The 2011 Kawasaki Vulcan->ke1749 1700 Classic doesn't have the panache of the Vaquero and Nomad versions, but it nevertheless offers plenty of upside for a cruiser bike. Featuring the perfect combination of classic Kawasaki->ke299 design engineering with the most up-to-date two-wheeled chassis and engine technology, the Kawasaki 1700 Classic is a definite man's bike. No glitters and pizzazz here; just a straight up, heads-all-over cruiser.
The stunning raked-'n'-retro front end complements the huge V-twin design of the fat-tendered backside. Add a powerful four-stroke, 1700cc, SOHC V Twin engine inside, coupled with advanced technology and staggering functionality, and you have a cruiser bike whose bite is every bit as good as its bark.
There's plenty to like about the newest Kawaski Vulcan 1700 Classic. As with all classic cruisers, riders will have an terrifyingly great time running around with the Vulcan 1700 Classic.
Find out more about the Vulcan 1700 Classic after the jump.
2011 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic
- Make: Array
- Model: 2011 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic
- Engine/Motor: 103.7-inch V engine
- Transmission: six=speed
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Exterior Design
Kawasaki went with a light and slim approach in designing the Vulcan 1700 Classic. The aforementioned retro front end lends itself a classic look with the V-twin, fat-fendered, and fat-tired backside. The bike also features a deep paintwork that's highlighted by thick chrome and detailed touches, affording it a look that's both classic and modern at the same time.
The Vulcan 1700 Classic also carries a single backbone double cradle frame that offers a short seat-to-steering head distance to go with a corresponding short wheelbase. Even the car's handlebars are easily reachable and can facilitate slow-speed maneuvering to help riders ease into the bike's overall set-up. Up front, a large 43mm fork offers precise steering feedback, a supple ride, and 5.5 inches of travel.
The final touch of the bike's exterior are the nine-spoke cast wheels that run fat, tubeless tires measuring 130/90 in the front and 170/70 in the rear. The tires go with dual 300mm front disc brakes featuring twin-piston calipers and a single 300mm rear disc brake with a two-piston caliper that gives the bike a steadying stopping influence.
Performance
The Vulcan 1700 Classic carries a liquid-cooled, 103.7-inch V engine with a pair of massive pistons moving within a pair of liquid-cooled but beautifully finned cylinder blocks that are arrayed at 52 degrees to give the best possible optimum balance to the bike. Kawasaki also brought in a powerful ECU and a fuel injection system that provides revised settings, resulting in a improved throttle response. The electronic throttle valve allows for a more fluid response while not taking anything away from the engine's performance capabilities.
Then there's the matter of the transmission with the Vulcan 1700 Classic carrying a six-speed transmission that contributes to an improved overall riding experience and better fuel economy, even at highway speeds.
Pricing
Taking into account the whole package that comes with this imposing cruiser bike, the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic carries a reasonable price tag of just $12,199.
Final Thoughts
Anybody in the market for an all-new cruiser should definitely pay close attention to the Kawasaki 1700 Classic. It's not as overwhelming on the senses as the Nomad and Vaquero variants, but for under $13,000, you'll have trouble finding a bike that offers more than this bagger for the price tag it commands.