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Cruiser
Posts: 136
CALGARY ALBERTA | I had the Vision out in some pretty strong cross winds today and although the wind does grab it, I was able to keep blood flowing to my knuckles. The last fixed fairing bike I owned was the 80 HD FLT. I know, some time ago. I do remember being bounced around on that one, from lane to lane in a similar wind as today.
Can anyone compare the handling, in the wind of the HD FLTR or Goldwing, beemer, etc to the Vision??? | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 141
Cumming, GA | I don't know about the other bikes, but I recently rode across SD into a 3/4 wind, pulling a trailer and the bike said...."no big deal".
Also rode it along I10 in Florida with a strong cross-wind and the same result. Bike handles cross-winds beautifully. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| The Vision gets bounced around far worse than most big tours I've owned, but I wouldn't rate it as uncontrollable just a bit unnerving until you get to know it's characteristics. The key on the Vision is that YOU get hit and that results in movement of the bike due to how touchy the handling is. So lets see the Goldwing gets moved in a crosswind, but not bad. The Harley FLTRI is more stable in cross winds but gets some lift if head into a wind. If I was to rate ALL of the larger baggers I would have to give the Harley FLTRI the nod for best handling fixed fairing bike "all around." Rides on any road surface extremely stable, little wind movement, and handles all weather fine to include slightly snow covered roads. It is also some 150-200lbs lighter than the others. In other words a fairer comparrison would include the Vision, Honda, and BMW which would all be pretty darn close in any category you wish to compare. The FLTRI has an unfair advantage against all the aforementioned due to the lack of plastic coverage. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | The one thing that I had to figure out is that the Vision has its own way to ride. When I first got my Vision I road it like it was GL1200 and even then I would get kicked around on the highway and preferred to stay on the side roads. It handled far better than my GL1200 with that exception of on the highway. Then it dawned on me that I rode like it was my GL1200 and I had to then pay attention to "tune" my body to the Vision. Since I figured that out, I experience near nil washout on the highway even when I'm among several 18 wheelers. I even noticed today on the highway how steady I could ride the Vision even in the worsed buffeting. It barely noticeable and I do not fear the interstate even in heavy traffic like I did the GoldWing. On the Sunday here in Central Virginia in which the winds were so high that it blew an 18wheeler over on the James River Bridge on 295 I was crossing the Appomatox bridge just a few miles down from there. I remember hitting the bridge and the cross winds were so heavy I had to lean into the wind almost the whole way across. Occasionally the wind would momentarily stop and I had to adjust to maintain track. The amazing thing was that even in that heavy wind, I did stay in my track in my lane. I was so impressed, though white knuckled, I came back the same way, which was just a few minutes later. The only difference was the lean was in the opposite direction. I came away from that ride with another level of confidence in riding the Vision. Now I haven't ridden a zillion bikes and a have zillion miles under my belt like some of you. I offer nothing else to the table than my desire to ride, but I would say that a bike in its class nothing can touch the Vision in handling. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| varyder, I think we have BOTH reached the same conclusion... Figuring out how flickable the Vision is pays a HUGE role in how good or bad the wind experience. Once you learn to loosen the grip and ride relaxed she handles just fine. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 52
The Great Northwet | Rode across Washington state on Monday 200+ of the 325 miles were into a 30+ mile and hour headwind. Then there was the side winds for another 50 miles. The bike gets moved around a fair bit but is so controllable. It doesn't wear me out like the V92C and TCD did in the same conditions. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 50
| Comparing it to my Valkyrie Interstate I believe the Vision is better in the wind.
But I will add the Valk was a very nice ride to bad Honda Runied it.
Glock | |
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Tourer
Posts: 550
Tacoma, WA | The Vision handles much better than many of the other large bikes, including the street glide, and Ultra. Way stable!-----Metalguy | |
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Tourer
Posts: 377
O'Neill, Nebraska | I just rode mine through West Texas with 30+ side winds. Now that was fun!
Overall I think the bike handled well and when I finally got into town I was talking with another rider who was admiring my bike. When talking about the side winds he mentioned he's never really had a bike that did well in those type of winds. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Glock - 2008-08-28 9:20 PM Comparing it to my Valkyrie Interstate I believe the Vision is better in the wind. But I will add the Valk was a very nice ride to bad Honda Runied it. Glock Toshay! I actually liked Honda's and still do, they're solid and dependable, but they never got to where I really enjoyed riding them. I enjoyed them because they were affordable and dependable and they were a motorcycle. I started with a 350 and then a 750, and then the 1200 twenty years later. I looked at getting a Valk, but the guy that owned it, crashed. But when I sat on it, it felt very top heavy, more so than the GL1200. I'm glad that Victory made the Vision, and the timing was perfect. I was working myself up to an Indian, but they are out of my reasonable price range. I was going to ride my just bought GL1500 when the Vision should up at the dealer. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 235
Evergreen, CO | Headwinds, tailwinds and 90 degree crosswinds are not an issue on the Vision. I have experienced a 30-45 degree headwind/crosswind that makes the Vision feel like it is riding on marbles. Was VERY unnerving the first time I experienced it. Luckily, it does not happen often. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 294
rhode island | Took the the trunk off for a change yesterday, 50 pounds makes a serious differance in handling and some
wind drag. Never had a problem with cross winds, but without the tourpack this bike handles like a large sport bike.
mpg went up by 2 | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 102
Northeast Pennsylvania | I find the less you fight the steering the smoother it is. I've driven by 18 wheelers with minimal buffeting. Have not been in 30 plus side winds either. | |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 30
Bellevue, NE | I have been in 30 mph crosswinds on two-lane highways. When the wind came from the left it was all you could do to hang on when 18 wheelers came heading in the opposite direction. You would get the constant wind leaning you, then the compression blast from in front of the truck, followed by relative calm, then blasted again once the crosswind resumed after the trailer passed. It was literally rock and roll!
This lovely experience took place when I was riding Highway 2 across the Sandhills of Nebraska.
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| Some of you guys really make me laugh. Ok so the Vision doesn't handle the greatest in high mph gusty wind, just say it. To instead say well the Ultra, or this bike or that bike is terrible simply means you are dodging the question. Oh and when you add the likes of a Valk Interstate, Ultra, StreetGlide into the equation you are NO longer comparing apples. Fixed fairing bikes are always gonna win out in wind over a fork or bar mounted fairing bike in wind.
space cwboy, I share your experience and thanks for a little honesty. You know being honest can go an aweful long way. For example this post might well prevent some new or standing owner from going down because they are prepared for what MIGHT prove a different experience for them from what they are use to.
Maybe I just don't get all this denial stuff?? Where I come from and the groups I ride with it is important to be honest, sometimes to the point of painfully honest. Why folks feel they need to JUSTIFY is beyond me. You BOUGHT a Victory Vision. I assume you like the looks, the feel, the everything you could experience in the short test ride and showroom visit before purchase. You laid down the cash and now you own one. You don't have to justify that decision to anyone except yourself. If your happy with SOMETHING, thats great. If you are unhappy with SOMETHING thats great to, and you're entitled to say, think, express it as such. ALL bikes will have SOMETHING you don't like, do like, unsure of, etc.... I have yet to ride, own, or hear of the PERFECT machine.... wow, rant over, lol... I'm going out and ride. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 64
Altoona, Wisconsin | Teach,
I'm really sorry you have had problems with your Vision. I haven't and think it's a great bike. It is the best handling and riding bike I've owned in 35 years of riding. I prefer it to the GoldWing or Cavalcade touring bikes I've had for handling, perforance and ride. ANY motorcycle will feel wind. Is the Vision perfect? No, but name any vehicle - car, motorcycle, truck - that is. Again, I'm sorry you seem to have a problem with every detail of your bike, but I'm tired of hearing your constant complaints about it. I would personally hate to have to deal with you as a customer because you would never be satisfied regardless of the situation. I'm surprised you haven't complained that the ignition key isn't shiny enough for you. Wow, my rant is over. Have a safe Labor Day weekend everyone. | |
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 36
Tonopah,NV | My last three bikes were a Valkyrie, 1800 Wing and another Valkyrie. While all three were good bikes, I don't think they hold a candle to a Vision. I ride what ever I'm riding like a sport bike. I will go hundreds of miles out of my way to ride twisty roads. The Vision is by far the best handling big bike I have ever owned. I live in the middle of Nevada, and Nevada is famous for wind. I have been in some very strong gusty wind since I bought the Vision, and she amazed me by how little she is affected by the wind. The wind feels like it is trying to blow me off the bike, and blow my head off my shoulders, and the Vision hardly notices. Mine is a SSG Tour Premium, and I will never know how she handles with out the trunk, because my wife rides with me and she loves the Vision every bit as much as I do. On the Valkyries and the Wing, she would only ride with me occasionally. Now she won't let the Vision out of the garage with out her on it. Hoorah! Now she is making plans for our next ride while we are still on our last ride. She would never concider taking a vacation on a bike, now she is making plans for our next vacation, on the bike. Hoorah, again. Did I mention, it is also by far the most comfortable bike I have ever owned. The Vision is #13 over the last 52 years. Thank you Polaris. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| StarChief, I would like to personally thank you for your post. You see the JUSTIFICATION almost ALWAYS takes one of two forms. There is the switch I previously mentioned and then there is the ATTACK which you just under-took. Like I said you guys make me laugh.
Great its the best bike "you've" ever ridden, and other than that YOU agreed with everything "I" stated previously. My comments have/had absolutely NO connection with ANY mechanical issue I might have had. "I" actually stayed on topic and it is YOU who brought this into another and unrelated realm. So when you are done applauding yourself maybe you'll come on back here and tell folks how uncalled for your comments were. I sure won't hold my breath. Oh and ANY bike performs better than the Cavalcade which was overweight, underpowered, slow reacting and extremely heavy. The QUESTION was how does the VISION stack up to other full dressers w/fixed fairings in high winds.... | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 294
rhode island | Boy this wind thing really hit a nerve, I believe they spent much time in the wind tunnel with awsome results.
We new englanders don't get the cross winds like nevada, but with the slippery lines of the vision this bike slices
thru the air like no other. No head buffetting at all tells me there's very little turbulance. 
Edited by sandman 2008-08-29 5:40 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 64
Altoona, Wisconsin | Teach:
If I hit a nerve with you, so be it. I'm just glad that I didn't rely on posts like yours before deciding to buy my Vision. If I had, I would have thought it was a mechanical piece of junk that didn't handle well and was full of faulty parts and equipment. I would have never bought any Victory in that case.
As it is, I am extremely happy with mine. I haven't had the problems with it that you apparently have. Maybe you got a lemon - I don't know. As with any first year bike (or car for that matter) there can always be growing pains. I am confidant that Victory and my dealer will take care of any problems that might pop up. I also bought the extended warranty when I bought the bike so am covered for five years. But as I said before, I haven't had any issues with the Vision. And again, I'm glad I didn't rely on posts like yours because I would have missed out on owning a great motorcycle. I think it is you that is trying to justify your bike with all of the problems you obviously have with it. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 261
Sugar Land, TX (Outside of Houston) | pastor - 2008-08-29 3:40 PM
My last three bikes were a Valkyrie, 1800 Wing and another Valkyrie. While all three were good bikes, I don't think they hold a candle to a Vision. I ride what ever I'm riding like a sport bike. I will go hundreds of miles out of my way to ride twisty roads. The Vision is by far the best handling big bike I have ever owned. .
Here, Here Pastor - I just sold my 99 Valkyrie Interstate today and I loved that bike. But the Vision is my new Baby and it is so much more fun to ride than My Suzuki, the Valkyrie and my Son's Sport Bike. I got on the Valk today to meet the buyer (after not having ridden it for a month) and it felt so cramped and "Old". Sure - It is a hot engine and runs great, but put it beside the Vision and I would take the Vision again.
Are we sure Teach is not a HD Plant on the Forum? Just kidding, Teach. I am sorry you have had problems, but I am enjoying the heck out of m Vision. And the only problem I have had so far (which will be fixed next week) is the mis-aligned left bag.
Richard
Edited by rmclarty 2008-08-29 7:12 PM
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Never mind, it is not worth the point, I'm out to go riding.
Edited by varyder 2008-08-29 7:46 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 247
| hang in there teach. i've fallen victim here too for voicing my opinion. used to be a kool-aid drinking harley rider so i can sympathize.
the vision has some really great points. handles very very well. looks phenomenal, slips the wind well, nice radio and features. probably as good a first year bike as one can expect....but.....some design trade off issues, safety issues and technical problems leave it just that, as good a first year bike as one can expect. when i bought it the female accessory said "are you nuts buying a first year version?". but i had checked out victory's track record and my dealer and made the plunge. i, as are you, am banking on victory to fix these issues without too much hassle. right now i am waiting for them to provide me with a windshield to replace the one which they admit distorts the road. and i am not happy about having to pay to paint the console to get rid of the glare. both of these issues should never have been let out of the factory... but they were. and to answer the question at hand, this bike slips the wind well except quartering into a heavy cross wind. then it sucks. not as good as the ultra imho. so be it. | |
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Tourer
Posts: 377
O'Neill, Nebraska | exharleyrider - 2008-08-29 7:38 PM
the vision has some really great points. handles very very well. looks phenomenal, slips the wind well, nice radio and features. probably as good a first year bike as one can expect....but.....some design trade off issues, safety issues and technical problems leave it just that, as good a first year bike as one can expect. when i bought it the female accessory said "are you nuts buying a first year version?".
What safety issues are you referring to? This would be nice to know if its true. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | yes! Please tell us before we ride another mile. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| StarChief, would that be another ATTACK or another Dodge fo the facts? I'm a wee bit confused by your reply. The question was how do they stack up to which I replied.
Now PLEASE show me exactly where I complained about the Visions handling??? Maybe some reading comprehension lessons would help you figure out A. What the original question was .B. What I said in my reply
Keep that warranty someplace real safe.... If you ever put some miles and hours on that Vision of yours you might actually need it.
Finally I would assume that any intelligent person would NOT rely on ONE bikes reported issues, or one persons likes or dislikes. That my friend is EXACTLY what this post was about. Feedback on what SEVERAL folks thought about the Visions handling in heavy wind verses OTHER bikes. I'm sorry you are so insecure. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | I'm just glad the Vision is steady in all situations for me. I hope others learn to ride it like it is suppose to be ridden. Not being in tune with one's ride is asking for disaster. I would recommend that being timid is reason to park a motorcycle until you take a safety course. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 247
| my bike, and every other i have looked at, has distortion in the top 3 or 4 inches of the windshield. on a winding uphill, where you are looking through the top of the shield, it is bad enough to cause the white and yellow lines to meet about 50 feet in front of the bike. you have to look over or around the shield to see the road or you have to put the windshield down which beats up your passenger. to compound the problem the console reflects onto the top 6" of the windshield when the sun is anywhere behind you. this is the same as putting a white paper on the dash of your car. the reflection can be very distracting in your car. on the bike it is hard to look through. the dealer agrees both are a problem. it is something Victory should never have let out and both situations have been mentioned here by others.
i told the dealer i have a hard time paying for a cee bailey windshield with no distortion or to have the console painted when those i have cost 20,000.
in addition to that there are two recalls which cause the bike to quit at speed. one is on the ignition switch. that wasn't something they could anticipate so no issue there and they are standing behind it. the cruise control switches don't function. i can't decelerate using the switch. i have to hit the brake. no recall so far but a lot of people have mentioned the switch issues. cracked headlights, cracked brake lines have also been mentioned.
like i said, it is a good first year bike but it could have been a great bike, period, if Victory had thought a little more about function while they were creating a great design. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 247
| please forgive poor timid me for posting my opinion--gotta adjust my koolaid dosage. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | I can agree with you Victory should have taken more care in some regards. However, in spite of those situations it has not affected my decision to purchase this bike. I had the stall problem which proved to be dirty plugs. Also, any recall or warranted issues are being corrected. Therefore, I think I have gotten more than my monies worth just because of the way this bike rides and handles. On my GW I could grow tired of riding because of it's quirks, but the Vision I have make myself stop riding it to get other things done. I rode in to work in the pouring rain Thursday and got off with a big smile thinking "man what a ride" Ride on!
Edited by varyder 2008-08-30 12:34 AM
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Tourer
Posts: 404
San Antonio, TX United States | I have to admit, I get to work relaxed and with a smile on my face as well.
This is one of those great things about the internet. Imagine how much discourse could have taken place on the first year goldwings? overheating, excessive leg scorching heat, drivelines locking up, electrical gremlins and look at the legions of Goldwing riders still. Sort of like BMW and their blatant denial of an issue with their high end over the top designed drive line that has actually caught fire from the heat. Nothing like the advent of instant communication.   | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 64
Altoona, Wisconsin | Teach - 2008-08-29 10:28 PM
StarChief, would that be another ATTACK or another Dodge fo the facts? I'm a wee bit confused by your reply. The question was how do they stack up to which I replied.
Now PLEASE show me exactly where I complained about the Visions handling??? Maybe some reading comprehension lessons would help you figure out A. What the original question was .B. What I said in my reply
Keep that warranty someplace real safe.... If you ever put some miles and hours on that Vision of yours you might actually need it.
Finally I would assume that any intelligent person would NOT rely on ONE bikes reported issues, or one persons likes or dislikes. That my friend is EXACTLY what this post was about. Feedback on what SEVERAL folks thought about the Visions handling in heavy wind verses OTHER bikes. I'm sorry you are so insecure.
"The Vision gets bounced around far worse than most big tours I've owned" - This is what you said early in this particular thread. I would think most people reading that would take it as a complaint about the Vision's handling. Did you mean something else?
I have over 5000 miles on my Vision since the end of June, which considering I work 6 days a week is getting a fair amount of riding in. I have NOT had the issues and problems that you have had. Again, I feel sorry for you for having so many problems with the Vision, but I don't think most other owners have had them. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| StarChief, you quoted PART of what I said, NOT what I said and that my friend is the PROBLEM. Finish reading what "I" wrote and don't put "your" own spin on it this time. I said it gets bounced around far worse UNTIL you learn its handling characteristics. I ALSO said it is the RIDER getting bounced by the wind that results in the handling characteristics. I clarified in my reply to varyder.
The question was how would we rate the Vision compared to other similar tours. I think I pretty well stated the vision is in the hunt with GW's, BMW's, but not with the RG.... I also specified WHY the RG was in a different league (aka less plastic). So if you read what I wrote, not what you chose to read in, yes I meant something else.
As for what problems (I call them bugs) I have had? Well that isn't applicable here in this post, nor am I getting all in an uproar over it. You know a person can have problems/bugs and state that.... and still like the Vision. Yes I have some bugs, NO I have not gotten rid of the bike. Why? Because they aren't a big deal. One would EXPECT a new design to have bugs, mine does, so does yours...You simply haven't experienced them YET. Just remember this conversation when you do (and you will). Frankly I'd rather find them or have them present themselves NOW so I can get them addressed NOW. So in reality I feel sorry for you NOT having them yet.
As I stated in another post which addressed issues.... the problems I have encountered are minor BUT the Vision has never left me nor given any indication it would leave me stranded.... THAT is the big picture.
Ride safe........ T
Something to ponder... If these bugs were not addressed on a site devoted to the Vision and you were about dropping 30k on the anniversary addition (like one of our members). Then you get the bike and experience the worst case senario (all the bugs). How BAD of a reputation do you think Victory is going to get from the bad mouthing in public due to the unanticipated bugs???
I frankly believe Victory will go over the 10th models with a fine tooth comb to prevent as much as possible any defects. I also believe the Vision is a great bike even with the bugs, and the aforementioned member would be MISSING out on a great bike. However if said member isn't one to accept a few minor issues its WAY better to know before dropping 30k don't you think? Just something to ponder. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 143
Sparta, WI | The Vision Premium is long and high. She lets me know when it is windy. Came back from Minneapolis on I 94 to Black River Falls WI in 40 mph cross winds right after I bought it back in June. That was intense. The bike didnt move across the road as much as it was leaning. Funny thing is that I kept passing other bikes, mostly Harleys. I was riding two up and with me and Vivian between us about 450 pounds and all the gear we had I felt anchored. Never rode without the trunk but am sure it would handle a lot better in the wind. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | One thing I think I am glad of is that most riders don't even view these forums. This one can certainly be a source of utter confusion. I wouldn't even dare say that any one would even experience the problems I have had, as there may be some "so called" perfect bikes out there. When I purchased the 84 GL1200 GoldWing with 25K on it it started having the charging problem that so many folks experienced. In fact had I known that was a problem I wouldn't even have made the purchase. I like to ride and not to fix, but I am a certified fixer. So after I started having the problem I went to the internet and low and behold this problem was one that Honda did recogonize for the years 84 - 86 and did a recall to change the stator to original owners only when they went bad. However, they never did fix the problem so those with the problem could expect about 30k on the bike before going through a $1,000 repair bill to change the stator. But someone came up with a Poorboy fix that put a Geo Metro alternator on the front with a mod and an additional pulley. That is what I did and rode the bike for many more miles just like that. However, I was under the impression that EVERYBODY had this problem and EVERYBODY knew about it. So every time I saw a GL1200 rider 84 - 86 I asked how many miles and how did they fix their problem. Their answer was HUH!, what are you talking about, I've got over 100k and have never had that problem. So, these things (forums) can be so confusing because a slice, no a sliver gets on a forum and rattles about all the myriad of problems they have then a few lurkers or participants read and say "Oh my, what a piece of junk!" and never experience the Vision. While all along, there are many people out there riding away without problems or complaints. And I'm sure if they do have problems they don't post it on the billboards of the internet but rather go to the dealer and say, "I have a problem can you fix it?" and in turn get it resolves. Honestly, if I was to have read this forum after the Vision came out and before I bought one, I would be most miserable on that GL1500 that I bought or would have purchased a GL1800 GoldWing, settling for what I would consider a slightly less than perfect ride. With 20.5k on the clock and counting, I have made my assesment that nothing TO ME can touch the Vision, hands down, no kool ade, just facts. All you have to do is ask my knees, back and my wife. I'm burning inside because I have to get yardwork done today that I have neglected like never before, and the sun is shining. It wasn't that hard to stop on the weekends with the Honda, but the Vision is one that has to be experienced. Call me sick or obsessed, but this bike is the embodiment of what a ride should be, if you're in for the long hauler and the round towner in one. If you are into imaging or profiling, then ride what you think you look cool on. This bike if for go, not show, but it does get a mound of compliments on its look. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 102
Northeast Pennsylvania | Teach - 2008-08-30 11:11 AM
something to ponder... If these bugs were not addressed on a site devoted to the Vision and you were about dropping 30k on the anniversary addition (like one of our members). Then you get the bike and experience the worst case senario (all the bugs). How BAD of a reputation do you think Victory is going to get from the bad mouthing in public due to the unanticipated bugs???
I frankly believe Victory will go over the 10th models with a fine tooth comb to prevent as much as possible any defects. I also believe the Vision is a great bike even with the bugs, and the aforementioned member would be MISSING out on a great bike. However if said member isn't one to accept a few minor issues its WAY better to know before dropping 30k don't you think? Just something to ponder.
How do you qualify yourself to tell someone they will have the same problems (bugs) you have on your bike. Do you have information on all of the 2000 or more Visions on the road.
You seem to be popular these days Teach. Correct me if I'm wrong which I have a feeling you will. I thought Victory addressed problems with bikes thru the dealers. If there was a problem over a period that ended up being on a number of bikes reported by the dealers thru warranty work, Victory would use that info to correct problems on future bikes. I think that they would not rely on our ranting threads. Like someone eluded to prior, maybe someone that had alterior motives may be making more of an issue than really exists. The only way to get any widespread problems fixed will be thru warranty claims. After reading these threads, other than a few real problems that are talked about here, there aren't many wide encompassing problems that exist. I'm sure Victory will fix what may be wrong with the bike on future models as they have in the past. That's why they're still in business and putting out great bikes every year. And we, in the meantime will get our bikes fixed thru a great warranty program, since we did buy the 1st year and figured we may find some problems while we ride the rubber off the wheels.
So, if you accuse me of being blinded by the brand..you may be correct. I have nothing but great things to say about Victory and the service I've recieved for the last 9 years and 3 bikes (of which are all still turnin out the miles). Ride on. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 247
| one point that you both make is there is info here to be used. anyone who does not own a vision will read in these threads that it is the best handling tourer on the market, it is great in the rain, it gets mega cudos in the "looks" arena, that tire wear is very good, that the lights light up the road very well at night, the the tip over points will save your ass at least once in the bikes lifetime, and that the bike is at least as good from our perspective as any of the other tourers on the market and that is something to say for a first year bike.
anyone who own a Vision will learn that there are problems which need to be addressed before your warrantee runs out. for my situation the dealer included a 6 year front to back warrantee which is good for the warranteeable items but there are some things which Victory has yet to admit. Personally i probaby would have ignored my cruise switch problem because i don't use it that much but i guarantee down the road it would have gone bad and then i would not have had a good feeling for Victory. Now i know they are working on it. Worse, i might not have known about the ignition switch recall and could have been injured or worse. Same with dimples, bag alignment, separating headlights, etc. i'm glad for all the info here because it makes mine a better safer experience. does anyone believe the dealer when he says "you're the only one with that problem." wouldn't you rather be able to address issues while they are minor rather that having a break down or expensive repair. wouldn't you rather know heat is normal with this bike and any v-twin air cooled engine for that mattter and the fix for it?
i don't remember reading any post anywhere saying that this bike is a piece of crap which should never have been built. i have seen a few people, present company excluded, who will not brook any negative comment and that is unfortunate because it might cause someone to not post an issue for fear of reprisal and we would all be poorer for that.
now go to your corner and wait for the next incendiary issue. remember to fight nice. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1290
Ruskin, Fl | Very well put Exharleyrider. This is only my second motorcycle and I will have it 3 months today. I'm a hundred miles short of 6K and I'd be riding right now if I hadn't gotten side tracked giving it a coat of Liquid Glass. I have had some minor glitches, but having the coolest bike around that handles so well and leaves my buddy's 88 CDI Heritage Softtail on the dust is well worth is. I have a cool car, at least in my opion, and am disappointed when I have to drive it to work instead of the Vision.
All the problems people talk about with the Vision still are not as bad as owning a GM product. I know alot of Chevy guys won't be happy, but... My wife bought a 2007 Pontiac G6 with retractable hardtop against my advice (remember, a Ford guy here). First year it that model was available. She has been back to the dealer six times that I know about. She won't tell me anymore when the car acts up. I know when I see the dealer's loaner in the driveway. So far no trouble with the top, but it has more little motors and relays than you can shake a stick at. A soon as the top starts to malfunction I told here to get rid of the car ASAP.
Edited by cw1115 2008-08-30 1:13 PM
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Tourer
Posts: 332
Dale, Indiana | There's two things that make my Vision a realy cool bike.
It's a Victory
and me on it!
Oh yeah da wind and those nasty trucks that make wind.
I about pooped in my shorts the first time I had to pass a truck on the interstate.
Did poop the first really windy day.
Didn't know wind (and heat) was a problem so I just rode on because I was a blind Vision groupy. Thought I pooped and about pooped because I hadn't rode a bike in over 20 years, and that last bike was 750 Honda (little compared to today's bikes).
After sitting and riding a few mile now the bike and I are now one. We can handle about anything! Wind? What wind? We just go on into the sunset!
Only thing I have noticed once me and the bike got used to each other. On windy crosswind days the bugs will hit you in the face. Put down helmit shield seems to help.
I do find if refreshing that I am a novice.
I just don't know what should be wrong, thus I am happy when I ride.
Edited by Indiana RoadRunner 2008-08-30 3:52 PM
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Jacksonville Florida | Croos winds in South Dakota last week were gusting to 50 MPH. Outside of Kansas City the weather was so bad I expected to see Dorothy and Toto fly bye at any minute. Could not see through the windshiled the rain was so heavy and the radio had the wind gust at 40 MPH. South of Atlanta started to encounter the remnants of hurricane Fay. Tornado warning in effect and raining to beat the band. Wind gust were forecasted to be in the 45 MPH range. What it all boils down to is, it doesn't matter if you are in a Kenworth, an Esaclade or on a Victory Premium it's all relevant. You will have to use your skills. It seems to me that when you do encounter these weather conditions if you ride it like a GP bike "stomach on the tank" it reduces the sail area and the bike is easily controlled. Can't comment about other cruisers bacause this is my first touring bike. | |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Thanks IRR and LR, I guess that is my problem, I'm a novice to compared to the experts so think I'm suppose to feel what they are feeling in certain situations but ain't. I echo again what you mentioned and I have on numerous occassions: "On the Vision, man and machine are one" | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 208
Edmonton Alberta, Canada | Week 2 with new Vision, on a 1500 mile trip, nasty side wind gusting up to 50 mph. On a 2 lane highway cruising at 60mph needed the whole lane and sometimes more. Made it to the divided hwy, pulled her up to 70-75 mph to get ahead of a truck......to our amazment the side wind no longer bothered us. So I belive that the aroedynamics work rather well. Just need to go faster is all. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 59
| My last bike was a Victory Hammer. Passing an 18 wheeler on that thing was down right scary. My Vision acts as if the truck isn't even there. I can't think of any other bike that can handle crosswinds with the ease this bike does. Strong enough winds will effect anything. I'm sure Victory didn't spend 7 million in R & D and not think of this issue. Would be interesting to see how well it would do against other brands in a controlled study | |
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Visionary
Posts: 1436
| victory2002, First off let me say I believe, no I am sure you misinterpretted what I stated. Perhaps a poor choice of word (address) on my part. So replace the word address with discuss. I was not referencing what VICTORY might or might not address through warranty, but rather little things we ourselves might address. In other words we should be able to discuss HERE both the GOOD and the BAD of our experience or things we have found out through trial and error.
You are correct in that I have drawn a great deal of attention as of late, mostly negative. Odd that when I post GOOD stuff no one beefs, but god help you if you post anything even remotely negative, or WORSE yet that the Vision is NOT the best thing to come along since pockets. NEWSFLASH: All bikes do different things better and worse than others.
Secondly, hmmm well I believe if I SHARE what VICTORY has stated is a problem (aka BROKE), because I HEARD IT FROM Victory, then it qualifies me to say YOU have the same bugs and so does every other 2008 owner. Victory IS and WILL address the issues that are common to ALL Visions. In addition hey will address the issues specific to yours or my bike. You know folks were bitching and griping up a storm about paint when I first came here. I could have joined in the bitching but it would not have been productive. I KNEW of a fix that would help those already experiencing paint issues and prevent it from becoming a issue for new owners. I posted it and several have taken it upon themselves to get it done. I'm not interested in fighting, arguing, etc.. with ANYONE here. "IF" I have some knowledge of something that is in the works by Vic, I feel its appropriate to pass it on. "IF" I come across some info that might be of interest to members here I feel its appropriate to pass it on. If I know of a way to overcome an issue folks are experiencing I try to share.
So if we disagree, if you don't feel its applicable to you or your bike, that is cool by me. Ignore what I post. Trust me my feelings will not be hurt one bit...... but drop the personal attack crap. If you have a question I can answer I'll be more than happy to try, if there is something you'd like to run past me feel free, need some change to run your bike through the car wash... I'd be glad to chip in, but knock off the Internet bravado.
I answer all posts as honestly as I can because it would not be fair to do anything less. I would hope others feel and act the same. Your dealer WILL be getting a bulletin on the bar mounted controls and I "suspect" the headlite assy pretty soon. I'm sure there will also be a bulletin for the radio antenna and perhaps a few other things like windshields. I do not anticipate a large number of bikes to experience a shock bushing failure, or irregular tire wear.... But it is nice to ask if anyone else has had a similar repair. A few days after purchasing my vision I posted a similar question about handling when behind semi's and stated it felt like riding on marbles. A few members with some saddle time on their Visions INFORMED me to loosen my grip instead of tightening up. It was GREAT advice and helpful. Had I gotten a BS answer that the Vision handles perfect it would have taken me longer to figure out the cure. Extremes either pro or con help no one.
I hope you get where I'm coming from because I damn sure have NO intentions of explaining myself over and over again, nor should I have to. You want to KNOW what I think about the Vision go read the reviews I wrote after my first long ride. I ahve had many issues since but none that have changed my views about the bike. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 117
South of Houston Tx | I haven't added my two cents to this thread yet mainly because I didn't feel at all qualified to compare the Vision's capability against any other big touring bikes. I, like Indiana road runner, haven't been on another bike for a while (over 10 years for me). Also like him the last bikes I rode where in the 750 cc range and to be quit honest I don't remember even ever thinking about cross wind on a motorcycle before the Vision. I can say that the first time my wife and I took it for a ride across Texas on I 10 to Louisiana we did experience a lot of cross wind, but it didn't deter me from enjoying the ride. Since then I have ridden in cross winds a lot and no longer even think about it, I don't know if I just got used to the way it handles and make my adjustments or what, but I no longer notice it. I can also say that a couple weeks ago I attached a Ram mount on my vision and stuck my camera on it. My father-in-law and I headed down to check out the surf , he on his new Vulcan 900 and me on the vision. I wanted to get some footage of the Gulf of Mexico as we were coming over the intercoastal waterway bridge. We stopped at a convenience store for a drink when we were just about there and I told him to get in front of me going over the bridge because if the shot of the Gulf didn't turn out, at least I would have some footage of him riding. When we got to the bottom and pulled over he told me, "that cross wind on the bridge was horrible, it nearly ran me in the wall one time". I didn't even notice a cross wind, but as we played back the video we saw the part he was talking about and it pushed him from the far left side of the lane over against the wall on the right, then I remembered him moving over but just thought he was doing it. I do get a little wind buffeting when I go around big trucks but it usually only bothers me if I don't have my dew rag tied tight, then I feel like I'm gonna lose it, so I got one hand on my head, and the other on the throttle, the bike must not move as much as I do because it's easy to control with the one hand. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 64
Altoona, Wisconsin | varyder - 2008-08-30 10:45 AM
So, these things (forums) can be so confusing because a slice, no a sliver gets on a forum and rattles about all the myriad of problems they have then a few lurkers or participants read and say "Oh my, what a piece of junk!" and never experience the Vision. While all along, there are many people out there riding away without problems or complaints. And I'm sure if they do have problems they don't post it on the billboards of the internet but rather go to the dealer and say, "I have a problem can you fix it?" and in turn get it resolves. Honestly, if I was to have read this forum after the Vision came out and before I bought one, I would be most miserable on that GL1500 that I bought or would have purchased a GL1800 GoldWing, settling for what I would consider a slightly less than perfect ride. With 20.5k on the clock and counting, I have made my assesment that nothing TO ME can touch the Vision, hands down, no kool ade, just facts.
Very well said. I haven't experienced any issues, but am confidant that if I do, my dealer will take care of them for me. Now, in the case of a safety defect, I would be happy to hear about it from anyone and everyone that has it because of the potential problems, injuries, or worse that could be prevented. Perhaps the best solution would be for the MODS to create a forum for people to post specific problems they have had. Then, depending on how many similar replies there may be, we would know if it is a widespread problem or an isolated issue. I'm sure Victory would like to know that as well. There is a huge difference between a faulty design and a defective part. If one windshield develops a crack, that is a faulty part - if 100 of them do, its a faulty design or manufacturing defect. | |
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Cruiser
Posts: 117
South of Houston Tx | StarChief - 2008-08-31 9:00 AM
Perhaps the best solution would be for the MODS to create a forum for people to post specific problems they have had.
I thought that was part of the reason for the Tech Q&A section?
StarChief - 2008-08-31 9:00 AM
Then, depending on how many similar replies there may be, we would know if it is a widespread problem or an isolated issue. I'm sure Victory would like to know that as well. There is a huge difference between a faulty design and a defective part. If one windshield develops a crack, that is a faulty part - if 100 of them do, its a faulty design or manufacturing defect.
The dealerships should have access to this kind of knowledge without the need of our posts here, but it is a great tool for any Vision owners that have lazy service personnel that wont take the time to keep up with the wealth of knowledge provided them through a good dealer network in this high tech information age we live in. I personally have no problem with people posting concerns they have with their Vision, it's the people who read them and develop a negative biased opinion of a great motorcycle without ever having experienced it for themselves, that i think of as shallow. The bottom line is that "ALL" vehicles have issues, especially first year models, just keep in mind that for every problem you read about there are 100's of other Visions that don't have the same issue. | |
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The Vision and cross winds