In order to provide a high level of quality information, I've posed two questions to the Victory Press Public Relations Department regarding some rumored issues surrounding the 2009 Victory lineup. The first issue has to do with the absence of the mapping software for the 2009 Visions. This issue surfaced when a VOG member placed a post about his dealer not having the proper updates for the Stage One-Level One exhaust that were just installed on his new 2009 Vision.
 
While I've never claimed to be a mechanic, I do understand the basics of releasing a software program - it's not as simple as you may think. As in any piece of software, there are numerous components involved. Whether you use a Mac or a Windows computer, you already know that these software programs are basically "works in progress" and seem to be (especially Windows) updated weekly. If Apple or Microsoft waited until a program was 100% complete prior to releasing it to the public, we'd still be using typewriters. Heck, even Gmail is still in Beta and software is Google's bread and butter. Polaris is facing fa similar situation for its 2009 line of bikes...not just the Vision.
 
Victory provides its dealers with a program called Digital Wrench. As any of us who have spoken to a mechanic already knows, this program allows the dealer an effective method in which to allow any specific bike to properly operate with a variety of accessories. This program is updated periodically and allows the dealers to fix bugs or provide performance upgrades. We also know that we live in a "green" environment and since we're dealing with internal combustion engines, the Government needs to "bless" various aspects of all motor vehicles before allowing them to be released to the public. Simply stated, the Digital Wrench program requires approval not only by Polaris/Victory, but by the Government as well. As you can guess, this is not an easy task. It appears that, for whatever reason, the mapping program for upgraded exhausts for ALL the 2009 Victory motorcycles were not available for inclusion in the initial release of this program.
 
After talking to the Victory Representative, I am to understand that they are addressing this situation in a diligent manner and are working towards a solution that will provide an updated software release to the dealers as soon as possible. As stated, this issue does not just affect the 2009 Visions, but all the bikes in the 2009 Victory lineup. So that there's no confusion, this will not affect the sale or purchase of a new bike, but will only temporarily delay the addition of specific equipment.
 
Since the Digital Wrench program encompasses every bike in Victory's 2009 lineup and that the release of the exhaust mapping portion of the program is an all or none situation, it is unknown to me at this point or is it relevent as to which bike or engine configuration is holding up the release of the new mapping program. But, since Victory released a new version of its Freedom V-Twin 106cc engine for selected cruiser models for 2009, I can only assume that the new engine "could" be the culprit. Again, this is an assumption on my part and we all know what the word "assume" means. Since Victory values it's high J.D. Powers rating, it was made clear to me that they are working around the clock to solve this issue, but since various departments and organizations are involved in this release, there is no firm release date for the new program at this point...other than it is coming very soon and possibly within just a few weeks. Dealers should be receiving more information on this issue shortly.
 
For those who have ordered the 10th Anniversary Vision and want the filler panel, well, that's another story. As of today, there is no firm release date for this part. Those who have been told that it's coming in mid-September may have received unconfirmed information.
 
The reason behind the delay on this part is very simple: Since only 100 of these bikes will be manufactured, Victory doesn't know how many Anniversary purchasers will want this accessory. Really!
 
It is my understanding that Victory feels that only a few of the 100 Anniversary owners will be removing the trunk as it's much more complicated of a process due to the location of the CB radio. Since the CB is stored in the lower well by the trunk mounting bolts, it's a more difficult process than removing the trunk from a Vision that does not have the CB option. Since my current Vision does not have the CB and I'm not familiar exactly where the CB module is mounted or how much additonal work in involved, it's difficult for me to shed some light on this issue. Comments on this location or alternatives are welcomed on this thread.
 
So, we're going to band together to give Victory some assistance on this issue.

I've setup a new poll on The VOG asks buyers of the Anniversary Vision IF you'll will be purchasing the filler panel for your Anniversary Vision.

I would like to ask that only buyers of this specific model respond to this poll as well as let your friends who are getting this bike know about it so that they can participate in letting Victory know their intentions about purchasing the filler panel for this bike. Just click the POLLS link at the top of the page to cast your vote. Also, feel free to post your comments below.
 
Personally, I would have gladly paid the extra $100 to have it included with the bike...but we can't go backwards in time...unless someone out there has a stainless steel 70's DeLauren with a Flux Capacitor. If so, do you want to sell your Hoverboard?

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