Welcome SteveO!
I am a former Winger along with a few other touring bikes and, as you say, am downsizing. This bike does not have many similarities to the GW. The transmission operation and sewing machine nature of the sound and smoothness are about it. Other than that a totally different animal.
Six speed trans vs. five but like the Gold Wing it likes to shift early and often. If, however, you want to stretch it out and GO, it will take you there in a heart beat just like the Wing would.
It is not a heavy bike at 570, but it does not have the weight all down low like a Wing and it feels heavier than it is when pulling it up off the side stand. It is very nimble and the handling is extremely quick and the ride almost plush with a fully adjustable front suspension. No "heft" at all when moving or slow riding.
It is very much a "Honda" if you know what I mean and will feel and sound very "familiar" to you.
The seat needs to break in. I'm giving it a couple thousand miles before deciding whether to switch seats. The bars and reach feel better after one inch risers but it is definitely not a riding position like a Wing. I'm 5'11" and maybe a little shorter in the arm length than average.
I am extraordinarily happy with the bike and feel like it can be a long haul ride given a modest seat change (JMHO!) and learning to pack a little more efficiently than what I was able to do with my tour bikes.
The CB fits me well at this stage of my riding "career". I can move it around with ease, maintenance is very, very simple (just did my 600 mile service). And the fun factor gets top marks.
I hope that helps somewhat. Good luck with your decision!
to the CB?
