The VN1700 Classic Tourer ABS, also commonly known as the Voyager Custom, is a full-size American-style cruiser designed for touring and long-distance riding. Produced between 2009 and 2012, this model blends classic cruiser aesthetics with practical touring amenities, featuring a large fairing, comfortable seating, and integrated lockable hard saddlebags. Its engineering quality is underscored by a robust 1700cc V-twin, liquid-cooled engine delivering substantial torque, complemented by a 6-speed transmission with overdrive gears for relaxed highway cruising. Key features include a standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and a belt drive for smooth, low-maintenance power delivery, positioning it as a reliable and comfortable choice for touring motorcyclists.
This comprehensive Workshop Service Manual provides detailed information for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the VN1700 Classic Tourer ABS models from 2009 to 2012. Spanning 727 pages, the manual covers all essential systems, including the powertrain (engine, transmission, clutch, fuel and ignition systems), chassis (suspension, steering, brakes with ABS), electrical systems (lighting, instrumentation, charging, starting, and ECU), and bodywork (fairings, saddlebags, controls). It offers step-by-step procedures for scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, component disassembly and reassembly, technical adjustments, and in-depth diagnostic troubleshooting. This manual is an indispensable resource for owners, technicians, and mechanics seeking to ensure the optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of their VN1700 Classic Tourer ABS.
Model:
VN1700 Classic Tourer ABS
Model Designation:
Cruiser
Common Name:
Kawasaki Voyager Custom
Chassis Code Prefix:
VN1700
Segment:
Full-size American-style cruiser with touring capabilities
Target Audience:
Touring motorcyclists, riders seeking comfort, long-distance capability, and classic styling
Primary Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard, Honda Gold Wing (older generations), Indian Chief Vintage
Styling:
Classic cruiser lines, ample chrome, large fairing, comfortable seating
Touring Amenities:
Integrated saddlebags, passenger backrest, aerodynamic fairing with windshield
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety
Engine Configuration:
V-twin, liquid-cooled for consistent performance
Applicable Years:
2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear ABS)
Electrical:
Lighting, Instrumentation, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, ECU, Wiring Diagrams, ABS System Electronics
Bodywork:
Fairings, Saddlebags, Luggage Racks, Seat, Handlebars, Controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Chain Adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement
Technical Adjustments:
Valve Clearance Adjustment, Throttle Body Synchronization, Idle Speed Adjustment, ABS Bleeding Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including ECU fault codes and troubleshooting trees.
Component Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all major components.
Resolution:
High (suitable for printing)
Image Clarity:
Clear diagrams, illustrations, and photographs
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Text Search:
Searchable text enabled
Engine Type:
V-twin, Four-stroke, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.02 x 4.09 in)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Valve Actuation:
SOHC, shim-under-bucket tappets
Horsepower Approx:
93 hp @ 5700 rpm (estimated, often not officially stated for cruisers)
Torque Approx:
109 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (estimated, often not officially stated for cruisers)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection, Dual 45mm throttle bodies with sub-throttle valves
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (96 RON) or higher recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20.0 L (5.3 US gal)
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Lubrication System:
Forced lubrication, wet sump
Emission Systems:
Catalytic converter, PAIR (Pulsed Secondary Air Injection) system
Transmission Type:
6-speed, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc, cable-actuated
Overdrive Gears:
Includes overdrive gears (5th and 6th) for relaxed highway cruising
Transmission Fluid:
Kawasaki Genuine Gear Oil (GL-4) or equivalent recommended for gearbox
Belt Drive Maintenance:
Belt tension adjustment and inspection required
Overall Length:
2580 mm (101.6 in)
Overall Width:
970 mm (38.2 in)
Overall Height:
1520 mm (59.8 in)
Wheelbase:
1695 mm (66.7 in)
Ground Clearance:
130 mm (5.1 in)
Seat Height:
730 mm (28.7 in)
Curb Weight:
383 kg (844.4 lbs)
Load Limit:
Refer to manual for specific load capacity and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated lockable hard saddlebags
Rear Luggage Rack:
Optional or integrated depending on specific trim/packages
Safety Certifications:
N/A (Motorcycles generally not rated by NHTSA/Euro NCAP in the same way as cars)
Braking System Type:
Dual front disc brakes, Single rear disc brake
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on both front and rear wheels
Suspension Type:
Front: 43mm telescopic fork; Rear: UNI-TRAK, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light
Tires:
Tubeless tires for improved puncture resistance
Passenger Safety:
Comfortable passenger seat and backrest
Audio System:
Some models may have had optional or aftermarket audio systems; the manual would cover the wiring and installation of factory systems if present.
Cruise Control:
Not standard on all VN1700 models within this range; may be present on specific 'Voyager' variants.
ABS:
Standard ABS is a key technological feature for safety and control.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics with fault codes readable via diagnostic tool (covered in the manual).
Headlight:
Halogen headlight for primary illumination.
Taillight Brake Light:
LED technology for enhanced visibility and longevity.
First Service:
1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 6000 km (3750 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical for major services)
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 6000 km (3750 miles) or annually, whichever occurs first
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or as specified in the manual
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified synthetic or semi-synthetic recommended
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.6 L (3.8 US qt) without filter change, 3.9 L (4.1 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Coolant (50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol with demineralized water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 recommended
Final Drive Fluid:
Not applicable (Belt Drive)
Common Wear Items:
Tires, brake pads, clutch plates, belt drive (wear depends on usage)
Potential Issues:
Occasional electrical connector corrosion (especially in humid/coastal climates), fuel pump issues (rare), stator failure (rare).
Belt Tension:
Regularly check and adjust belt tension according to the manual's specifications to prevent premature wear or failure.
Throttle Sync:
Periodic synchronization of the throttle bodies ensures smooth engine operation and optimal fuel delivery.
Cooling System Flushing:
Regular coolant flushes and replacement prevent corrosion and maintain cooling efficiency.
Manufacturer:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine Company, Japan
Specialization:
Known for performance motorcycles, including sportbikes, cruisers, and off-road models.
Vn Series Legacy:
The VN series represents Kawasaki's long-standing commitment to the cruiser market, evolving from smaller displacement models to larger V-twins.
Vn1700 Introduction:
The VN1700 platform was introduced in 2009, offering a modern take on the classic American cruiser with advanced technology and Japanese reliability.
Tourer Variant Focus:
The 'Tourer' designation signifies the addition of touring-specific features like fairings and luggage, differentiating it from the Classic or Classic LT models.
Production Period:
2009-2012 for this specific manual coverage
Manufacturing Location:
Likely assembled in Japan, with components sourced globally
Model Specific Awards:
No widely publicized specific awards for this model within its production years, but consistently praised for value and reliability in its class.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive reviews for comfort, handling, and engine performance within the cruiser segment.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets emissions standards for its respective model years and regions.
