2011 Victory Vision Review

Intro

The 2011 Victory Vision is an excellent choice for touring motorcycles, as it has a ton of comfort, lots of power, and decent fuel economy. At full-speed during a long cruise with the radio or MP3 player going through the auxiliary jack, the 2011 Victory Vision is an excellent ride. However, the heavy weight may be a bit of a handful when maneuvering around town and in parking lots, especially for short riders with short legs. Regardless of the top-heavy design, the acceleration is decent, and after getting it all lined up to go, it is impressive. The Victory Vision comes in three trims, which are the Vision Tour, Vision 8-Ball, and Vision Arlen Ness Signature Series.

The Vision comes loaded down with comforts and luxuries compared to many bikes on the road. The use of storage compartments, heated grips, and extremely comfortable seating make it plush for a long ride. The 8-ball model offers extra stylistic changes, including pegs instead of a floorboard for the passenger. The Tour and Arlen models include a backrest and are easily customized with great additions. The engine produces 92 horsepower and 109 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the windshield is available as a powered windshield, which makes adjustments a piece of cake.

While the design may not be the classic designer popular to bagger and touring bikes, it is extremely sleek and well appointed with chrome exhausts. The price range is pretty wide thanks to the stripped down 8-ball model and the over adorned Arleen Ness edition. Additional features include cruise control, a stereo, and heated grips. The redesigned handlebars allow leverage to handle this heavy bike. The handling is rather nimble considering the weight. The styling won't be for everyone, but the power and comfort are unbeatable. The cons include somewhat cheap materials on certain parts, including the turn signals. Overall, it is a costly bike for the type that wants comfort but appreciates a good ride.

New For 2011

  • Anti-lock brakes are now standard for the 2011 Victory Vision Tour and Arlen Signature Series. Sensors on each wheel monitors speed and adjust for any slippage or wheel locking during braking to help driver maintain as much control as possible.
  • Tubular handlebars are new for 2011. These allow clamps and mounts for cup holders and other accessories.
  • The side storage compartment no longer has dampers.
  • Passenger handholds no longer have paint, and they are now easier and better to grip.
  • Exhaust tips are redesigned to look more like Victory Cross Country models.

2011 Victory Vision Specs

  • Models: Vision 8-Ball, Vision Arlen Ness, Vision Tour
  • Engine Type: 1731-cc V-2, four-stroke, two-cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 4.0 inches and 4.3 inches
  • Compression ratio: 9.4:1
  • Valve Train: Single overhead cams, four valves per cylinder.
  • Induction: Air and oil
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: six-speed, manual transmission
  • Final Drive: Belt
  • Fuel Capacity: Six gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 42 mpg
  • Brakes (Front): Dual Hydraulic, 11.8-inch disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 11.8 inch disc
  • Suspension (Front): 1.8-inch, telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 65.7 inches
  • Rake: N/A
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 26.5 inches
  • Curb Weight: 909 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 130/70 R18 Dunlop Elite 3
  • Tires (Rear): 180/60 R16 Dunlop Elite 3

Accessories

  • Accessory power outlet that allows for electrical devices to be plugged in and utilized.
  • Chrome accessories include chrome driver floorboards and side covers. Other covers available include a full body cover to protect for dust and direct and a half-cover.
  • Windshield options include a short windshield, a long windshield, and an electronic windshield kit, and a blade windshield. The electronic windshield allows for electronic adjustments of the windshield height using a simple push button located near the left grip.
  • The optional Garmin Zumo 660 GPS can be taken along for use in other vehicles, and it comes with MP3 and Bluetooth capabilities, which allow for music on the road if hooked up with the speakers, but this may be more trouble than it is worth. The GPS is water resistant, has touchscreen capabilities, and allows for saving information about routes.
  • Heated grips are available for a warmer ride.
  • A reverse kit can be added, although the low seating position makes it unlikely as need. Regardless, it makes leaving a park spot much easier.
  • Driver backrest pad is available for additional comfort.
  • Leather seating with a backrest for additional comfort

Key Competitors For The 2011 Victory Vision

  • Harley-Davidson Road King
  • Honda Goldwing
  • Indian Chief Vintage
  • Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
  • Triumph Rocket III