Sledge Hammer

SLEDGE HAMMER

Let Freedom sing

When it comes to cruisin’, we really like the Freedom 100/6 Vee that powers the Hammer S—and every Victory in the lineup except the Vegas 8 Ball. But when confronted with the high-revving, water-cooled Twin competition, the air/oil-cooled mill wheezes by comparison. Torque is not an issue, as the Freedom pumps out an awesome 97 foot-pounds of it. But it seems a bit “congested” up top and wants to breathe more freely.

There is a cure. Victory Performance’s $599 Stage I Performance Kit-including a K&N air filter, vented airbox cover and a pair of slip-on mufflers—promises freer breathing across the range. Victory recommends the kit be installed by an authorized dealer, as the fuel-injection needs recalibration for optimal results.

The mods definitely uncork the Hammer S enough to make a notice able difference. We’re not talking about huge numbers, but the bangfor-your-buck factor is big. Cycle World’s Dynojet dyno showed a 2.6-horsepower gain over stock at 80.1 hp, while torque was up 5.1 foot-pounds to 101.2 ft.-lb.

Out on the open road, the bigger bark from the less-restrictive exhaust pipes is noticed immediately. The sound isn’t overly obnoxious but does carry a more authoritative tone. Thankfully, the payoff is performance felt through

the seat of your pants. The additional torque is apparent, with improved roll-ons and easier launches from a standstill—not that it had issues yanking away in the first place!

Throttle response remains excellent, with smooth fuel delivery throughout the rev range. Our only negative comment regards the occasional popping from the pipes when off-throttle.

If the Stage I kit still leaves you wanting more, look no farther than S&S and its 106-inch Hot Set Up Kit. It includes a stroker crank (up 6mm from stock), connecting rods, air cleaner, high-lift cams, high-lift valve-spring kit and recalibration of the EFI. S&S claims the mods bump horsepower to 113.5 and torque jumps to more than 107 ft.-lb. The kit, available at Victory dealers, will set you back $3450.

So if you just can’t leave well enough alone, there are two great options to make your Freedom 100 sing and your Hammer deliver an even more potent blow.

Blake Conner