Strake said:
IF Honda doesn't make any significant changes, they USUALLY would release the new model year ( 2005 ) sometime in August. When they made the new 1800 model for the first model year, it was announced at the dealer convention ( Sept 16, 2000 ) and the first ones on the street were mid November. Those did not have the ABS brakes. I ordered mine on September 17th and got the first ABS model locally the end of Feb 2001.
I had one of the first ones, but later regretted not waiting for the ABS a few months (thankfully I didn't need it).
Also remember there were spy photos and articles about the 1,800 way before the dealer convention, so everybody knew there was a new wing for '01 in advance; just not the details.
Based on the cooling problem alone on current models, it's almost certain there won't be changes to this platform, let alone a displacement increase (I had to sell mine due to the chronic tendency to overheat, and the frame recall cinched its fate). They'd have to redesign the front at the very least, with fans where they should be (behnid radiators), and blowing in the 'right' direction.
My final comment is I hope Honda doesn't engage in the apparent displacement war. The important factor is POWER, not size, and there's A LOT more to be unleashed from the 1,800 motor without adding more weight and bulk. Unfortunately, it might cost more to refine the current motor (DOHC, individual TBs, coil-on-plug ignition, etc.), that just make it bigger with current 'old' technology. In reality, the GW is NOT at a power disadvantage now against the newly revamped LT, so an engine upgrade/change is not really necessary IMHO. With the lower seat, electro-hydraulic center stand, and substantial power increase, the LT would win against the GW if I was to buy one again now. If Honda was to add an electric windshield (a MUST I say), plus going back to a 'normal' cooling system, just the F6 engine would be enough to pull me in that direction again. If I could only convince my wife to ride with me.....
Later.
