The Lastest from Victory Motorcycles

Aptly Named after the 1969 Pontiac GTO, “Judge.” This American motorcycle delivers on its promise. I couldn’t pop a wheelie but at least burned some rubber. The Judge has lots of torque and power via the Freedom 106. The company claims 113 lb-ft of torque from the 106ci (1731cc) Twin. A 140mm rear tire and a fat 130/90 tire up front anchors each end of the bike. This big tire and 16-inch five-spoke wheel is even more visually pronounced because of a single front brake rotor.

The foot controls aren’t really center (or mid) nor are they forward so I shall christen them
“Midward Controls.” I was primarily riding the mountain twisties and ground the lowered model components things down through one sweeper after another. It seems I tore portions of the paint finish off the pipes too -sorry Victory press fleet masters.

The sculpted seat holds riders secure while slapping the throttle, but the comfortable level was commendable for my 6’1″ frame. All well and good, but I was concerned about its unusual shape that locked me into one position for the long run. I wonder if aftermarket manufacturers (or Victory for that matter) will offer more flexible options and choices. Based on how the stock seat hovers over the rear fender to keep the paint looking good a solo seat is a natural accessory Victory may offer in the future for the Judge.

I’ve spend a lot of time on motorcycles with ABS brakes lately and was locking up the Judge’s rear brakes (300mm floating rotor with 2-piston caliper) easily. I would suspect an adjustment might be available, but we will dive into all the options when we publish the full review.

I’d like to know how much gas remains in the tank when the fuel warning light blinks on. I ran out of gas 15-18 miles after the low-fuel warning light caught my attention. Yes, I did burnouts and you do want to hammer the throttle of this muscle bike, but all the other Victory models afforded me a gallon or so after the warning light came on.

I may sound like judge and jury but in fact, the Judge does what it’s designed for, and very well. Retro ‘60s look, and lots of America muscle. You be the Judge.