Kingpin Kick-Off
KINGPIN KICK-OFF
VICTORY IS ON THE GAS. The gracefully styled, second-generation, 92-cubic-inch Vee-motored Vegas is a rousing success, dealers are energized and sales are up. Question is, what’s next?
More of the same. Company higher-ups recently pulled the
wraps off the Minnesota-based bike-maker’s 2004 lineup, and in doing so revealed five models: three new releases and two carryovers.
Leading the charge is the Kingpin. Described as “forwardlooking, new and American,” the Vegas-based machine replaces the V92CC, or Classic Cruiser. Teardropped fenders that offer a “larger, heavily sculpted” look are set off by 18-inch cast wheels (the ’03 Vegas rolled on 21and 18-inch wire-spoke hoops), an inverted cartridge-style Marzocchi fork, deeply dished headlight, reshaped seat (3 inches lower than that of the CC), recalibrated shock, forged foot controls and vibrationabsorbing floorboards.
The Kingpin Deluxe adds a cop-bike-style windshield, fork-mounted wind deflectors, leather-covered saddlebags and upgraded passenger accommodations.
Consultant and custombike icon Arlen Ness lent his name to the other new release, which also starts with the Vegas. Dazzling in a black cherry fade, with signature sidecovers and lots of billet/chrome add-ons, the Arlen Ness Signature Series will retail for just under $20K.
As for the Vegas itself, the CWTen Best Bikes winner is lightly altered. Updates include new billet-style wheels (the rear is half an inch wider to allow for a 180mm tire), vibration-isolated mirrors and inclusion in the company’s Custom Order Program. A Deluxe Touring Package is offered, along with a mountain of accessories.
Victory’s early work is represented by the Touring Cruiser, the ’screenand-saddlebagequipped long-hauler once known as the V92TC. Updates include a rubber-mounted handlebar, recalibrated suspension, softer seat and the
low-vibe” mirrors.
Matthew Miles
