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Cruiser
Posts: 78
| Ok, boys and girls,,,,would like some input as to whether Vision or CCT. I just came of 10 years of riding 1800 Goldwings and knees can no longer take the seating position and I want to try something different.
Here is my riding usage of the motorcycle:
2 up 20-25% of the time of which 60% will be short (1-4 hour rides) and 20% will be longer than 4 hours. Rest of time will be < 1 hour
1 up the balance of time with that usage being 30% escorting with a lot of two lane turnarounds. For this usage I will be installing CB radio and flashing LED lighting similar to LEO lights. The balance would just riding with the guys on lunch rides or any other excuse I can come up with to ride.
35-50% will be aggressive riding in the twisties and the balance superslab to get there. On the super slab MPH will be a little less than 85 mph.
With this in mind, which model would suit my needs better? May be adding a trailer so storage is needed but not foremost.
Any MUST HAVES i.e. hyd clutch if CCT, wind deflection etc. I am in Texas and it does get warm here sometimes.
Thanks.
Edited by bigdogtx 2012-11-11 8:29 PM
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | I'm biased since I have a Vision, but we rode the CCT on demo ride and both the wife an I agree we're keeping the Vision. The CCT is a nice bike, but it's just not a Vision. The lower wind deflectors for the Vision do dual duty in keeping the heat off in hot weather and the cold and rain off in cold and rainy weather.
80 MPH with the cruise control on is the sweet spot on a Vision on the super slab. I ride one handed, switching hands, or even with no hands at that speed often. Just relax and let the miles go by.
I didn't get the chance to ride the CCT in a lot of twisties but I can tell you the Vision thinks it's a 900 pound sport bike in the twisties. I don't know where all that weight goes, but it seems to disappear as soon as the speed goes above a slow walking pace. I did not feel as confident in the curves on the CCT, but that may have only been due to an unfamiliar bike.
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | There's only one choice, the Vision, if you want the ultimate ride. If your major concern is tupperware and other creature comforts, asethetics and the such, don't bother to ask, just get a CCT, but you'll be missing the ultimate RIDE. |
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Cruiser
Posts: 78
| Forgot to ask,,,,,I am also a darksider on the wing. Any darksiders on Victorys???? |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | all day, and night... |
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Tourer
Posts: 599
New Mexico | rdbudd - 2012-11-11 7:32 PM
I'm biased since I have a Vision, but we rode the CCT on demo ride and both the wife an I agree we're keeping the Vision.
+1
varyder - 2012-11-11 7:38 PM
There's only one choice, the Vision, if you want the ultimate ride.
+1
The Vision is the most comfortable bike around, boasting the best weather protection available, and superior handling. It is also more visible, and attracts more attention (good for escorting?)
I can't think of anything the CCT does better than the Vision. Two-Lane turn arounds, especially on gravel, will be challenging on both bikes. The CCT does have a bit more storage (which doesn't sound like an issue for you), and more traditional looks.
There are darksiders on Visions. I'm one of them. On my second rear Bridgestone Potenza with no issues. For me it seems to trade a bit of handling for longevity, better stopping power, and a slightly smoother ride.
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Cruiser
Posts: 185
Rhode Island | You have to ride them both then ride them again, one will fit you better than the other; for me the Vision just fit better.
Darkside has been done, I'm running the Dunlop Winter Sport and have no complaints.
Good luck, |
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Cruiser
Posts: 251
Mechanicsville, VA United States | Go test(demo ride)both, we as Vision riders are sold on everything about the Vision and I don't think you get an unbais opinion from none of us. Most of us have come from riding just about everything ever made and the Vision is number 1 on our list to all the rest.
I personnally don't think you can go wrong with a Vision...I demo'ed a CCT and a Vision, I'm 6'4" and the Vision
fit me much better, they both rode great and were comfortable but the Vision handle better IMHO.
I used to hate the looks of the Vision but not anymore....it gets lots of attention at the gas pumps too. The CCT gets it's too....when I demo'ed the CCT I noticed the bike kinda wobbled when coming to a stop and I didn't like that at all, I don't think it will cause any problems to you or the bike it's just the way it is.
Being that you're coming from a GW the Vision's got it's over all characteristics that might fanny your likes.
Good luck whatever you choose!
BTW I'm a future Darksider!
Edited by diamonbird 2012-11-12 8:32 AM
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Iron Butt
Posts: 1109
| I too rode a GW before I bought my Vision. The CC Tour wasn't out when I bought mine but I've ridden one since then. I still think I made the right choice. |
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Tourer
Posts: 500
| My riding patterns are somewhat similiiar to yours..I would choose the Vision "hands down" with no question....I have ridden several other Victory models on the test rides and none, IMHO, compare to the Vision...I also had a Goldwing and it was a nice ride, but then I rode the Vision and with the lower seat, long floorboards, adjustable windshield, better handling, etc. etc. I was sold!! Good Luck on your choice as both CCT and Vision are great bikes.... |
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Tourer
Posts: 599
New Mexico | diamonbird - 2012-11-12 7:31 AM
I demo'ed a CCT and a Vision, I'm 6'4" and the Vision
fit me much better, they both rode great and were comfortable but the Vision handle better IMHO.
Don't let diamonbird's size worry you. When I first test rode the Vision it fit me so well I was concerned Victory had limited their market to guys 6'1". Do a search and you will find, somehow, magically, the vision is a 'One-Size-Fits-Most' bike.
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Puddle Jumper
Posts: 30
Warrenton, VA | Boots - 2012-11-11 10:11 PM
rdbudd - 2012-11-11 7:32 PM
The CCT does have a bit more storage (which doesn't sound like an issue for you)
I agree with everything about the Vision with the exception of the above. It's a "bit" understated, the CCT has 41 gallons of storage vs 29 gallons on the Vision. That is not a bit more that falls into the significant category.
Edited by dnlbest 2012-11-12 11:21 AM
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Visionary
Posts: 2300
Georgia, west of Atlanta | Vision, seems better in all aspects except luggage capacity, the CCT wins that easily............. |
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Boots - 2012-11-12 11:48 AM diamonbird - 2012-11-12 7:31 AM I demo'ed a CCT and a Vision, I'm 6'4" and the Vision fit me much better, they both rode great and were comfortable but the Vision handle better IMHO. Don't let diamonbird's size worry you. When I first test rode the Vision it fit me so well I was concerned Victory had limited their market to guys 6'1". Do a search and you will find, somehow, magically, the vision is a 'One-Size-Fits-Most' bike. true that! I'm a shorter guy, tip-toes on the Gold Wing, flat footed on the Vision. I don't know of any bike on the market like Victory's that are as comfortable at a stop light as they are riding. Rode a Harley back in the summer, one of the big boys, and I was not impressed with any given point for, comfort, stopped, or riding, or the power. Mine is a worn out 106, I rode a 103 and I thought I was on a mini-bike, and it felt like it to. Not bashing, just offering my opinion, Victory has it right in everything except brainwashing..., well, they are getting closer with the Cross bikes.... |
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | Boots - 2012-11-12 10:48 AM
diamonbird - 2012-11-12 7:31 AM
I demo'ed a CCT and a Vision, I'm 6'4" and the Vision
fit me much better, they both rode great and were comfortable but the Vision handle better IMHO.
Don't let diamonbird's size worry you. When I first test rode the Vision it fit me so well I was concerned Victory had limited their market to guys 6'1". Do a search and you will find, somehow, magically, the vision is a 'One-Size-Fits-Most' bike.
Very true. I'm 5' 5" with a 28 inch inseam. On the Goldwing I have to choose one foot or the other to put on the ground. On the Vision, I can get both feet on the ground at the same time. BIG difference. On the Goldwing, reverse is an absolute must have for me. I don't have it on the Vision and get by pretty well, although I would have it if it were available for my '08. The Vision is far more comfortable than the Goldwing because I can stretch out completely on the Vision's long floorboards, or have my feet anywhere in between. The power windshield in conjunction with the lower wind deflectors gives us any option between a strong air flow on us or complete protection. The Goldwing has very good protection but it's a freaking oven in hot weather and the vents don't provide very much relief.
As far as storage space goes, the CCT is the class leader. However, when comparing the Vision to the 1800 Goldwing, we can pack just as much stuff on the Vision as we did on the Goldwing, although the GW's saddlebags are much easier to use. The Vision requires more careful packing, but it holds a lot too, if you plan ahead. The problem is the openings are smaller than the actual interior space. Two smaller bags in each side work better than one large one. The trunk space on the Goldwing and the Vision each hold about the same amount.
If you're going to pull a trailer, it's a moot point anyway.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-11-12 12:06 PM
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Cruiser
Posts: 78
| Wow,,,,,on a Cross Riders site and the Vision is the bike. I was kind of leaning that way just for the stability in the wind. So,,,,,,say I go with the Vision, what accessories are MUST HAVE??
If any of you have radar detectors or GPS; mount of your cockpit would be appreciated. Is there a way to integrate the radar detector into the communication system? How do you key the mic for the CB?
Now are there any years to stay away from??? I will be going with a black or white. Seems that the white was in 2011 only. Probably be a 2010 or 2011 as I "assume" the 5 year warranty transfers with the bike???
Really appreciate everyones input. Hope you don't mind a lot of questions. Just want to get all my ducks in a row immediately.  |
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | Just so you know, I'm reading your posts on the Vision-riders forum.
The factory CB comes with another set of controls that mount on the left handlebar and includes a Push-To-Talk button. Lots of us think it is easier to use if you move the stereo controls to the top and put the CB/Intercom controls on the bottom, which is what I did. Easy swap. There are GPS units that integrate with the communication system on the Vision and the Vision comes prewired to accept them. Others have adapted other GPS units into the system and have been able to integrate them with a little custom wiring. I can't speak to the radar detector issue.
The Vision has been a good machine from the get-go. There were a couple of minor issues with the 2008 models that involved the ignition switch and main circuit breaker, both of which are covered under recalls. The 2008 in particular had poor radio reception and those, and some 2009 models, had problems with the early stereos and CB integration, but many of those have since been replaced with later units by the factory. The bikes themselves have been reliable. There is no reverse available for the 2008, but it is for all later models (no mounting points for it on the 2008). No ABS on the earlier models, but they have linked brakes, similar to the Goldwing's, which work great. The later models have a neutral finder, but they seem to have more complaints than the earlier transmission. The recommended oil change interval is 2500 miles on the earlier bikes, although many of us go 5000 miles using synthetic oil. With the change to the neutral finder transmission., the oil change interval increased to 5000 miles. The earlier transmission showed what gear you are in at all times, but the newer one with the neutral finder goes blank when the clutch is pulled in at stops. The earlier bikes have gas springs to control the drop of the saddlebag doors, but the later ones just have a cable, which some have broken by letting the door drop too fast. The later ABS equipped bikes' saddlebag doors do not open as far down as earlier bikes' do, on the side the ABS unit lives in. The earlier bikes come stock with more chrome parts.
They are all good, but IMHO, the best ones are from 2009 until the change to ABS and the neutral finder transmissions. YMMV.
Edit: I consider the lower wind deflectors to be a "must have" ever since I put them on. They really work.
The Vision has good power stock, only a little less than the GW, but the simple addition of Lloydz cams, a top filter, and a fuel controller gives you power that exceeds the GL1800. Those of us who have it consider it a "must have". They should have come from the factory this way.
You might look for a used bike with Lloydz upgrades already done. You can have ABS if you want it. Visions are proving to have the longevity and reliability of a Goldwing so a few miles won't hurt.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-11-12 5:28 PM
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Iron Butt
Posts: 1066
Peru, IN | rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley. |
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Cruiser
Posts: 78
| Monkeyman - 2012-11-13 3:21 AM
rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley.
The vision looks deceiving on this part.
Edited by bigdogtx 2012-11-13 7:14 AM
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Visionary
Posts: 8144
New Bohemia, VA | Monkeyman - 2012-11-13 4:21 AM rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it. Ronnie Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley. Key word is "good rider", coming off my Gold Wing, I felt like a clutz most of the time. Did a lot of attempts to turn around that a "good rider" could do without thinking. Strangely, when I got on the Vision I suddenly became a good rider, doing things easily that found was a challenge on the Gold Wing. I even had a Gold Wing rider stand and watch me go through the MSF ERC on my Vision, and on our first break he asked me how long I had been riding. At the time I had only had the Vision a little more than a year and had been riding again for about 3 years. He had been riding for several years on his Gold Wing and did not think he could make the course well. Victory's makes it easier and safer to ride IMHO. |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 1066
Peru, IN | bigdogtx - 2012-11-13 8:11 AM
Monkeyman - 2012-11-13 3:21 AM
rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley.
The vision looks deceiving on this part.
I've ridden Harley Electra Glides on numerous occasions and own a Vision and the Vision wins hands down at slow/no speed manuvering (I know I spelled that wrong). I can't turn around in 14' but I can do it in 20' pretty easily. I rode my Nomad for a year and couldn't do that. |
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Visionary
Posts: 1632
Jasper, MO | Monkeyman - 2012-11-13 3:21 AM
rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley.
I don't know about Indiana roads, but here in Missouri, especially in the Ozarks, we have a lot of older two lane county roads that are less than 20 feet wide at the top and steeply crowned with sharp dropoffs and no shoulder. They are old asphalt paved roads that have been repaved several times, each time getting a little narrower at the top and with a vertical dropoff edge. Some of these roads are so narrow that two semi-trucks can barely meet without losing a mirror. There is no room for error. If you have to turn around on such a narrow, high crowned road, reverse comes in mighty handy. Most of the state owned 2 lane roads are a bit wider and many have shoulders, but not all of them. The one that runs through our little town is narrow outside of town, crowned, and has sharp dropoffs. Come show me how easy you turn around on it. It ain't anything like the Walmart parking lot.
I also said if you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it. It's just a problem for us short guys. Reverse comes in handy and I wish I had it.
Ronnie
Edited by rdbudd 2012-11-13 11:21 AM
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Tourer
Posts: 499
Chattanooga, TN | Ok, everyone here has given their opinion except me. Time for my .02 Get whatever you like the best. They both have their own uniqueness. After riding my '08 Vision for a few years, I cannot imagine riding anything else. If I had not gotten used to the Vision and I lived in Texas, I'd probably consider the XC over the Vision due to the heat on your lower legs. It isn't unbearable by any means. The Vision has been Sonny Barger's bike of choice for a while and he's in AZ. The heat can be alleviated as others have said with the optional lowers, but I don't think that completely solves the problem. As I said before, now that I am used t my Vision, when I test rode an XC this summer, it felt foreign, the handlebars/front end felt like they were under my chin. Like I was being pushed forward too far, sat on a Harley and it was much worse! I love the large dashboard and laid back feeling, like motorcycling ought to be enjoyed.
But still, get what you like best. Which one makes you want to ride the most? My bike sits in the garage beckoning me to come out and play when it is raining, when it is freezing, all hours of the day and night. And I have to oblige her. I have found the perfect match for me. |
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Visionary
Posts: 3006
San Antonio, TX | Howdy!
Over the last two weekends I was able to ride a Vision and a Cross County Tour many times. The demo truck was in town and the dealerships asked my if I would help out. My answer was...YES!
Bottom line is......Everyone sitting on the fence should ride both bikes. If you are going to ride a lot of Two-Up have the back set rider let you know what bike they prefer.
I was able to ride three different Cross bikes that had the short, tall and Klock Werks Flip wind shield.
I love the Vision and have no need switch. The Cross bikes have nothing that appeals to me....but others there just loved them. To each his own.
Ride on and ride safe! |
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Iron Butt
Posts: 1066
Peru, IN | rdbudd - 2012-11-13 12:14 PM
Monkeyman - 2012-11-13 3:21 AM
rdbudd - 2012-11-11 9:32 PM
If you are going to be doing a lot of two-lane turnarounds and you have a short inseam, the optional reverse would come in handy on either bike. If you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it.
Ronnie
Not sure what "two-lane turnarounds" have to do with anything. A good rider can make a U turn in about 18 feet. The RLaP guy can do it in about 14' (I think) and that's on a big Harley. My Vision turns a hell of a lot sharper/tighter than a Harley.
I don't know about Indiana roads, but here in Missouri, especially in the Ozarks, we have a lot of older two lane county roads that are less than 20 feet wide at the top and steeply crowned with sharp dropoffs and no shoulder. They are old asphalt paved roads that have been repaved several times, each time getting a little narrower at the top and with a vertical dropoff edge. Some of these roads are so narrow that two semi-trucks can barely meet without losing a mirror. There is no room for error. If you have to turn around on such a narrow, high crowned road, reverse comes in mighty handy. Most of the state owned 2 lane roads are a bit wider and many have shoulders, but not all of them. The one that runs through our little town is narrow outside of town, crowned, and has sharp dropoffs. Come show me how easy you turn around on it. It ain't anything like the Walmart parking lot.
I also said if you have a longer inseam, don't worry about it. It's just a problem for us short guys. Reverse comes in handy and I wish I had it.
Ronnie
Same kinds of roads in Indiana. A semi truck is 8' 6" wide (not counting the mirrors) so if 2 of them can pass, the road is at least 17' wide. I can turn around in about 17' without putting my feet down. I'll bet you can, too if you don't think about the width and just do it. Crowns have nothing to do with a U turn, either. I've seen figure 8s on a slope that would be a pain to walk on. BTW, figure 8s in a Walmart parking lot is just showing off.....and fun. 
"Come show me how easy you turn around on it." That sounds like an invitation for a beer. I'll be over in the spring. I'll bet you even show me up. |
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New CCT or Vision in sight....
