Features

February 7, 2011-New bobber-style cruisers hit the market

V-twin manufacturers unveiled a couple of new bobber-style cruisers hitting the mid-price point in the market.
Here is a detailed look at the new models.
Harley-Davidson
The Milwaukee manufacturer described its new Blackline, a Softail model, as “lean as wire, hard as iron and dark as a tar road at midnight.”
The new model (MSRP?starts at $15,499) has visual elements of the original bobber movement. The rear fender, in fact, is bobbed high-and-tight over a slim, 144mm tire that emphasizes an authentic hardtail profile. The compact headlight and speedometer are tucked low into the wide, FX front end and there’s just enough shine to make the black parts look blacker. Black-rimmed laced wheels complete the look.
The Softail chassis utilizes rear suspension control provided by coil-over shock absorbers mounted horizontally along the frame rails below the powertrain, where they are out of sight. So while the swingarm section replicates the lines of a vintage hardtail frame, the Blackline delivers suspension performance and handling that is thoroughly modern. The internally counter-balanced Twin Cam 96B engine is rigid-mounted within the frame, creating a solid connection between rider and the power that moves the motorcycle to enhance the emotional experience of riding.
The model also features:

  • An optional security package with anti-lock braking system and Smart Security System;
  • Split Drag internally-wired handlebars mount directly to the top triple clamp;
  • Over/under chrome shotgun exhaust;
  • Asymmetric five-gallon Softail fuel tank is clean on the left side, with a low-profile fuel fill on the right. Die cast “Blackline” trim panel flowing down the center of the tank is high enough to cover the fuel pump hardware.
    Victory
    The new Victory High-Ball is a custom cruiser with high-rise bars, spoked wheels and whitewall tires. It features the Victory Freedom 106/6 Stage 2 V-Twin.
    The 2012 Victory High-Ball is available in one scheme: Matte Black with a white tank cover.
    From the mirrors up high to the dual exhausts down low, the High-Ball is black. Handlebars, headlight bucket, triple trees, frame, fender struts, cylinder heads covers — all black.
    The bodywork features the Victory Vegas signature raised spine running the length of the bike atop the fenders and the tank, and the frenched in tail light that keeps the lines smooth out back.
    Victory says among bobber- and stripper-style bikes from major OEMs, the High-Ball delivers the most:

  • Performance: It has the largest-displacement engine, the most horsepower and the most torque.
  • Lowest seat height: Cruise in comfort down low while reaching up to the high-rise bars.
  • Value: Victory says it delivers the most performance at the lowest MSRP ($13,499).
    Other bike features include:

  • High-rise handlebars are adjustable and can be set in the upright position or laid back. The controls mount on the bars in either position and the cables reach in both positions, needing only simple hand tools to adjust.
  • 16-inch lace wheels with 130 and 150mm Dunlop tires with whitewalls. Stainless steel spokes and Gloss Black wheels and hubs.
  • Features a solo driver seat and footpegs.
  • Single-gauge instrumentation with speedo, tach, tripmeter, warning lights and more. PSB

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