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
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.
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
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.