Category:
Full-size touring cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Motorcycle enthusiasts, owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing, Indian Roadmaster
Vehicle Focus:
Comfortable long-distance touring, V-twin engine power, classic cruiser styling with modern amenities
Benefit:
Empowers owners to maintain their investment, reduces reliance on dealerships, facilitates complex repairs, aids in troubleshooting
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift mechanism, final drive (shaft drive)
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (forks, rear shock absorber), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear hydraulic systems)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system, starter motor, ignition system, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebags, windshield, seat, fenders, fuel tank, chrome components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid replacement, coolant service, drive shaft lubrication
Repair:
Component disassembly, reassembly, troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis, specific repair procedures for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, error code explanations
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and frame alignment
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
1700cc (103.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 90 HP @ 5,000 RPM (estimated, refer to manual for exact figures)
Torque:
Approx. 110 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM (estimated, refer to manual for exact figures)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (DFI) with dual 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Lubrication Type:
Forced lubrication, wet sump
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Clutch:
Wet, multi-disc, cable-actuated
Overdrive:
Includes overdrive gear for relaxed highway cruising
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (check manual for exact specification)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 220 mL (refer to manual)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle industry does not have standardized crash test ratings like automobiles)
Brakes Front:
Dual 300mm discs, 4-piston calipers
Brakes Rear:
Single 300mm disc, 2-piston caliper
ABS:
Available ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some models/trims
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Chassis Stability:
Low center of gravity and long wheelbase contribute to stability
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 6,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years (DOT 4)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years (Kawasaki coolant or equivalent)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SL, SJ or higher, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil with JASO MA rating (refer to manual for precise specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 L (3.6 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual)
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based), 50% mixture with distilled water
Common Problems:
Potential for stator failure, occasional fuel injector issues, normal wear and tear on clutch components, windshield buffeting at certain speeds (often rider-specific).
Manual Assistance:
Manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair instructions for these common issues.
Brand Focus:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of motorcycle manufacturing known for performance and innovation.
Vulcan Line:
The Vulcan line has evolved from classic cruisers to include touring and sport-touring variants. The 1700 platform introduced more modern features and a larger displacement engine.
Model Introduction Year:
The VN1700 platform was introduced for the 2009 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Kawasaki Heavy Industries)
