XC Forged Highway Bar Close Outs

[King Moto]

Does anybody here use the Victory Forged Bar Close Outs on the front crash bars of their 2011 Cross Country? It's Victory Item #: 2878108. If yes I'd like your feedback on how well they work (or don't work) for cold/wet weather riding.

[JoeGopher]

I have them and they work really well.

Rode about 2,500 miles in the rain last year and they keep your feet warm and dry. In the cold they are also fantastic. Very toasty. You will not want to have them on if the temps get above 65 or so. It will roast your feet in very little time.

The only downside is they have a tendency to catch the wind and make the handling a little squirelly if you are riding in a stiff breeze.

Other than that, they work well.

One other thing, they are a bit hard to get on the first time since the instructions are a little sub-par, but once you get it figured out, it's pretty easy.

[Happy Dan]

I just purchased a set of Victory close-outs for my CC. Joe had givien me the same information earlier in the season and I finally purchased a set from Motoprimo. I haven't had a need for them yet, but I'm curious to see & feel how well they perform. Joe is right, the 1st time putting them on is a bit of a puzzle, but I believe that I figured them out.
Don't forget that Cee Bailey makes some "hard" close-outs, now. But a lot more expensive. Remember to ask for the TCVR discount at Motoprimo. Double check with Podeins in Stewartville, too. They may be offering a better discount. I got about 20% off my t-shirt there a couple of weeks ago.

[King Moto]

Thanks Joe & Dan - I appreciate the feedback. They looked kinda funny in the stock Victory picture on their website - so I was curious as to how they installed & if they could take a wind beating. I see by your advise though it's just a matter of figuring it out. Time to start shopping! I have a trip to Missouri in a couple weeks and I bet they'll come in handy.

[Happy Dan]

Speaking of riding...you up for a ride today?

[CCridr]

They do work well just got back from a little ride to South Dakota.Had a temp swing from 55 to 68 but stayed comfortable.Stayed dry got lots of sun very windy and lots of wind burn.Just changed my front tire now it's time for the back to be changed.Must be those S.D.back roads :BeatsMe:I think i could use more 3 day weekends:action35:


:riding:Joe:riding:

:notdead:

[King Moto]

Thanks CCridr - how did the bike handle in the windy conditions with them on?

Would one of you mind posting a pic or three of these on the bike?

Thanks,

Aaron

[waynes]

Thanks CCridr - how did the bike handle in the windy conditions with them on?

Would one of you mind posting a pic or three of these on the bike?

Thanks,

Aaron

I just installed my hwy bar closeouts and have not had it out yet with them. I attached a couple pics to show you what they look like. My questions, query, is whether the vinyl tab towards the grill gives and rattles when riding. I'm sure I'll find out, however. :BeatsMe:

[King Moto]

Just thought I'd follow up here. I picked these up just before a long trip that I took to southern Missouri in the middle of September. I rode in LOTS of rain and chilly temperatures with the closeouts. They performed beautifully. I never got wet feet and in fact - I changed from my wool socks to my thin cotton socks as my feet were kept that dry and warm. I wouldn't recommend using them if the temperatures are above 60*F as you'll cook your feet. The closeouts also significantly reduce wind buffeting that can come up from under the bike. The photocopied installation directions that come with them are terrible, however, after you install them properly then they're not to difficult to remove & reinstall as needed. All in all I'd say they're worth the $99. They fold up small - so I just keep mine in one of the hard case saddlebags.

[waynes]

I agree with your opinion on the closeouts. One thing I've noticed also is that due to the angle of the engine guard on the XC, they catch a lot of wind and reduce mpg but, hey, they keep you warm and dry.