Photo: Victory
Victory has taken a bold step this year with the introduction of an all-new engine with liquid cooling and is now making preparations to put it to good use in a product that should lead the future of the brand. Third generation builder Zach Ness, grandson of the famous Arlen Ness, shows us his vision of what the new Victory muscle bikes could look like.
As a complement to the Ignition bike Urs Erbacher built for EICMA this year, Ness' machine was baptized Combustion. Smooth move, we'd say, as the name of the California-built machine is a logical follow-up to the European cruiser. Ignition leading to Combustion... smart choice, Zach, smart choice!
Now, Combustion certainly retains some of the lines of the Ignition, but the graphics and overall vibe are setting it apart. Funny thing, though, even if the Combustion was created in California and should represent the essence of the American muscle bike, it certainly looks very European.
Far from being a downside, this may even help Victory understand better what Europe wants, also helping them push more bikes in this market. Walz' Hardcore machines are the first thing the radical, horizontal exhausts bring to our mind, and this is a compliment.
Likewise, the Ignition's upswept tail looked sportier than the classic rear fender of the Combustion, and this might also represent one important difference between the two. One thing is certain, that swingarm looks painfully dull, and Victory should change it when the liquid-cooled bike makes it into production.
Semi-matte paint
Intricate pin striping
Sculpted side-covers
A trim fender and the characteristic Victory Motorcycles raised spine that brings flows through the body
Knurled grips
Shift pegs and footpegs
"Torque Box" Air Cleaner
Custom Handlebars
Beveled brake rotors
Arlen Ness by MagnaFlow Exhaust: a one-off stainless steel header design featuring Arlen Ness by MF exhaust billet clamp found on its “Low Down” series exhaust
Custom piggyback shocks and billet accessories
Hand control clamps
Top riser clamps
Engine covers
Master cylinder covers
Custom Wright Spoke Wheels
Billet hub and rim with stainless steel spokes
Goodridge brake lines and fittings
Custom painted Brembo radial brake calipers on custom caliper brackets
Paint by Eric Reyes.
Now, Combustion certainly retains some of the lines of the Ignition, but the graphics and overall vibe are setting it apart. Funny thing, though, even if the Combustion was created in California and should represent the essence of the American muscle bike, it certainly looks very European.
Far from being a downside, this may even help Victory understand better what Europe wants, also helping them push more bikes in this market. Walz' Hardcore machines are the first thing the radical, horizontal exhausts bring to our mind, and this is a compliment.
The US vibe brings wire spokes and traditional forks
While Urs' Ignition was equipped with state-of-the-art upside-down front suspensions and cast wheels, Zach Ness' Combustion packs a more traditional approach. Ness used wire spoked wheels and a traditional fork, replacing the minuscule flyscreen with a mini cowl and a small windshield.Likewise, the Ignition's upswept tail looked sportier than the classic rear fender of the Combustion, and this might also represent one important difference between the two. One thing is certain, that swingarm looks painfully dull, and Victory should change it when the liquid-cooled bike makes it into production.
Victory Combustion Concept highlights:
A quarter fairingSemi-matte paint
Intricate pin striping
Sculpted side-covers
A trim fender and the characteristic Victory Motorcycles raised spine that brings flows through the body
Knurled grips
Shift pegs and footpegs
"Torque Box" Air Cleaner
Custom Handlebars
Beveled brake rotors
Arlen Ness by MagnaFlow Exhaust: a one-off stainless steel header design featuring Arlen Ness by MF exhaust billet clamp found on its “Low Down” series exhaust
Custom piggyback shocks and billet accessories
Hand control clamps
Top riser clamps
Engine covers
Master cylinder covers
Custom Wright Spoke Wheels
Billet hub and rim with stainless steel spokes
Goodridge brake lines and fittings
Custom painted Brembo radial brake calipers on custom caliper brackets
Paint by Eric Reyes.
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