Segment:
Premium Grand American Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance riders, touring enthusiasts seeking comfort, power, and amenities.
Key Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard/Classic, Honda Gold Wing, Indian Roadmaster.
Touring Amenities:
Large fairing with integrated windshield, hard saddlebags, comfortable seating, ample storage, cruise control.
Performance Focus:
Torquey V-twin engine, smooth power delivery, comfortable riding position for extended periods.
Reliability:
Known for Kawasaki's reputation for robust engineering and durable components.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Mechanical:
Top-end (cylinder head, valves, camshafts), bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons), lubrication system, cooling system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox internal inspection and repair, final drive (belt drive) inspection and maintenance.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) service, rear shock absorber replacement and adjustment, steering system (head bearings).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear calipers, master cylinders, brake lines), ABS system components and troubleshooting (for ABS models).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, horn, accessory circuits.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, throttle body inspection and cleaning.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebag service, seat adjustment, dashboard and instrument cluster diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, brake fluid flushes, drive belt tension checks, coolant replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code interpretation.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.
Suspension Overhaul:
Fork seal replacement, oil changes, shock absorber servicing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of charging system, ignition system, and other electrical components using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
ABS System Service:
Specific procedures for ABS component testing, bleeding, and fault diagnosis (if applicable to the model variant).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for EFI systems, including sensor testing and troubleshooting using diagnostic codes.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of all critical torque specifications for fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text-based PDF for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
Image Clarity:
Clear, detailed diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
1700cc (103.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
102.0 x 104.0 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 92 hp @ 5,700 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approx. 113 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual 44mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum
Fuel Capacity:
5.3 US gallons (20.0 L)
Audio System:
Integrated AM/FM stereo with CD player and CB radio (on some models).
Display:
Multi-function LCD display for trip computer, fuel level, gear position, clock, etc.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control as standard equipment.
Accessory Power:
Provision for accessory power outlets (e.g., for charging devices).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months
Air Filter Cleaning Or Replacement:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or when visually dirty
Spark Plug Inspection And Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km); replace as needed.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles (38,000 km)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years
Drive Belt Inspection And Tensioning:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km); adjust tension as per manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.8 US qt (3.6 L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki All Season Motorcycle Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some owners have reported early wear or failure of the automatic cam chain tensioner, leading to rattling noises. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
ABS System Faults:
Occasional reports of ABS warning lights or system malfunctions, often related to sensor issues or faulty modulator units. Manual is crucial for diagnosis.
Cruise Control Hesitation:
Rare instances of cruise control not engaging or disengaging unexpectedly, typically due to sensor inputs or actuator issues.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Division:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries' motorcycle division, established in 1949, with a long history of innovation and performance.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line began in 1986, evolving through various displacements and styles. The 1700 platform represents a significant step in Kawasaki's large-displacement cruiser and touring offerings.
Voyager Introduction:
The Voyager name has been used by Kawasaki for touring-oriented motorcycles, with the 1700cc V-twin representing a modern iteration of this touring concept.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Period:
The VN1700 platform was introduced in 2009 and continued production with minor updates for several years.
