I don't think there are any bad years for the 1500. Look over Steve's Goldwing history, he pretty well tells you the differences. I was looking for a 93 or later when I bought mine mainly to get the needle bearing rockers. Some accessories fit the later 1500s and don't fit the first three years or so. What I'd look for is a well kept and maintained bike, lower mileage is nice, but cosmetics make a big difference since it's expensive to replace or repair the plastics. All in all I'd prefer an older bike in excellent condition to a later one that was so-so. Keep an eye on eBay and the GWRRA for sale board to get a good feel for prices. I would recommend an Aspy over an Interstate for the reverse and cruise control. Once again though, if there's a terrific deal on the Interstate one can live without the reverse and could adapt an automobile cruise.I'm thinking of looking for a gl 1500 this winter Iwould like to know which year if any I should be careful with when selecting a1500 Thanks .
Ride With Pride TJ859
I managed to get stuck once with my 1200, I could have pushed it out backwards if I could have gotten off and pushed. Unfortunately the ground was soft and wouldn't hold up the bike on the side stand. I stood there holding up the bike like a fool until a good Samaritan noticed my plight and helped with a push. It didn't take much at all to get out but I couldn't do it by myself. That day I decided if I had to sell the house I'd get me a 1500 with reverse. I LOVE REVERSE! Now I'll admit that most aren't dumb enough to get into a pickle like that, but it sure is nice to know it won't happen again to me.I would strongly recommend against getting one wthout the reverse. I know I wouldn't like mine if it didn't have it.