I believe for ultimate passenger comfort a Tour is the best. My only other Goldwing was a 2001 which I bought specifically for 2-up riding with my wife. I got her started on the back of my R1200RS and after a few rides we left on a week long trip. In packing I positioned a large Drybag just right to serve as a backrest which she said really made the bike more comfortable.
She enjoyed riding so much that the next year I splurged on a Goldwing and together we rode it for 3 seasons. She loved riding on it because the comfort of the huge seat and secure feeling from the back and armrests. She'd sit back there with her arms on the rests just like lounging in an easy chair at home. There were little cubbies for snacks and a holder for water bottle, iced tea, etc. which she sat back and enjoyed while taking in the scenery..... while I piloted the bike. One time we ended up on a narrow, unlined road that wound up and down over 2 mountains that had just been paved. It was basically one 15-20 mph hair pin turn after another. At every turn most of the stone that was put along the edge was kicked up on the pavement by the cars rear wheels. As I was slowly working my way up the mountain I felt a bump at the back of my helmet, she had nodded off! I thought "I want to ride back there!"
But for solo riding, which is what I do now, all I want for traveling are panniers and maybe a Drybag and tent strapped on the rear seat and rack. I know many like rear trunks but I don't care for the looks and if I'm packing along extra stuff I want it as low and far forward as possible.
IMO a Goldwing Tour is the ultimate choice if doing mostly 2-up riding, or if you just like having a rear trunk. I believe it (non-airbag version) is far and away the most popular model here.
I look at the bagger, or non-tour, as more of a heavy weight sport tourer that can work for 2-up riding as well.
The way Arsey, and others of you, have your bagger set up is a good compromise. The rear box provides a back rest plus added storage, yet can be removed when not carrying a passenger.
