Do Many Valkyrie Owners Switch To Victory?

[Rams]

Was seriously considering adding this to the garage:

In general I like the Vic if ya like V twins but this the most god awful looking bike ever made.

IMHO, that was being kind but, to each their own.  Beauty is supposed to be in the eye of the beholder.  Just not to my liking.....................   I've ridden many different motorcycles, not all but, a bunch of them.  Function is more important than fashion to me but, in my humble opinon, the Valkyrie got it right.  An excellent machine to ride with knock out looks.

Went to look at the F6b the other day, it was already gone.  That's OK, way to much plastic but, I thought I'd at least give it a chance to impress me.  

[cookiedough]

I find it somewhat amusing we all are comparing quickness to all of these bikes in the 90-100 hp range.  For me,  90hp on up is plenty pickup to move on down the road just fine no slouches in the mix.  What I'd be more concerned about is smooth power delivery and creature comforts/ergonomics on how it fit me and passenger.  Price comes into play as well that is the main reason I don't own a HD.  Even used ones, although the market is now saturated with used HD's and the pricing is coming down,  is still pricier for what you get, in my opinion.

One thing we all can agree on is the Valkyrie ending production in 2003 was years ahead of it's time and still delivers impressive numbers even today and looks, power, smoothness, and creature comforts are very hard to beat even with all the improvements in fuel economy and fuel injection, etc. 

[BIG--T]

I find it somewhat amusing we all are comparing quickness to all of these bikes in the 90-100 hp range.  For me,  90hp on up is plenty pickup to move on down the road just fine no slouches in the mix.  What I'd be more concerned about is smooth power delivery and creature comforts/ergonomics on how it fit me and passenger.  Price comes into play as well that is the main reason I don't own a HD.  Even used ones, although the market is now saturated with used HD's and the pricing is coming down,  is still pricier for what you get, in my opinion.

One thing we all can agree on is the Valkyrie ending production in 2003 was years ahead of it's time and still delivers impressive numbers even today and looks, power, smoothness, and creature comforts are very hard to beat even with all the improvements in fuel economy and fuel injection, etc. 

That is the truth about being ahead of it's time, although I sure wished t had FI!   

[Jack B]

Here is nice looking used one in Wis.
http://appleton.craigslist.org/mcy/3752591696.html

[jimmytee]

I like the Victory, not in the market though and love my Valkyrie.

My first street bike at age 16 was a 1981 Honda Silverwing. My dad had a 1982 he had bought new and before that,a 1978 CX500. Very reliable transverse V-twin   Very nimble bike that was quite comfortable. Like my Valkyrie, I remember thinking it would be nice if it had a 6th gear or a real OD... Thinking of those motoguzzies.

FYI    The new Guzzi Califiornia 1400 Custom.

With a full fairing, music, and gauges it might be something.

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/2013/04/2013-moto-guzzi-california-1400-custom-and-touring-southern-california-riding-impression/

[MNBill]

I have a 2011 Cross Crountry, not the tour model. The wind and tin comment in an earlier post is an issue for the CC but Victory solved that issue with the tour model. As for being a nice bike, I love mine (actually had two, a lady t-boned me when she blew a stop sign the first day I had my first one and totaled it). If you need a passenger or driver backrest look me up, I have both in the garage roof for sale I went to a Corbin seat and Victory ones will not work. As for handling and riding, I ride with a friend that has an Interstate and he keeps up to me just fine, (insert smiley face here) once in the twisties he unloaded his rear tire following me, I may have a greater lean angle. I do not race him, I know he would win. I would have liked an Interstate when I bought mine but used ones around here were too expensive and Honda only offers Wings now (Civics without a top as I call them).

[Bigun]

The Cross Country Tour is my next bike. At 6'6" and north of 300lbs The extra leg room alone is worth it. The bike feels like it was made for me and I dont have to worry about getting my size 15's stuck under the head at a stoplight.

[Chattanooga Mark]

     The weather was beautiful today for my last ride on the Valkyrie. I rode it to the Victory dealer as part of a trade-in deal for a new Cross Country Tour. Beautiful weather but a sad risde none the less. The big Valkyrie, as always, ran perfectly. There was a bumble bee Valkyrie that showed up at Randy's a few minutes after I got their. Not sure if it's anyone on this forum or if he's also looking for a Victory.
     The Cross Country Tour should be in by the end of the week.


All the best,

Mark

     

[alph]

     The weather was beautiful today for my last ride on the Valkyrie. I rode it to the Victory dealer as part of a trade-in deal for a new Cross Country Tour. Beautiful weather but a sad risde none the less. The big Valkyrie, as always, ran perfectly. There was a bumble bee Valkyrie that showed up at Randy's a few minutes after I got their. Not sure if it's anyone on this forum or if he's also looking for a Victory.
     The Cross Country Tour should be in by the end of the week.


All the best,

Mark

     

so i guess this mean you won't be needing help installing that cruise control now does it?

[BIG--T]

I too love the CCT. I sat on one as the dealer insisted  ride it and it  looked and felt good!! The huge adjustable floorboards and the design made it very comfortable for my 14s and my frame! Unless Honda makes the F6B with more chrome and make it resemble the Valk more, this might be my next new one. It is very smooth to be a twin ( rode a buddy's 106 Vision).

The only reason I haven't already is I'm giving it time to see if it holds it's value like a Harley or Wing. It's hard to tell since the CC has only been out 3 years. Comparing it to a Streetglide or Roadglide by  KBB, it is losing out. The older victorys depreciate faster than some metrics. But time will tell when I'm ready to by new. For now I am very happy with my new to me 99 Interstate!

[Hog Killer DS0048]

I traded my 2000 Valk for a new 2008 Vision Premium Tourer in November 2008. Loved my Valk, had her for 8 1/2 years, but with arthritis in my knees, made long distance riding painful. The boards on the Vic are a great improvement for my knees. I  have had the cam upgrade and fuel controller added to the Vic and is one hot machine. I have a buddy with a 2003 Wing and I have no trouble walking away from him. Victorys are solid machines, especially if you run the Dark Side!

[Chattanooga Mark]

     [/quote]
so i guess this mean you won't be needing help installing that cruise control now does it?
[/quote]



alph,

    Of course you are correct. I still have the Audiovox system brand new in the original box on a table in my office. Along with the beautiful mounting bracket you made for the controller!
    I have no doubt it will make it onto a Valkyrie though, just not mine.
I have a list of Valkyrie items available that I'm talking to someone about. I sold a few items separately but may sell everything else as a package. If that doesn't go through, I'll post the items on here for sale.


All the best,

Mark

[cookiedough]

those huge floorboards upfront are great for size 13 on up feet looks like they would fit size 20 boots no problems.

If and when the time comes say in 20+ years when my Valk wears out (LOL),  a good used Victory CC tourer will be on my short list to buy.   If resale doesn't hold up like the HD's do,  even better for me since I only buy used cycles and ATV's.  I can't see spending 15K on up for something you cannot drive year round every week of the year.

[BF]

     The weather was beautiful today for my last ride on the Valkyrie. I rode it to the Victory dealer as part of a trade-in deal for a new Cross Country Tour. Beautiful weather but a sad risde none the less. The big Valkyrie, as always, ran perfectly. There was a bumble bee Valkyrie that showed up at Randy's a few minutes after I got their. Not sure if it's anyone on this forum or if he's also looking for a Victory.
     The Cross Country Tour should be in by the end of the week.


All the best,

Mark

     

I certainly hope you post some pics of that new Vic. 

[Bigun]

Here is nice looking used one in Wis.
http://appleton.craigslist.org/mcy/3752591696.html

Nice Bike at a great price.

[BlkFlatSix]

It's  not that Victory is a great bike, but the downside is resale, they hard and quick compared to Honda Goldwings, at this time the F6B will more than likely hold it's resale value.  Harley's with all their faults also command a strong resale.  Victory does not hold it's value, why, I have no idea, but I did my home work.  Stay with Honda or Harley for best value.  My two cents, thanks.

[C908]

What I haven't heard mentioned as a negative about Victory is their lack of dealer support. When I was considering a Victory while I liked the bike I was less than impressed with the two different dealers I visited. There are just not that many Victory dealers out there in certain parts of the country. I have also heard resale is very low on Victory bikes. Other than that I liked the Victory it ran strong.

[GiG]

Hey, Mark:

You obviosly have impecible taste! Along with my 2 vintage Moto Guzzis, I still ride my 2 Valks.
However, my 2012 Victory CCT is now my long distance and 2-up ride.
Took her out west last July, pic is at Beartooth Pass. She performed flawlessly, you are going to LOVE her!  
Met a couple in Montana from Canada on a white Vic CCT, like yours. Every owner I encounter is thrilled with his Victory. Met a woman last week (5'5") in Detroit with one identical to mine. She is crazy about it and her hubby switched from HD and got a Vic also because he was jealous.  


Chief George HWY - Wyoming
I cut the stock saddle down, removed foam and inserted gel. Covered it with gray ...


Big Grin - Love My Vic!


Let me know when you take delivery, I plan on being in your hood soon, we can catch a ride...

Cheers,

~GiG~

[Chattanooga Mark]

WOW, Gig, what an awesome post, thank you!!! Please let me know if you're heading out my way.


All the best,

Mark

two two four   five eight seven   five five one three

[Fla. Jim]

No....Had money down on a 98 and when it arrived it sounded like an out of balance washing machine in the tranny...Keep the owner as a friend and have tried them all over the years since and none compare with my Valk . For ride or smoothness. Will have to wear out my 97 before I even consider another bike, and looks like I'll not live that long. We are and will be an item until the end...Her's or mine.And I expect it will be me....But not anytime soon (I hope)

[BIG--T]

Beautiful 97 ya got there! Yes the older Vics had tranny problems but they that's been long fixed and the new ones are sweet IMO. But like you, I love my Valk and no thoughts of buying new. Resale is also important to me.

[GiG]

Mark:

Here's a couple more pics  - Front View to show the ClockWerks Windscreen (aftermerket):




Hail Storm in WY - Ping Pong Ball Sized for 1/2 HR - OUCH! 



Taking Cover in a Car Wash - Waiting to get the HAIL out of Wyoming... 


Talk to you soon...


~GiG~

[Chattanooga Mark]

Thanks GIG, love your pictures!

My pearl white 2012 hasn't come in yet from Montana. The trucking company had a problem with their truck and had to send another to the driver in California. We should get an update tomorrow and will hopefully see mine delivered by Wednesday.

But, all is not lost. My most excellent Victory dealer, Randy's Cycle in Marengo, IL came through in spades. He rolled a 2013 black Cross Country Tour off his showroom floor so I could enjoy the motorcycle events I have scheduled this weekend. I'll get it back to him Monday afternoon.

My initial ride impression on the CCT is wow, what a comfortable ride. The suspension is awesome and the riding position is perfect. I'm going to really enjoy this relationship.


More to come,

Mark

[Chattanooga Mark]

Well, the wait ended this last Saturday. My pearl white 2012 Victory Cross Country Tour finally came in to Randy's Cycle in Marengo, IL. I've owned and loved two Valkyrie Interstates and have always said, and still do, they are a very difficult motorcycle to replace.

I only have 500 miles on the CCT so far and will get the initial service done tomorrow at Randy's. All I can say about the big Victory is WOW, what an awesome motorcycle.

There will always be great memories from the mighty Valkyrie, but so far, I'm more than in love with the Victory. It's simply the most comfortable I've ever been on a motorcycle.


All the best,

Mark

[J.Mencalice]

My wife's boss lives across the street from us and he traded his Harley for a Victory just like the one you have described, all white with touring class.   It was great because I no longer had to listen to him wind out his Harley with obnoxious pipes every Mon.-Fri. mornings @ 0720 when he pulled out and headed for the job.

"Great!  No more Harley roaring in my ears after a late night at my job!"
Yeah, great for about a year and then one morning about two months ago....you know the rest of the story...changed out that nice, quiet stock setup for some stinkin' straight pipes.

Oh Lord, may he blow a valve!

So, I like(d) his Victory.

[hubcapsc]

They'll let you try out Victorys at the local shop. I'm going to set up a ride
on a cross country real soon.

It's simply the most comfortable I've ever been on a motorcycle

I'm prejudiced against the forward floor boards, but y'all like the bike,
and I haven't ridden it yet... I've just now scanned around for some pictures,
they all seem to have trunks... didn't I seem some without trunks at the
dealer, or was that a different model?

-Mike "f6b - no trunk and real foot pegs  "

[GiG]

Mike:

The Victory Cross Country has no trunk.
The Victory Cross Country Tour has detatchable trunk that is easily removable.
The saddlebags also are instantly removeable (no tools required).

Regarding the floorboards - they are huge, almost like surfboards, and offer unlimited options for placement of your feet. The service guy was trying to sell me highway pegs, but I told him I simply  didn't need them. My 6'3" frame is never cramped. Last year, I did find myself riding a lot with my feet extended way out in front, kicked back being lazy. This caused some lower back discomfort from slouching (my own fault). This year, I have been consciusly keeping my feet directly under me, as if on pegs. No more bak pain.

I've got NO complaints about this bike - even though Slacker called her a "Battleship" 

BTW - I've been commuting (90 miles r/t, all urban highway) on the Valkyrie lately. I know you guys won't believe it, but the old 6-cyl fat chick feels "puny" to me now. Not a bad thing... 

Cheers,

~GiG~ - Enjoying the ride 

[BIG--T]

They'll let you try out Victorys at the local shop. I'm going to set up a ride
on a cross country real soon.

It's simply the most comfortable I've ever been on a motorcycle

I'm prejudiced against the forward floor boards, but y'all like the bike,
and I haven't ridden it yet... I've just now scanned around for some pictures,
they all seem to have trunks... didn't I seem some without trunks at the
dealer, or was that a different model?

-Mike "f6b - no trunk and real foot pegs  "

Mike the Cross Country doesn't have the trunk but the Cross Country Tour does..same bike. When I was in Seneca they started one up in the showroom and begged me to ride it , but I told them no, I'm afraid I might  like it and buy it! For me, I love those giant boards! 

[John Schmidt]

I was in a local dealer recently checking out an '05 Wing for a member(it was a dog). They also were Victory dealers and I spotted the Cross Roads Classic on the showroom floor. I was first drawn to it by the appearance, and was given permission to at least sit on it. I found it to be one of the few bikes out there that had comforable ergonomics for me. I stood it up, it's not a lightweight by any means, but stood up easy...seemed well balanced. I particularly like the handlebars....no rise. What normally would be a rise actually came straight back then curved outward. Only problem I could see was the bags didn't lock, but I'm certain I could overcome that security issue. Overall, I like the bike and if I were in the market for a new ride I would give it some serious consideration. I would have to have it repainted though, probably a solid color with some ghost flames. And the big chrome bumper looking thingys on the front and rear fenders....gone. Other than that, I'm OK with it....sure sounds powerful and was quite smooth. 

[Bert AKA,Valkaholic]

 I went and test rode the Victory Vision and  my wife rode the  Cross Country on one of their Demo Day's Ride at a local Dealer. She was looking to move up from her Honda VT 1100 Shadow Sabre and liked the looks of the Victory motorcycles. We rode then on a fifteen mile  test ride. The one thing that I didn't like was that they are very light motorcycles, they shake like most V-twins ,and do not stop as quick as a Valkyrie, due to them being so light. The body panels are also thin and Flimsy and remind me of some of the Cheap Chinese Aftermarket Bags & Fairings out there. We stopped at the half-way point and traded Victory's so we got a chance to ride more than one and when we got back to the Dealership we both went straight to our Honda's, (My Valkyrie Interstate),and her (1100 Shadow),and we never looked back. So I can say that we got the Victory Fever out of our System. Neither one of these motorcycles were anything that I would replace our Honda's with. After this my wife decided that the only Up-grade for her would be a Valkyrie, Smoother, Faster and more Reliable than most any other motorcycle out there. I would definitely suggest test riding a few before I got rid of my Valkyrie. This is a Picture of her Up-Grade.
Ride Safe,
Bert

[Bert AKA,Valkaholic]

And for the price of one Victory, you could have what I have. Two interstates.
Bert.

[Hoser]

Re: Do Many Valkyrie Owners Switch To Victory?

Not this Valkyrie owner.  Hoser 

[usmc1142]

Only 2 bikes have turned my head while on my valk,a nomad and an m 109 suzuki.  After riding both I still LOVE my valk.    My biggest complaint with Victory is that they are scaled 9/10's to every other bike.   They are just small to me.  I think they are beautiful bikes, but just not scaled right.  i am sure i am the only one with this view, but until obama outlaws opinion differences,     I'll stick to mine!

[BF]

Only 2 bikes have turned my head while on my valk,a nomad and an m 109 suzuki.  After riding both I still LOVE my valk.    My biggest complaint with Victory is that they are scaled 9/10's to every other bike.   They are just small to me.  I think they are beautiful bikes, but just not scaled right.  i am sure i am the only one with this view, but until obama outlaws opinion differences,     I'll stick to mine!

I feel the exact same way towards Harleys.  They're small and I feel cramped on them with my knees sticking up around the gas tank.

That's one of the reasons the Valk appealed to me.....it's a bigassed bike and it fit me. 

[Jess Tolbirt]

Only 2 bikes have turned my head while on my valk,a nomad and an m 109 suzuki.  After riding both I still LOVE my valk.    My biggest complaint with Victory is that they are scaled 9/10's to every other bike.   They are just small to me.  I think they are beautiful bikes, but just not scaled right.  i am sure i am the only one with this view, but until obama outlaws opinion differences,     I'll stick to mine!

I feel the exact same way towards Harleys.  They're small and I feel cramped on them with my knees sticking up around the gas tank.

That's one of the reasons the Valk appealed to me.....it's a bigassed bike and it fit me. 

yep the harleys seat height is 1.3 inches lower than the valks..but the harly weighs 113 pounds more..the wheel base of the harley is 3 inches less..

[bigguy]

I actually switched from a Victory TC Deluxe to my Valkyrie.
Big Vic is gone