I'm interested in touring bikes like some women are interested in another pair of shoes. In fact my feelings on owning multiple motorcycles draws a parallel to a closet full of shoes ... you need something for every occasion.
I took the bike unescorted on a dealer-prescribed four mile circuit, through city streets and a twisty parkway, and back to the dealer. Too short of a run to really get a feel for the bike, but way better than just looking at them on the showroom floor.
The Kingpin reminded me of the GL1100 Gold Wing in terms of comfort and acceleration. It's a complement when speaking of comfort. Both bikes certainly "have it going on" in the comfort department. Seats and seating positions, wind protection are all superbly comfortable.
However, the comparison to a Goldwing -- at least the 1100cc version that I had previously owned -- is not really a complement. When I say that the Victory Kingpin Tour reminded me of the Wing in terms of acceleration, I mean that I asked it to move, and it whined and complained and clamoured up to speed. This is why I no longer own the GL1100.
I liked the windshield height, the breeze still hit me in the face but was deflected from my chest. Personal preference.
It was very well balanced with weight down low. Easy off the stand and comfortable to sit on. Ergonomics were comfortable. I had never ridden with forward controls and found them to be comfortable, more than I expected. The floorboards and heel-toe shifter were a new experience for me.
Fit and finish was very nice. It felt like a substantial bike. There was an audible whine that I'm not accustomed to, related to the engine speed. I've heard it from other bikes, I'm sure it's just something I'm supposed to get used to. It's not a deal-breaker for me -- if I loved everything else about the bike, I'd be willing to overlook the unusual engine sound.
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I snipped this review from a longer post of mine, which contained several test drives, plus the tale of getting there and back.
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