Baggers: Who's your target demographic to buy these two models? Why would they choose these over a Vision?
Victory: As many buyers as there are still on the market, there are preferred styles of motorcycles. The Cross Roads and Cross Country represent a type of touring motorcycle that some buyers will be more familiar with. The style of the Vision was designed to be polarizing, and it came as no surprise to us that many riders don't care for it-but more importantly, many riders see what the Vision represents in creating a modern American touring style, that is comfortable, loaded with features, and stylish. The new machines are simply another expression of our desire to create an iconic yet modern American motorcycle. Basically different strokes for different folks!
Baggers: Is the rear shock the same? Is it an air assist?
Victory: The rear shock features a similar "dropped in" position on the swingarm to allow for a lower seat height, and it does indeed feature air assist for pre-load changes, however it is calibrated specifically for these new models.
Baggers: Is the frontend from the Hammer?
Victory: Though the frontend shares the twin disk brake setup of a Hammer, it has unique valving and spring rates more suitable for a touring bike. They are similar but the Cross Roads and Cross Country forks are larger in diameter and are longer than the Hammer forks.
Baggers: What was the evolution of the fuel tank and the decision to move the radio to the fairing?
Victory: The design of the whole motorcycle was taken into consideration, with fuel tanks naturally taking a key role in the style of the bike, besides providing the obvious fuel capacity that a touring rider demands. Doing a new fuel tank is a serious consideration; the shape of its fuel tank can determine an entire brand. Besides providing the technical demands of the Cross Roads and Cross Country Touring bikes we feel it is an evolution of the DNA of Victory Motorcycles. The shape of the fuel tank complements the long lines and the style in the rest of the machine. With the two models sharing fuel tanks, incorporating the radio into the fairing of the Cross Country was a natural fit.
Baggers: The saddlebags appear to be top opening compared to the Vision's side opening bags.
Victory: Correct. Again, the Cross Roads and Cross Country were designed to be different from the Vision. They are meant to appeal to more of a traditionalist. Our research shows that the two bikes will appeal to two different buyers-with Cross Roads buyers choosing a more pure riding experience, and Cross Country riders preferring additional amenities and the style of the fork-mounted fairing.
Baggers: What is the saddlebag capacity? Are they removable? Lockable?
Victory: They are quick release, lockable with the ignition key, and weather proof. They are removable via two, three quarter turn fasteners, however this is only for cleaning and maintenance-the motorcycle is designed to roll with saddlebags attached. Capacity is 21 gallons combined; the largest in the industry.
Baggers: Is there a trunk provision on the Cross models? How about a sissy bar?
Victory: There are a variety of options already designed, and as this is a new model, they will be introduced in time. At this time there is not a trunk available in the accessory catalog, however we do have a quick release passenger backrest available as an accessory.
Baggers: Was there any input or influence, from the Ness camp?
Victory: Arlen and Cory shared their opinion with the design team. They are both very excited about the new models and are already planning custom versions.