What's the big deal about the "LTD"s?

[dontwantapickle]

I have actually walked away from buying one because I thought that it was ugly.
(I still do)
However, it seems that just the mention of one here makes some guys start drooling.
Other that the exclusivity of being a "limited edition", what am I missing?

[Whiskerfish]

The limited number is a draw. The manufacturing was supposed to be just a bit better but nobody seems to be able really validate that. The appearance I find appealing, the original paint was really spectacular for the time. I think it's association with the American Bi-Centennial has a draw for some. Status for some I guess.

[skydog]

Chrome!

[Lucien Harpress]

-Rare
-Unique pieces (chromed bits and bobs)
-Gold wheels
-One of a kind paint job and emblems
-Connection to the American Bicentennial

But I totally agree with you. I see why they're.... "desirable", but to me they are probably the ugliest Goldwing model Honda ever made.

Yes, I'm including up until now, AND that monstrosity they're calling the new Valkyrie.

(Wonder how may comments I'm going to get about THIS post.... )

[Liam]

I can't see the ugly in a GL1000 LTD or indeed any pre 78 goldwing. I can see the ugly though when all kinds of add on rubbish gets fitted. Don't get me started on the lights that got added to tons of goldwings that are the root cause of no end of electrical problems. Floorboards and heel/toe shifters I cannot capiche either.

[Whiskerfish]

SNIP

(Wonder how may comments I'm going to get about THIS post.... )

We are all entitled to our opinions so long as they are presented in a civil manner

It is interesting though our differences in what pleases the eye. I think they are stunning. Of course I love the Rune and I have been told that most find that machine horrible to look at

[Lucien Harpress]

Don't worry. The Rune was a close second.

Actually, scratch that. I'd call it third. The current-gen Valkyrie gets the number two spot. Is it too much to ask for a good looking Valkyrie with the 1800 motor in it?

But in all seriousness, I see the appeal, I really do. And even the color they went with on the LTD is very, VERY 70's. But yeah. Not for me. (More for you guys, I guess?)

[pidjones]

I wonder which LTD the OP is asking about? The 1976 LTD was beautiful, IMHO. The 1985 LTD was attractive also, perhaps not as much as the next year's SEi.

[Gowing]

Geez, some guys are tough on a color. The LTD has so many differences, The smooth frame welds,
the chrome kickstand and gas tank cap, neat key fob, tool kit etc, etc. It’s a very special bike to me.

[desertrefugee]

They smoothed the welds? I did not know that.

[Sugs]

Me neither. Any pics that show this?

[robin1731]

They smoothed the welds? I did not know that.

They didn't. I have a bare 75 frame and a bare LTD frame sitting next to each other. No difference in the welds.

.

[Gowing]

Won’t be last time I pass on wrong info. Sorry about that.

[rcmatt007]

back in 1976 I thought the sulfur yellow was beyond ugly (I remember seeing one with a huge fairing and wrap around bags all yellow).... as they did not sell well, I was not the only one.... would I add one to the collection now... yes

[dontwantapickle]

chrome gas cap
chrome kickstand
paint
emblems
anodized rims
tool kit
key fob

That's it?
was there a commemorative certificate or anything issued with the bike?