The near simultaneous 2012 introductions of BMW’s new K 1600 GTL and Honda’s redesigned Gold Wing GL1800 beg for a comparison. Both are flagship models for their respective brands, propelled by six-cylinder engines and designed for long-distance touring. We chose the K 1600 GTL rather than the GT version for this comparison; the GTL it has more wind protection, a larger fuel capacity, and a top trunk, which makes it more similar to the Gold Wing than the sportier GT. However, that’s where strong similarities end.

Honda’s recent addition to its scooter lineup is a fun alternative to driving to the office or around town in a car, and the 125cc engine is the heart of this sporty-looking commuter. The quality seat is firm and comfortable, and the passenger seat sits higher thanks to a raised rear section. Stop-and-go traffic is rare in this part of North Carolina, so even on super hot days, when the temperature passes 100 degrees, a ride on the scoot is just what the doctor ordered.

Although the three models in Honda’s Custom sector (Sabre, Interstate and Stateline) are quite similar, each has a specific purpose and personality, and the Interstate is the touring one of the trio. It comes with a windscreen, floorboards, saddlebags and, new this year, an optional ABS/CBS brake system.

After a one-year hiatus, Honda’s flagship Gold Wing luxury touring model has been updated for 2012 with a number of changes, including styling, increased luggage capacity, better wind and weather protection, revised suspension settings, and newer electronics. Such extras as advanced GPS navigation, linked braking with ABS, and the only airbag available on the market make the Gold Wing one of the most refined touring machines in motorcycling history.

Squint and the NT700V looks like a scaled-down ST1300. And with sport-touring styling and credentials, plus an attractive price, the versatile NT clearly helps to fill the gap left by the departed VFR800.Although the NT700V was introduced in Europe as the Deauville back in 1999 and has since sold about 47,000 there, Honda waited a long time to bring this recently updated and popular model to the US market.