1986 Honda Goldwing Interstate Manual

The 1986 Honda Goldwing Interstate is a touring motorcycle featuring a 1182cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, shaft drive, comprehensive fairing with integrated storage, adjustable suspension, dual disc front brakes, onboard air compressor, electronic cruise control, AM/FM cassette stereo, and extensive touring amenities. Below are key sections covering specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidelines.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Basic Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Specifications 8. Electrical System 9. Storage and Care 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 1182cc flat-four engine, shaft final drive, full fairing with lowers, locking saddlebags, adjustable air suspension, cruise control, and comprehensive instrumentation.

FeatureDescription
Engine1182cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder
Transmission5-speed manual with electric reverse
Final DriveShaft drive
SuspensionAir-adjustable front and rear
BrakesDual disc front, single disc rear
FairingFull fairing with integrated storage and audio system
StorageLocking saddlebags and fairing pockets
AudioAM/FM cassette stereo with intercom capability
Cruise ControlElectronic cruise control system
Fuel Capacity6.3 gallons (23.8 liters)

Pre-Ride Inspection

Complete these checks before each ride to ensure safety and reliability.

  1. Tire pressure and condition: Check for proper inflation and tread wear
  2. Fluid levels: Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and final drive oil
  3. Brake operation: Test both front and rear brakes
  4. Lighting: Headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals
  5. Suspension: Check air pressure and adjust as needed

WARNING! Failure to perform pre-ride inspection may result in component failure or accident. Always inspect before riding.

Basic Operation

Starting procedure and basic riding instructions.

  1. Ignition: Turn key to ON position, ensure neutral light is illuminated
  2. Starting: Pull choke if cold, press starter button
  3. Warm-up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature before riding
  4. Shifting: Use clutch lever and gear shift pedal for smooth transitions
  5. Reverse: Engage only when stopped, use reverse switch and starter button

CAUTION! Always use both brakes for stopping. Practice reverse operation in open area.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Instrumentation

Comprehensive dashboard with speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Left Handlebar: Headlight dimmer, turn signals, horn, cruise control set/coast

Right Handlebar: Engine kill switch, starter button, cruise control resume/accelerate

Fairing Controls: Audio system controls, intercom volume, suspension adjustment

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, voltmeter, clock, and comprehensive warning lights including neutral, oil pressure, and charging system.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalService Items
Every 600 milesEngine oil and filter change, tire pressure check
Every 4,000 milesAir filter cleaning, spark plug replacement
Every 8,000 milesCoolant replacement, brake fluid change
Every 12,000 milesValve clearance adjustment, final drive oil change
Every 16,000 milesCarburetor synchronization, throttle cable lubrication

Fluid Specifications

Recommended fluids and capacities for all systems.

WARNING! Use only recommended fluids. Incorrect fluids may cause component damage.

Electrical System

12-volt DC system with 420-watt alternator and 20-amp main fuse.

  1. Battery: 12V 20AH maintenance-free type
  2. Charging System: Three-phase alternator with voltage regulator
  3. Fuses: Main fuse block located under left side cover
  4. Lighting: 60/55W headlight, LED instrument illumination
  5. Audio System: 20W per channel with automatic volume control

Storage and Care

Proper storage procedures for extended periods of non-use.

  1. Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes
  2. Battery: Disconnect negative terminal or use battery tender
  3. Tires: Inflate to maximum pressure and elevate off ground if possible
  4. Cleaning: Wash and wax all surfaces, apply protectant to rubber
  5. Cover: Use breathable motorcycle cover in dry, ventilated area

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetors. Drain float bowls if storing more than 30 days.

Safety Information

Important safety considerations for operation and maintenance.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, fuel, ignitionCheck battery voltage, fuel level, spark plug condition
Poor idleCarburetor sync, air filterSynchronize carburetors, clean/replace air filter
Electrical failureFuses, connectionsCheck main fuse and all electrical connections
Brake pulsationWarped rotorsInspect brake rotors for warpage, replace if necessary
OverheatingCoolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, test thermostat operation
Transmission noiseOil level, wearCheck oil level and quality, inspect for internal damage

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for complex repairs. Genuine Honda parts recommended for all replacements.

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