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Visionary
Posts: 3204
Memphis | I've been wracking my brain trying to explain to my friends and family why I am so drawn to this bike. I've never been this emotional about an object and it feels like I'm having an out of body experience. It has turned me into a blabbering idiot. Why is this so different than any of the cool cars and other motorcycles I have owned in my life? Because history is repeating itself and it is a once in a lifetime event. Flash back to 1952. If you were an American male and wanted a sports car you had two options; European - for state of the art, American street rod - build it yourself. The street rod was probably something along the lines of a '34 Ford (or older), chopped and souped up. Very cool but not cutting edge. The european cars were cutting edge but they were really expensive and well, lets face it we had just kicked their butts less that 10 years ago. (There is no way my grandfather is going to ride in anything built by them, no matter how nice it is.) A year goes by and 1953 rolls around. The American male wakes up to the news that Chevrolet has just released a brand new car, the 1953 Corvette. An American sports car..Finally!! It gets mixed reviews and is not universally accepted by everyone who sees it. "It's not as sleek as this." or "It's not as fast as that." or "It's doesn't corner as well as those." "It's way overpriced." "It has no trunk space." To the new Corvette owner, it doesn't matter. It's cutting edge, there is literally nothing else like it and it is American. He is a WWII vet and it is the car he has waited for his whole life. We are standing at the threshold of that same event right now. If this had happened 10 years ago I couldn't afford it. I'm 49 years old, my youngest (of 5) kid just turned 18 and I'm looking for something special to get involved with. The Vision literally entered my world less than two weeks ago. (A Harley guy turned me on to it, of all things.) This is not about another motorcycle. New models come out every year and there are literally hundreds of choices. This is about an American company standing up and saying "We're gonna build something brand new that will make you proud to be an American. It won't even be like anything we've ever built before." This is the '53 Corvette of our generation. Up until this moment, our choices have been foreign-made cutting edge or old style classic. Victory has totally shot me right between the eyes. Remember, the '53 Corvette is the least advanced, least expensive Vette of all time. The '08 Vision will be a dinosaur....someday. This is the family heirloom that the kids will fight over after I die. How many guys do you know with a '53 Vette? | |
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Tourer
Posts: 548
Mount Vernon, WA United States | SongFan, I totally get what you are saying. There have been other bikes out that make "part" of the puzzle. The Rune, which I think might have been built in the USA by Honda was all about style. Great concept, but when it came down to it, it was just all about style, nothing really and different regarding function. Buell came out with some amazing technology and again, that's all it was about. Not much change in overall style, nor function. It's like Victory attacked this from every angle. Frankly I'm not a fan of the style, because I get into the form, function and technology along with attention to detail. Running the airbox as part of the frame to keep the height down. Splitting the gas tank the way they did to lower the center also of gravity also. Then the attention to detail I was reading where the gas cap is under the panel on the right side. You just turn the key to the left to pop the hatch (no more moving keys around to get gas) AND for the gas cap itself apparently there is a place to put it on the inside of that little compartment rather than finding the top of agas pump, seat, or wherever. Now little things like this a MAJOR deal? No, by no means and the overall ideas in some cases aren't even totally original, but the execution of it, and the attention to detail throughout apparently permeates every aspect of this bike to the same extent.
The co-author of this site is out riding a Vision right now at the AVR in Spirit Lake. We also have an interview coming with one of the riders who was on the Kyle Petty Charity ride on a Vision. I'm looking forward to seeing what they have to say.
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New user
Posts: 2
Corpus Christi, Texas | I used to ride a 1995 Honda Gold Wing Aspencade and to me then was the ultimate bike. Before buying it I always thought that there was no other bike like the GW because of it's big vibration free 6 cylinder engine that could literally put you to sleep on the road....that's how smooth these machines are. Not to mention the comfort factor and the bells and whistles that no other bike could match. But that was then......now that I ride a Hammer and the fact that it's American made is a big plus to us who have yearned for a real bike other than the infamous Harley Davidson....which I like but kinda small for me being that I'm used to big bikes. The Vision, since the first mention of it, has me very curious and the time for a different kind of bike is now and that is what I have been waiting for. I like change when others would rather stick with the old but after a while it does get old when all bikes start to look alike....except for the new Victory machines. I don't get the ol' cliches of the Harley riders when they say that I ride a Harley wannabee. I like to stand out and be different and the Vision is the ticket. I have heard too many folks say that the styling is butt-ugly and that's OK because I don't listen or go by what others say or do. I'm the different kind of sheep that are leaders and not followers and all others will be following me when riding my Vision. Thanks to Victory Corp. for being the leaders that they are and for setting the standard with the machines that they are producing. My Hammer will have a new stablemate soon.
Ride safe.
Joe | |
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Visionary
Posts: 3204
Memphis | I totally agree with the functionality of this bike. I can't wait to blow people's minds (including my dealer) when I lay it on it's side in the parking lot at Bike Nite here in Memphis. Then pick it up without a scratch. It's a compilation of so many little things. I think the back-lit Victory badges are going to be as cool as all get out at night. I want to see the pattern and color of the HID headlight beam. I want to take a tape measure to the longest pipes ever seen on a stock bike. I want to see the blinkers in the "V" tail light. I want to scroll through every menu on the screen between the gauges. I want to play with the power windshield. I'm definitely a "function over form" kind of guy and am not really impressed by chrome and flash but I really can't wait to see what Arlen Ness comes up with using this bike as his palette.
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 14
| I don't think it has to be a reason as grand as a "style changing machine that will be seen as the archetype of all motorcycles to come in the future." I don't think the bike looks all that different from the Goldwing or BMWs, with the exception of the hind-end of the machine, and I think that a redesign will be in the works to provide more storage out of that space.
I would buy a Vision for 6 reasons:
1) I wore out my 2000 V92C (I haven't yet, but it could happen. Only 60K on it, so there is a way to go yet before I do this)
2) My wife wants a more comfortable ride for her
3) I've had excellent customer service from my Victory dealer that I didn't have with other makes.
4) I want the digital toys
5) Fuel economy...the Vision gets about twice the mileage as my 2000 V92C...no kidding.
6) I like the bike, and it appeals to me, and that is all that matters.
That said, I have to keep reminding myself of the issues I had with my V92C...granted, Victory has learned a lot (some at my expense, I feel), so I will give the Vision a couple of years to straighten out any gremlins. I'll get one...but after some others provide the final shakedowns for Victory. And if all the speculation is accurate, nearly the entire 2008 model year is spoken for anyway. So if I buy one in 2010, or even 2011, I'll be buying a bullet-proof luxury tourer.
Until then, I'll continue reading this site and others, learning from the experiences of others.
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New user
Posts: 3
| I am a hybrid rider: From flat 6's to boxers to naked sport touring, I like the Vision. I like Victory's attitude. Not cocky like some places! At this point in my life, service and a good attitude mean more than anything.
I also like the way the bike was R & Ded. It will never have everything for everyone, but it has the looks and safety features that no other has. Well airbags on the wing? Don't really get airbags on a motorcycle.
Most of all I will like the people that are going to ride this bike. I believe they will have the same good attitude as the people that made Victory!
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Cruiser
Posts: 175
Colorado | We put a lot of local miles on every year for various events in Colorado, next year we expect to get back to full force riding. I want handling characteristics and the amenities that the Vision is offering me. The moveable windshield, heated grips and seats, yes the stereo and speakers, MP3 hook up and cargo space. The leg room on a Vision is like no other bike I have ridden right out of the gate and finally the Durability of Victory's Freedom motor. Whats not to want....I want the best riders machine and I found it in a Vision. Oh yeah and finally ..that it is American made.
Edited by badnvegas 2007-08-13 9:59 PM
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Here's a post to bring back to the top. Now that we are riding the Vision, at least some, how do you compare to the post that are here. | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 849
, FL United States | I love my Vis & would spend the $27k again in a heartbeat. I live in sunny Florida & can ride ALMOST any day (now that I'm retired) and do so as much as possible. She (the Vis) keeps me young and I need all the help I can get in that regard!!
Went on a Welcome Home mission with the Patriot Guard Riders today. 5 Air Nat'l Guard members returned today from 18 months in "the sand pit".We were on the 5 o'clock news.
Vis came to live w/ me on 11-17-07. Miles to date = 4719 | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 619
Southeast Iowa | Because it's just plain SEXY and not every sheep in the heard wants or has one! I like it when my bike is parked next to 10 others and my bike gets ALL the attention. The best Eltra Glide in the world is still just another Electra Glide. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1484
LaPorte,Tx. | Big Vic - 2008-02-25 6:30 PM
The best Eltra Glide in the world is still just another Electra Glide.
Amen!!! I pulled in a biker ice house on Sunday with some friends up north of Houston, there were at least 100+ motorcycles of all types, even choppers. My Super Steel Gray T/P had at least 10 people around it all the hour I was there. People want to know more about this motorcycle. | |
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Tourer
Posts: 423
northwest florida | I don't own one yet but later in the year when things settle I will have one, besides what else would a christian biker ride but VICTORY.. | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 904
29 Palms California | Big Vic, your on track brother. . Buy the way, someone said hybrid rider...as the average American biker, what in the world is he talking about? Due to his lack of clothing while riding? Or overly dressing. Tuxedo riding or Hybrow rider? buckeye is currently muttering under breath....mmm.blahahbemem...what does it all mean? I WANNA ROCK! | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Hey Buckeye, take it easy on the busdriver, he's new to the board. Besides, if you get to bust on him too much he might see you on your Vision while he's driving his bus... well, I wouldn't think he'd do anything, but...
BUCKEYE - 2008-02-26 7:34 AM
Big Vic, your on track brother. . Buy the way, someone said hybrid rider...as the average American biker, what in the world is he talking about? Due to his lack of clothing while riding? Or overly dressing. Tuxedo riding or Hybrow rider? buckeye is currently muttering under breath....mmm.blahahbemem...what does it all mean? I WANNA ROCK! | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 619
Southeast Iowa | BUCKEYE & VisionTex
I can tell you guys "get it" I have a personal problem with HD. I have 2 brothers who ride HD because it says HD on the side. Both are tall like myself and look like monkeys %*&$!$# a football on their bikes. I love to talk bikes with them because they don't know squat about motorcycles. When we compare bikes my one brother says he'll never own a Victory because "Their not a big enough company" He says "Some dealers don't even have a good selection of T-shirts" I quickly remind him that Porsche, Bently, Jaguar, and others are not as big as General Motors either............then I ask him how he likes his Impala. When we meet for a ride (or any other time) I always tell him that I like his T-Shirt, then I just giggle and walk away. God that pisses him off. I can't wait until we ride this summer, I know when I park my Vision next to his 35K Screaming Eagle Electra Glide that MY bike will get more attention. That will REALLY piss him off. I will just have to remind him that his HD socks look good with his HD T-Shirt, that should smooth things over. HA, Ha, Ha! By the way, I'm really not a HD basher. I think they have good product and many loyal customers who ride the brand for a good reason. I have several friends that fit in this catagory. My brothers on the other hand are just sheep and following the crowd. What pisses me off is they failed to understand the competition before making their buying decision. (They are both smarter than that!) I don't care what you ride as long as you know why you are riding it and T-shirts are about as dumb as reason as I can think of! God it feels good to be a wolf instead of a sheep! | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1484
LaPorte,Tx. | SongFan - 2007-07-27 11:12 AM
Because history is repeating itself and it is a once in a lifetime event.
Big Vic, thanks for giving me credit for knowing.........that is apprecieated. Please read SongFan's thread on this subject. It puts it all in prospective. Most of the folks that are buying the Vision are buying it because it gives them the thrill of being special, because they know it is a special motorcycle. There are only a few times in our lives, we get to experience this, it is almost like being a proud parent.
Don't be too hard on your brother, there is certainly nothing wrong with HD, they make a fine motorcycle. And as for an Impala, hey I will take one anytime.........!
As SongFan says, this is a once in a lifetime event and we've waited soooooo long. This bike just makes me feel good. How about you!!!!! "Giddy-Up"  | |
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Tourer
Posts: 550
Tacoma, WA | I bought mine as my very first NEW motorcycle purchase...ever! I had a choice of any bike (I wanted a tourer) out there, and so I rode all of 'em that caught my eye, and the Vision just plain edged them out. Harley was a distant third between the Vision, the 'Wing, and the Ultra. To make the Ultra "fit" me, I would have had to buy aftermarket seat, different bars, and a bigger engine....which would have meant the screaming eagle...WAY too much $. The wing?? well, it IS a NICE bike, and my Dad is picking up one on Saturday...his first one, at 75 Y.O.! I rode the Vision, and the 2008 'wing within two hours of each other, and the Vision just had me. The narrower girth, the loooong floorboards, the comfy, deep seat, the iPod interface...the adjustable windshield, the H.I.D. ligt, the easy to read gages...all convinced me this was definately the bike for me, and I am SO glad I have it! nearly 2500 winter mles later, since November, and I am smiling large! ------Metalguy | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 904
29 Palms California | oh come on, we all know you can poop out a bike and slap a lable on it. We could make poop t-shirts too. I'm not bitter at the poop, I'm bitter at myself. I choose the poop, because everyone else said it was the best poop out there. I was raised to believe, a Patriotic American rides the best poop there is. Then Victory started making motorcycles. I noticed, my poop smelled funny, and left a really bad poopy taste in my mouth. I bought bigger and better poop to prove my poop was better. I spent money on more "crap" to put on my poop, to make it poopier. I would go on great rides, and we would all sit atop our poop, and call the other poop riders "crap". My poop looked and smelled like everyone elses. I decided to flush my poop, and buy a Victory Vision. Now I'm not saying that "poop" riders aren't proud of their poop, and they will call my Vision crap. I will say, they seem to know how terrible their poop is, and most wish they could give a curtousy flush but can't because of the amount of crap on their poop. The moral of this rant, I ride a Midnight Cherry Victory Vision Premium, and the others ride poop, or crap,,respectively. LOL...good coffee, but now for some reason I feel I have to wipe. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1324
So Cal | One of the things I like about my Vision is cruising at about 35 and watching the ash from my cig. come off and float in front of my face for about 30 sec. before blowing off into the wind. | |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 904
29 Palms California | Yeah, that is cool. Sometimes my ash looses lift and falls straight down. LAST NIGHT ON NIGHTS jiggety, jiggety | |
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Why buy a Victory Vision?