Segment:
V-Twin Cruiser Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Touring enthusiasts seeking comfortable long-distance riding with ample luggage capacity.
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing (though in a slightly different class), Indian Roadmaster.
Model Features:
Large displacement V-twin engine, comfortable rider ergonomics, integrated saddlebags, large windscreen, stable chassis for touring.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, cooling fan, water pump
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module (ICM), wiring
Transmission:
Clutch system, gearbox operation, internal components, maintenance
Drivetrain:
Final drive (belt/shaft), wheel bearings, swingarm
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, calipers, master cylinders, brake pads, discs, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front forks (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, fork oil, seals, adjustments
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, wiring diagrams, ECU functions
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, wheels, tires
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, saddlebags, seats, controls, lighting fixtures
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Adjustment:
Carburetor/throttle body synchronization, idle speed, suspension settings
Calibration:
TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) calibration, idle air control (IAC) adjustment
Inspection:
Pre-ride checks, component wear inspection, safety checks
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, color-coded electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Specifications Data:
Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements for all components
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
1700cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.3 mm (4.02 x 4.11 in)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fueling:
Fuel Injection with Sub-throttle
Horsepower:
Approx. 80-90 HP (at crankshaft, estimate based on typical V-twin output of this era)
Torque:
Approx. 100-110 lb-ft (at crankshaft, estimate)
Throttle Body:
Dual throttle valves with sub-throttle system for precise throttle response
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Fuel Capacity:
5.3 US gallons (20.1 Liters)
Length:
Approx. 99.6 in (2530 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37.2 in (945 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.1 in (1450 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.0 in (1625 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 765 lbs (347 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 815.7 lbs (370 kg) (fully fueled, all equipment)
Gvwr:
Not typically specified for motorcycles, but payload capacity is a consideration for touring.
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated, lockable hard saddlebags with significant storage volume.
Crash Testing:
Not applicable in the same way as automobiles; focus is on design safety and rider protection.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, often with linked braking or ABS as an option (check specific model variant).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel double-cradle frame designed for stability and rider comfort.
Windscreen:
Large, adjustable or fixed windscreen for rider protection from wind and elements.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect tension and condition every 3,700 miles (6,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.3 US qt (4.1 L) without filter change, 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol-based) with water, 50/50 mix.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki KHL15-10 (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil).
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt wear, clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals are common wear items on touring bikes.
Engine Performance:
Some owners report a desire for more power at higher RPMs, addressed by exhaust and ECU tuning.
Electrical Gremlins:
Though generally reliable, potential for corrosion in connectors with extensive exposure to elements. Manual's wiring diagrams are crucial.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Division:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Motorcycle & Engine division, known for performance and reliability since the 1960s.
Vn1700 Lineage:
The VN1700 series is part of Kawasaki's long-standing Vulcan cruiser line, evolving from earlier V-twin models to offer increased displacement and touring amenities.
Production Period:
The VN1700 platform was introduced in the late 2000s, with the Nomad variant catering specifically to the touring segment.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other international locations.
