07-21-2026, 02:29 PM
Not too long ago I became fascinated with the unfaired Goldwings. After searching ads for some time, I decided I needed to ride one to see how I really liked it.
This led me to Retrotours, an amazing company run by Joel Samick at his home in Kennett Square, PA. Joel maintains a fleet of ~25 vintage bikes and hosts rides throughout every year. I signed up for a three-day "hub-and-spoke" tour. On the first day, I selected the 1976 GL1000. I chose different bikes for the next two days, and during each day we traded bikes around, so I actually got to ride 9 vintage bikes in 3 days.
I liked the GL1000, but somehow it did not speak to me in a way that made me want to get one. I'm not saying I won't perhaps get one someday. It's on the list, but further down. It was comfortable and easy to ride, but I found more enjoyment in the lighter bikes. I recall that the range was not what as I expected of a touring bike. Also, for some strange reason I remember the annoying sound of the turn signals. I'm sure that could be easily remedied.
Here is a photo of the GL1000, and one of Joel in his garage with only a few of the bikes which he maintains and which you can ride. The cost was very reasonable. Also for an extra $25 per day I got to stay in a twin bed in his home (sharing a room with an Aussie rider) and eat a delicious breakfast and dinner each day, courtesy of his wife Lynn. Plus beer, wine, etc. when hanging out. If you want to try Retrotours (and you should), I would do it sooner rather than later, as Joel and Lynn are not getting younger every year.
This led me to Retrotours, an amazing company run by Joel Samick at his home in Kennett Square, PA. Joel maintains a fleet of ~25 vintage bikes and hosts rides throughout every year. I signed up for a three-day "hub-and-spoke" tour. On the first day, I selected the 1976 GL1000. I chose different bikes for the next two days, and during each day we traded bikes around, so I actually got to ride 9 vintage bikes in 3 days.
I liked the GL1000, but somehow it did not speak to me in a way that made me want to get one. I'm not saying I won't perhaps get one someday. It's on the list, but further down. It was comfortable and easy to ride, but I found more enjoyment in the lighter bikes. I recall that the range was not what as I expected of a touring bike. Also, for some strange reason I remember the annoying sound of the turn signals. I'm sure that could be easily remedied.
Here is a photo of the GL1000, and one of Joel in his garage with only a few of the bikes which he maintains and which you can ride. The cost was very reasonable. Also for an extra $25 per day I got to stay in a twin bed in his home (sharing a room with an Aussie rider) and eat a delicious breakfast and dinner each day, courtesy of his wife Lynn. Plus beer, wine, etc. when hanging out. If you want to try Retrotours (and you should), I would do it sooner rather than later, as Joel and Lynn are not getting younger every year.