The early release game has intensified. Barely a few weeks into 2012, Victory has already announced a new 2013 model that has been authoritatively named the Judge.

Picture of the 2013 Victory Judge Rear wheel of the Victory Judge Described as a classic American muscle car with a drag bar, the Judge’s appearance is dominated by its distinctive bodywork and blacked-out components.

Most of what you see is completely new. The handlebar, bodywork, tail light, and fender struts that create its brooding profile and define the minimal, high-performance look are exclusive to the Judge. The bike rides on 16 inch mag wheels shod with Dunlop Elite II tires; the raised white lettering on their sidewalls is a pure muscle-car touch.

Victory says the 300 kg (660 lb) Judge provides “premium” levels of power, braking and handling. Victory’s 1,731 cc, Freedom 106 V-twin, is at the heart of the machine. It has a claimed peak torque of 153 N-m (113 lb-ft) and has been fitted to a 6-speed transmission with helical cut gears and a positive neutral finder.

The Judge’s riding position combines a 658 mm (25.9 in.) seat height with mid-mount pegs, so it should be a relatively comfortable and easy bike to ride.

Of course we won’t be able to reach a verdict on the Judge until we’ve had a chance to ride one. Until then we will continue to admire its styling, in particular the way the seat wraps the odd, yet funky, oval-shaped side covers. We also like the shape of the Judge’s seductively sculpted 17 litre fuel tank. Available in black ($15,299), red ($15,749) or “Suede Nuclear Sunset” ($15,749), the Judge is an interesting addition to Victory’s line-up.

For more info, including a selection of Judge glam shots, point your web browser toward www.purepolaris.com.

Photo shoot of the new Victory Judge SE

Custom color Victory Judge

Image of the Victory Judge in Sunset Red