Category:
Full-dress touring motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance touring riders, enthusiasts seeking comfort and amenities for extended travel.
Key Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Indian Roadmaster, Yamaha Star Venture.
Defining Characteristics:
Large V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics, extensive touring amenities (large fairing, saddlebags, trunk), ABS for enhanced safety.
Value Proposition:
Provides robust engineering and touring capability at a competitive price point within the full-dress touring segment.
Powertrain:
Engine (internal components, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition), Transmission (clutch, gearbox, final drive)
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shock absorber), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front, rear, ABS system)
Electrical:
Lighting, instrumentation, starting system, charging system, ignition system, fuel injection system, ABS control unit, wiring diagrams
Bodywork:
Fairing, saddlebags, trunk, seats, controls, mirrors, instrumentation panel
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment, brake fluid replacement, coolant checks
Repair:
Engine disassembly/assembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper servicing, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic inspection to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, full electrical system diagnostics, and ABS integration)
Diagnostic Tools:
Likely covers basic diagnostic procedures; advanced electronic diagnostics might require specialized Kawasaki tools not detailed in the manual itself, but procedures to identify faults are included.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, 8-valve, V-twin
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 90 HP @ 5,700 RPM (subject to regional tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 107 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM (subject to regional tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection with dual 42mm throttles (Keihin)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Oil Type:
API SG or SH, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil
Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 recommended for most conditions
Cooling Medium:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc
Overdrive Gears:
Gears 4, 5, and 6 are typically geared for highway cruising.
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.2 L (2.3 US qt)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the same way as automobiles.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on both front and rear brakes.
Braking System Front:
Dual 300 mm discs with 4-piston calipers.
Braking System Rear:
300 mm disc with 2-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light.
Wind Protection:
Large adjustable windscreen and fairing for rider comfort and protection.
Audio System:
Integrated audio system with speakers, often with AM/FM radio, CD player, and iPod connectivity (depending on specific trim).
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control is a standard feature on the Voyager models.
ABS:
Standard ABS system, as mentioned in Safety.
Diagnostic Ports:
The manual will detail diagnostic connectors and procedures for accessing engine control unit (ECU) data.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect and adjust tension every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 L (3.6 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 L (2.6 US qt)
Common Wear Items:
Tires, brake pads, clutch plates, drive belt.
Potential Failures:
Some owners report occasional issues with the electronic throttle control (ETC) system or ABS sensor malfunctions, though generally robust.
Kawasaki Motorcycles:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Motorcycle & Engine division has a long history of producing innovative and reliable motorcycles across various segments.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line represents Kawasaki's cruiser and touring platform, evolving from smaller displacement V-twins to larger, more powerful touring models like the 1700 series.
1700 Series Introduction:
The 1700cc V-twin platform was introduced around 2009, replacing earlier 1500cc and 1600cc models, and formed the basis for the Voyager, Nomad, and Classic models.
Production Period:
The VN1700 Voyager ABS was produced throughout the model years covered (2009-2012) and continued in subsequent years with minor updates.
Industry Reviews:
Generally well-received by motorcycle journalists for its comfort, power, and value in the touring segment during its production years.
Reliability Ratings:
Kawasaki motorcycles, particularly the larger displacement touring models, are generally rated highly for reliability.
Emissions Standards:
The manual will contain specifications related to emissions control systems compliant with various regional standards (e.g., EPA, Euro).
