Market Position:
The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad represents a premium American-style cruiser designed for long-distance touring. It competes with other large-displacement touring cruisers from manufacturers like Harley-Davidson and Honda.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors include the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard, Road King, and Honda Gold Wing (though the Gold Wing is a larger, more feature-rich touring platform). The Vulcan 1700 Nomad offers a compelling blend of V-twin character, comfortable ergonomics, and touring amenities at a competitive price point.
Key Features:
1700cc V-twin engine, electronic fuel injection, ABS, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, integrated hard saddlebags, large windshield for wind protection, chrome accents, robust chassis for stable touring.
Engine:
1700cc V-twin engine, fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management system (ECU), emissions control.
Transmission Drivetrain:
6-speed transmission, clutch system, final drive (belt drive), gearbox internal components.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic, air-assisted on some Nomad models), rear suspension (dual shock absorbers, adjustable), wheel bearings, steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) component testing and repair, brake fluid replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder servicing.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, horn, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, ECU diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle body assembly, idle speed control (ISC), fuel pressure regulation, EVAP system.
Chassis Bodywork:
Frame inspection, front fender, rear fender, saddlebags, windshield, seat assembly, handlebars, footpegs, exhaust system, body panels, cosmetic components.
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement (if applicable), lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, starting issues, braking problems, and chassis-related concerns, often utilizing diagnostic codes.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical component replacement.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) information, fault code interpretation, and specific diagnostic routines for various systems, especially the EFI and ABS.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and ABS system servicing. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 93 hp @ 5,000 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by region)
Torque Est:
Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by region)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (Research Octane Number)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled (radiator and fan)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 API SG or higher motorcycle-specific oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.6 L (3.8 US qt) with filter change
Length Overall:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Width Overall:
Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in)
Height Overall:
Approx. 1535 mm (60.4 in) (with windshield)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1705 mm (67.1 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 130 mm (5.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 347 kg (765 lbs) (Varies by specification and options)
Wet Weight Est:
Approx. 375 kg (827 lbs) (with all fluids)
Saddlebag Capacity Est:
Significant, designed for touring luggage.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 4,000 miles (6,400 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 8,000 miles (12,800 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,200 km) (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap)
Drive Belt Inspection Tension:
Every 8,000 miles (12,800 km)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification and replacement intervals)
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze (ethylene glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water (refer to manual for exact type and capacity)
Known Issues:
While generally reliable, some owners have reported minor electrical gremlins, particularly with accessory wiring, and occasional issues with the automatic idle speed control (ISC) system. Drive belt wear and tension should be monitored diligently. Some early models might have had ECU re-flashes for improved performance or emissions.
Brand Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing powerful and reliable motorcycles, with its Vulcan line representing its commitment to the cruiser segment. The Vulcan series has evolved significantly since its inception, embracing modern technology while retaining classic styling cues.
Model Evolution:
The Vulcan 1700 platform, introduced in the late 2000s, represented Kawasaki's expansion into the larger displacement cruiser market. The Nomad variant specifically caters to the touring segment, adding amenities like a large windshield and ample luggage capacity to the already capable Vulcan 1700 platform.
Production Years:
The VN1700 platform was produced across multiple model years, with this manual covering the 2009-2012 range. Specific variants like the Nomad, Classic, and Voyager were offered within this family.