FIGHTER Station 454, the new official dealer for the American-built Victory custom bikes, opens at Hybris Business Park, Crossways, near Dorchester, on Sunday April 10.

As well as new and used Victory bikes to see and test ride, the opening will feature a wide range of Victory-branded clothing and accessories. Joining the celebrations will be members of the UK Victory Riders Association.

With over 300 US dealers, Victory (a division of 50 year old Polaris Industries, USA a manufacturer of quad bikes, personal watercraft and snowmobiles) is the fastest-growing custom brand in the United States.

Launched in 2003, the Victory Vegas was named that year's best cruiser by four leading motorcycle magazines. Powered by an all-new 1507cc fuel-injected 'Freedom' V-twin engine and styled by custom bike guru Arlen Ness, the low, stretched Vegas became an overnight success.

In 2004 Victory followed up that success with the Kingpin - a custom-styled low-rider with extended fenders and full footboards. Once again it took top awards including 'Best New V-Twin Motorcycle' from V-Twin Motorcycle magazine.

This year Victory has introduced two new models (both seen in the UK for the first time at last November's UK Bike Show): the stripped-down, all-black 8-Ball and the new Hammer with 100 cubic-inch (1634cc) engine, 6-speed overdrive transmission and a 250mm rear tyre - the widest yet seen on a production motorbike.

There is already a waiting list for these exclusive new models in the UK, but free stock is available through Fighter Station 454 and can be ordered at the Launch Day.

Located alongside Sideways Motorcycles, the official KTM dealer for Dorset and part of BMW main dealer CW Motorcycles of Dorchester, the name Fighter Station 454 is taken from the Second World War US airbase that became the nearby village of Crossways.

The doors open at 10am with visitors being supplied with hot food and refreshments.