Market Segment:
Full-size V-twin cruiser, touring-oriented variant of the Vulcan 1700 platform.
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Indian Roadmaster, Yamaha Royal Star Venture.
Design Philosophy:
Combines classic cruiser styling with touring comfort and modern technology, designed for long-distance riding.
ABS System:
Integrated Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) enhances safety and control in various conditions.
Ergonomics:
Comfortable rider triangle, spacious seating, floorboards, and often equipped with a large windscreen and saddlebags for touring.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control system, engine management system (ECU, sensors), starting system, charging system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and maintenance, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive (belt drive maintenance, adjustment, replacement).
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, ABS system (operation, diagnosis, component testing, bleeding procedures), brake pad and rotor replacement.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, lighting systems (headlight, taillight, signals), ignition switch, fuses and relays, instrument cluster, horn, diagnostic connectors.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (oil change, seal replacement, damper adjustment), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, steering system (headset bearing maintenance), wheels and tires.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel tank, fuel filter, EVAP system.
Bodywork Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebag service, windshield, seat, fenders, luggage rack, chrome trim replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush and replacement, belt tension adjustment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, fault code diagnosis (if applicable to the era), electrical system testing using multimeter, fuel system pressure testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reassembly (e.g., engine top-end rebuild, transmission overhaul, fork rebuild, brake caliper service).
Calibration Adjustment:
Throttle position sensor (TPS) adjustment, idle speed control, ABS sensor calibration, belt tension settings.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed diagnostics, torque specifications, clearances, and internal component specifications.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 94 PS (93 hp) @ 6000 rpm (manufacturer data varies)
Torque Est:
Approx. 133 Nm (98 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (manufacturer data varies)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection with dual 36mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 RON) or higher recommended.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.5 US gal (21.0 L)
Overall Length:
Approx. 100.4 in. (2550 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 35.2 in. (895 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 57.3 in. (1455 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.0 in. (1625 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.5 in. (140 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 703 lbs (319 kg)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 770 lbs (350 kg) with ABS and full fluids.
Gvwr:
Not typically specified for motorcycles in standard manuals, but payload capacity would be derived from curb weight and total allowable weight.
Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Braking System Front:
Dual 300 mm petal-disc hydraulic brakes with 4-piston calipers.
Braking System Rear:
Single 300 mm petal-disc hydraulic brake with 2-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber incandescent turn signals.
Chassis Design:
Steel double-cradle frame for stability and rider confidence.
Infotainment System:
Basic integrated audio system (AM/FM radio, CD player on some models/trims, auxiliary input for MP3 players) often with handlebar-mounted controls.
Speaker System:
Integrated fairing speakers.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System on this model.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input for external music devices.
Instrument Panel:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital display for odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, clock, and indicator lights.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection Replacement:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km), replace as needed. Specific replacement interval usually around 7,400 miles (12,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Replace every 7,400 miles (12,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement Interval:
Replace every 12,400 miles (20,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Coolant Replacement Interval:
Replace every 7,400 miles (12,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Specification:
JASO MA or MA2, SAE 10W-40 (e.g., Kawasaki Genuine Oil 10W-40 or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US qt (4.5 L) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
Kawasaki Coolant (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and deionized water) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates, drive belt (if not properly maintained).
Potential Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on connectors (especially in humid climates), battery terminal issues, regulator/rectifier failures (common across many brands).
Engine Specific Notes:
V-twins can be sensitive to oil quality and level. Proper torque on head bolts and clutch components is critical.
ABS System Notes:
ABS sensors and modulator require careful handling and cleaning. Faulty sensors can trigger ABS warning lights.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing powerful and reliable motorcycles, particularly known for its performance bikes and cruisers.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan 1700 series represents a significant evolution in Kawasaki's large-displacement cruiser line, building upon previous V-twin platforms to offer increased displacement, modern features, and touring capability.
Production Period:
2009-2010 model years for this specific manual. The Vulcan 1700 platform continued production in various forms.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Industry Acclaim:
While specific awards for the 2009-2010 Nomad ABS may not be widely documented, the Vulcan 1700 platform generally received positive reviews for its blend of power, comfort, and value in the large-displacement cruiser market.
Owner Satisfaction:
Kawasaki motorcycles typically exhibit strong owner satisfaction due to reliability and performance. Specific metrics would depend on independent surveys from the period.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with relevant emissions standards for its production years (e.g., EPA in the US).
