Vision Tour with ABS
I rode the Vision Tour for thousands of miles this summer, so really, I just wanted to try the ABS on this one. From what I could tell, Victory's first try at anti-lock is an unqualified success.
Retained from the old system is a linked characteristic that leaves the front brake independent, but links the rear pedal to the front to keep nasty rear wheel skids a thing of the past. The ABS is very subtle, and a nice complement to the linked system. Simply stomping on the rear brings the bike to a halt rapidly with very little clicking and pulsing. It seems to kick in slowly at first then faster as you approach a stop. In most situations, it'll never even activate, unlike some hypersensitive systems of the past that gave ABS a bad name.
The bike almost doesn't need the ABS, as it stops very well without it. But if you're scared of the front brake or seem to have "moments" on a regular basis, it might be worth the extra dough ($600-$1000).-BB
Vision 8-Ball
I was skeptical when I heard that there was a new radio-less Vision with no cruise control coming to market for the same price as the new Cross Country. But just having ridden it, I'm a believer. The foam taken out of the seat and the inches shaved from the suspension make for a far different ride than the Vision Tour.
The seat swaddles the rider in a nine-inch deep wrap-around pocket that sets you deep in the motorcycle. For those that miss bikes feeling like you're "in" them, look no farther. I was having trouble with ground clearance the first few miles I rode it on a twisty road, but a quick application of the air pump to the rear shock lifted it enough to negate the dragging and slightly loose feel, giving up very little comfort in the exchange. Unlike the Cross bikes, the 8-Ball's short screen didn't buffet at all, flowing wind smoothly around my head.
This bike a killer combination of sporty fun, all-day comfort, and the cool factor of a slammed ride. So, yeah it may not have a radio, but I didn't care.-BB