Yes I know a bit about automobiles as well.
This review is going to be specefic to the Victor GL (without Discs model).
I had to buy the motorcycle after my upgraded CBZ got stolen, I still have not been able to recover from the shck, it had a power output of 19 BHP, 0-100 in 7 seconds, anyway maybe ill write a review on that as well..
So I bought the victor more on its promise of high Mileage than anything else. The initial mileage I got was rather dissapointing--around 70 and then after the service it slipped down to 64-66 and after the second servive even furthe down to 59-60. Now I was pretty mad because I’m someone who is slightly obsessed with mileage, even with the CBZ I was managing to take out almost 50Kmpl.
So after these drops I decided to sit down one day and make a list of what to do and whatnot to do, Not only for increased mileage but overall performance. The points listed are what worked and I hope they will come of use to someone on the site.
1. Clean the air-filter regularly. Forget about mechanic do it yourself every week. All u need is a little Kerosene and a little patience.
2. Keep the tyre pressure ok. Check it once a week. I tend to do it every time I fuel up which is once a week. Keep it 1 PSI more than what is prescribed. This will not result in damage to the tyres and at the same time allow for some amount of pressure to go while maintaining the correct one.
3. Upgrade to higher octane fuels. I tried Speed, I tried Power, the best one in terms of smoothness and mileage turned out to be Extra Premium by Indian Oil I think. Its also at the same time the cheapest as compared to Speed etc. 100 Rs=2.85 Litres.
4. Never never stress the gears on this bike. DOnt take it into power mode so to speak.
5. COntrary to belief you dont need to get this bike service a lot. I have done 11, 000 Kms in 13 months and have oly got it service twice. Of course no point wasting free services but just keep dust off the bike..wash it down once a week.
6. The brakes tend to get very loose and therby u use them more..harder....ensure that they dont get to this level.
7. This bike has a tendency to leak oil. Ensure this never happens...not only will if affect engine performance but its going to cost you on oil. If you notice such aproblem dont even think about doing it yourself...just go to a mechanic. Let him handle it.
I tried all these and put them into practise over aperiod of a month and I am happy to say that my mileage has jumped back to around 66kmpl..and this is in A place like Delhi.