Category:
Full-Size Metric Cruiser/Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Touring riders, cruiser enthusiasts seeking comfort and long-distance capability.
Key Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Honda Gold Wing (though a step up in touring features), Indian Roadmaster, Victory Cross Country Tour.
Engine Type:
V-Twin, Liquid-Cooled (primary cooling, air cooling supplementary)
Comfort Features:
Large fairing with windshield, comfortable seating, spacious saddlebags, floorboards.
ABS Technology:
Anti-lock Braking System for enhanced safety.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and tuning. Includes top end (cylinder head, valves, camshafts), bottom end (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons), lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable, though this model is air-cooled primary), fuel injection system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear inspection, shift mechanism, final drive (belt drive inspection and adjustment).
Electrical System:
Ignition system (ECU, spark plugs, ignition coils), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, battery), lighting system (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrumentation, wiring diagrams, component testing and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system components (throttle body, injectors, fuel pump, sensors), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS system components and troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front fork disassembly, service, seal replacement, oil level and viscosity specifications. Rear shock absorber removal, inspection, and adjustment (if applicable).
Steering:
Handlebar removal and installation, steering head bearing inspection and adjustment, fork alignment.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fairing, saddlebag mounting and service, exhaust system maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid replacement, clutch fluid replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, tire pressure checks, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, replacement, and reassembly for all major systems.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed specifications for all components, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and ABS system servicing.
Engine Type:
V-Twin, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
1700 cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 mm x 104.0 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled, with radiator and fan
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 80-85 HP (est. at crank, actual may vary)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 105-110 lb-ft (est. at crank, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Keihin throttle body, dual injectors per cylinder)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (RON+MON)/2)
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH, JASO MA
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
ABS:
Standard ABS equipped on this model.
Braking System:
Dual 300mm hydraulic discs with four-piston calipers (front), Single 300mm hydraulic disc with two-piston caliper (rear).
Tires:
Tubeless, radial construction. Front: 130/70R18 M/C 63H, Rear: 170/70R16 M/C 71H
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, standard turn signals.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or as needed based on inspection.
Drive Belt Inspection Tension:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km).
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Full-Time Type 4 (or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.3 US quarts (2.2 liters)
Potential Issues:
Some owners report minor heat radiating from the engine on very hot days in slow traffic; check for proper cooling system function. Drive belt tension needs regular verification. ABS sensor cleaning might be necessary in dusty conditions. Occasional electrical connector corrosion can occur with age and exposure.
Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles across various segments, including cruisers.
Evolution:
The Vulcan 1700 platform, introduced for the 2009 model year, represented an update and expansion of Kawasaki's large-displacement cruiser line, replacing older models and consolidating features into a more modern platform. The Nomad variant focused on touring comfort with integrated luggage and rider amenities.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.)
Production Years:
2009-2013 (for this specific Nomad iteration before updates/discontinuation of the nameplate).