Filter Access: One of the few criticisms of this generation is the difficulty of changing the air filter. It requires removing a significant portion of the top shelter and fairing. In 2026, ensure any high-mileage F6B you purchase has documented proof of this service.
- Final Drive Service: The shaft drive is nearly bulletproof, but the final drive oil should be changed every 24,000 miles. Neglect can lead to expensive repairs, though this is rare on Honda platforms.
- Brake and Clutch Fluids: The F6B uses a hydraulic clutch and linked braking system. Because these systems are interconnected, regular fluid flushes are critical to prevent the "linked" valves from sticking.
- Cooling System: The side-mounted radiators are efficient but can be prone to debris buildup. Check the fins for damage, especially on older 2013–2014 models that may have seen high road mileage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the 2013 Honda Goldwing F6B have a reverse gear?
No, the 2013 F6B did not come equipped with a reverse gear. Honda omitted the electric reverse motor found on the standard Goldwing to save weight and reduce the motorcycle's complexity. This was part of the "Bagger" philosophy of making the bike lighter and more maneuverable. Owners who required reverse generally had to opt for the full-touring Goldwing model or look into aftermarket modifications.
Can cruise control be added to a 2013 or 2014 F6B?
Yes, it is possible, but it is not a simple "plug-and-play" upgrade. Because the 2013 and 2014 models lacked the wiring harness and handlebar controls for the factory cruise system, owners usually turn to aftermarket electronic cruise control kits like those from McCruise. These systems are highly effective but require a professional or advanced mechanical skill level to install.
What is the difference between the F6B Standard and Deluxe trims?
The Deluxe trim, available from 2013 onwards, added several creature comforts that many riders found essential. These included a center stand (making maintenance much easier), a passenger backrest, heated grips, and self-canceling turn signals. Mechanically, the engine, frame, and suspension remained identical between the two trims.
Is the F6B better for tall riders or short riders?
The F6B is generally very accommodating for a wide range of heights. Its seat height is approximately 28.5 inches, which is relatively low for such a large machine, allowing shorter riders to "flat-foot" at stoplights. However, tall riders often find the stock 2013 "shorty" windshield insufficient, as it directs airflow directly into the helmet. Many tall riders swap the factory screen for a taller Baggershield or MadStad adjustable system.
How does the F6B handle compared to the standard Goldwing?
The F6B handles significantly "lighter" than the standard Goldwing. By removing the top trunk, Honda shifted the center of gravity lower and further forward. This makes the F6B much more willing to lean into corners and easier to handle at low speeds in parking lots. It feels more like a heavy sport-touring bike than a traditional dresser.
Final Recommendations for Potential Buyers
In 2026, the 2013 Honda Goldwing F6B stands as a "modern classic." It represents the pinnacle of analog Goldwing engineering before the platform transitioned to the more complex, digitally-integrated 2018+ generation.
For those seeking the best value, the 2015 model is often considered the "sweet spot" of the timeline, as it includes the 40th-anniversary refinements and the essential factory cruise control. However, a well-maintained 2013 model remains a powerhouse of reliability for riders who prioritize a pure, mechanical connection to the road and don't mind the lack of electronic rider aids. When inspecting a used unit, prioritize service records over low mileage, as these flat-six engines are designed to be ridden frequently and can suffer more from prolonged storage than from high-mileage road use.
