Segment:
Full-size American-style cruiser
Target Demographic:
Riders seeking comfortable, long-distance touring capabilities with a classic aesthetic.
Key Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Indian Chief series, Honda Gold Wing (in terms of touring focus).
Styling:
Distinctive fairing, saddlebags, and chrome accents evoke a retro, yet modern, cruiser look.
Comfort:
Ergonomic seating position, substantial wind protection from the fairing, and integrated luggage.
Engine Performance:
Torque-rich 1700cc V-twin engine for effortless cruising and passing.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of the 1700cc V-twin engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (FI), throttle body, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, and emissions control systems.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, and timing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, internal transmission components, and final drive.
Chassis:
Frame, front forks, rear suspension, steering system, and wheels.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, fluid specifications, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter system, and sensors.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebags, seat, fenders, and other body panels.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant specifications, and procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, and catalytic converter.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspection points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of the motorcycle.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine overhaul and component replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams and test procedures.
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, and adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Diagrams:
Includes high-quality, detailed diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations.
Text Quality:
Easy-to-read text sections.
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 84 hp @ 5000 rpm (Manufacturer data may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approx. 108 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Manufacturer data may vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (FI), Dual Throttle Valve system
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Oil Type Recommendation:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Length:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1465 mm (57.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1625 mm (64.0 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 355 kg (782.6 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 378 kg (833.3 lbs) (with all necessary operating consumables, including full liquid and fuel)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated, lockable hard saddlebags (specific volume not commonly published, but substantial for touring)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 4,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time interval.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 4,000 miles, replace as needed.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect periodically for wear and tension, adjust as needed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type and recommendations).
Coolant Type:
High-quality ethylene glycol based coolant with distilled water (50/50 mix recommended, refer to manual for specific Kawasaki coolant or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Tires, brake pads, clutch plates (depending on usage).
Potential Electrical:
While generally reliable, occasional issues with regulator/rectifier or stator can occur on high-mileage bikes, which this manual will help diagnose.
Manufacturer:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine Company
Founding:
1896 (Kawasaki dockyard), Motorcycle division established later.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line has a long history dating back to the 1980s, evolving through various displacements and styles, with the 1700 series representing Kawasaki's larger displacement cruiser offering.
Vaquero Introduction:
The Vaquero variant was introduced as a more touring-oriented version of the Vulcan 1700 platform, featuring a large fairing and integrated saddlebags for enhanced comfort and utility.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primary)
