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Honda’s Gold Wing GL1800 has run under that model code from the 2001 launch through the 2018+ redesign, and its flat-six engine takes different spark plugs depending on generation and riding conditions. Here’s what Honda’s own service manual actually calls for.
| # | Product | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NGK BKR6E-11 | $5-$8 each | Amazon · eBay |
| 2 | NGK BKR6EIX-11 Iridium IX | $10-$15 each | Amazon · eBay |
| 3 | Denso K20PR-U11 | $5-$8 each | Amazon · eBay |
| 4 | NGK BKR5E-11 (cold-climate spec) | $5-$8 each | Amazon · eBay |
| 5 | NGK BKR7E-11 (high-speed spec) | $5-$8 each | Amazon · eBay |
| 6 | NGK CR6HSB-9 | $6-$10 each | Amazon · eBay |
The picks, in detail
NGK BKR6E-11
The standard-condition OEM plug for all 2001-2017 GL1800 Gold Wings per Honda’s service manual.
- OEM standard-condition spec, 2001-2017 GL1800
- Pre-gapped at .043″
- Direct factory spec, no guesswork
- Standard nickel electrode, shorter service life than the iridium option
NGK BKR6EIX-11 Iridium IX
The iridium upgrade over the standard BKR6E-11, same heat range, longer expected service life.
- Iridium center electrode
- Same heat range as BKR6E-11
- Fits 2001-2017 GL1800
- Longer service interval than the standard nickel plug
- Costs more per plug than the standard BKR6E-11
Denso K20PR-U11
Honda’s listed Denso equivalent to the NGK BKR6E-11, for riders who prefer Denso.
- OEM-equivalent standard-condition spec
- Fits 2001-2017 GL1800
- Direct Denso cross-reference straight from the service manual
- Less commonly stocked than NGK at powersports shops
NGK BKR5E-11 (cold-climate spec)
Honda’s specified swap for riding below 41°F — a slightly hotter heat range to avoid fouling in cold conditions.
- Hotter heat range than BKR6E-11
- Honda-specified for sub-41°F riding
- Manufacturer-specified fix for cold-weather fouling complaints
- Only appropriate for cold-climate riding, not a year-round default
NGK BKR7E-11 (high-speed spec)
Honda’s specified swap for sustained high-speed riding — a colder heat range to handle the extra combustion heat.
- Colder heat range than BKR6E-11
- Honda-specified for sustained high-speed use
- Manufacturer-specified for touring riders who run sustained highway speeds
- Not the right choice for typical stop-and-go riding
NGK CR6HSB-9
The plug spec for the redesigned 2018+ Gold Wing (GL1800B/D generation), a different part from the 2001-2017 bikes.
- Direct fit for 2018+ Gold Wing GL1800 redesign
- Different thread/reach than the 2001-2017 spec
- Correct match for the current-generation Gold Wing, not a carryover part
- Will not fit the 2001-2017 GL1800 — check your model year before ordering
Buying tips
- Confirm your model year before ordering: the 2001-2017 GL1800 and the 2018+ redesign use different plug specs despite sharing the GL1800 model code.
- Honda’s service manual specifies different heat ranges for cold-climate and sustained high-speed riding — match the plug to how you actually ride, not just the default spec.
- The GL1800’s flat-six takes 6 plugs; replace the full set together rather than one at a time.
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