Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser / Touring
Target Audience:
Motorcyclists seeking a comfortable and capable long-distance touring machine with classic styling and modern amenities.
Key Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing, Indian Roadmaster, Victory Cross Country Tour.
Engine Configuration:
V-Twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.
Braking System Feature:
Integrated ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced rider safety.
Touring Amenities:
Large fairing with windshield, comfortable two-up seating, ample luggage capacity via hard saddlebags, passenger backrest.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components including cylinder head, cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, and timing system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI) diagnosis, throttle body service, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control system (EVAP).
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module (ICM), and crankshaft position sensor (CKP) diagnosis and testing.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive (belt drive) inspection, adjustment, and replacement, driveshaft and U-joint checks.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, brake pad replacement, brake disc inspection and replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS unit diagnosis and troubleshooting, master cylinder and slave cylinder service.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement, wheel bearing inspection and replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery testing and maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor operation, lighting system troubleshooting, horn, instrumentation, and accessory circuits.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, swingarm service, component mounting and torque specifications.
Bodywork Fairings:
Removal and installation of body panels, fairings, saddlebags, windshield, and related trim components.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, thermostat, coolant, and hoses inspection and service (if applicable to model variant).
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed procedures for routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems across all major vehicle systems.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and complete engine, transmission, and suspension overhauls.
Component Removal Installation:
Comprehensive guides for removing and reinstalling virtually every component and assembly on the motorcycle.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of critical torque values for fasteners across all vehicle systems to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and color-coded electrical wiring diagrams for accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical issues.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific service procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to in-depth engine rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and ABS system service.
Diagnostic Information:
Detailed diagnostic trees and flowcharts for systematic problem identification.
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete procedures for engine, transmission, clutch, and suspension component rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, four valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1700cc (103.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 73 hp @ 5000 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approximately 108 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection with two Keihin 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Oil Type Capacity:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL SF, SE, SG, SH, SJ, SK, SL, SM, SN or SAE 10W-40 (specific manual data required for exact capacity and part number).
Engine Oil Filter Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval and condition-based service).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Belt Drive Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months (check tension and condition).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months (refer to manual for specific fluid type DOT 4).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL SF, SE, SG, SH, SJ, SK, SL, SM, SN or SAE 10W-40.
Coolant Specification:
Kawasaki All-Season Motorcycle Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitor).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, brake pads and rotors, tires, suspension seals, drive belt degradation over time.
Electrical Component Considerations:
Occasional issues with regulator/rectifier or charging system under high load, though generally reliable.
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries is a long-standing Japanese manufacturer with a rich history in motorcycle production, known for performance, reliability, and innovation across various segments including sportbikes, cruisers, and off-road motorcycles.
Vulcan Series History:
The Vulcan line has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's cruiser offerings, evolving from smaller displacement models to larger V-twin touring machines like the VN1700 series, focusing on combining classic cruiser aesthetics with modern technology and comfort.
Production Location:
Japan (typically).
Introduction Year Series:
The VN1700 platform was introduced in the late 2000s to replace earlier large-displacement Vulcan models.
