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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| My husband and I have ridden Goldwings since 1995 (two Harley's were in the mix). Love the bike and especially love the Goldwing culture. But....my husband has recently acquired arthitis in his left knee and after no more than 30 minutes on the wing, it is killing him. He has highway pegs to stretch out, but they don't do any good until he can get off the bike and walk on it. His other problem, which he's had on EVERY bike he has ever ridden, is his tail bone. Some days he can do 200 to 250 miles and others, it hurts after 50 miles. We have spent thousands of dollars on different seats, to no avail.
We are taking a hard look at the Vision. He hasn't ridden one yet, but he plans to over the next few days. We live in the mountains of western NC (near Tail of the Dragon) and so I also have a questions about engine torque. Our Goldwing is outstanding on these roads. You can put the bike in 3rd or 4th gear and climb the mountains, get in to the curves, and have a blast. He only really has to shift if we get in to switchbacks. On the other hand, the Harley's were God Awful. He shifted up and down 100 times just to ride up one mountain and down the other side. It was ridiculous! How does the Vision handle in the mountains. A lot of shifting or does it glide? | |
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Visionary
Posts: 2027
Brighton, TN | ride it he'll love it and so will you. I have done the tail, and you can lug around all day long. See if the dealer will let you go for a very long EXTENDED ride. It would be worth it. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Hello to you, JoAnne in Western NC. I say, yes take a test ride, two up and hopefully in the mountains. The wife and I have rode two up on the interstate in the mountains and I think the Vision pulls strong. One up, I weigh over 200lb, and loaded with stuff, the Vision handles and pulls like a dream in the mountain roads. I have knee problems and road a GL1200 for about two years and after 1 1/2 hours my knees were killing me and it was painful to get off the bike. With the Vision I can sit in the saddle for 3 hours and only stop because I have to get fuel. When I do stop, I can hop off and feel fresh. I hope this helps. I know other folks will chime in with other good stuff about the Vision. | |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 15
Colorado Springs, CO | Hello... my $.02:
I am 6'6", 290, surgery on each knee due to hoops, back that needs surgery. Wife, 5'7", 140, both knees replaced, right hip replaced... We've owned a Harley and a Yamaha before this. The Vision is the most comfortable bike we have ridden. I don't have to get off the bike every hour now, I can stretch out and bring my legs back so they are 90 degrees or further... Plenty of power to haul us around the twisty, mountain roads in Colorado. I The bike just floats along and has great handling. We wouldn't ride any other bike, nope, never again. TOO Spoiled now.   | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 281
| A test ride will tell you a lot! We were sold after our first demo ride.
You live in motorcycle heaven. Whatever you decide on, best wishes and ride safe. | |
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Central Wisconsin | jomar - 2012-06-28 12:52 PM...He shifted up and down 100 times just to ride up one mountain and down the other side. It was ridiculous! How does the Vision handle in the mountains. A lot of shifting or does it glide? Welcome to the forum JoAnn, I haven't owned a GoldWing but have ridden them, they are smooth with plenty of power. I just couldn't get used to the cramped riding position. My wife and I have ridden in your neck of the woods three times, twice with the Vision. Going again this September, we will be staying in Pigeon Forge. My favorite is the Cherohala Skyway . The Vision has plenty of power for the mountains in all gears and you don't have to do lots of shifting. The below picture was taken last year in Colorado by Independence pass. 
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Thank you for all this great feedback! Yes, we do live in motorcycle heaven and enjoy it very much. We have decided to ride over the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to Sevierville, TN tomorrow morning and rent a Vision Tour for 24 hours. We'll have the best of the best roads to ride home and back again on Saturday. That will give us some time and miles in the saddle so Mark can really see how it will affect his knee and tail bone. It's ashame it will be over 100 degrees this weekend! We'll just do mornings and evening. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Get your checkbook ready... | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 849
, FL United States | varyder - 2012-06-28 3:22 PM
Get your checkbook ready...
+1 on having the checkbook ready. I hope ya'll have a safe ride and good times no matter what you decide about the Vision.
BTW The Dragon's OK but we prefer the Cherohola Skyway , just sayin' | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| The last time we were on the Dragon (about 2 months ago when gas was $4 a gallon) the trucking companies had stopped routing the trucks around the Dragon and so they were using it. We came so close to what could have been fatal that we will never ride it again. This area of western NC is loaded with roads as good as or better than Deal's Gap/Tail of the Dragon. We don't need to risk our lives to enjoy a really good ride!
Examples: Wayah Bald from Franklin to 74 (Nantahala Gorge), 209 from Waynesville to Hot Springs, 64 from Franklin to Highlands, and the list goes on and on!
And, The Cherohola Skyway is outstanding! | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | jomar - 2012-06-28 4:10 PM The last time we were on the Dragon (about 2 months ago when gas was $4 a gallon) the trucking companies had stopped routing the trucks around the Dragon and so they were using it. We came so close to what could have been fatal that we will never ride it again. This area of western NC is loaded with roads as good as or better than Deal's Gap/Tail of the Dragon. We don't need to risk our lives to enjoy a really good ride! Examples: Wayah Bald from Franklin to 74 (Nantahala Gorge), 209 from Waynesville to Hot Springs, 64 from Franklin to Highlands, and the list goes on and on! And, The Cherohola Skyway is outstanding! Not to take about from your orignal post, I road the dragon one evening, hardly any traffic at all, and when I got to deal's gap I realized I had done "the dragon". I went, "Huh?" There are tons more roads out there that makes the dragon look like a gecko, but of course, you won't get a sticker or a picture. I keep reading to that accidents are on the rise, and if you go the posted speed limit it's a real "whoopie" A few roads up around southwest Virginia are good also. | |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 15
Colorado Springs, CO | Thomas:
We did Indy pass to Aspen for lunch last weekend, right before the fires hit... we saw the start of the fire when it was about 100-500 acres, flames and a helicopter dropping water. It grew a little. http://blogs.denverpost.com/captured/2012/06/27/colorado-wildfires-...
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Iron Butt
Posts: 880
Orlando, FL | Hello to you, JoAnne in Western NC.......don't just take a test ride. Rent one for a day or two. A small price to pay to find out if it will work for your husband. Eagle Rider rents Visions in most major cities. | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 880
Orlando, FL | Hello to you, JoAnne in Western NC.......hope you find nirvana on the Vision!
Edited by MaddMAx2u 2012-06-28 3:48 PM
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Visionary
Posts: 4278
| If you live that close to the Dragon hop in the car take a ride over and see if there is a vision or 2 around and ask them. Maybe even get a ride on the back.
I haven't meet a lot of the vision riders in person but from what I know there a very friendly group. Yes there are more wings around but I don't think you'll be sorry. By the way there are some really Big guys riding these bikes and love them. A friend of mine is 6' 8" and he can't believe all the leg room there is. | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 612
| You might initially be disappointed with the power output from a factory EPA restricted Vision..... if so, don't worry, it takes very minor intake/exhaust mod to get the same or more power from the Vision than from your Wing... intake filter, exhaust, and fuel controller will get you near where your Wing is, add cams, and you exceed the Wing in power. However, the Vision will out handle the Wing.
Edited by Turk 2012-06-28 5:36 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 281
| varyder - 2012-06-28 4:38 PM
jomar - 2012-06-28 4:10 PM The last time we were on the Dragon (about 2 months ago when gas was $4 a gallon) the trucking companies had stopped routing the trucks around the Dragon and so they were using it. We came so close to what could have been fatal that we will never ride it again. This area of western NC is loaded with roads as good as or better than Deal's Gap/Tail of the Dragon. We don't need to risk our lives to enjoy a really good ride! Examples: Wayah Bald from Franklin to 74 (Nantahala Gorge), 209 from Waynesville to Hot Springs, 64 from Franklin to Highlands, and the list goes on and on! And, The Cherohola Skyway is outstanding! Not to take about from your orignal post, I road the dragon one evening, hardly any traffic at all, and when I got to deal's gap I realized I had done "the dragon".? I went, "Huh?"? There are tons more roads out there that makes the dragon look like a gecko, but of course, you won't get a sticker or a picture.? I keep reading to that accidents are on the rise, and if you go the posted speed limit it's a real "whoopie"? A few roads up around southwest Virginia are good also.
I'm sure we've covered this before, but there are no good roads in TN, NC, VA, WV & KY.
Flatlanders, stay away. STAY AWAY. The riding in Florida is MUCH better.  | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Indeed! I couldn't agree more. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 3773
Pittsburgh, PA | Ill be down your way saturday! leaving july4th. cant wait to hit the dragon on the vision | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 623
| Take your Vision to see KevinX for some lloyds goodies and the Vision will out HP and TQ a wing and still be less $$ than a wing. Its a great mod to do on a Vision. Good luck and happy shopping. | |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 32
| Turk - 2012-06-28 5:35 PM
You might initially be disappointed with the power output from a factory EPA restricted Vision..... if so, don't worry, it takes very minor intake/exhaust mod to get the same or more power from the Vision than from your Wing... intake filter, exhaust, and fuel controller will get you near where your Wing is, add cams, and you exceed the Wing in power. However, the Vision will out handle the Wing.
Spot on, Turk....The difference between stock and the Stage 1 kit that Turk talks about is chalk and cheese, JoAnn. It's certainly a mod that I would recommend at time of purchase. I came from a Rocket Touring and noticed a big torque gap between the Rocket and the stock Vision, and the throttle response was not as tight. I bought a Vision with the Stage 1 kit, and my concerns about both the torque gap and throttle response basically disappeared. Mind you, I would have bought the Vision even without the Stage 1 kit improvements
Just as an aside, a mate and I were practising low speed turns the other day. He on his Goldwing and me on the Vision. He was trying it in 2nd gear as he had read this worked well on Wings and it was working brilliantly for him. I just didn't have the torque to do it. It could very well have simply been me..... .... Don't get me wrong, the Vision turns tight very, very well, it's just that it doesn't have that real low down torque of the Wing's 6 cylinders, as you'd expect.
You won't have that same trouble out on the open road as the Vision pulls very well. Not a lot of shifting in the curves, although we only really have "hills" out here in Oz, and no mountains to speak of I hope I have expressed that clearly enough, and not simply confused you
Pete
Edited by Peter Warren 2012-06-28 7:07 PM
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | jomar - 2012-06-28 12:52 PM
How does the Vision handle in the mountains. A lot of shifting or does it glide?
It handles better than a Goldwing and is more comfortable. You've already said you're going to rent a Vision for 24 hours. You'll discover some minor differences between it and a GL1800, mostly saddlebag capacity and long range comfort. The GW has bigger saddlebags and the Vision is more comfortable. The Vision handles easier than a GW and has more cornering clearance.
I didn't like the forward controls of the Vision at first, but now that I've gotten used to them, the Goldwing feels weird to me.
I added a Lloydz cam, a fuel controller, and a top air filter, keeping the stock quiet exhaust, to my Vision and it now outruns my buddies' GL1800s and still beats them on fuel economy too. Before that, the GWs were a little faster than the Vision, but not by a whole lot.
The passenger will get more air on the Vision with the stock windshield, but gets to look over the driver instead of having to look around. Larger windshields are available. My wife absolutely loves the ability to see over me. She also loves the power windshield, asking me to lower it in hot weather. We've also got the lower wind deflectors, which are adjustable to bring lots of air in during hot weather, or to keep air out during cold weather. Highly recommended.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-06-28 7:29 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Keep it safe and watch for 18 wheelers. Now that gas prices are lower, the trucking companies MIGHT be routing around 129. But, I wouldn't bank on it. Ask some questions before riding it and see if there have been very many big trucks lately. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Hi All, Mark here, you guys have been extreamly helpful to JoAnn all day, and answered her questions in a very timely manner, Thank you for all of the help and advice. As JoAnn told you earlier, I've been riding since I was 14 (59 now) and been on Goldwings since 1995 ( a 2009 Airbag model) now. We've ridden Hondas, Harley's, Triumphs, Suzukis and BSA's. But this Victory Vision Tour rental tomorrow will be a first on a Victory. I didn't realize there was such a active and vibrant group of Vision-Riders.
I'm hoping that the Vision will give me the leg room (knees are going bad) and tail bone issue also that I need, I don't want to give up riding, there's still too many unridden roads to explore.
So, once again, thanks for all the help today. Mark | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Hey Mark!! You'll have a great ride tomorrow. One thing you should notice is that when you first sit on the bike it will seem like a behemoth. But one twist of the throttle you'll think you're on a smaller bike.... | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. I actually sat on one in Feb. 2009, I was at a motorcycle trade show, in Cinny, Ohio, and was standing there looking at the Vision, a guy walked up (he looked vaguely familiar) and told me to get on and see how it felt, so I got on and was rocking the bike side to side, thinking it looked so big but felt so nimble. Well the guy went on to tell me all about the bike and it's features, when it dawned on me... it was Arlen Ness. I can tell you, if you've never had the chance to meet him, you've missed meeting a really nice guy, he was just a "biker talking to another biker" without any of the BS of "look at me, I'm a big shot." He knew the bike and obvoiusly was proud of it. Mark | |
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Tourer
Posts: 323
Troy, NY | I smell another Vision owner!!!!!! Enjoy the ride tomorrow! I can't comment on how the Vision handles with other bikes. I know the Vision is nimble on the twisties in the Adirondacks of NY and the White Mnts of NH. The Visions is the first motorcycle I ever owned. I bought it 4 months after I got my motorcycle permit. It's been 3 years now and I have never looked back. I ride 2 up through the mountains with no problems. | |
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Tourer
Posts: 430
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jomar - 2012-06-28 6:27 AM Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. I actually sat on one in Feb. 2009, I was at a motorcycle trade show, in Cinny, Ohio, and was standing there looking at the Vision, a guy walked up (he looked vaguely familiar) and told me to get on and see how it felt, so I got on and was rocking the bike side to side, thinking it looked so big but felt so nimble. Well the guy went on to tell me all about the bike and it's features, when it dawned on me... it was Arlen Ness. I can tell you, if you've never had the chance to meet him, you've missed meeting a really nice guy, he was just a "biker talking to another biker" without any of the BS of "look at me, I'm a big shot." He knew the bike and obvoiusly was proud of it. Mark
Mark - I am fortunate to live 10 minutes from Arlen's store here in Dublin, Ca. I have the good fortune to talk to him a number of times. Your observation of him being a 'biker talking to another biker' is spot on. He is a joy to talk to, he is very down to earth. A great guy. He told me, and has I am sure told many others, Victory is the only bike he will ride and the Vision is his preferred bike. If its good enough for Arlen its good enough for...
Edited by 20 10 Vision 2012-06-28 9:49 PM
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Tourer
Posts: 554
2 mi from Jim Beam n KY | Mark and JoAnn, welcome to the board! You'll love the Vision! And you'll find that once rolling, it's so nimble it thinks its a sport bike! And comfort for days!!!
Hey fellahs, I think we're gonna have a new Vision owner with us soon! | |
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Central Wisconsin | Goop - 2012-06-28 3:44 PM Thomas: We did Indy pass to Aspen for lunch last weekend, right before the fires hit... we saw the start of the fire when it was about 100-500 acres, flames and a helicopter dropping water. It grew a little. http://blogs.denverpost.com/captured/2012/06/27/colorado-wildfires-... What a shame with people losing their homes. Your fortunate to live in such a beautiful area. We enjoyed the Fort Collins area, Mt. Evans,Mt. Princeton hot springs,rafting down the Arkansas river, Royal Gorge and Bishops Castle was a real hoot ;-) The Vision handled very well on all the roads.
On top of Mt. Evans Colorado
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 46
Taylorsville, KY | Before buying a Vision I owned a 2002 GL1800, and prior to that a 1992 ElectraGlide Classic. I started out riding Harleys 20+ years ago never expected I'd own any other brand of touring bike; then I test rode the GL1800....
After riding the Goldwing on a tight twisty road I was immediatly sold on it. The power and handling were unbelievable for such a big bike, I was able to keep up with and even outrun some of the guys on sportbikes without having to stomp floorboards back down after every tight curve like the ElectraGlide required when riding it aggressively in the twisties. Unexpectedly for me, the Goldwing started losing its appeal as I spent more time touring on it. The restricted leg position was a big problem I had, and my legs were too short to comfortably ride with the goofy looking highway pegs that mount on the engine guards. My only other big problem with the Goldwing was that it ran too smooth; I actually fell asleep riding down the highway and woke up as my head was on its way down to smack my face on the tank when my hands slipped off the bars. I have no idea how I didn't crash; but that was the last time I rode the Goldwing....I put it up for sale the next day.
During the 3 - 4 years I spent without a touring bike I would dream up the perfect touring bike for me in my head almost daily. I wanted a touring bike that had the power and handling of the Goldwing in the curves, but had the looks, foot room and engine feel of the Harley. I'd seen pictures of the Vision during this time but thought it was just too damn ugly....the ad pictures I saw made the Vision look tall and skinny...plus the tall looking part made my short legs tremble just seeing the ad photos.
So, about 4 months ago I saw the Cross Country advertised and it piqed my interest in Victory. I went to a test ride at one of the local dealers and was awe struck when I saw the Vision in person. I rode the CC and the Vision both, and liked the looks and slight handling differences of the Vision better. I think Victory made the perfect touring bike for me in the Vision; at least about as perfect as you can get on a mass produced bike. OMG I can flat-foot this thing!
The Vision doesn't feel as powerful as the Goldwing but it has plenty of hp and torque in stock form in my opinion. You'll have to shift more on a Vision to keep the engine in its happy place, but it is definitely not excessive shifting like you experienced on the Harley. The Vision handles very comparable to the Goldwing...without riding them back to back I can't put one over the other except for the fact that I was constantly grinding footpegs on the Goldwing and have yet to scrape one of the giant floorboards on the Vision. I've only ridden one long day on the Vision so far (800 mi.), but it's proving to have the most comfortable seat I've ever ridden on. The Vision is the first bike of any type that I've owned where I like it better the more I ride it. If you use the FM radio a lot you'll miss the one button feature to scan and program local channels that the Goldwing has. You may also miss the remote for the trunk, but I can't imagine that being a deal breaker for anyone. Seeing your hands in the mirrors on the Vision took me a few hundred miles to get used to. I'll have to say that once you start utilizing the adjustable windshield you'll probably never want a touring bike that doesn't have that feature....It ranks right up there with cruise control and a radio. The heat on the right leg of the driver can get pretty intense around town without the lower fairing wings, it hasn't been too much heat for me while wearing boots but if you wear tennis shoes or low-rise boots it could burn your leg up without having the lower deflectors.
When you go for a test ride be careful pushing or backing up the bike while sitting on it as the rear tip overs restrict your leg movement in those motions. Especially keep that in mind if you have the habit of rolling off of your feet as you take off, I did see someone run over their own foot with a rear tip over and dump the bike on the test ride I went on.
Sorry for the long winded rant, but I can't emphasize how happy I am with my Vision so far.
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | Mark and JoAnn, whether you decide the Vision is the bike for you or not, you might consider adding the Victory line to your store. Encourage your suppliers to support the brand. There was almost nothing available for Victory when I first started riding the brand in 2000. Many owners modified HD stuff to work. By the time the Vision came out in 2008, the aftermarket had gotten much better for the Victory brand , but still had nothing for the Vision. Now, in 2012, there is a fair amount of stuff available for the Vision and more coming along every day. It's a growing market. I believe the Victory Vision and the Cross Country series are going to make big inroads into the luxury touring market as the bikes get noticed and the word gets out.
Ronnie | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| JoAnn here...We rented the Vision and rode it 150 miles through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (in 100 degree temps!). We'll ride it back tomorrow morning on highways and interstates. That way, we'll have run it through its paces. I'll let Mark comment on his comfort, but I will say that normally in hot weather his misery and pain is worse than in mild temperatures. And, even though the temps were at 100 and even higher, he never took any ibuprophen or tylenol, and he even forgot to wear his knee brace. I thought he did very well! I'll also let him comment on the performance.
From a passenger's perspective, the bike is very comfortable. However, if you're not a tinker bell, there isn't room for a back rest for the driver. Mark used me as his back rest and it was fine. I really enjoyed it when he rolled on the throttle in 3rd, 4th, or 5th gear, but 1st & 2nd seemed labored and shuttered - to me. You can't scrape chrome in cornering on the Vision. We got in to the curves on some of the roads we took and he layed it over pretty good. Kinda nice not having to worry about the inevitable scrape that makes you gasp.
The controls for the passenger are located where I can't get to them because of the passenger handles. If we buy a Vision, we will have CB and intercom, so if my controls are in that location, I'll have a problem. I am very happy with the trunk and saddlebags. I thought the space was fine (we have a trailer when needed) and I like that the trunk opening does not interfere with having a helmet laying on the passenger seat. The more I look at the Vision, the more I like it. At first, I thought it looked like the trunk was an afterthought so they threw one up there, but I don't see it that way now.
All in all I throughly enjoyed our ride today (except for the temperatures) and if Mark decides the Vision will work better for him than the Wing, I will be happy with that decision. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | I'm glad you liked it. It's a little different than a Goldwing, but, overall, I consider the two bikes to be equals. Except the Vision is the more comfortable choice.
The Goldwing is geared a bit lower in 1st gear than the Vision, so running at the same low RPM as Mark may be used to on the Goldwing will have the motor lugging a bit. The gearing difference is also part of the reason the GW "feels more powerful" in the lower gears. Of course, the evenly spaced firing of the GW's 6 cylinders is going to be much smoother than the uneven firing of a V-Twin. The Vision is happiest if you keep it above 2000 RPM. In stock form, the GW is a little more powerful than the Vision, but the difference doesn't really show up much below 100 MPH. 5th gear passing power is really pretty close between the two bikes, up to 100 MPH. Above that speed, the GW will pull ahead. If you want more power than stock, a set of Lloydz cams, a fuel controller, and a top air filter will give the Vision about 25 or 30 more horsepower (with the stock exhaust). The Vision is pretty restricted in it's EPA certified form. There is a lot more power hidden in it and it's easy and fairly inexpensive to get to.
Where were the passenger audio controls located on your test bike? My wife doesn't have any problem reaching them on ours.
We've learned by using the saddlebag liners, and by not using them, that the saddlebags are more useful and hold more without the liners. The openings are smaller than the interior, so if you fill the liners, they are very difficult to get in and out. We can pack enough clothes for two people for two weeks in the trunk liner, which works very well.
If you folks felt too much heat off of the motor in these high temperatures, be advised that Victory sells a set of lower wind deflectors which will blow enough air in on you to blow your pants up to your knees if you want. The heat problem is solved. Turned out, these same deflectors keep the cold and rain off you. Set in the neutral position, they have no effect. Highly recommended.
If you are using J&M headsets on your Goldwing, all you need is the lower cord for the Vision to make them work on the Vision.
When you get on the Interstate, set the cruise control at about 75 MPH, which will be about 2800 RPM, and let the miles roll by. The Vision runs 80 MPH @3000 RPM, which is just 70 MPH on your Goldwing. 75 MPH is very relaxing and the bike is very happy at that speed. Mark can move his feet around and those knees should stay happy.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-06-29 6:04 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| The passenger controls were located tucked under the left side of the seat. When we got home, I realized I could get to them with gloves off, but not with gloves on. You have to reach inbetween the grab bar and the seat and then up/under the seat. Very difficult while rolling and with gloves on. Maybe the CB PTT and intercom volume control ext. will stick out a bit further so it can be reached. A CB is not installed on this rental, so it could be located different once installed.
Mark is going to comment after our ride tomorrow. I think he's pretty happy!
2 weeks of clothes in the trunk!?#* I don't pack light. If it is more than an overnighter, the trailer is hooked up.
We sell motorcycle accessories to include all J&M products. No problems getting the right cords - HC-PVT or HC-ZVT.
www.CycleAccessoryStore.com
I really thank all of you for your wonderful feedback. This is a learning curve and you all have been so helpful! | |
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Tourer
Posts: 499
Chattanooga, TN | JoAnn and Marc, glad you are enjoying your Vision so far! I weigh abut 270lbs and stand 6'3". I've had 2 knee surgeries and back surgery, and my 08 Vision is the vehicle of choice for me! As far as shifting, I had a Lloydz adjustable throttle body spacer installed in Daytona along with some other goodies and it makes for a smoother engine with a lot less shifting in the twisties and better throttle response in lower rpm's. It reduces the size of the throttle body which gives a better charge of air for the motor. Just a thought for both of you since you are familiar with the Goldwing and it does have a wide rpm range. Hope tomorrow is another great day on the Vision for you both! Looking forward to hearing your husbands take on the bike! | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | a Hi again JoAnn. I think you are describing the controls for the heated seat. There are two, one for each person, and they are three position: High-Off-Low. They are a bit difficult to reach, but you get used to them. Most of the time (almost always), we just turn them on the low position and leave them on in cold weather. The passenger controls for the CB/Intercom/Volume are located just below the left speaker in the armrest. They come naturally to hand. The passenger gets separate, autonomous control of the volume on the stereo, the intercom, and the CB. It is NOT a slave to the driver's controls. There will be two buttons--one is the volume control, which is to be adjusted whenever the device in question is in operation. Three separate volume controls all adjusted with the same button. The other button is the Push-To-talk for the CB. The Intercom has the option to be controlled with VOX, which is adjustable for sensitivity. It isn't constantly live like the GW, unless you want it to be.
Yeah, I make the wife pack light. I'm afraid of what she'll pack if I get a trailer. Actually, we tour with another couple who ride a GL1800, and we can carry just as much as they do on the bike, but we do need a bag on the luggage rack to make up the difference in the saddlebag space. We've weighed the loaded bikes a couple of times, and they weigh about the same loaded. The bare GW weighs about 15 pounds more than the bare Vision, so we've got just about as much stuff loaded on there as they do. Maybe, a bit more.
Please ask any and all questions you may have. Any bike that you are not familiar with has a learning curve, and a few idiosyncrasies, and some of us have learned a few tricks along the way.
http://www.cycleaccessorystore.com/
You've seen and will see lots of references to Lloydz Motorworkz concerning power improvements and running smoothness/response improvements. Lloyd Greer is the man at the forefront of Victory performance and the place to go if you want to make power or running improvements http://www.lloydz.com/ There are several shops around the country which are dealers and installers for his products. He has a package that I've already mentioned that will give a Vision 110 horsepower at the rear wheel, with the stock exhaust (compared to a GW's 100 HP) and reliability and fuel economy are unchanged. The motor is completely stock and untouched, except for the cam change. His cams just keep making power all the way to 6400 RPM, where the stock EPA compliant jobs quit after about 4500 RPM (100 MPH in 5th gear) which is why the Goldwing can pull away after 100 MPH. The tables are turned if you have a Lloydz package on your Vision.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-06-29 7:45 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 241
Monrovia, Ca | JM makes a Z cord with the volume control on the cord so you don;t have to use the buttons on the bike itself.
jomar - 2012-06-29 4:11 PM
The passenger controls were located tucked under the left side of the seat. When we got home, I realized I could get to them with gloves off, but not with gloves on. You have to reach inbetween the grab bar and the seat and then up/under the seat. Very difficult while rolling and with gloves on. Maybe the CB PTT and intercom volume control ext. will stick out a bit further so it can be reached. A CB is not installed on this rental, so it could be located different once installed.
Mark is going to comment after our ride tomorrow. I think he's pretty happy!
2 weeks of clothes in the trunk!?#* I don't pack light. If it is more than an overnighter, the trailer is hooked up.
We sell motorcycle accessories to include all J&M products. No problems getting the right cords - HC-PVT or HC-ZVT.
www.CycleAccessoryStore.com
I really thank all of you for your wonderful feedback. This is a learning curve and you all have been so helpful! | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 281
| fnvision - 2012-06-29 3:14 AM
When you go for a test ride be careful pushing or backing up the bike while sitting on it as the rear tip overs restrict your leg movement in those motions. Especially keep that in mind if you have the habit of rolling off of your feet as you take off, I did see someone run over their own foot with a rear tip over and dump the bike on the test ride I went on.
Very good point.
How to pick up your feet "correctly" is one of the very first things you learn on a Vision.
With luck you only make this mistake once. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 281
| I'll take one whenever it's ready. Maybe two - I have two Visions. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Double Vision - 2012-06-29 9:54 PM fnvision - 2012-06-29 3:14 AM When you go for a test ride be careful pushing or backing up the bike while sitting on it as the rear tip overs restrict your leg movement in those motions. Especially keep that in mind if you have the habit of rolling off of your feet as you take off, I did see someone run over their own foot with a rear tip over and dump the bike on the test ride I went on. Very good point. How to pick up your feet "correctly" is one of the very first things you learn on a Vision. With luck you only make this mistake once. I've not dump the bike, but I did get bitten during the MSF expert course. It is a simple reminder, DO NOT WALK WITH YOUR BIKE, ANY BIKE PERIOD. When rolling, feet up. I keep my passenger foot rest down as a reminder. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 4278
| Now where are you going to buy one. Your Wing should be a good trade in.
When you do your deal get dealer to throw in first 500 mike check up for free. You can get a great back rest for Marc that just pulls out or lean forward when your getting on.
For about a thousand dollars you can have cams put in and have a 100 horse for those full trailer loads. He He
If you do a search here you'll find every one has there own preference on exhaust and there are a lot of couples pulling trailers with ease.
If Marc can do the oil change its easy and only one bolt and oil filter yes we all have are own ideas of what oil to use.
Marc said he meet the man Arlen Ness and he's very down to earth and humble. I have know Arlen and Cory for many years and in my mind I know two great guys.
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| OK, After riding the rented Vision Tour,yesterday on some of the twistest roads that North Carolina and Tenn. have to offer (and yes, there are a lot that are curvier than "The Tail of the Dragon") and then making a 125 mile, 4 lane and interstate run this morning before 9am, here is my humble opinion of the Vision.
I find it to be a bit low on the horse power and torque while in the lower 2 gears, but I will admit that it might just be me needing to get used to the difference between a 6 cylinder, 5 speed bike (GoldWing) and the 2 cylinder 6 speed Vision. While doing the really tight curves yesterday, I found myself on 2 different occasions needing to downshift quickly to finish going around the tight hairpin turn that was also going uphill at the same time. Once I had gotten the bike's engine up to speed (around 2100+ RPM) and in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th, it was smooth and had plenty of power and torque. I found out this AM that the bike will easily get up to 85+ on the 4 lanes without any problem and it felt rock solid while doing it.
As for handling, I think, and even more importantly "felt" that the bike handles even better than the Wing, which I would have thought to be nearly impossible. All you have to do is think what you want it to do and it seems to magically do it. I have been using a car tire on my wing for the last 20 months and I really like the way it feels on the wing and it adds a bit of security since it's rated for quite a bit more weight than the Elite 3 and I'm a big guy, 6'2" and 370 lbs. I've read here on the forums that a lot of Vision riders also use the car tires, which I'll probably switch to pretty quickly.
As for the comfort, my backside hurt slightly in the 108 degree heat we had yesterday and my knee was much better since I had all that extra space to be able to move it around.
I thought that my wing was decked out with all the "bells and whistles" including AM/FM/XM/CB/Intercom and airbags just to name the bigger items. The Vision, with its AM/FM/XM/CB/ Intercom along with all of the time, temp, gas mileage, gas mileage range remaining, 2 trip meters, time traveled etc etc is just too cool for a wanna be gizmo gadgets.
The styling of the Vision seems to be one of those that you either love it or hate it, it seems to be growing on me.
I find it to be rather ironic that I'd be driving a very futuristic bike pulling a trailer that is very old school. The trailer is a replica of a 1955 Nomad.
Over the past few days my wife, JoAnn, has been "chatting" with a lot of you guys. I'm teasing her that you all are her new 'buddies". Thanks for all of you being so kind and not being condescending to a "girl" with all her questions. That being said, I have to partly blame all of you for me now being another $20,000 in debt. We ordered a 2011 Silver and Black, that we should have in a few days. I'll have to order a trailer hitch and wiring pig tail on Monday. So now, I guess the spending spree continues with whatever gadgets we'll need. I'm open to suggestions from you guys that have been down this track already on what you'd suggest (and from whom) and what to avoid. In addition to the hitch, I think I need the following:
1. I saw a toe rest (on youtube) that mounts at the very front of the running board???
2. drivers back rest
3. Trunk luggage rack
4.Cup holders front and rear
5.I also saw a youtube video that showed a wiring harness that makes all of the rear lights work as run/turn/brake and makes them flash when you apply the brake.
I'd love to hear from you guys which of these you prefer and who makes them, and any other suggestions or comments that you care to make, Also, donations will be gladly accepted.
Thanks, Mark
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Iron Butt
Posts: 752
Broken Arrow, OK | Congrats to you both. I too ride a 2011, always 2 up and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
I'm running the latest Goldwing tire rave, the Michelin Primacy and we're sold on it. As you know, the Dunnie winter sport is also another success.
I'm 6'3" and 255 and prefer the Utopia backrest. Many like the Victory. Different shapes etc, just a preference thing.
I have the OEM luggage rack from Victory. Does the job and there are aftermarket ones out there too. CycleopsUsa.com makes very nice racks.
We put the Victory OEM passenger arm rests on the back for my wife. Very easy to do and one of the arm rests includes a built in cup holder for her. Looks like a Kuryakyn (Vic branded) product. No up front cup holder info here as I don't have one.
No trailer experience here but others will chime in.
Congrats again and enjoy that ride. Ride on! | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 164
Quad Cities, IL | Welcome to the world of VISION...you will enjoy the ride for many many miles. Here are some of my thoughts to "extras"
1) I have the Victory highway pegs...I like them but being 5'9" don't use them that much with such long floor boards. There are other aftermarket options that are similar and also some "heel rests" too.
2) Utopia seems to be among the popular backrest, but I don't use one. I do use the Back-a-line back support belt for long hauls. Like it too.
3) I have the Victory Luggage rack. It works. But CYCLEOPS has much better quality ones available including a really cool "V" shaped one.
4) Don't have cup holders.
5) Kuryakyn 4710 Run Turn Brake controller. Turns the Trunk Running lights into more functional Run-Turn-Brake. Great Mod for less than $100.
6) I also added the new Victory lighted trunk trim. I like the extra visibilty in the back.
7) Oh, and get the Lloydz Cams, Air Intake, and a Fuel Controller (Lloydz or Power Commander V). This will give you a boost in HP and Torque. Might be welcomed in the NC mountains...LOVE THIS MOD.
Congrats again...and Ride Safe! | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 249
Phenix City AL. | The hitch doc is a nice hitch, I run a the Dunlop wintersport ct same as the wing, I make a set of toe pegs for the vision, they mount to the front tip overs, I also make the passenger highway peg mounts, that will let you mount highway pegs for the passenger. I . Congrats on getting a vision. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 259
Land O Lakes, FL | Congrats! As a former owner of 2 GL1800's I absolutely love my Vision. The comfort over the wing is 10x better. The power is something you get used to in that you have to learn how to ride this bike, the twin is very different. Once you figure out the sweet spots and when to skip gears, etc it will become 2nd nature.
Some recommended mods:
1. If you are an audiophile (like me) I use the speakers a lot so the kicker upgrades are worth and are a direct bolt in
2. Lower deflectors (as have been mentioned)
3. Cruiser Kaddy cup holder is about $30 and works great, bolts right on the bars, heck you can mount one on each side if you like.
4. Passenger arm rests if the Mrs likes those, nice part is they don't bolt through the trunk and you can take them on/off whenever you like
5. Backrest (already mentioned)
6. Arlen Ness low boy seat. Drops you both down about 1" to sit more in the bike, more "pocket" in the seat for more support and is good for long days
7. Get the plate that covers the where the trunk goes, since the trunk comes off it's fun to tool around and the bike is super flickable with the trunk off
8. Trunk rack, I even saw someone put a Goldwing rack on there from Kury and it fit
9. Bag liners, I kinda disagree I used these to great effect on my last trip if you don't over stuff them they are great and they open from the side (unlike the wings that open from the top and have to be taken out to get anything out of them).
10. GPS options. Don't spend the $800 or whatever on the Vic GPS. I got a really nice Garmin 2550LMT for $250, the suction cup works great right above the radio and you can plug it into the glovebox for power.
11. iPod cable if you use an iPhone or iPod for music
12. Paint the center of the trunk if you got the sliver and black like mine. The trunk looks large and like an after thought like your wife mentioned mainly I believe because it messes up the lines of the bike from the rear/side. I painted mine black in the middle and makes a huge difference. Here are a couple pics:
http://www.vision-riders.com/bb/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=11957&po...
That should spend a good amount of your spare cash lol, no worries were pretty good at spending other peoples money here as you have now found out!
Enjoy your new baby!
Edited by PhantomX 2012-07-01 12:40 AM
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | jomar - 2012-06-30 7:56 PM
OK, After riding the rented Vision Tour,yesterday on some of the twistest roads that North Carolina and Tenn. have to offer (and yes, there are a lot that are curvier than "The Tail of the Dragon") and then making a 125 mile, 4 lane and interstate run this morning before 9am, here is my humble opinion of the Vision.
I find it to be a bit low on the horse power and torque while in the lower 2 gears, but I will admit that it might just be me needing to get used to the difference between a 6 cylinder, 5 speed bike (GoldWing) and the 2 cylinder 6 speed Vision. While doing the really tight curves yesterday, I found myself on 2 different occasions needing to downshift quickly to finish going around the tight hairpin turn that was also going uphill at the same time. Once I had gotten the bike's engine up to speed (around 2100+ RPM) and in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th, it was smooth and had plenty of power and torque. I found out this AM that the bike will easily get up to 85+ on the 4 lanes without any problem and it felt rock solid while doing it.
First, congratulations on your decision and welcome!
There is a difference in the power delivery from a GL1800 to a Vision. Some of it has to do with the uneven power pulses of the V-Twin VS the very even power pulses of the opposed 6. As you've already discovered, the Vision is happier under load if you keep it over 2000 RPM.
The real difference is in the gearing. The two bikes' torque outputs are actually pretty close, but the way it gets applied to the wheel is a little different. The Goldwing is geared lower than the Vision in the lower gears, so the applied torque to the wheel is a little more and the result is that the 'Wing feels stronger in the lower gears, and it'll lug way down easier since it's turning the wheel slower in relation to the engine RPMs. Once you're up in 3rd, 4th, and 5th gears, the Vision is more equal, up to about 4500 RPM. 5th gear passing power of the Vision is about equal that of the Goldwing, up to 4500 RPM or 100 MPH. Above that, the GW will pull ahead of the Vision. Apparently, Victory felt the need to restrict the Vision above 4500 RPM, probably to satisfy the EPA. There is also a 120 MPH speed limiter built into the programming of the stock ECU, but your Vision will get to that speed with ease. In 5th or 6th gear.
If any of this is a concern to you, the installation of Lloydz VM1-DR cams, along with a fuel controller to add back fuel that the stock ECU subtracts above 4500 RPM, and a top intake filter for better breathing, will raise the horsepower at the rear wheel from the low 80s to above 105, usually closer to 110 or better, with the stock exhaust. The reliability and fuel economy in normal riding are unchanged. As you know, the GW has around 95 to 100 HP at the rear wheel. The torque curves of the two bikes are pretty close stock, up to 4500 RPM, where the EPA restrictions kick in on the Vision. You can easily get around them if you want to. The power delivery of the LLoydz cams pretty much follows the stock curve up to where it starts to drop off at 4500 RPM, but instead of dropping off, it gets higher all the way to 6400 RPM. The stock rev-limit is 5500 RPM on a Vision. Lloydz can reprogram your ECU to raise that to 6400 RPM and get rid of the speed limiter. If you have LLoydz ECU, cams, intake filter, and fuel controller, with a stock exhaust, the Vision is faster in the quarter mile, faster in roll-on, and faster on the top end than a GL1800. Stock, the GW is a little faster than a Vision in the quarter mile and on top end, but not much, if any, in roll-ons in 5th gear, at least up to 100 MPH.
In addition to the other accessories that you and others have mentioned, I recommend that you get the lower wind deflectors. They work very well to bring cooling air in on you in hot weather when turned in, and to keep air and rain off of you when turned out. They have a neutral position where there is no affect too. IMHO, they should be standard equipment. Actually, the cams, intake, and Lloydz programming in the ECU should have been standard equipment too.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-07-01 12:30 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 188
Tifton, GA | Lower wind deflectors were one of my additions and help me more in summer than winter. Everyone else has covered the other popular additions quite well. I added a headlight modulator and like the attention that it gets from cagers. Some folks are annoyed by them, but that is their problem I want the added attention. Also added an compact air horn. I added reverse to mine and really like it. Since you had a GW you will probably want it too. Enjoy your bike I sure enjoy mine. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 4278
| So Happy for you both may you have many years of Happy Trails
The one thing you will want to do is get sheepskin for the seat or wood beads and plenty of Gold Bond power. Trust me on this.
Say it is customary for all new Vision couples to throw a steak fry dinner for all of us. Hope you have plenty of parking for the thousand or so that will show up. LOL | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 161
Albuquerque NM | Congratulations and welcome to the world of the vision, you won't look back!
If my bike hadn't come with them already I would have the lower deflectors on in heartbeat. They keep you warm in winter, and cooler in summer. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Thanks for the kind words, who makes the lower air deflectors? Thanks, Mark | |
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Tourer
Posts: 430
| re: lower air deflectors. IMHO will at cycleopsusa has the best. fyi - 'if' you buy from Will you will still need the factory part that affixs the deflector to the bike. Will mentions this on his website. http://cycleopsusa.com/store/index.html and will tell you on the phone if you talk to him. great products and service. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 74
Republic of Texas | Turk - 2012-06-28 5:35 PM
You might initially be disappointed with the power output from a factory EPA restricted Vision..... if so, don't worry, it takes very minor intake/exhaust mod to get the same or more power from the Vision than from your Wing... intake filter, exhaust, and fuel controller will get you near where your Wing is, add cams, and you exceed the Wing in power. However, the Vision will out handle the Wing.
Yes!
I love my Vision. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| Johnnyvision, we had the big steak cookout last night.... we had a seat saved at the table for you... where were you? Mark | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 752
Broken Arrow, OK | johnnyvision - 2012-07-01 7:17 PM
The one thing you will want to do is get sheepskin for the seat or wood beads and plenty of Gold Bond power. Trust me on this.
Ahhh,,,beads from beadrider.com and passenger armrests........good!
(Bead Rider Victory Vision UBR 004 (Medium).JPG)
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 Bead Rider Victory Vision UBR 004 (Medium).JPG (88KB - 2 downloads)
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