Segment:
Full-size V-twin touring motorcycle
Key Selling Points:
Comfort, long-distance touring capability, ABS braking, powerful V-twin engine
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Indian Roadmaster
Features:
Integrated audio system, cruise control, ample luggage capacity (saddlebags, trunk), comfortable seating for rider and passenger
Engine:
Full engine teardown, assembly, diagnosis, and tuning
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, clutch, shifting mechanisms, and related components
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, sensors, and ECU diagnosis
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, ECU control, timing
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, starter, horn, switches, relays
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS module, brake fluid, master cylinders, calipers, pads, discs
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic, cartridge type), rear shock absorber (air adjustable), linkages, bearings
Chassis:
Frame, steering head, swingarm, bearings, and related components
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant, thermostat
Exhaust System:
Mufflers, catalytic converter, lambda sensors
Bodywork:
Fairings, saddlebags, trunk, seats, controls, instrumentation
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) unit diagnosis, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake servicing, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), coolant flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical fault finding
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of all major motorcycle systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic rider maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.02 x 4.09 in.)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 93 hp @ 5200 rpm (manufacturer estimate, actual may vary)
Torque:
Approx. 108 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (manufacturer estimate, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection (DFI), dual 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.3 gal (20.0 L)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (API SG or SH)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.0 US qt (3.8 L)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or as needed (inspect at 3,700 miles)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years
Belt Drive Inspection:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) for tension and wear
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, JASO MA, SAE 10W-40
Coolant Specification:
Kawasaki Coolant (50% ethylene glycol and 50% deionized water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates (with high mileage/heavy use), battery
Potential Electrical Issues:
Intermittent issues with starter solenoid or regulator/rectifier under heavy load or high mileage (covered in manual diagnostics)
Brand Focus:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries is renowned for its diverse engineering, including motorcycles, aircraft, and heavy equipment. Their motorcycle division has a long history of performance and innovation.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's cruiser offerings, evolving from smaller displacement V-twins to large-displacement touring machines like the VN1700.
Manufacturing Origin:
Japan (primary manufacturing, final assembly may vary)
Introduction Year Vn1700:
2009
