ScooteringUSA

2008 Honda Silver Wing

From 1981 — 1984, the Honda GL500/GL650 wore the silver wings as a lesser cousin to the highly successful Gold Wing tourer. The GL500 was somewhat of an underpowered flop, and the GL650 never really gained traction in the marketplace. But the name “Silver Wing” begged reuse, and it has found a worthy home on the FSC600 (the official alphanumeric name for the scooter).

The Silver Wing doesn’t look like a scooter from the front or from the rear. With a rider aboard and underway, it doesn’t even look like a scooter in profile, the rider’s legs hide the step-through, presenting one continuous mass. Full plastic bodywork disguises Silver Wing’s bones, scarcely a hint of the full steel frame is visible to the naked eye.

Silver Wing’s 29.7″ seat height gives the option of swinging a leg over or using the step-through to mount in a more sophisticated fashion. The tall-ish height shouldn’t be an impediment to shorter riders, most should be able to slide off of the seat into a standing position in the step-through to get both feet securely on the ground at a stop when necessary. The broad flat seat is well-cushioned, and comfortable enough for all-day riding. The passenger pillion is slightly elevated above the rider’s perch, and is also broad and comfy.