2011 Victory Cross Roads

• Model: Cross Roads
• Engine Type: 1731-cc, two-cylinder
• Bore and Stroke: 3.97 inches x 4.26 inches
• Compression ratio: 9.4:1
• Valve Train: SOHC
• Induction: N/A
• Ignition: Electric
• Transmission: Six-speed
• Final Drive: Belt
• Fuel Capacity: 5.8 gallons
• Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
• Brakes (Front): Dual hydraulic, 11.8-inch disc
• Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 11.8-inch disc
• Suspension (Front): Inverted fork
• Suspension (Rear): Twin-sided swing arm
• Wheelbase: 65.7 inches
• Rake: N/A
• Trail: N/A
• Seat Height: 26.3 inches
• Curb Weight: 745.2 pounds
• Tires (Front): 130/70 R18 Dunlop Elite 3
• Tires (Rear): 180/60 R16 Dunlop Elite 3

• There is now a new speedometer/instrument cluster.
• The transmission was overhauled and is now smoother and less noisy.
• New warning lights.
• LCD screen.

The 2011 Victory Cross Roads does not offer quite the performance or the amenities of its upscale sibling Cross Country, but the bike may just give buyers even more bang for their buck. The Cross Roads is by no means an inexpensive bike, but it was designed for everyday use in mind and should tackle all of a buyer’s needs. Victory has also equipped the 2011 Victory Cross Roads with an enormous list of available options, so buyers can customize the bike to meet their specifications. The styling is very sure of itself, although the appearance changes based on the options that the customer chooses to purchase. A case in point is the windshield. Victory gives customers the option of going without a windshield, or buyers can select from low, medium-height, or tall windshields. Going without a windshield provides the ultimate feeling of liberation and will be suitable for easy driving conditions. However, those who regularly drive in windy conditions appreciate the added security of the windshields.

One of the main perks of the 2011 Victory Cross Roads is that it is significantly cheaper than the 2011 Victory Cross Country, while still offering roughly similar performance. The responsiveness is swift and the Cross Roads has a very well-designed suspension, although the handling and acceleration are still a bit slow. It is likely that the slow acceleration is the result of the hefty weight of the bike. The heft also means that customers may want to think twice before springing for some of the available options. For example, the hard saddlebags that are available, while handsome, may just push the weight over the edge for some buyers.

One issue that may deter some buyers with regard to the 2011 Victory Cross Roads concerns the seat height, which is particularly low. Without a doubt, Victory is to be commended for including a second seat, which Victory also had the foresight to make detachable. However, the low seats make it so that tall riders are virtually guaranteed an uncomfortable ride. Of course, the benefit of the low height is that the feel is generally sportier than it would otherwise be, but the low seats are still likely to turn off some prospective buyers. Unfortunately, the seats are also not adjustable, so buyers should really take the time to see whether they are suitable. Additionally, although the vinyl seats are generally quite comfortable, it would have been nice if Victory had included heated seating as one of the available options.