Transcript
Road Test: Victory Jackpot
Celebrity status Report by Gordon Barrett
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the Jackpot would most appeal to rider and observer. Being July, the surrounding hills with wet patches weren’t appealing, so I kept to the city and suburbs, where I first perceived to be the Jackpot’s domain. Obviously this is not a bike you “flick” into a turn. Instead you must “flow” into them, which is very pleasant. Because of the “fatty on the back” (obviously referring to the tyre, ladies) at speed, the bike requires some confident authority telling it to initiate the turn. This is easy done with gentle counter steering, which the wide handlebars easily permit. Once in the lean, the bike stays at the angle you put it. Although skinny, the front was pleasantly reliable in traction. However, I’m sure on warm, dry, flowing roads, ground clearance may become questionable, but you’d be way beyond speed limits in the process. Manoeuvring at low speeds is a breeze, making negotiating traffic and parking a joy. Although quite small, the mirrors are remarkably good. There’s no need to bend elbows or drop shoulders because they’re beautifully positioned. When correctly adjusted, they provide vision directly behind while also eliminating blind spots on both sides. The only modification to the test bike is a pair of slip-on mufflers. They are loud even under medium acceleration, but the powerful overtones correspond with the bike’s aesthetics well. When wanting a return to a peaceful note, simply
keep the motor under 2,500rpm and it sounds like the purr of a large, dominant lioness. A smile inside always arose when shifting down gears because it crackles and pops like a V8 Supercar. All three sound experiences add to the fun. Belt drive on this bike is the obvious solution because it eliminates oil and grease being flung over the beauty. Being reinforced with carbon fibre, there’s no question toward its reliability and longevity. Victory tell me they’re yet to replace one, even on bikes showing over 60,000 kms. Adjustment is minimal and belts are also great during deceleration; I’m sure the days of chains and sprockets are numbered, (race bikes may be the exception). Having only a single disc at the front is surely in keeping with the styling, but the consequence, (even with a four-pot calliper) amounts to slightly underdone braking performance of what’s expected on a modern bike with a 300mm rotor. Then, the rear rotor being the same size, with two-pot calliper is a little too easy to lock up. Rising rate monoshock rear suspension keeps with the modern appearance, but in my opinion, the shock unit is way over dampened, amounting to an almost solid ride. The first accessory I’d buy would be a new shock absorber with compression and rebound adjustment, as I’m sure the comfort would be increased many times over – for both pillion and rider. (Aftermarket companies produce
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irst impression; yep, it sure is pretty but is it practical? Does it handle? And who’d want one? The short answers are yep, yep and many more than you’d think – possibly you too! During my various bike tests, I’ve been complimented on the bikes’ appearance – but never before asked permission to have photos taken standing beside it. These were women of various ages and appearance who simply wanted their photo taken with the dazzling machine. The skinny 21 inch, anvil billet front mag, unbelievably wide 250mm rear, graphics, superdeep paint, (in three colour options) dripping in chrome, beautiful flowing lines and large, modern-looking motor beautifully compliment each other in producing a complete and enticing package – which absolutely beckons a ride. Once on board, the seat is instantly comfortable, with an equally delightful low height, (only 653mm). The centre-of-gravity is so low the documented 296kg dry weight doesn’t seem even close to realistic. It’s one of the very few big bikes that’s easy to paddle around while seated, even for me at only 167cm. Loaded with modern technology, the motor barks into life instantly. At takeoff, the pegs feel further forward than they visually appear, but their position is comfortable and soon adapted to. Optional peg brackets offer personalisation. Like a convertible show car, the summer months are when
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Road Test: Victory Jackpot
them. Refer to local manufacturer Ikon Suspension. Their ad is in this issue). The pillion seat is more honestly described as a pad. Along with high pegs, the sensation is that of easily being flung off backwards; perfect if you’re wanting particularly close contact by having her/him hold on tight, (and possibly part of the design brief). An optional touring seat with backrest is available to deliver a more relaxing and secure ride. Surprisingly, quickrelease panniers are also available. Although somewhat small, they keep within the styling and accommodate enough for light travel. Three screen sizes are also available. Obviously, this bike makes a bold statement. But it’s actually much more than “dumb bling on wheels”. Almost all bikes handle moderately well once your feet are on the pegs. Then, for those of us struggling with heavy tourers, or challenged by height, the Jackpot is a very viable option to keeping big bike performance with small bike manoeuvrability. And women wanting to move up front, once you’ve passed the basic learning stage and on full licence, the Jackpot would be a real blast – while making one hell of an impressive announcement too. Staying within speed limits is not difficult, even 60kms is relaxed and easy-going. But make no mistake, when you dial it on, the 1731cc power plant delivers plenty of everything, although in a very nice and predicable manner. The
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“I felt that I had somehow obtained celebrity status – it really was strange.” strength of this motor is nothing short of wonderful. (Victory uses the same remarkable motor in all their models). Location of the speedo is ideal with an analogue needle keeping within the style and simple to read. All the warning lights for engine management, fuel etc. aren’t missed once illuminated. Digital gear readout is consistently displayed in the lower left part of the speedo; with digital rev counter, trip meter and odometer sharing the right side of the window, scrolled by a button on the left switch block. A digital clock is also nicely positioned. 17 litres of fuel provided 330kms before the warning light appeared. I went another 30 before filling. Economy will only improve once the motor is run in. It’s a really nice touch by Victory to supply so much chrome as standard. The Jackpot deserves it and I couldn’t imagine needing more; but some chrome-nut is sure to disagree. After dusk the headlight throws a nice wide beam passing beyond both shoulders of the road. However, I’d like to see it throw further ahead, but this may have been a need of simple adjustment. High beam was obviously better, but
nothing to brag about. Keeping with chopper culture, the steering lock is in the form of a padlock between the lower triple clamp and frame bracket. Then, upon closer inspection, there’s also key-operated tumbler located under the steering head. Returning the bike on Saturday morning, I found myself taking the long route because I simply wanted to ride it more. Stopped in traffic a little down from the most established bike shop in famous Elizabeth street, one of their salesmen kept looking in my direction, maintaining a big grin. I nodded while thinking, “do I know him”? Then, even more strangely, he quickly departed, only to return with a workmate showing similar enthusiasm. A little later, I found myself in a similar encounter with a young man and his lady walking along a pedestrian crossing. I felt that I’d somehow obtained celebrity status – it really was strange. There’s plenty of production cruisers stemming from chopper roots, which are extremely popular for very good reason. Since acquainting myself with Victory’s Jackpot, I see it as an extremely attractive, enticing, upmarket option with amazingly low centre-ofgravity and huge, predictable power delivery. While being a bag of fun round town, I see its merits for open roads as well. You too, should also be pleasantly surprised with what it delivers – beyond its stunning looks. n Gordon Barrett #43836
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