The limited edition Arlen Ness Victory Vision we rode in Florida this past March is aptly named. The outrageously futuristic shapes and dizzying colours, matched with all-American size and muscle, combine to create a one-of-a-kind visual hit. Designed for stylish and comfortable touring, it appeals to those who want a clearly unique and exclusive ride, rather than a stock cruiser with a few chromed accessories added by the owner to “Personnalize” it.

Start with the unique-looking Victory Vision, add some typical Arlen Ness side motifs, and Presto, a very much out-of-the-box machine. And black, to make it look smaller. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

Legendary designer Arlen Ness, a strategic partner to Victory almost from the start, accessorized a Vision that naturally reflects his corporate signature style, much to the delight of Ness aficionados. The transformation includes hand-stitched leather seats, chromed handlebars, custom Ness paint and graphics, 10-spoke aluminum wheels, polished aluminum-trimmed floorboards and, of course, a signed metal plate with the bike’s Ness number and Arlen Ness logo.

The nicest big air-cooled V-Twin on the market
Nice in the broadest sense – looks, quality of materials and assembly, efficiency, torque and power, and ridability. This Arlen Ness edition uses the air-cooled 106/6 (106 cid / 6-speed tranny), a modern V-twin featuring single overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder, as well as an excellent electronic ignition and injection system. The 97 horsepower at a low 4,950 rpm, and 113 lb-ft of peak torque at 3,100 rpm deliver more than adequate – almost exciting – performance, especially when riding solo. The balance shafts and effective engine mapping let torque flow smoothly from just 2,000 rpm, making for smooth yet pleasantly spirited rides, even at low engine speeds.

The 6-speed, constant-mesh transmission contributes to the positive experience by delivering precise, convincing shifts, while the hydraulically-controlled clutch facilitates standing starts on a hill or when fully loaded. The short first gear makes low-speed riding easy, while at the other extreme sixth gear keeps the engine below 2,500 rpm at highway speeds.

Rock-solid chassis
The cast aluminum pontoon frame and swingarm create the super-rigid chassis needed to support this 640-kilo machine (when fully loaded).

Victory have worked hard from the start to make the engines look clean, and it works! - to the point that competitors are now doing the same. And look at the rear cylinder exhaust pipe, nice and low to avoid cooking the rider's right leg. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)