Built around Honda's touring motorcycle platform, the 1997 Honda GL 1500 Gold Wing SE features a 1520 cc (92.8 cu in) liquid-cooled six cylinder boxer, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 100 HP (73 kW) while maximum torque reaches 153 Nm (112.9 lb-ft), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 65.8 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the GL 1500 Gold Wing SE measures 394 kg (869 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 765 mm (30.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops. The 23-liter (6.1 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 7.5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 307 km (191 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 190 km/h (118 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Honda archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1996 to 1998, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
65.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~307 km (191 mi)
Engine
Displacement1520.0 ccm (92.75 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSix cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSix cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power100.0 HP (73.0 kW))
Torque153.0 Nm (15.6 kgf-m or 112.9 ft.lbs)
Compression9.8:1
Bore x Stroke71.0 x 64.0 mm (2.8 x 2.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 2 x 36 mm Keihin CV
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed190.0 km/h (118.1 mph)
Fuel Consumption7.50 litres/100 km (13.3 km/l or 31.36 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases174.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular steel cradle
Front SuspensionAir adjustable telescopic forks
Rear SuspensionPro-link air adjustable
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/70-18
Rear Tyre160/80-16
Front BrakesDouble disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø296 mm (11.7 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rear Brake Ø316 mm (12.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight372.0 kg (820.1 pounds)
Weight incl.394.0 kg (868.6 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2688 HP/kg
Seat Height765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
