Segment:
Full-size, V-twin cruiser touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a comfortable, long-distance touring experience with ample power and classic styling.
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing, Indian Roadmaster, Victory Vision Tour.
Features:
Large displacement V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics, ample storage (saddlebags), touring-oriented features like windshield and fairing.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, including fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling systems.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive, all related components and adjustments.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, braking system (front and rear), ABS.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter system, charging system, battery, instrumentation, ignition switch, horn, ECU, sensors, EFI system components.
Bodywork:
Fairings, saddlebags, windshield, fenders, seat, fuel tank, handlebars, controls, trim pieces, maintenance of accessory mounting points.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes, lubrication points, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds.
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, idle speed adjustment, ABS bleed procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic rider maintenance to full engine and drivetrain overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repairs.
Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, 8-valve, V-twin
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 mm x 104.0 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 93 hp @ 5,700 rpm (manufacturer claim)
Torque:
Approx. 113 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (manufacturer claim)
Induction:
Fuel injection with dual 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
System:
Digital CDI with electronic ignition advance
Length:
Approx. 99.4 in (2525 mm)
Width:
Approx. 36.0 in (915 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.6 in (1615 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 66.5 in (1690 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.3 in (135 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 849.0 lbs (385 kg)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 892.9 lbs (405 kg) (with all standard equipment and fluids)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Lockable, integrated hard saddlebags with significant storage volume.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gal (19.0 L)
Crash Test Results:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles; safety is evaluated based on design and rider control features.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with 4-piston calipers, single rear disc brake with 2-piston caliper. Available with Kawasaki Integrated Braking System (KIBS) - an ABS variant.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, standard turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, double-cradle frame for stability.
Tires:
Tubeless tires for safety and convenience. Specific sizes: Front 130/90-16, Rear 170/70-16.
Audio System:
Integrated audio system, often with handlebar-mounted controls and speakers. May support AM/FM radio and auxiliary input for MP3 players. iPod connectivity might be available on some models or as an accessory.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system for enhanced rider comfort on long journeys.
ABS:
Kawasaki Integrated Braking System (KIBS) – a sophisticated ABS system designed for motorcycles, often featuring more precise control than traditional ABS.
Diagnostic Ports:
Diagnostic connector for access to engine control unit (ECU) data and fault codes via specialized tools.
Oil Change:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact specifications).
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km); clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as indicated by wear.
Valve Clearance:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM, SAE 10W-40. Consider JASO MA or MA2 for wet clutch compatibility.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.8 US qt (3.6 L) with oil filter change.
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Motorcycle Coolant (or equivalent high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with distilled water, 50/50 mixture).
Final Drive Oil:
Kawasaki Gear Oil GL-4 SAE 80W-90 (or equivalent).
Common Issues:
While generally reliable, some owners report minor electrical gremlins, starter clutch wear, or potential issues with the cooling fan. Regular maintenance as per the manual is key to preventing most problems.
Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing reliable and powerful motorcycles, with the Vulcan line established as their cruiser offering.
Vulcan Line:
The Vulcan 1700 platform, introduced in 2009, replaced earlier Vulcan models and consolidated Kawasaki's large-displacement cruiser offerings. The Nomad variant is specifically designed for touring.
Production Period:
The Vulcan 1700 Nomad has been in production since 2009, with ongoing updates and variations.