2009 Victory Vision Preview

Introduction

The review concerns mostly the anniversary model, but all the unique features that make the machine a dream on wheels can also be found on the simpler models, the only ones now available, by the way.

For a start, there’s the most advanced 106 cubic inch Victory V-Twin engine which keeps going strong at relatively high revs due to the 92 horsepower that it develops and provides great pull from just above idle engine speeds thanks to the 109 ft-lbs of torque.

The lucky owners who wait for their Anniversary models will not only benefit of the reliable and smooth-operating engine, but will also impress more than a few buddies when hitting reverse and doing enough parking maneuvers to make it clear that they are riding one very special bike.

Features such as the button-adjustable windshield, heated grips and, also heated, ergonomic seats (with backrest for the passenger seat on the Tour versions) are known to be standard on the Vision, but the bike can be further accessorized with mp3, helmet communicating devices, iPods, as well as all kinds of navigation systems that are a must on such a bike. Even more, the anniversary equipment includes Victory tourtech global positioning system, the CB Intercom communicating gadget and XM radio for greater relaxation down the open road.

Also well worth mentioning and a real stand out on the limited editions, the billet wheels and sprocket, but we shouldn’t forget that when night time comes, the 10th Anniversary Vision won’t shine less as the awesome-looking High Intensity Discharge headlight is there to make sure the road is seen clearly.

History

1998 Victory V92C

Even though not as filled-with-heritage as anyone would expect from an American motorcycle, the Vision travels in time and returns to show us the way for Touring motorcycles. First launched in 2007, the bike is totally different from the timeless looking machines we got used to and has, indeed, a little bit of background.

Back in 1995, Polaris Industries sets up the Victory division, one that in a very short time managed to be recognized as a brand of its own. The next big step was the launch of the V92C, a 1500cc cruiser. From then on, Arlen Ness took over and Victory models started being introduced one after the other.

As I was saying, together with the launch of the Vision in 2007, the Victory name becomes notorious and the bike stood out as yet another American emblem.

Competition

2008 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard

But did ever Victory managed to say out with the old, in with the new? Not totally as Harley-Davidson is ingrained the hearts of riders all over the world for ages and as long as the Electra Glide models will be produced (that will probably happen forever and ever), the Vision has reasons to worry.

2008 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic

The 2008 Harley-Davidson Touring lineup offers a competitor for every 2009 Vision model. Therefore, the Electra Glide Standard is a correspondent for the Vision Standard, the Electra Glide Classic for the Vision Tour, and the Ultra Classic Electra Glide (105th Anniversary model) for the very special 10th Anniversary Vision Tour. Notice the difference?

2008 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide

All three Harley models are powered by the 96 cubic inch air-cooled twin-cam V-Twin which, at least in what concerns torque, is a little bit weaker. Only 92.6 ft-lbs are developed at 3500 rpm. But, more people buy these metal horses for their history and sound rather than for riding excitement, so still the fight stays rough.

Honda Goldwing

A less rumbling, but more powerful motorcycle is the Honda Goldwing, also a fierce competitor for the Victory Vision Tour. In this case, the 1832cc SOHC liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine fed through the Programmed Fuel Injection system with automatic choke will power the bike way in front of the crowd, leaving us wondering if the previously mentioned bikes are worthy of this freeway battle. Because that’s what the Goldwing is…Honda’s freeway machine.

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