Kawasaki got rid of the now over passed Vulcan 1500 and came up with not just an all-new bigger model to replace it, but an entire 1700cc lineup composed of classic, classic tourers and touring models providing riders with the possibility to find the ideal model without going in another manufacturer’s dealership. This is how we end up talking about the amazing all-new Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 which concludes under the Classic, Classic LT, Nomad and Voyager model names.
The four different and yet very similar models can be classified in two categories: first, there are the two Classic models blending in timeless looks with modern technology and powered by the 1700cc, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four valve per cylinder, 52-degree V-twin engine delivering peak torque (108 lb-ft) at just 2,250 rpm. These first two models feature a 6.7 inches trail. And secondly, the Nomad and Voyager models, which are powered by the same engine, delivering the best of torque 500 rpms higher on the rev range while featuring the same 30-degree rake and an appropriate, but different 7 inches trail. Apart from this, dimensions, weight and looks make all the difference between the four models featuring the same powerplant.
All models feature a digital fuel injection system with dual 42mm throttle bodies. This, together with exhaust tuning, makes sure that the engine delivers loads of torque just above idle so this is where Kawasaki worked at in order to achieve the torque curve difference that splits the Vulcan 1700 lineup in two. An Electronic Throttle Valve System ensures great engine response and constant acceleration without having a dramatic influence over fuel consumption. The system has an Accelerator Position Sensor and a Throttle Position Sensor which work together for the best throttle response and in the worst case scenario (a sensor failure) will send a signal to the ECU so that riders would find out through the On Board Diagnostics system what’s wrong with their bike. Let’s just hope that you’ll never have to experience that.
Still, the engine isn’t that much of a blast among cruisers mostly because it features a single cam per cylinder so Kawi mates it to the six-speed gearbox with overdrive. This way, riders are offered the possibility of reaching a higher top speed without increased fuel consumption. Relaxed, economic and quiet cruising is what these bikes are all about so apart from the efficient tranny, all models get belt final drive which also requires no maintenance, just regular replacement.
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Comfort isn’t to be ignored either and on the Vulcan 1700 series there are no reasons to complain as these come with Dual Adjustable Rear Air-Shocks that adjust spring preload with air and offer 4-way rebound damping adjustments. Up front, the Classic, Classic LT and Nomad models are offered the proper steering feedback through a 43mm telescopic fork while the Voyager model comes with a 45mm one meeting the same demands as on its lighter siblings.
All models are fitted with all around 300mm disc brakes with twin-piston calipers on the Classic, Classic LT and Nomad, while the much heavier Voyager has four-piston calipers and only two at the rear. Also, this last model is the most sophisticated when it comes to braking performance as Kawasaki uses Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology with optional ABS to put it to a complete and secure stop.
The lowest seat height is that of the Classic and its corresponsive LT model (only 28.3 inches from the ground), but this also implies a ground clearance of only 5.1 inches so expect a lot of scraping the tarmac with the footrests when approaching corners a little bit too fast and being needed to lean more than the usual. With a seat height of 28.7 inches and a ground clearance of 5.5 inches of the Nomad and 5.3 inches of the Voyager, expect for the same scraping action in this case from much heavier piece of motorcycles, something that would make it even harder on the riders to keep the things under control in tricky situations. Kawi’s only possible explication is that the low seat heights were definite musts and the low ground clearance and the implicit low center of gravity allows for light handling.
Kawasaki introduced the all-new models to offer both diversity and alternatives to some of the most notorious classic and touring motorcycles out there.
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Competition
2008 Honda VTX1800N
The Honda VTX1800N and VTX1800T as well as the 2009 Suzuki Boulevard C109R and Boulevard C109RT stand as Japanese alternatives to the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic and Classic LT. So are the Star Roadliner and Star Stratoliner models, but this maker also offers the Royal Star Venture against the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager model. The Star is powered by a liquid-cooled 1298cc V-four engine so competitors come in all shapes and sizes.
2009 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide
In matter of cruiser and tourers, Harley-Davidson is THE leader, but this time we’ll stop at their Ultra Classic Electra Glide model as this is the most appropriate American solution to the same riding demands that the Voyager satisfies. The Electra Glide is powered by Harley’s air-cooled, 96-cubic-inch V-twin fuel-injected motor offering a unique rush thanks to the 92.6 ft-lbs of torque that it develops at 3,500 rpm. Wet weight is 889 lbs which is very close to Kawi’s 886.4 lbs wet weight for the Standard Voyager and 895.2 lbs wet weight for the ABS-equipped Voyager model. This Harley-Davidson starts at $20,999 so price is most likely the main reason why people will head to Kawasaki dealerships to check out the new massive tourer.
Style is important as well and Kawasaki approaches a different one for each of the Vulcan 1700 models.
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic
To begin with, the 2009 Vulcan 1700 Classic is the simplest of them all. With timeless cruiser lines characterizing it from the start and to the rear, it’s no doubt that Kawasaki did use the Vulcan 1500 heritage, but in a rather refined manner. Chrome is present in abundance, from the tank mounted instruments and to the slash-cut exhaust pipes. The cast wheels feature nine spokes and the 1700cc V-twin motor shines brightly in between them. Available painted Metallic Diablo Black, this thing is ready to hit the Boulevards and create the impression of being a much more expensive motorcycle thanks to the impeccable fit and finish.
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT
The ’09 Vulcan 1700 Classic LT adds a height adjustable windscreen, seat and passenger backrest as well as a pair of spacious leather saddlebags on top of the classic cruiser looks and transforms into a touring motorcycle. The two-tone color schemes available for this model (Metallic Nocturne Blue / Pearl Burnish Beige and Metallic Dark Green / Pearl Burnish Beige) are also supposed to set it apart from the simple model that inspired its creation.
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad
Replacing the leather saddlebags with a pair of hard, lockable, top-opening ones determines Kawasaki to call practically the same touring motorcycle “Nomad” and paint it Metallic Diablo Black or Candy Diamond Red / Pearl Luster Beige.
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
The biggest upgrade involves the 2009 Vulcan 1700 Voyager which stands out thanks to a large old school front fairing which’s lines are defined by the big chromed headlamp and the twin fog lights inspired by the auto industry (or should have I said Harley-Davidson?). Behind the big windscreen, riders are spoiled by old style analog instrumentation featuring speedometer, tachometer and coolant temperature gauge. There is also a LCD display and an iPod as the audio system.
This thing is built for the long haul and the 13.2 gallons trunk and 10 gallons side cases show it best. The bucket-style seat is nice too, but present on all previously mentioned models. Still, the passenger gets sofa-like accommodation on the Voyager as that big trunk also plays the role of a backrest. Colors available for the most radical Vulcan 1700 out there are Candy Plasma Blue / Metallic Diablo Black and Metallic Titanium / Metallic Diablo Black.
Price
The cheapest motorcycle among the four is the Classic which starts at $12,299. This is followed by the corresponsive LT model that comes with an MSRP of $13,799 and the Nomad. This last’s starting price is influenced by the color scheme chosen ($14,399 for the standard and $14,699 for the two-tone color scheme). With the base MSRP starting at $16,799 for the ABS-free model and at $17,899 for the ABS-equipped model, the Venture model is also the most expensive in its lineup, but not in its class.
Conclusion
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
For the category that they are positioned in and for what they offer, the all-new 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 models are pretty good deals without which we could have indeed ride peacefully, but which also rummage our thoughts now that we know about the top quality involved. So, should have Kawi simply concentrated on improving the ZX-14 or was the 1700cc cruisers/tourers lineup a must as well?
Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four valve per cylinder, 52˚ V-twin
Displacement: 1,700cc / 103.7ci
Bore x Stroke: 102 x 104mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Maximum Torque: 108 lb-ft @ 2,250 rpm (2,750 rpm-Nomad and Voyager)
Cooling: Liquid, plus cooling fins
Induction: Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission: Six-speed with overdrive
Final drive: Belt
Chassis and Dimensions
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Frame: Steel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone
Rake / Trail: 30° / 6.7 in. (7.0 in.-Nomad and Voyager)
Suspension, Front / Wheel Travel: 43mm (45mm on the Voyager) hydraulic fork / 5.5 in.
Suspension, Rear / Wheel Travel: Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping / 3.1 in.
Front Tire: 130/90x16
Rear Tire: 170/70x16
Brakes, Front Dual 300mm discs, dual twin-piston calipers
Brakes, Rear: Single 300mm disc, twin-piston caliper
Overall Length: 98.4 in.; 100.8 in.-Voyager
Overall Width: 40.4 in.; 39.2 in.-Voyager
Overall Height: 45.5 in.-Classic; 57.7 in.-Classic LT; 57.7 in.-Nomad;61.0 in.-Voyager
Ground Clearance: 5.1 in.-Classic and Classic LT; 5.5 in.- Nomad; 5.3 in.-Voyager
Seat Height: 28.3 in.-Classic and Classic LT; 28.7 in.-Nomad and Voyager
Wheelbase: 65.6 in.
Curb Weight: 760.7 lbs.-Classic; 798.2 lbs.-Classic LT;-833.5 lbs.-Nomad; Standard / ABS: 886.4 / 895.2 lbs.-Voyager
Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gal.
Liquid cooled, 4-valve per cylinder, fuel-injected 1700cc 52˚ V-twin engine
Long-stroke 102 x 104mm bore and stroke helps deliver high levels of torque - approximately 15 percent greater than that of the Vulcan 1600, with a distinct V-twin feel
Valve system is based on the Vulcan 2000, but uses a single overhead cam arrangement instead of pushrods, for quicker revving and enhanced mid-high rpm power
Semi-dry sump allows a lower crankshaft placement and a longer piston stroke without increasing engine height
Single-pin crank accentuates the engine’s V-twin character by providing stronger power-pulses
Large capacity airbox is located on both sides of the engine
Small-diameter iridium sparkplugs reach deep into the combustion chamber for high combustion efficiency, especially during low-load operation
Dual staggered mufflers offer a rich sound and stylish appearance
Engine tuning offers superior acceleration in the 50-70mph range
Even in overdrive, the engine pulls strongly in this speed range, facilitating overtaking at highway speeds
Next Generation FI
Based on the systems used by the Ninja 650R and Vulcan 900
Utilizes one sensor in place of the usual three, for reduced complexity and weight
The Vulcan 1700 takes advantage of FI and exhaust tuning that is optimized for maximum performance in the low-mid-rpm range, giving it plenty of grunt on the boulevard
Electronic Throttle Valve System
Kawasaki’s first fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of intake air (via throttle valve angle) and fuel (via fuel injector timing) delivered to the engine
Optimized fuel injector timing and throttle valve position results in accurate, powerful engine response
Control of both fuel injection and airflow provides easy starting and precise cold-engine idle speed control
From the rider’s perspective, the ETV works like a standard cable-operated throttle - the throttle grip is still connected to cables, so the feel at the grip is the same
Twisting the throttle turns a pulley on the throttle body which triggers the Accelerator Position Sensor (APS) to send a signal to the ECU, which then modulates the throttle valves via a DC motor
Accurate throttle position is relayed to the ECU by a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
APS and TPS send two sets of signals to the ECU for system redundancy in the unlikely event of a sensor failure
On Board Diagnostics
Diagnostic system allows self testing of the electronic systems on the Vulcan 1700
Displays codes on the instrumentation, which can be read by owner; using accessory manual
Transmission / Final Drive
Six-speed transmission
6th gear is an overdrive gear, contributing to stress-free riding and better fuel economy when cruising at highway speeds
28mm carbon fiber final drive belt offers a 40 percent increase in tensile strength compared to current Kevlar belts. This allows the Vulcan 1700 to use a slim belt that’s only 2mm wider than the Kevlar belt on the Vulcan 900
Belt drive system is quiet, efficient and offers reduced maintenance compared to a chain
Light handling chassis
A more compact package than its predecessors, the new frame features a shorter wheelbase, and shorter distance between the seat and steering head, for improved rider ergonomics and easier maneuverability
Designed to be as light and slim as possible, the frame minimizes the number of forged parts and trims any unnecessary metal. The only forged parts are areas that require additional strength - the down-tube joint, engine brackets, side-stand bracket, and rear fender/shock absorber bracket
The new frame is 4.4 pounds lighter than its predecessors, and has a 40% increase in rigidity
The compact design contributes to light handling and facilitates handling at low speeds, especially when executing precise slow speed maneuvers like parking or making U-turns
43mm Telescopic Fork
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad
Provides superb steering feedback
5.5 inches of travel for excellent ride quality
Dual Adjustable Rear Air-Shocks
Air adjustable spring preload can be tuned to match varying rider and passenger loads
4-way rebound damping adjustments help the shocks compensate for changes in spring pressure
Chromed shock covers contribute to the bike’s luxurious finish
9-Spoke Cast Wheels
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Allow the use of tubeless tires and complement the Vulcan 1700’s new muscular styling
130/90 front and 170/70 rear radial tires
Tire choice and suspension settings selected to augment the chassis’ light handling characteristics
Brakes
Dual 300mm front and a single 300mm rear disc are squeezed by two piston calipers. This braking system is tuned to provide sure, powerful stops
V-twin Visual Appeal
Basic architecture has a significant impact on a V-Twin engine’s appearance.
The line created by the top of the airbox and the cylinder heads forms a curved shape that continues to flow through the bike
Deeply chromed engine covers have curved upper surfaces. Their three-dimensional form adds volume and gives a high quality appearance
The edges of the cooling fins receive a special NC treatment that makes them gleam in sunlight
All the non-chromed parts of the engine have a matte black finish that further accentuates the gleaming chrome
Bodywork
The fuel tank’s hand-sculpted contours employ a constantly varying radius, giving the bike a dynamic flowing style which is pleasing both to the eye and to the touch
Its lines flowing through the rest of the bike, the elegantly shaped fuel tank contributes to the Vulcan 1700’s curvaceous figure
Ignition switch allows on-position key removal; preventing key bunches from scratching the instrument cluster or tank while the bike is in operation
Turning the ignition switch collar to the “OFF” position turns the engine off and necessitates re-insertion of the key to restart
Multi-function LCD displays on the tank-mounted instrument cluster are controlled by switches on the right handlebar. Features include a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption
Liberal use of chrome on the engine, fender brackets, light stays, and rear shock covers contrast nicely with the bodywork’s deep, lustrous paint
The sculpted shape of the seat compliments the rich visual tone of the bodywork
The new Vulcan 1700s are the first Kawasaki cruisers to feature an elegant LED taillight
Classic LT Distinctive Features
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT
Windscreen
Thick, optically correct acrylic plastic windscreen is shaped for smooth airflow and cruiser style
Strong chrome plated steel supports
Two-position height
Seat and Passenger Backrest
Detailed with ½-inch diameter chrome plated brass studs
Strong chrome plated steel supports
Saddlebags
Made of reinforced top grain cowhide carefully selected with minimal flaws and deep dyed to prevent scrapping off the finish
Slant top opening lid, secured with two 1.5-inch wide leather straps with chrome buckles and quick release stealth fasteners
Dual panel lid construction with embossed Vulcan logo detail
Metal reinforced upper edge so bags hold their shape
Rolled and riveted top lid minimizes water entry
One-half inch diameter chrome plated brass stud accents match the seats
Nomad Distinctive Features
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad
Cruise control
Operation of the cruise control is conveniently from the right handle
Cruise control can be activated between 30mph (47km/h) and 85mph (137km/h) in 3rd gear or above
Operating the brake lever, clutch lever or rear brake pedal disengages the cruise control as will closing the throttle beyond the “zero-throttle” position
Wind Protection
Adjustable handlebar-mounted windscreen offers smooth airflow and cruiser style
Strong chrome plated steel supports
Two-position height
Sub-windshield and deflectors further increase wind protection performance
The sub-windshield covers the area between the windshield and headlight when the windshield is in the raised position and the fork-mounted deflectors help direct air away from the rider’s legs
Seat and Passenger Backrest
Rider and passenger seats are sculpted for greater all-day comfort
Luxury backrest with integrated passenger grab bars contributes to passenger comfort
As a final contribution to passenger comfort, the Nomad features passenger floorboards
Saddlebags
The Nomad features hard, lockable, top-opening saddlebags that each provide 8.6 gal. (38L) of sealed storage space for overnight touring
Front and rear guards on the Nomad help protect the bike’s engine and hard side cases in the case of a fall
Convenient helmet locks located on the left- and right-side saddlebag guards
Voyager Distinctive Features
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Cruise control
The cruise control can be engaged and adjusted entirely from the right handlebar
Cruise control can be activated in 3rd gear or above at any speed between 30mph and 85mph
Pressure on the brake lever, clutch lever or rear brake pedal will automatically disengage the cruise control, as will manually rolling-off the throttle
Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology (K-ACT) with ABS
Voyager ABS models feature Kawasaki’s sophisticated new K-ACT system which enables riders to execute controlled, balanced braking in all situations. Designed to complement the riders’ brake inputs, the system distributes the ideal amount of brake pressure to maximize braking efficiency
Pressure on the front brake lever and/or rear brake pedal causes the brake fluid to act directly on the pistons in the brake calipers, just like any “normal” brake system. However, pressure sensors at each master cylinder detect the amount of braking force the rider is applying, while the ECU measures vehicle speed. After determining the corresponding amount of brake force needed for maximum braking efficiency, additional motor-driven brake fluid is pumped into the front and rear pressure control units, thereby increasing pressure to the front right caliper and/or rear caliper as necessary. Two more pressure sensors (one measuring front right caliper fluid pressure, one measuring rear caliper fluid pressure) provide feedback to the K-ACT ECU
K-ACT also incorporates an anti-lock braking (ABS) function to help prevent lock-up in emergencies
For maximum controllability in tight corners and when executing U-turns, K-ACT’s coactive function does not engage when braking is initiated at speeds below 12mph
The ABS function is disengaged at speeds below 4mph
Both ABS and non-ABS models utilizes dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a two-piston rear disc brake for sure, powerful stops
45mm Telescopic Fork
Provides superb steering feedback
5.5 inches of travel helps provide excellent ride quality
Bodywork
2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Muscular front fairing is reminiscent of classic American muscle cars in its sculpted, flowing design
Chromed headlamp cover and twin fog lights contribute to the muscle car theme
The fuel tank’s hand-sculpted contours employ a constantly varying radius, giving the bike a dynamic flow that is pleasing both to the eye and to the touch
The lines flowing through the rest of the bike and its elegant fuel tank contribute to the Voyager’s curvaceous figure
Liberal use of chrome contrasts nicely with the bodywork’s deep, lustrous paint. The engine, front and rear guards, accents on the side cases and trunk, and the trunk brackets are fully chromed
Design motif from the front fender is continued by the rear fender, which features an elegant LED taillight
Front and rear guards help protect the bike’s bodywork in case of a tip-over
Dual 35W fog lights have a dedicated On/Off switch and can be adjusted vertically
In addition to the taillight on the rear fender, the Voyager also has a large, highly visible LED taillight mounted on the rear of the trunk that contributes to its appearance
Classic Retro Dashboard
Instrument layout and large round dials give the Voyager’s console a classic automotive elegance, which is reinforced by the font used in the instrumentation
Even the radio has a classic look, reminiscent of the 1960s
Multi-function LCD display in the center of the instrument console is controlled by switches on the right handlebar. Features include a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption
Analog displays include speedometer, tachometer and coolant temperature gauge
Audio system with twin speakers features radio (FM/AM/WX) and compatibility with optional iPod®, XM tuner or CB radio units
The audio system (and iPod) can be operated by switches on the left handlebar
Ignition switch allows key removal in the on-position; preventing keys from damaging the chrome finish around the ignition area during operation
Turning the ignition switch collar to the ACC” position allows accessories to be used while the engine is off and turning it to the “OFF” position turns the engine off and necessitates re-insertion of the key to restart
A number of features facilitate comfortable long-distance touring
Wind protection
Large windshield and front fairing help protect the rider and passenger from wind and elements
With the front fairing mounted to the frame, any wind buffeting is transferred to the bike rather than the handlebars, helping to enhance highway stability and reduce rider fatigue
Leg shields have adjustable vents to tailor the amount of airflow to the rider’s legs
Ample storage
13.2 gallon (50L) lockable trunk is large enough to fit two full-face helmets
Top-opening side cases are sealed and lockable, with a volume of 10 gallons (38L) each
Up front, lockable glove boxes provide a handy place for storing small items and accessories. An iPod jack (optional connector required) is located in the left-side glove box
Comfort
Sculpted seat designed for both long-distance ergonomics and an easy reach to the ground
Upright riding position and floorboard contribute to all-day touring comfort
Roomy passenger seat is complemented by padding on the trunk that provides back and arm support
Rear floorboards contribute to passenger comfort
Dual adjustable rear air-shocks use settings optimized for load carrying and long distance comfort
Long range
5.3 gallon fuel tank offers a substantial range, helping to minimize fuel stops when out on the open road
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