We just touched upon some of the features on the new Cross Country and Cross Roads. We are looking forward to throwing a leg over these new bikes and putting them through their paces. Look for complete reviews in an upcoming issue of Baggers. Check out baggersmag.com for additional exclusive photos and more in depth coverage.
Baggers asks Victory talks.
Before getting any technical details on the new bikes we wanted to get inside the engineering and design minds behind the all-new 2010 models, the Cross Country and Cross Roads.
Baggers: What were the goals and objectives in producing these models?
Victory: Victory will always push to create unique and progressive American motorcycles. The Cross Roads and the Cross Country present a type of bagger that is very popular with the touring rider. Our goal was to present a complete line of touring motorcycles, and the addition of these two motorcycles to the Vision series of motorcycles gives Victory buyers more options for the type of machine they want to ride. The intent was to appeal to a broad audience. For those that want pure luxury and modern styling we have the Vision, and for those that prefer only the essentials in a bike with more traditional styling we have the Cross Roads, and for those that land in the middle we have the Cross Country. Each bike was designed with a different person in mind.
Baggers: Was feedback from Vision owners involved?
Victory: Victory has always stayed in touch with current owners, and Vision owners. Through surveys and outreach we confirmed the importance of comfort and ride position. We have had many accolades on the comfort of the Vision, indeed, that was a key area in that motorcycle's design. With the Cross Roads and Cross Country, that same focus was applied. Focus groups were held all across the U.S. when developing these motorcycles. They were involved from the sketch phase all the way through the naming of the bikes.
Baggers: The Cross Country and Cross Roads appear to be based on the Vision chassis, as the wheelbase is the same for the Vision and Cross models as well as the general look. What changes were made to the chassis to make the Cross models?
Victory: Not correct-the new motorcycles come on a 100 percent new frame more appropriate for this touring machine using Victory's CORE Technology. CORE Technology uses an aluminum structural casting as a space frame for the motorcycle plus it acts as an airbox, motor mount, and integrates mounting of various other components. Indeed many aspects from material selection to incorporating the multi-functionality of the frame and considerable reduction in mounting brackets, etc., over a traditional steel frame, was gathered from the Vision project. This allows for reduced parts that have higher performance on the road.
Baggers: What were the design objectives from the art department? How did they differ from the Vision?
Victory: Victory's design department strived to create a modern American motorcycle. The engineering team backs that up with solid design with keystones of reliability and class-leading performance. That combined effort results in unique machines that speaks to many riders. In designing the Cross Roads and the Cross Country, Victory expanded its touring portfolio to fit more individual styles and offer a wider selection in its line of luxury motorcycles. Again-most manufacturers see the variety of customers in the market, and choose to build different types of motorcycles for different styles. The touring segment features a variety of styles that suit different individual desires. Though not designed parallel with the Vision, our significant investment in researching the touring customer in preparation for the Vision led us to considerable insight in all types of touring rider-from the progressive to the more traditional. That same information reinforces the variety needed in a complete line of motorcycles.