VENGEANCE 2007 Vengeance Maxis User manual

“Proudly building Vengeance brand motorcycles in Riverside, CA”
© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
951-653-9050 • 951-653-9053 fax • www.venmc.com
2007 OWNERS MANUAL
• Vengeance Maxis
• Vengeance Raven
• Vengeance Banshee
• Vengeance Whiplash
• Hotrod Drifter
• Hotrod CalChop
• Hotrod Teacher
• Hotrod Bones

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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WELCOME
We thank you for your purchase, your new motorcycle is designed and manufactured to be among the finest in the
American V-twin industry.
We have prepared a simple and understandable guide for your motorcycle's care and operation and recommend that
you follow the instructions carefully for maximum performance, vehicle safety, and enhanced personal motorcycling
pleasure. You should become thoroughly acquainted with your manual before riding your motorcycle.
This Owner’s Manual provides instructions for the care and maintenance of minor service items that can be performed
by you, the owner. Maintenance and repair procedures that involve major components such as engine, transmission,
brakes, and electrical, etc. are also addressed in this manual, but it is recommended (and in some instances required)
that the motorcycle be serviced by an Authorized Service Center. Specific procedures require the skills of a qualified,
skilled technician and the use of special tools and equipment.
This manual also serves as a central location to maintain all data and records pertinent to your motorcycle. Should
you ever decide to sell your motorcycle, the manual is designed to be forwarded to its new owner in order to provide
its history along with necessary support information to continue its proper care and maintenance.
Driver and passenger safety is our top priority and as a supporter of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, we have
included help on how to ride safely as well as respond to potential riding hazards. Additionally, we have reprinted the
MSF’s booklet “You and Your Motorcycle – Riding Tips” which includes insights from seasoned riders and included it
in this book.
Please pay particular attention to the break-in procedures. Followed correctly, these procedures will ensure peak
vehicle performance over a longer period of time.
The information in this manual is based on the most recent production information available at the time of printing and
was created for our entire model line. Specific features vary among models, and some of the equipment mentioned
may not be on your motorcycle. American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC reserves the right to make changes on its
motorcycles without notice or obligation.
Should you have any questions or concerns about your motorcycle or its operation, please contact your local
Authorized Dealer or Service Center. For the authorized dealer or service center nearest you, visit our website.
We are committed to provide all of our motorcycles owners with service and support that is unmatched in the industry.
Please complete the enclosed Warranty Form and return it to us. Subsequent owners can complete and return the
Successive Owner information form in the manual which will allow us to communicate information and updates to all
current owners.
Congratulations and thank you once again from all of us. Enjoy the journey!

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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NOTES, WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
The NOTES, WARNINGS, and CAUTIONS throughout this manual should be read completely and fully understood
before you begin your first experience on your new motorcycle.
Your safety and the safety of your passenger are the most important thing to consider when riding this motorcycle.
Remember that you must do your part to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
The terms NOTE, WARNING, and CAUTION have specific meanings in this manual:
A NOTE provides additional information to make a step or procedure easier or clearer. Disregarding a NOTE could
cause inconvenience, but would not cause damage or personal injury. This information has been placed in italic type.
A CAUTION emphasizes areas where equipment damage could occur. Disregarding a CAUTION could cause
permanent mechanical damage which could cause personal injury. A CAUTION IS INDICATED IN BOLD CAPITAL
LETTERS.
A WARNING emphasizes areas where personal injury or even death could result from negligence.
Mechanical damage may also occur. WARNINGS are to be taken seriously. In some cases serious injury and death
has resulted from ignoring WARNINGS.
WARNING
BOLD CAPITALS CONTAINED IN A BOX INDICATES THAT THE SUBJECT IS ONE THAT COULD LEAD TO
PERSONAL BODILY INJURY TO THE RIDER, PASSENGER, OR OTHERS:
YOUR AMERICAN HOTROD MANUFACTURING, LLC PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS MOTORCYCLE, LIKE ANY
OTHER HIGH PERFORMANCE MOTOR VEHICLE, IS SUBJECT TO VIBRATION FROM THE OPERATION OF
THE ENGINE AND OTHER VEHICLE COMPONENTS, AS WELL AS FROM TRAVEL OVER VARIOUS ROAD
CONDITIONS. SUCH VIBRATION, WHICH MAY BE SEVERE DEPENDING ON OPERATING CONDITIONS, MAY
CAUSE NUTS, BOLTS AND OTHER FASTENERS TO LOOSEN OVER TIME. IT IS IMPERATIVE FOR SAFETY,
AND TO KEEP YOUR BIKE IN GOOD OPERATING CONDITION, THAT FASTENERS ARE CHECKED
FREQUENTLY FOR EXCESSIVE WEAR AND FOR TIGHTNESS. TO ENSURE THE SAFE AND DEPENDABLE
OPERATION OF THE MOTORCYCLE, LOOSE FASTENERS SHOULD BE CHECKED FREQUENTLY AND
TIGHTENED, IF NECESSARY. FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE MOTORCYCLE AS DESCRIBED IN THE OWNER'S
MANUAL MAY VOID WARRANTY.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Although this owner’s manual provides information for both novice and the experienced riders of
motorcycles, it is not to be used as a substitute for instruction on riding a motorcycle on public streets and
highways within the U.S.A. We strongly recommend each buyer take a motorcycle riding course to better
familiarize him or herself with proper motorcycle riding techniques, safe riding practices, and local traffic
laws of his or her state of residence. Each person who rides a motorcycle must be of proper age and must
have the appropriate driver’s license to operate a motorcycle (typically a “Class M” license). For further
information regarding motorcycle rider education classes, please contact the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
at [phone] or visit their website at www.msf.usa.org.

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome.....................................................................................................................................................................3
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings..................................................................................................................................4
“You and Your Motorcycle” - Riding Tips from the Motorcycle Safety Council ..........................................................7
Forward..........................................................................................................................................................7
Introduction....................................................................................................................................................7
The Rider – What to wear When You Ride...................................................................................................8
You and Your Legal Responsibilities.............................................................................................................9
Know Your Motorcycle.................................................................................................................................10
The Highway, Byway, Street and Alley .......................................................................................................13
Handling Special Situations.........................................................................................................................15
Equipment Failures......................................................................................................................................17
Group Riding and Passengers ....................................................................................................................18
Loading the Motorcycle ...............................................................................................................................19
Drugs, Drinking and Driving.........................................................................................................................19
Conclusion...................................................................................................................................................19
Motorcycle Skill Test Practice Guide...........................................................................................................20
Familiarization – Major Components........................................................................................................................26
Vehicle Identification Number......................................................................................................................26
Frame ..........................................................................................................................................................26
Suspension System.....................................................................................................................................27
Powertrain....................................................................................................................................................28
Braking system............................................................................................................................................29
Electrical System.........................................................................................................................................30
Fuel System.................................................................................................................................................31
Controls and Operations...........................................................................................................................................33
Ignition-Light Key Switch.............................................................................................................................33
Instrument Cluster .......................................................................................................................................34
Speedometer...............................................................................................................................................35
Turn Signal Indicators..................................................................................................................................36
Headlamp Hi/Lo Switch...............................................................................................................................37
Electric Starter.............................................................................................................................................37
Engine Stop Switch .....................................................................................................................................38
Horn.............................................................................................................................................................38
Throttle Control Grip....................................................................................................................................39
Fuel Supply Valve........................................................................................................................................39
Fuel Enrichener Controls.............................................................................................................................40
Fuel Caps ....................................................................................................................................................40
Brake System ..............................................................................................................................................41
Brake Light...................................................................................................................................................41
Clutch Hand Lever.......................................................................................................................................41
Gear Shifter .................................................................................................................................................42
Mirrors..........................................................................................................................................................42
Kickstand.....................................................................................................................................................43
Starting Your Motorcycle ..........................................................................................................................................44
Cold Starting................................................................................................................................................44
Hot Starting..................................................................................................................................................44

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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Break-in Procedures.................................................................................................................................................45
First 50 Miles ...............................................................................................................................................45
Next 500 Miles.............................................................................................................................................45
First 1,000 Miles ..........................................................................................................................................45
Next 1,000 Miles..........................................................................................................................................45
2,500 + Miles...............................................................................................................................................45
Operation..................................................................................................................................................................46
Shifting Gears..............................................................................................................................................46
Downshifting................................................................................................................................................46
Shifting While Turning .................................................................................................................................46
Braking and Stopping ...............................................................................................................................................47
Stopping the Engine .................................................................................................................................................47
Fuel Requirements ...................................................................................................................................................48
Service & Maintenance.............................................................................................................................................49
Transmission Oil Level................................................................................................................................50
Transmission Oil Change............................................................................................................................50
Engine Oil Level...........................................................................................................................................51
Engine Oil and Filter Change ......................................................................................................................51
Clutch Control Cable ...................................................................................................................................52
Brakes..........................................................................................................................................................52
Tires.............................................................................................................................................................53
Wheels.........................................................................................................................................................54
Wheel Bearings ...........................................................................................................................................54
Fasteners.....................................................................................................................................................55
Spark Plugs .................................................................................................................................................55
Suspension..................................................................................................................................................55
Battery .........................................................................................................................................................56
Paint Finishes, Chrome, and Billet ..............................................................................................................56
Warranty and Regulations Information.....................................................................................................................57
Manufacturer’s Warranty Coverage..........................................................................................................................57
Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities...........................................................................................................................57
Limited Warranty on Emission Control System........................................................................................................58
Noise Control System Maintenance.........................................................................................................................60
Reporting Safety Defects..........................................................................................................................................61
Limited Warranty.......................................................................................................................................................62
Torque Specifications...............................................................................................................................................65
Engine Service Intervals and Specifications ............................................................................................................66
Maintenance Records...............................................................................................................................................67

You and Your Motorcycle: Riding Tips
© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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FORWARD
The publication “You and Your Motorcycle: Riding Tips” has been reprinted in it is entirety and included as a complete
chapter in this owners manual with the express written permission of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). This
chapter or materials in this chapter may not be reproduced, for resale or otherwise, without the express written
permission of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
The information in this publication is offered for the benefit of those who have an interest in motorcycles. The
information has been compiled from publications, interviews and observations of individuals and organizations familiar
with the use of motorcycles and training. Because there are many differences in product design, riding styles, federal,
state and local laws, there may be organizations and individuals who hold differing opinions. Consult your local
regulatory agencies concerning the operation of motorcycles in your area.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a national, not-for-profit organization promoting the safety of motorcycles with
programs in rider training, operator licensing and public information.
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations! You have gained admission to the wonderful world of motorcycling. You are going to have a
marvelous time. You also have some new responsibilities, which is what this chapter is all about.
Motorcycling has grown more and more popular in recent years. We’re very glad to see the increase in people who
enjoy it. However, we’re also interested in keeping this a safe sport. The way to do this is to tell the rider – whether
novice or experienced – about operating a motorcycle safely. Your enjoyment, and your safety, depends on mastering
not only the art of motorcycling but also the realities of the traffic around you.
The staff at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has prepared this booklet to provide you – the motorcycle rider – with
important tips that can help you to ride safely. Read these pages carefully. Thirty minutes spent reading this
information can be one of the most valuable half-hours of learning you have ever had.
THE RIDER
The Rider – That’s you! Riding a motorcycle properly is a skill you can learn. It’s not something you are born with, like
having red hair or blue eyes. It takes thinking and practice to ride one well. Unfortunately many riders never learn the
critical skills to ride safely and enjoy the sport to its fullest.
The best thing you can do is take a RiderCourse®. Beginning riders may take the Motorcycle RiderCourse developed
by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). People who have been riding for some time can also benefit from taking
an MSF Experienced RiderCourse. You CAN teach an old dog new tricks.
The courses cover topics such as:
¾effective turning techniques
¾protective gear
¾traffic strategies
¾special riding situations
¾effective braking techniques
¾evasive maneuvers
The instruction is available nationwide. If you call the national toll-free number, [phone], you will get the phone
number of a training site near you.

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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What to Wear When You Ride
Proper gear is essential to safe riding. Wearing the right clothing always makes the sport more enjoyable, and more
comfortable, too.
Helmet
Around the block or around the world, it makes sense to leave home with a helmet on your head. IT’S ONE OF THE
BEST ITEMS OF PROTECTION YOU CAN USE.
Helmets come in all sizes, from extra small (XS) to extra large (XL). There are also helmets for children. When you
buy a helmet, make sure it fits properly. Try it on; it should be comfortable to wear, neither too tight nor too loose.
Remember, it is going to spend a lot of time on your head.
Always fasten the helmet strap. If the helmet is not secured, it is doing about as much good as if it were on the shelf at
home.
Did you know that all adult-sized motorcycle helmets now sold in the United States must have a sticker indicating
DOT (Department of Transportation) approval, which means that the helmet meets certain basic impact standards?
Don’t buy a helmet without one; it may not meet standards. Helmets vary greatly in price and style. Buy one that suits
you. Wear it. Fasten it every time you throw a leg over the motorcycle.
A good helmet makes motorcycling a lot more pleasurable because it cuts down on the wind noise and greatly
reduces rider fatigue. The days of heavy or cumbersome helmets are gone; they’re now made of light new materials
with terrific designs and colors to choose from.
If you do drop your helmet onto a hard surface, or it receives a heavy blow, it is probably time to buy a new one. A
motorcycle helmet is designed to absorb the impact of a blow, and a helmet should only do that once. If in doubt, get
a new one.
Eye Protection
Riding with bare eyeballs is a gamble. Your eyes are precious, and it does not take much to injure one.
A fairing on a motorcycle is not eye protection; a bit of sand or tiny piece of glass can whip in behind it and get in your
eye.
Proper eye protection means an approved shield on your helmet, a pair of goggles, or shatterproof glasses. Settling
for less just isn’t worth the risk.
Make sure your eye protection is clean and unscratched. If you use a tinted lens or shield for riding in the bright
sunlight, take a clear one along as well, in case you are riding after dark.
Jacket
Motorcycle jackets are made in many sturdy materials: denim, nylon in its various guises, corduroy, and leather. The
hide of a cow, or any other commonly used leather, offers you the most protection when it comes to abrasion. You
can buy leather jackets with zippered vents, which are comfortable to wear even in hot weather as they allow a breeze
to flow through.
Pants
These should be made of a thick material, such as leather. They resist abrasion and provide protection from the
elements. A pair of loose, light cotton pants that flap in the wind is not very good riding gear. A number of companies
sell leather riding pants, and you can get pants and jacket combinations that zip together.

© 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC • 2220 Eastridge Avenue Riverside, CA 92507
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Gloves
Always wear gloves. Even on a hot day. The car in front of you may throw up a stone that hits your fingers. Ouch!
Also, bare hands are not designed to withstand abrasion or accidental contact with a hot motorcycle part.
Boots
Over-the-ankle boots, please. Preferably made of strong leather. Your ankles are very complicated; protect them.
A boot with a slippery sole could cause embarrassment when you put your foot down at a greasy gas station. Rubber
soles, with a good tread design, offer better gripping capabilities.
Rain Gear
It rains everywhere in this country, some places more than others. Inevitably you will be caught out in the rain. Why
not have a good motorcycle rain suit along, with rain-covers for boots and gloves as well? It’s a lot more fun riding in
the rain when you’re dry.
High-Visibility Gear
The better people see you, the less likely they are to run into you. Brightly colored clothing is preferable to drab, dark
clothing.
You can buy special vests that are designed to make it easier for others to see you. Some military bases feel strongly
about this feature and require all motorcyclists to wear them.
For nighttime, you can buy clothing that reflects light, and put reflective strips on your helmet and the backs of your
boots. Every little bit helps.
YOU AND YOUR LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Don’t forget, driving is a privilege, not a right. You have to prove your competence before your license is issued. If you
ignore the laws of your state, your license may be taken from you.
Laws are intended to protect you, not to harass you. You may be the best and safest rider in the country, but these
laws are to keep incompetent, dangerous drivers off the streets. Just think of the chaos if we didn’t have these laws.
Respect them.
Licensing Requirements
These vary from state to state. Most states require a separate license in order to operate a motorcycle. Go and get
one. Drop by your local department of motor vehicles and ask for licensing information. You put yourself, your wallet,
and your insurance at risk if you choose to violate the law.
If your state requests it, take the written test. And the riding test. Get your motorcycle operator’s license. Become a
full-fledged member of the motorcycling fraternity.
Insurance
The registration is easy; pay your money, and you get a license plate to bolt onto the back of the bike.
Insurance is harder, but most states require liability insurance. (Check your state’s laws.) Shop around for it. Some
companies give a discount if you’ve taken an MSF RiderCourse.
You can also get other coverage on you and your bike: comprehensive, collision, medical payments, uninsured driver
(the other guy), et cetera. Ask your insurance agent what each type of coverage can do for you, and how much it will
cost.
The better your driving record, the less costly the insurance. It pays to be safe.