2010 kawasaki vulcan 1700 voyager review

Review: 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager

Christa Neuhauser

When Kawasaki invited us to ride the Vulcan 1700 Voyager in sunny California, I jumped at the chance. What could be better than touring the Golden State’s vast highways and beautiful byways on a comfortable machine equipped with everything touring riders need to rack up the miles? Besides nice styling, there’s a large frame-mounted fairing, ample storage capacity, a plush saddle, cruise control, a premium sound system, and a big engine.

Power comes from a long-stroke 1700cc, liquid-cooled, 52° V-twin, tuned to deliver peak torque and horsepower at higher rpm than the Classic models. Over the years Kawasaki has increased the displacement of the Vulcan series from 1500cc to 1600cc, and now 1700cc. This new engine design is based on the Vulcan 2000’s engine. Pushrods have been replaced by single-overhead cams on each cylinder head, with four valves per cylinder, which has taken it from a fairly anemic performer in its early days to the torquey motor it is today. Kawi rates maximum torque as 108 lb-ft at 2,750 rpm, but does not provide a horsepower rating.

Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle valve system enhances engine response and helps the engine control unit (ECU) precisely adjust intake airflow and idle-speed. The system uses an accelerator position sensor (APS) and a throttle position sensor (TPS). Both units feed data to the ECU, which adjusts throttle opening accordingly. The system offers natural throttle feel and the bike feels responsive and very controllable. Besides the obvious FI advantages like improved fuel economy and automatic altitude adjustments, the system also permits easy hands-off warm-up and idle speed control. There’s plenty of power in the low rpm range and yet the big-twin revs right up, thanks to four valve cylinder heads.

Voyager’s clutch features a progressive three-stage engagement for less lever effort. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission features overdrive fifth and sixth gears. Its tall gearing contributes to relaxed riding and better fuel economy at highway speeds, and its carbon-fiber drivebelt is clean, quiet, and maintenance-free.

Chassis, Brakes, and Handling

The single backbone, double-cradle steel frame is shorter from the seat to the steering head for less reach to the handlebars, and it’s also 40 percent stiffer than that of the Vulcan 1600. Up front, a conventional 45mm Showa fork, 2mm larger than the other Vulcan models, delivers 5.5 inches of suspension travel. Dual rear air-shocks feature four-way rebound damping, but only 3.1 inches of travel. This short suspension travel gives a low 28.7-inch seat height, but yields a choppy ride on rough pavement.

For 2010, Voyager’s ABS gets a new Kawasaki Advanced Coactive Braking Technology (K-ACT) system. Available on the ABS-equipped Voyagers, K-ACT translates rider braking inputs into smooth, balanced deceleration for maximum stopping performance. Basically, the front lever also activates the rear brake, and the rear pedal also engages the right front caliper. K-ACT provides strong braking seamlessly and effectively, doesn’t engage when braking below 12 mph, and the ABS disengages below 4 mph. It takes hard braking to get the ABS to activate, recognizable by a small pulse at the brake lever and pedal.

Despite the Voyager’s considerable weight, steering is fairly light and the big machine rolls into corners nicely. It will hold a line well, but like most motorcycles with footboards, it’s easy to scrape them even at moderate lean angles.

A large frame-mounted windshield and front fairing, as well as leg shields effectively protect the rider from wind and weather. For 2010, improved heat management better insulates the rider from engine heat. Airflow to the lower extremities can be custom-tailored via adjustable air vents incorporated in the leg shields. Still, in hot summer temperatures engine heat can be felt by the rider.

Sculpted touring seats with a backrest and floorboards provide comfort and support for all-day touring. I found the seating very comfortable, even after a long day on the road.

In the center of Voyager’s dash is a backlit LCD display that features gear position, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption. There are smallish round analog gauges for speedometer and tach, plus fuel and coolant temperature to either side of the LCD. Cruise control is operated from the right handlebar and works between 30 and 85 mph in any of the top four gears.

Voyager’s 40-watt, twin-speaker intercom headset-compatible audio system features an FM/AM/WX radio that’s compatible with iPods, an XM radio tuner, or CB radio. It sounds great and can be heard at highway speeds. With an alternator capable of 46.8 amps, there’s still enough juice to power electrically heated apparel and other accessories. A cigarette-lighter-style power port on the dash and two outlets under the seat provide power for electrically heated clothing and other items.

Luggage is a must on a touring bike and Voyager comes with a pair of roomy lockable top-opening side cases with 38 liters of volume each and optional liners. There’s also a 50-liter tail trunk large enough to hold two full-face helmets, plus a pair of lockable glove boxes, up front, for small items.

Overall Impression

Kawasaki’s Vulcan 1700 Voyager combines eye-pleasing style, V-twin feel and performance, with comfort and amenities that long-distance touring riders demand. We also had a chance to ride the Nomad, which is the naked version of the Voyager and offers a similar ride and performance, sans the windscreen and touring amenities, for a substantially lower price. It’s worth considering if you don’t often travel far from home on your motorcycle. Either way, Kawasaki offers quality machines for less than you’d pay for some competing brands — and that’s important in these tough economic times!

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2020 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager

Kawasaki’s most expensive touring-ready cruiser.

A roamer, a city-hopper, and—you guessed it—a voyager. The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager takes the comforts of the cruise and pairs it with a long-stroke 1,700cc V-twin with peak torque low in the rev range—that’s a claimed 108.0 pound-feet at 2,750 rpm. Its touring comforts include cruise control, integrated luggage (claimed two-helmet capacity) with passenger backrest, and a frame-mounted touring fairing. The Vulcan 1700 Voyager is Team Green’s take on cruising.

2020 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Reviews, Comparisons, And Competition

American competition for this big boy tourer include the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited , Ultra Limited , and CVO Limited and the Indian Roadmaster . Japanese tourers include the Yamaha Star Venture and Honda Gold Wing .

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Updates For 2020

The only colorway available is Metallic Phantom Silver/Metallic Carbon Grey.

2020 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Claimed Specifications

KAWASAKI VN1700 VOYAGER (2011 - on) Review

At a glance

Overall rating.

On the back of the American trend to cut down large custom touring bikes into ‘baggers’, Kawasaki has launched the Voyager Custom – a scaled down version of their full-dressed Voyager. Meaner, sleeker and £1500 cheaper than the big Voyager, the huge 1700cc engine remains, as does the side panniers but far less bling and chrome makes it more manly and gives the impression of a lighter more manageable bike. It’s a good looking, cheaper alternative to the American competition but let down by huge bulk and the need to change down for fast acceleration.

Ride quality & brakes

Despite not appearing as large as the full dressed Voyager, at 382kg the new Classic is far from light – that’s close to 60 stone in old money. Obviously trying to make 60 stone handle is not going to be easy and if you start to have fun with the motor it’s easy to find the handling limitations of the big girl: the foot boards will soon start to drag alarmingly. The brakes aren’t bad, far from it, and it’s not a nightmare, but similar bikes in this class out-handle the big Kawasaki.

At the heart of the Voyager sleeps a mighty, liquid-cooled 1700cc V-twin – despite at first appearing air-cooled. The huge 8 v motor throws out a respectable70bhp with a huge 100ftlb of torque. However, due to the massive weight and tall top gear, overdrive, you still need to cog down for quick overtakes. Fuel consumption at quick touring speed is also rather poor, less than 35mpg if pushed hard.

Reliability & build quality

The low-revving engine should be bullet proof and the shaft drive means maintenance should be minimal – reliability isn’t going to be an issue as it’s a proven engine. However there are a few niggling faults. There’s an annoying bit of plastic over the petrol tank which vibrates, and the clocks don’t fit flush in the large dash. This means at night, the dash lights light up not only the clocks but the rider too.

Value vs rivals

This is an area where the Kawasaki scores highly. It’s considerably cheaper than Harley-Davidson equivalent, the Street Glide, and even cheaper than the Victory Cross Country. In fact the Kawasaki appears to be somewhat of a bargain. With the money saved over the competition you could easily accessorise and personalise the bike adding character and still save money over the American competition.

Even though the Classic is a scaled-down version, it’s littered with goodies and extras. A twin 40w speaker stereo comes as standard, complete with an Ipod connection. On the right bar is a cruise control for those longer journeys. At the rear, there are side bags, an LED rear light and twin exhausts. There’s a small fly screen to add a little comfort and, for safety, ABS as standard.

Model history & versions

Model history.

Kawasaki VN1700 Voyager, Classic and Classic Tourer (launched 2009).

Other versions

Kawasaki VN1700 Voyager, Classic and Classic Tourer

Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI VN1700 VOYAGER (2011 - on)

1 owner has reviewed their KAWASAKI VN1700 VOYAGER (2011 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your KAWASAKI VN1700 VOYAGER (2011 - on)

Annual servicing cost: £400

The best features of the bike are, Style, Comfort, Brakes and MPG. I ride hard and still get 45 plus to the gallon. Worse features, Poor clutch slave cylinder position, Poor quality paint finish especially on speaker grills. Stereo very quiet.

I really like the ride on this, it handles very well. I replaced the stock pipes for Vance and Hines and removed the emission control system restrictions with a bypass. which resulted in better response more power and better MPG. It handles the corners very well for a bike this big, just got to watch the footboards !

Excellent V Twin Engine, great fuel economy on a recent pack run i returned 52 mpg, average is around 45-47

@8000 miles severe corrosion on speaker grills, mild corrosion on fork covers hydraulic connectors and casing bolts. signs of corrosion starting on welds around the chrome engine guards and passenger foot guards

I self service for the most part. Parts for the bike are not cheap, it would seem the days of Jap bike being a cheaper option to Harley are well and truly over!

Given the potential and the cost of the bike somethings should come as standard. The IPOD connector should be included as standard as should the power socket. These two items will cost you an additional £200 which is outrageous for what they are! the KQR sissy bar and rack will cost another £700 and can only be purchased in the states!! Kawasaki UK stock answer was to buy an aftermarket one instead! It would seem that Kawasaki are going dow the route of Harley Davidson !

Buying experience: I got the bike as a used bike from Somanybikes.com It was very, very cheap and well under book price. when looking around i could not find one cheaper than 11000 with 18k on the clock. I got mine for 7800 with 2700! so for that reason i got a bargain!

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2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700/LT Review - Motorcycle.com

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The new Vulcan 1700 is a significant upgrade over the old Vulcan 1600 line, starting with a motor said to offer 20% more horsepower. The new mill is indeed new, not some enlarged version of the old 1552cc “1600.” Kawi says the engine is based loosely on the giant Vulcan 2000, although it uses a single-overhead-cam design with four valves per cylinder instead of the V2000’s pushrods. A 102mm bore was retained from the V1600, but the stroke was stretched from 95mm to 104mm to create an even 1700cc – that’s 103.7 cubic inches for those adverse to the metric system.

The use of a single-pin crankshaft provides the loping sound we’ve come to expect from cruisers, spat out mostly sanitized from stacked, shotgun-style pipes with slash-cut exits. Twin counterbalancers (as opposed to the single balance shaft on the Vulcan 1600) quell vibes from the 52-degree V-Twin. Power production is smoothed out with the addition of Kawasaki’s first electronic throttle valve to the fuel-injection system that adapts to inputs from throttle position, load, temperature and air pressure. If the on-board diagnostic system detects a problem, the ECU can default to one of three fail-safe modes.

The cruiser genre’s currency is big torque, and the new Vulc purportedly has 108 ft-lbs to trade, its peak arriving at just 2250 rpm. Horsepower crests at 4500 rpm. Kawi says the V17 motor produces 15% more torque than the V1600. Even more impressive is a claimed 20% boost in horsepower. Shedding heat is a combination of nicely machined/contoured cylinder finning for air cooling and liquid-cooled upper cylinders.

The Vulcan 1700 platform underpins a line of five semi-distinct iterations for Kawasaki, from the stripped-down boulevardier Classic to the luxury-touring Voyager full-dress tourer. All of them use the same basic engine and chassis. Interestingly, initial development work began on the Voyager, not on the base-model cruiser versions.

For those of you who appreciate enhanced peace of mind, Kawasaki offers its Good Times Protection Plan that can extend factory coverage by up to four years. Prices depend on which model, and all have no mileage limit.

A new transmission contains an extra cog, gaining an overdrive 6th gear for low-rev freeway cruising. Fifth gear is also overdriven. Gear changes through a heel/toe shifter are fairly light, as is the amount of pull required from the hydraulic clutch. Kawi’s Positive Neutral Finder makes slotting into neutral from a stop as simple as can be, but it does inhibit neutral access while the bike is still rolling.

The new 1700 joins the rest of the belt-driven Vulcan lineup by eschewing the heavy shaft-drive arrangement of the 1600 in favor of a carbon-fiber drive belt that is barely wider than an inch. A belt system has the benefits of being lighter, transmitting more power to the rear tire and not suffering the jacking effect on the rear suspension from a shaft drive. It also makes the bike easier to customize with aftermarket wheels and sprockets.

When cruisers get really big (like the Vulcan 2000 still in the lineup), they inevitably get more ponderous. Thankfully, V17’s chassis is more compact than the old V16, using a new frame that is much wider near the swingarm pivot section. This structural update is said to be 40% more rigid but lighter by 4.4 pounds. Compared to the Vulcan 1600, the V17’s chassis is 30mm shorter, helping to achieve a 13mm reduction in wheelbase to 65.6 inches.

The Vulcan’s maneuverability is aided by sharper steering geometry and tighter ergonomics. Its steering head rake is reduced 2.0 degrees to 30.0 degrees, and comfort is enhanced by a 2-inch reduced stretch to the floorboards and handlebars more than an inch closer to the rider. Its ergos reminded me a bit of Star’s V-Star 1300. We were less enthused with the wide right-side primary cover that forces a rider’s leg to rub against it at a stop, although the exhaust headers are neatly tucked away to avoid roasting of legs.

Evidence of the new chassis comes into focus as soon as when simply motoring away from a parking spot. The 1700 has a natural balance that is a step above some other big-inch cruisers, allowing it to deftly carve tight lines in parking lots or when snapping off a quick, feet-up U-turn on a 2-lane road for another pass by the photographer. Modestly sized 130/90 and 170/70 tires on 9-spoke 16-inch wheels surely aid the bike’s agility.

The big Vulc is no less impressive at higher speeds, responding relatively crisply to a shove on the bars. It’s no ZX-10R, of course, but it reacts willingly to a rider’s inputs. As with any cruiser, especially those with floorboards, twisty-road fun is limited by the amount of cornering clearance. We’re often told cruising riders never complain about restricted lean angles, but I can’t imagine we’re the only ones.

A 43mm Showa damping-rod fork handles front suspension duties. A lack of adjustability is offset by a generous 5.5 inches of travel. Rear-end compliance is supplied by a pair of rear shocks that are air-adjustable up to 43 psi, as well as having rebound damping provisions in four levels. Just 3.1 inches of travel are available, so it’s important to have the right setup. My 145-lb weight didn’t require any air assist, but heavier riders would be wise to air up a bit.

Bargain hunters might be convinced to overlook the standard Classic in favor of the light-touring LT version. An extra $1,500 buy-in nets you greater comfort, versatility, passenger contentment and a bit of additional bling.

We spent a half a day riding the LT in occasionally blustery conditions, and it was a relief to cower behind a windshield that is adjustable over a 2-inch range. Structurally bolstered leather saddlebags provided stowage for water and a camera, and a backrest keeps your passengers where they belong. The seats are highlighted with chromed brass studs that match the detailing on the saddlebags.

But more obvious to the eyes are the 2-tone paint combos that add considerably to the attractiveness of the black-only Classic. Set against a Pearl Burnish Beige is your choice of two colors: Metallic Nocturne Blue or Metallic Dark Green. Both feature accent pinstriping between the two tones.

Otherwise, the Classic LT has identical features and mechanicals as the pared-down Classic. Its $13,799 MSRP includes two years of warranty coverage to the Classic’s one year. If I were to buy a Vulcan 1700 Classic, I’d definitely choose the LT.

Kawasaki has endowed its latest Vulcan with several small but useful features that make the bike easier to live with. Unlike some heavyweight cruisers, Kawi has thoughtfully integrated a fork lock with the ignition key slot, so there’s no need to poke around for a second key slot or to travel around with a padlock in your pocket. And the ignition switch holds another surprise, as it allows a rider to remove the key once the bike has fired up to prevent a keychain or other keys from marring the nicely embossed metal surface of the ignition surround. Then, when the ride’s over, just twist the ignition ring to the off position and the bike can’t be restarted unless the key is reinserted.

Like most tank-top cruiser instrumentation, the Vulcan’s gauges require a rider’s head to tilt forward in order to see all the info. And there’s plenty to look at here. The instruments include goodies like the range to empty, average mpg, fuel gauge, a gear-position indicator, a clock and twin tripmeters – all controlled by accessible switchgear on the left handlebar. Self-canceling turnsignals are a pleasant addition.

Brakes aren’t a glamorous topic in the cruiser realm, but the Vulcan deserves kudos for its triple-disc setup. Although the twin-piston calipers are low-tech in this age, combined with the large 300mm rotors, they do a surprisingly good job at hauling the Vulcan down from speed. Modulation is quite good, as both tires can readily be howled and kept at that point.

Gaining speed is always more fun than bleeding it, and the 1700cc lump delivers a huge spread of grunt that starts just off idle and doesn’t end until the 6000-rpm rev limiter. In fact, the powerband is so exceedingly linear that it never really provides any real hit, just a steady flow of power that probably comes up a few ponies shy of a Victory or Star Roadliner. That said, its manners are impeccable, exhibiting no driveline lash or throttle-pickup hiccups.

Functionally, we enjoyed the Vulcan’s chassis performance, and its burlier motor is much more enjoyable to twist its throttle than the relatively limp 1600. Plus we were pleased to see the Vulcan equipped with a relatively lengthy list of convenience features.

Yet the Vulcan 1700 stands out more for how it works than how it looks. Not that it isn’t attractive, it’s just that it’s a bit anonymous. A large headlight with a glimmering chrome shroud leads the way in front of an attractive-but-generic teardrop fuel tank. The engine itself it nicely finished with chrome and polished surfaces set off against a matte-black finish. But, judged purely on aesthetics, a Victory Kingpin or Star Roadliner will likely garner a greater number of longing looks.

However, neither of the aforementioned bikes have a list price of just $12,299. A Roadliner Midnight starts at $14,090, while a Kingpin 8-Ball retails for $13,999. A Harley-Davidson Super Glide has a surprisingly low MSRP of $11,999 – it balances its legendary nameplate with fewer features and less power.

Kawi says this line of 1700cc bikes is its future in cruisers, offering “high-performance V-Twins with character and value.” It’s tough to argue with that rationale.

Stay tuned for our review of Vulcan 1700 Nomad and Voyager.

Related Reading 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic vs. 2010 Triumph Thunderbird 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Preview 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom Review 2005 Vulcan Nomad 1600 Review Classic Tourer Comparo All Things Kawaisaki on Motorcycle.com

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2015 - 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero / Vulcan 1700 Voyager

Each has a muscular V-Twin with plenty of roll-on

Kawasaki's Vulcan 1700 line is well established with the Vaquero and the Voyager -- a bagger and full dresser , respectively -- both come with ABS and, as the name suggests, the 1700 cc engine in the V-twin configuration with liquid cooling and a six-speed transmission. Ready for a cruise around town or hitting the open road, the Vulcan 1700s are well fitted and all-around solid.

• Make: Array
• Model: 2015 - 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero / Vulcan 1700 Voyager
• Engine/Motor: V-twin
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Design

The Vulcan 1700 series from Kawasaki launched in 2009 replacing the existing 1600 series and carried forward the Vulcan family that started in 1984. Kawasaki calls it “hotrod-style” elements on the dash and I wanted to see if I agreed with their claim. I do. The color-matched dash holds analog gauges , at least the main gauges: fuel, speedometer, tach and temperature (it is liquid-cooled, yes?) that I find easier to read at a glance with my ol' lady eyesight than digital readouts that are hard to see anyway in bright light, at least until TFT finds its way into the established lineups.

Tech still finds a place in the classic styling with an LCD display panel and on-board amenities such as the AM/FM/WB audio system with iPod® and SiriusXM® compatibility and speed-sensitive volume control . I expect a touring bike to have at minimum a decent sound system, so no whining here.

Do I consider dual locking side cases and, for the Voyager, a top case big enough to hold two full-face helmets noteworthy? Not really; not anymore. I expect it from a touring bike so no disappointment in the Vulcan 1700s. Small, lockable glove boxes below the speakers give you places to store your bits and bobs. The Vaquero with its blacked-out bruiser-cruise appeal has black trim on the turn signals, tail light and instrument panel in 2016 to continue that dark look. The full-dresser sibling, the Voyager features a tall, touring windscreen and a top case.

Cruise control is a bit easier to get to and can be set and adjusted from the right side of the handlebar. It's a proper cruise control, not just a throttle lock . Push-button action sets the cruise control to as low as 30 mph up to 85 mph using a toggling switch to adjust your speed without leaving cruise-control mode. It does a good job of maintaining your speed even on hills .

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Chassis

The half-ton-plus (bike, rider, and gear) operating weight of the Vulcan 1700 pair shows the factory dropped all pretension of keeping things light, and built for strength instead. Steel makes up the tubing for the double-downtube, double-cradle frame and squared-off backbone member, and that brings its own obvious advantages over aluminum skeletons.

The steering head angle, forks, and 16-inch wheels leaves us with a 30-degree rake and 7-inch trail on 65.6-inch wheelbase, right near the upper end of the spectrum, so you should be able to expect a reasonably stable ride at speed and good tracking in a crosswind . You can also expect it to be a little reluctant in the corners , but most of you already know you don't get to have it both ways. All this adds up to over 100 inches of bike, and one fairly large footprint . Long doesn't necessarily equate to tall in this case. The 28.7-inch seat height is reasonably low and should be okay for all but the shortest inseams.

Air shocks and 45 mm forks tend to the suspension duties with 5.5 inches of travel up front and 3.1 in the back. While that isn't what you would call a lot of rear-wheel travel, I will offer that air-adjustable shocks are generally fairly plush , and these come with a four-position rebound damping adjuster so at least you can get dialed in for load and conditions.

Dual, four-pot calipers bind the 300 mm front brake discs , and a twin-piston binder grabs the 300 mm rear disc. All this falls under the management of Kawasaki's proprietary ABS, the Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT II) .

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Drivetrain

Kawasaki gave the Vulcan 1700 family what the American buyer likes to see, lots of inches in a V-twin configuration. At 1,700 cc (103.7 cubic-inches), this is one of the larger V-twins, and even though it has a lot of mass to get moving, you can argue that it has enough ass to move it. The factory claims a healthy 107.6 pound-feet of torque out of this mill, unquestionably well within power- cruiser territory.

The 102 mm bore and 104 mm stroke leaves us just a hair undersquare, and the 9.5-to-1 compression ratio means you won't have to buy the premium champagne at the pump. A pair of 42 mm throttle bodies meter the fuel, and a six-speed, overdrive ratio transmission with a positive-neutral finder sends power down the carbon-reinforced drive belt to make the final connection to the pavement.

So, the bike is a little too heavy to use as a dragster, but for cruising and touring, especially at interstate speeds, this is plenty of engine for decisive roll-ons , and the OD top gear (top two, really) makes for a reasonable cruising rpm .

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Pricing

MSRP on the 2022 Vaquero is $17,399 and the Voyager is $18,099 . Kawasaki covers your Vulcan 1700 with a 36-month limited warranty with the option to go for 12, 24, or 36 months with Kawasaki Protection Plus.

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Competitor

There are no shortage of power-cruiser/tourers to pick from, but I find the Road Glide from Harley-Davidson to be the most natural, and probably predictable, pairing.

Harley-Davidson Road Glide

Similar enough to really get an apples-to-apples comparison, I feel like I can focus on some of the details since the broad strokes are so closely aligned. Since the Road Glide comes with the low-profile windshield and clean rear end , I'm going to go with the Vaquero here, but it is worth noting the Road Glide Ultra makes for a good competitor for the Vulcan 1700 Voyager.

Low, wide and a little mean , both contenders show that boulevard-bruiser attitude . Between the fixed fairing, fat front end, and saddle that tapers down to something just a little better than a vestigial pillion pad. I prefer the H-D style a little because of the dual headlights mainly -- definitely not feeling the cyclops headlight on the Vaquero or the fairing lowers that seem to make the fairing cover the entire front of the bike. To be fair, the lowers do good things for the radiator in terms of airflow and minimizing the visual impact of the core itself.

As far as gadgetry goes, both carry a bit, if not as much as one would like. ABS and adjustable rear shocks are present across the board, but neither offers any sort of dynamic/adjustable front suspension or any sort of traction control system , nuggets that are starting to fall onto the list of expected features. While both rides carry entertainment equipment in the form of a radio with a number of input options, H-D had to give the electronics suite a name of its own; Infotainment. Kawasaki is a little reserved on the specifics of the Vulcan family radios, so I will spare the blow-by-blow and simply state that H-D comes out on top of the stereo/electronics battle.

The Vulcan 1700 (103.7 cubic-inch) plant was just a skosh bigger than the old High Output Twin Cam 103 (103.1 cubic-inch), and a bit more powerful with 107.6 pounds of grunt versus the 104.7 pounds from the Twin Cam. The Road Glide was equipped with the new Milwaukee-Eight engine , so Harley squeaks out on top with 1,746 cc and 111.4 pound-feet of torque . Seriously, anything over 100 pound-feet of torque is plenty, so I won't quibble over a few pounds here or there. I'll save that for the price section...

...and here we are. Kawasaki delivers a punishing blow to the Road Glide with a $17,399 MSRP on the Vaquero, a significant amount less expensive than the $21,699 Road Glide . True, H-D is still the King of Paint, and enjoys a certain name recognition, but for many without brand loyalty, something in the Vulcan 1700 lineup may be up your alley .

Read our full review of the Harley-Davidson Road Glide .

My husband and fellow writer, TJ Hinton , says, “Gotta say, the Vulcan 1700 family looks an awful lot like the Road Glide/Road Glide Ultra, or even the Magnum or 8-Ball from Victory . Like, an awful lot. At the very least, you can be sure that it falls within the bruiser look as is currently in-vogue , and does provide a less-expensive alternative for someone looking for that look and feel, but not necessarily enamored with the existing American fare .”

“ It has floorboards -- not a surprise for a cruiser/touring bike -- and you'll scrape them a lot if you like to throw a big bike around , but that also shouldn't be a surprise. It has plenty of power and lots of torque that comes on early . For a big, heavy bike, it's surprisingly responsive . If you plan to spend time on the interstate, you might want to go with the touring windscreen on the Varquero to save yourself some head buffeting. Even at highway speeds, you're only cranking about 2,500 rpm so you have plenty of oomph when you need to hit the throttle . All in all, it's a nice ride and absorbs the bumps with aplomb.”

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Specifications

Further reading.

Read more Kawasaki news.

• Fuel Consumption
• Engine Sizes
• Engine Torque
• Engine Power
• Towing Capacity
• Seating Capacity
• Steering Wheel Size
• Dimensions and Weight
• Fuel Tank Sizes
• Trunk Space
• Tire and Rim Sizes
• Bolt Patterns
• Coolers and radiators
• Radiator Fan
• Heat Exchanger
• Intercooler
• Timing Belt
• Sizes of Wiper Blades
• Cabin Filter
• Fuel Filter
• Transmission Fluid
• Antifreeze & Coolant
• Brake Discs
• Brake Drums
• Brake Fluid
• Bulbs For Fog Lights
• Bulbs For Headlights
• Bulbs For Turn Signals
• Bulbs For Licence Plates
• Bulbs For Markers
• Bulbs For Rear Fog Lights
• Bulbs For Backup Lights
• Bulbs For Brake Lights
• Technical Specs
• Car History

• Engine & Fuel
• Coolers and Radiators

Kawasaki Voyager 1700 Problems – What Should You Expect to Encounter?

CarAraC auto mechanics and car experts

The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 series is known for its Vaquero and Voyager trims. Both of which present a nice entry point for those who want to get into touring motorcycles. The Voyager is the crème de la crème of the Vulcan if you want to get the most out of it.

Overall, the Kawasaki Voyager 1700 enjoys a good rating from owners. However, there have also been some complaints about the model mostly about its performance. In this article, we will take a look at the common issues that the majority of the cruiser's owners have to deal with as well as ways to diagnose the source of the problem and the possible solutions for each cause so you will at least have an idea how to deal with them.

Most Common Problems Encountered by Kawasaki Voyager 1700 Owners

We will cover here the key complaints of Kawasaki Voyager 1700 owners, which include the following:

• Low stock power
• Engine bogging
• Shorted ignition wiring

Problem Number 1: Low Stock Power

Most complaints stem from the allegedly lower-than-expected output of the motorcycle. This is not a problem per se but more of an issue based on most users' preferences.

It should be noted that the 2022 Vulcan 1700 Voyager houses a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 52-degree V-twin engine. The unit sports a displacement of 1,700cc with a bore of 102 mm, a stroke of 104 mm, and a compression ratio of 9.5:1. The fuel delivery of the big bike is managed by a ducted fuel injection (DFI) system and its drivetrain utilizes a carbon fiber belt. Moreover, it is highlighted by its electronic cruise control and Kawasaki's Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology (K-ACT II) ABS.

The max torque of the Voyager 1700 is pegged at 107.6 lb-ft of torque distributed via a six-speed transmission. There's no mention from Kawasaki about its horsepower output but it is estimated to be at 73 hp. On paper, these make a decent figure but there are a number of owners who think that there's plenty of room for improvement in this area.

If you're looking to extract more power from your 2022 Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS, there are a few different ways to go about it. One option is to have the ECU (engine control unit) flashed. This can provide a noticeable power boost, particularly if the bike is stock. Other ways of boosting power include adding an aftermarket exhaust or air intake or tweaking the engine settings themselves.

Of course, different mods will result in different power gains. Generally speaking, though, you can expect around a 10% increase in power with some simple bolt-on mods. If you go all out with an ECU flash and other more involved mods, you could see gains of up to 20%.

Although the aforementioned methods definitely come with plenty of benefits to your motorcycle in terms of performance, do note that these can be considered very intrusive processes coupled with risks if not done properly. As a result, you may void your warranty along the way and you may expose your bike to quick premature wear, especially its engine components. Therefore, tread carefully when it comes to tuning it and do employ the aid of a qualified mechanic in this undertaking.

Problem Number 2: Engine Bogging

Bogging is when an engine is having trouble getting enough air. This can be caused by several things, including a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel injector, or a faulty spark plug. When your engine is bogging, it will usually make your Voyager 1700 run rough and may even stall.

As this problem can be triggered by a variety of issues, here are ways to address the possible causes:

a. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

One of the most important maintenance tasks of the Voyager 1700 involves replacing or cleaning its air filter. Luckily, this is a relatively simple task that can be done at home with just a few tools if you want to save yourself a trip to your mechanic. Here's how to access and clean or replace the air filter on your Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager:

• First, locate the air filter cover on the left side of the engine. Remove the bolts holding it in place.
• Once the cover is open, you'll see the air filter element. Pull it out and inspect it. If it's excessively dirty, you'll need to replace it. Otherwise, you can clean it with a brush or compressed air.
• To reassemble, simply reverse the process. Insert the clean or new air filter element into the housing and close the cover. Make sure the bolts are properly tightened to complete the process.

b. Replacing the Fuel Injector

Worn fuel injectors impede the proper delivery of fuel to your engine. Always ensure that they are clean and working perfectly.

Here's how to locate and clean or replace them if such a need arises:

• Locate the fuel injector on the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager. The fuel injector is located under the left side cover, just forward of the battery compartment. You may have to remove the seat and fuel tank of the motorcycle to access it conveniently.
• Disconnect the negative (-) part of the battery to avoid electrocution.
• Unscrew the two retaining screws that secure the fuel injector to the side cover using a Phillips head screwdriver.
• Pull the fuel injector out of the side cover.
• Carefully wipe off any soot that you may encounter.
• Inspect the O-ring seals on the fuel injector for damage or deterioration. If necessary, replace the O-rings with new ones.
• Insert the cleaned or new fuel injector into the side cover and bolt in the retaining screws securely.
• Reconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.
• Secure the fuel tank and seat properly by bolting them in place.
• Start the engine and check for leaks, which may indicate the improper installation of your engine components.

c. Cleaning or Replacing the Spark Plug

A problematic spark plug can obstruct the proper delivery of power to fire up your engine. Thus, if it's either dirty or worn, it can bog your power unit. Cleaning or replacing the spark plug is easy, and can be performed using the following steps:

• Find the location of the spark plug on your Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager. The spark plug is located on the side of the engine, near the bottom.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
• Use a spark plug wrench to loosen and remove the spark plug from the engine.
• Inspect the spark plug for deposits or damage. If necessary, clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it with a new one.
• Reinstall the spark plug in the engine and tighten it with the spark plug wrench.
• Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
• Start the engine to ensure the proper operation of your cruiser.

Problem Number 3: Shorted Ignition Wiring

In 2015, Kawasaki ordered a recall of the 2009 to 2015 models of the Vulcan 1700 Voyager due to various electrical issues. According to the announcement of the company at that time, the ignition wire of the motorcycle has the tendency to rub on the fuel tank. As a result, it is prone to short circuits, which can also lead to engine stalling. If left, unchecked it could cause fires, too.

Kawasaki offered to fix the affected models during the said recall. However, if you missed the boat and you are experiencing the problem just now, here is your chance to fix it using the following steps:

• Park your Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager and turn off the engine.
• Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable from the battery terminal using a wrench.
• Remove the left side panel of the fairing by loosening the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver.
• Unscrew the seat bolts with a wrench and remove the seat to access the ignition wiring.
• Disconnect the Ignition coil connector (green) from the Ignition coil (black).
• Remove the two 10mm bolts that secure the Ignition switch assembly to the frame using a socket wrench and disconnect the Ignition switch connector (white).
• Take out the old Ignition switch assembly from the frame.
• Install the new Ignition switch assembly in the frame and secure it with the two 10mm bolts.
• Reconnect the Ignition switch connector (white) to the new Ignition switch assembly.
• Reattach the Ignition coil connector (green) to the Ignition coil (black).
• If the issue has affected the other wirings, do replace them as well.
• Put the seat back on and screw in the seat bolts with a wrench.
• Replace the left side panel of the fairing and tighten the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver.
• Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable to the battery terminal using a wrench and start your engine. Your new ignition wiring is now installed!

The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is a powerful and stylish motorcycle that turns heads wherever it goes. But like all others, it needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly, and that includes addressing its common problems immediately as they occur.

About the authors

The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering

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SHOWSTOPPING STYLE AND PERFORMANCE

• VULCAN ® 1700 VOYAGER ®
• TOP FEATURES
• BUILD AND PRICE
• LOCATE A DEALER

The Vulcan ® 1700 Voyager ® is the king of Kawasaki touring cruisers. A 1,700cc digitally fuel-injected V-twin engine plus Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS and electronic cruise control help make the Vulcan 1700 Voyager the pinnacle of power and luxury on the open road. 

• Fuel-injected 52-degree 1,700 cc V-twin engine
• Electronic cruise control system
• Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS

VULCAN ® 1700 VOYAGER ® ABS

MSRP $19,799

ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES:

• Dual-air-assisted shocks for optimized damping
• AM/FM/WB audio system with SiriusXM radio compatibility
• Intercom-headset compatible audio system
• Dual-locking saddlebags and tail trunk
• Large, easy-to-read instrumentation
• Stylish, frame-mounted fairing

MASSIVE V-TWIN MUSCLE

A roaring fuel-injected 52-degree liquid-cooled 1,700cc V-twin engine powers the Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS touring cruiser.

PERFORMANCE

Command the open road.

A frame-mounted fairing combined with Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) results in highly-effective braking and light steering with exceptional protection from the elements. These innovative performance features help deliver a smooth, reassuring ride.

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Large trunk can hold two full-face helmets while high-capacity, locking saddlebags carry supplies and your long-distance gear. A comfortable saddle, passenger backrest and floorboards maximize passenger comfort on long rides. Small locking storage compartments allow you to stow electronics, sunglasses and other necessities in a convenient spot.

AUDIO & COMMUNICATIONS

Featuring a host of modern amenities and backed by a 36-month limited warranty, the Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS motorcycle rides in a class of its own. Powerful speakers accompany the standard AM/FM/WB audio system with SiriusXM and intercom-headset compatibility. It also features Navigation Audio Prompt Capability in conjunction with select Garmin GPS devices (sold separately). 

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2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager

Back to 2012 Kawasaki Motorcycle Model Review Page

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– 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Review

Classic Good Looks, Top-Shelf Comfort

For those who heed the call of the open road, the Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® satisfies that wanderlust – and then some. Complete with all the full-dress accouterments necessary to keep riders and passengers comfortable on long journeys, and equipped with a powerful engine that helps eat up the miles, the Voyager delivers a memorable experience in classic style. And with its muscle car-inspired styling, the curvaceous Voyager turns heads whether your destination is across the country or just across town.

The Voyager boasts all the stuff you’ll need for adventurous treks: a smooth and torquey 1,700cc V-twin powerplant, large frame-mounted fairing, beautifully integrated luggage that stows a week’s worth of gear, a comfortable saddle, electronic cruise control, high-fidelity sound system, optional K-ACT anti-lock/integrated braking system and the sort of design acumen and dependability Kawasaki is renowned for.

All V-twins present engine heat challenges, especially full-dress models with leg shields, since the rear cylinder and exhaust pipe are almost directly under the rider. Kawasaki is the first manufacturer to provide, as standard equipment, an effectively designed air management system to help increase rider comfort at a stop. The primary part of the Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) routes radiator heat to the ground, below the engine, while the secondary part of the system draws heat away from the rear cylinder and exhaust pipe and directs it to the ground on the left side of the motorcycle. This system is particularly effective in warm weather while stopped in traffic or for extended periods of low-speed operation, such as during staging for group rides or parades.

Though a non-ABS model is available, the 1700 Voyager’s driveline/braking technology is enhanced with the addition of the second-generation Kawasaki Advanced Coactive Braking Technology (K-ACT) system. Available on the ABS-equipped Voyager, K-ACT uses advanced electronics to translate the rider’s braking inputs from both the front lever and rear pedal into smooth, balanced deceleration and maximum stopping performance. Basically, the front lever also activates the rear brake, and the rear pedal also engages the right front caliper: K-ACT ensures all this happens seamlessly and efficiently, and the second-generation system uses the same smaller, lighter ABS unit and faster, higher-spec brake ECU found on the Kawasaki Concours™ 14 ABS motorcycle for even smoother, more precise operation. K-ACT’s coactive function does not engage when braking is applied at speeds below 12 mph, and the ABS function is automatically disengaged at speeds below 4 mph.

There’s much more on the unique technology front, including Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle valve system, which works in concert with the Voyager’s Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system to enhance engine response without dulling the big Vee’s distinctive throb. The system also helps the ECU deliver ultra-precise air/fuel metering and more accurate idle speed control. The setup utilizes an Accelerator Position Sensor (APS) and Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) that feed data to the ECU, which adjusts the throttle plates to tailor intake airflow accordingly. The system offers natural throttle feel, as APS is activated by a throttle-body pulley connected by cables to the throttle grip. The 1,700cc 52-degree V-twin all of this cool technology was designed to support is a marvel of engineering, and is as functionally capable as they come. Featuring liquid cooling, four-valve cylinder heads and a single overhead cam setup for big-time mid-range power, the engine utilizes a pair of big pistons to pump out a massive quantity of torque over an unbelievably wide rpm range – a key to this engine’s superb flexibility. There’s a boatload of the stuff located throughout the rpm zone where riders will spend the most time – and more than enough from idle all the way to 5,000 rpm, so major-league, arm-straightening thrust is available right now every time you twist the grip.

The Voyager’s fuel injection and exhaust systems are tuned to deliver peak torque and horsepower at slightly higher rpm than the Classic models, which is optimal for an open-road tourer. The Voyager’s mufflers have excellent sound quality and a tapered, classic look. Additional touring functionality is provided by the Voyager’s beefy but easy-to-squeeze clutch, which features six damping springs and progressive three-stage engagement for easier shifting under hard acceleration.

The Voyager’s innovative technology is matched with essential touring features such as electronic cruise control and a six-speed transmission with overdrive fifth and sixth gears. The cruise control is conveniently operated from the right handlebar and can be activated between 30 and 85 mph in any of the top four gears. Conveniently, the cruise control can be disengaged by pressing the brake lever, clutch lever, rear brake pedal, or by manually rolling off the throttle.

Featuring overdrive ratios and a super strong carbon fiber reinforced drive belt, the Voyager’s drivetrain is ideally suited to its role as a relaxed mile-eater. Its tall fifth and sixth gears contribute to relaxed riding and better fuel economy at highway speeds, and its carbon fiber reinforced drive belt has a 40-percent higher tensile strength than the latest Kevlar units, allowing use of a 28mm design that minimizes drivetrain width.

A long-haul tourer needs superior wind and weather protection, and the Voyager packs plenty in the form of its large frame-mounted windshield and fairing, as well as leg shields that incorporate effective venting to keep engine heat off the rider’s legs during slower going. Mounting this beautifully sculpted fairing to the frame transfers any wind buffeting to the bike rather than the handlebar, which reduces rider fatigue on longer trips. A full complement of stylish and integrated luggage is also part of the Voyager package. Sealed, lockable and top-opening side cases with 10 gallons (38L) of volume partner with a color-matched, 13.2-gallon (50L) lockable tail trunk that’s big enough to swallow two large full-face helmets. Besides ample storage, the Voyager also has a pair of lockable glove boxes up front that provide a handy place for storing small items and accessories.

Comfortable seating for rider and passenger is a must on a touring bike. The Voyager delivers again with deluxe touring seats sculpted to provide support for all-day touring. Contributing to long-distance passenger security and relaxation are a luxury backrest and floorboards for both the rider and passenger.

Built-in instruments and radio controls mounted on the Voyager’s classic automotive-style dash offer exceptional functionality and classic muscle car styling. The image is reinforced by the classic font used on the large round dials of the instrumentation and a radio styled to resemble 8-track players from the 1960s.

A multi-function LCD display is mixed in with the retro analog dials in the center of the instrument console. It’s controlled by switches on the right handlebar and features a gear-position indicator, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption.

The intercom headset-compatible, 40-watt, twin-speaker audio system features navigation audio prompts, a three-band (FM/AM/WX) radio that is also compatible with iPods, an XM radio tuner, or a CB radio unit. The audio system (and iPod) can be operated by an integrated controller on the left handlebar. In addition to volume, the rider can also adjust the bass, treble and balance levels of the system.

The Voyager also features a water-cooled, rare earth magnet alternator that produces an impressive 46.8 amps of electrical output – enough to power add-on navigation systems and other electrical accessories that add to the modern touring experience. The Voyager also features a convenient cigarette lighter-style power port on the dash and two power outlets under the seat – ideal for additional accessories. Kawasaki designers packed the Voyager with advanced technology without dulling its dramatic styling and attractive visual appeal. Like the dashboard, the Voyager’s bodywork continues the ’60s muscle car inspiration with its curved, muscular lines. The meticulous attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship of the bodywork and engine covers is obvious in contoured shapes that look good from any angle and are as pleasing to the touch as they are to the eye.

The Voyager handles like a much lighter machine thanks to optimal chassis design and excellent suspension. Dual air shocks offer 3.1 inches of rear suspension travel and feature settings unique to the Voyager. The shocks feature 4-way rebound damping adjustability to help ensure predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

Offering a stylish alternative to other run-of-the-mill V-twin tourers, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager combines Kawasaki reliability with the performance, V-twin feel, comfort and amenities long-distance touring riders demand.

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager Features and Benefits

Key Features

• Powerful 1,700cc liquid-cooled V-twin delivers high levels of torque • Six-speed transmission for relaxed cruising • Electronic cruise control maintains speed for more comfort on long trips • Frame-mounted fairing provides stylish wind protection to the rider and passenger • Lower color-matched fairings increase wind protection for legs • Color matched trunk is big enough to hold two full-face helmets • Lockable, color matched, top-opening hard saddlebags are capacious and easy to pack from the top • Feature-rich audio system comes standard, has AM/FM/WB, and is compatible with iPods and XM radio • New for 2012, Navigation Audio Prompt Capability can play navigation voice prompts from Garmin Zumo 600 or 665 series GPS devices through the motorcycle’s audio system or Kawasaki Genuine Accessory helmet headsets • New for 2012, Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) maximizes rider and passenger comfort when stopped or at very low speeds in warm weather • Low 28.7-inch seat height enhances the comfortable riding position • Compact and upright ergonomics for all-day rider comfort 2nd Generation Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS

• Voyager ABS models feature the latest, fastest version of Kawasaki’s sophisticated K-ACT system, which enables riders to execute controlled, balanced braking. Designed to complement the riders’ brake inputs, the system distributes the ideal amount of brake pressure to maximize braking efficiency • Low battery mode maintains ABS function while reducing signal frequency to conserve power when needed • For controllability in tight corners and when executing U-turns, K-ACT’s coactive function does not engage when braking is initiated at speeds below 12 mph • ABS function is disengaged at speeds below 4 mph • Both ABS and non-ABS models use dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a two-piston rear disc brake for sure, powerful stops Powerful 1,700cc V-twin engine

• Liquid-cooled, four valves per cylinder, fuel-injected 1,700cc 52-degree V-twin engine • Long-stroke 102 x 104mm bore and stroke dimensions help deliver high levels of torque with a distinctive V-twin feel • Valve system uses a single overhead cam arrangement instead of pushrods for quicker revving and enhanced mid • to high-rpm power • Semi-dry sump allows a lower crankshaft placement and a longer piston stroke without increasing engine height • Single-pin crank accentuates the engine’s V-twin character by providing stronger power pulses • Large capacity airbox is located on both sides of the engine • Small-diameter iridium sparkplugs reach deep into the combustion chamber for high combustion efficiency, especially during low-load operation • Dual mufflers, one on each side of the bike, allow maximum clearance for luggage • Engine tuning offers superior acceleration in the 50 to 70 mph range • Even in overdrive, the engine pulls strongly in this speed range, facilitating overtaking at highway speeds Fuel Injection

• Utilizes one sensor in place of the usual three for reduced complexity and weight • The touring-oriented Voyager utilizes FI and exhaust systems tuned to reach peak torque and horsepower at a higher rpm than the engines used in standard Vulcan 1700 cruisers Electronic Throttle Valve System

• Fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of intake air (via throttle valve angle) and fuel (via fuel injector timing) delivered to the engine • Optimized fuel injector timing and throttle valve position result in accurate, powerful engine response • Control of both fuel injection and airflow provides easy starting and precise cold-engine idle speed control • From the rider’s perspective, the ETV works like a standard cable-operated throttle; the throttle grip is still connected to cables, so the feel at the grip is the same • Twisting the throttle turns a pulley on the throttle body which triggers the Accelerator Position Sensor (APS) to send a signal to the ECU, which then modulates the throttle valves via a DC motor • Accurate throttle position is relayed to the ECU by a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) • APS and TPS send two sets of signals to the ECU for system redundancy in the unlikely event of a sensor failure Cruise Control

• Cruise control can be engaged and adjusted entirely from the right handlebar • Cruise control can be activated in 3rd gear or above at any speed between 30 mph and 85 mph • Pressure on the brake lever, clutch lever or rear brake pedal automatically disengages the cruise control, as will manually rolling off the throttle On Board Diagnostics

• Diagnostic system allows self-testing of the electronic systems on the Vulcan 1700 • Display codes on the instrumentation can be read by owner using accessory manual Six-speed Transmission / Final Drive

• Both 5th and 6th gears are “overdrive” ratios, which contributes to stress-free riding and better fuel economy when cruising at highway speeds • 28mm carbon fiber reinforced final drive belt offers a 40-percent increase in tensile strength compared to current Kevlar belts. This allows the Vulcan 1700 to use a slim belt only 2mm wider than the Kevlar unit on the Vulcan 900 • Belt drive system is quiet, efficient and offers reduced maintenance compared to a chain Light Handling Chassis

• A more compact package than its predecessors, the Voyager has a shorter wheelbase and shorter distance between the seat and steering head, for improved rider ergonomics and easier maneuverability • Designed to be as light and slim as possible, the frame minimizes the number of forged parts and trims any unnecessary metal. The only forged parts are areas that require additional strength – the down-tube joint, engine brackets, side-stand bracket, and rear fender/shock absorber bracket • The compact design contributes to light handling and facilitates handling at low speeds, especially when executing precise slow-speed maneuvers like parking or making U-turns 45mm Telescopic Fork

• Provides superb steering feedback • 5.5 inches of travel helps provide excellent ride quality Dual Adjustable Rear Air Shocks

• Features air-adjustable spring preload to help compensate for passenger and luggage variations • 4-way rebound damping adjustments help the shocks compensate for changes in spring pressure • Voyager-specific settings match the load carrying and long distance touring requirements inherent in this type of motorcycle 9-Spoke Cast Wheels

• Allow the use of tubeless tires and complement the Voyager’s muscular styling • 130/90 front and 170/70 rear tires offer optimal traction and wear characteristics • Tire choice and suspension settings augment the chassis’ light handling characteristics Classic V-twin Appeal

• Basic architecture has a significant impact on a V-twin engine’s appearance • The line created by the top of the airbox and the cylinder heads forms a curved shape that continues to flow through the bike • Deeply chromed engine covers have curved upper surfaces. Their three-dimensional form adds volume and gives a quality appearance • The edges of the cooling fins receive a special NC treatment that makes them gleam in sunlight • All the non-chromed parts of the engine have a matte black finish that further accentuates the chromed parts Bodywork

• Muscular fairing is reminiscent of classic American muscle cars in its sculpted, flowing design • Chromed headlamp cover and twin fog lights contribute to the muscle car theme • The fuel tank’s hand-sculpted contours employ constantly varying radii, giving the bike a dynamic flow that is pleasing both to the eye and to the touch • The lines flowing through the rest of the bike and its elegant fuel tank contribute to the Voyager’s curvaceous figure • Liberal use of chrome contrasts nicely with the bodywork’s deep, lustrous paint. The engine, front and rear guards, accents on the side cases and trunk, and the trunk brackets are fully chromed • Design motif from the front fender continues on the rear fender, which features an elegant LED taillight • Front and rear guards help protect the bike’s bodywork in case of a tip-over • Dual 35W fog lights have a dedicated On/Off switch and can be adjusted vertically • In addition to the taillight on the rear fender, the Voyager also has a large, highly visible LED taillight mounted on the rear of the trunk that contributes to its appearance Classic Retro Dashboard

• Instrument layout and large round dials give the Voyager’s console a classic automotive elegance, which is reinforced by the font used in the instrumentation • Even the radio has a classic look, reminiscent of the 1960s • Multi-function LCD display in the center of the instrument console is controlled by switches on the right handlebar. Features include a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption • Analog displays include speedometer, tachometer and coolant temperature gauge • Audio system with twin speakers features radio (FM/AM/WX) and compatibility with optional iPod®, XM tuner or CB radio units • The audio system (and iPod) can be operated by switches on the left handlebar • Ignition switch allows key removal in the on position; preventing keys from damaging the chrome finish around the ignition area during operation • Turning the ignition switch collar to the ACC position allows accessories to be used while the engine is off and turning it to the “OFF” position turns the engine off and necessitates re-insertion of the key to restart Wind Protection

• Large windshield and fairing help protect the rider and passenger from wind and elements • With the front fairing mounted to the frame, any wind buffeting is transferred to the bike rather than the handlebar, helping to enhance highway stability and reduce rider fatigue • Leg shields have adjustable vents to tailor the amount of airflow to the rider’s legs Ample Storage

• 13.2-gallon (50L) lockable trunk is large enough to fit two full-face helmets • Top-opening side cases are sealed and lockable, with a volume of 10 gallons (38L) each • Up front, lockable glove boxes provide a handy place for storing small items and accessories. An iPod jack (optional connector required) is located in the left-side glove box Comfort

• Sculpted seat designed for both long-distance ergonomics and an easy reach to the ground • Upright riding position and floorboards contribute to all-day touring comfort • Roomy passenger seat is complemented by padding on the trunk that provides back and arm support • Rear floorboards contribute to passenger comfort • Dual adjustable rear air shocks use settings optimized for load carrying and long-distance comfort Long Range

• 5.3-gallon fuel tank offers a substantial range, helping to minimize fuel stops when out on the open road

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager – USA Specifications/Technical Details US MSRP Price: $17,899 USD

Engine Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four valve per cylinder, 52° V-twin Displacement 1,700cc / 103.7ci Bore x Stroke 102 x 104mm Compression ratio 9.5:1 Maximum Torque 108 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm Cooling System Liquid, plus cooling fins Ignition TCBI with Digital Advance Induction Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies Transmission Six-speed with overdrive Final Drive Belt Frame Type Steel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone Rake/Trail 30° / 7.0 in. Front Suspension / wheel travel 45mm hydraulic fork / 5.5 in. Rear Suspension / wheel travel Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping / 3.1 in. Front Tire Size 130/90×16 Rear Tire Size 170/70×16 Brakes, front / rear Dual 300 mm discs, dual four-piston calipers, K-ACT II (ABS model) / Single 300mm disc, twin-piston caliper, K-ACT II (ABS model) Overall length 100.8 Overall width 39.2 Overall height 61.0 Seat height 28.7 Curb weight 886 / 895 (ABS) lbs.** Wheelbase 65.6 Fuel capacity 5.3 gal. Color Choices Metallic Graystone / Metallic Spark Black, Pearl Alpine White / Pearl Luster Beige Warranty 36 months Good Times™ Protection Plan 12, 24 or 36 months ** Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90-percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager – Canadian Specifications/Technical Details Canada MSRP Price: See Canadian Kawasaki Dealer for pricing.

Engine Type 4-stroke, V-Twin Displacement 1,700cc Bore and Stroke 102.0 x 104.0 mm Cooling Liquid, plus cooling fins Compression Ratio 9.5:1 Valve System SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel System Digital fuel injection with dual 42 mm throttle bodies Ignition TCBI with digital advance Lubrication Forced lubrication (semi-dry sump)

Drivetrain Transmission 6-speed with overdrive Final Drive Carbon fiber belt Primary Reduction Ratio 1.515 (50/33) Gear Ratio: 1st 2.933 (44/15) Gear Ratio: 2nd 1.900 (38/20) Gear Ratio: 3rd 1.407 (38/27) Gear Ratio: 4th 1.143 (32/28) Gear Ratio: 5th 0.967 (29/30) Gear Ratio: 6th 0.806 (29/36) Final Reduction Ratio 2.250 (72/32) Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual

Frame Type Double-cradle, high-tensile steel Wheel Travel: Front 140 mm (5.5 in.) Tire: Front 130/90-B16 Wheel Travel: Rear 80 mm (3.1 in.) Tire: Rear 170/70-B16 Caster (Rake) 30º Trail 177 mm (7.0 in.) Steering Angle (Left/Right) 35º / 35º

Suspension Suspension, Front 45 mm hydraulic telescopic fork Suspension, Rear Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks with 4-way rebound damping

Brakes Front: Type Dual 300 mm discs Front: Caliper Dual 4-piston caliper Rear: Type Single 300 mm disc Rear: Caliper Twin-piston caliper

Dimensions Overall Length 2,560 mm (100.8 in.) Overall Width 995 mm (39.2 in.) Overall Height 1,550 mm (61.0 in.) Wheelbase 1,665 mm (65.6 in.) Ground Clearance 135 mm (5.3 in.) Seat Height 730 mm (28.7 in.) Curb Mass** 402 kg (886.3 lbs.) Fuel Capacity 20 litres (4.4 gal.) Fuel Consumption 6.5 L/100 km (44 MPG) ** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)

PERFORMANCE Maximum Power‡ 54 kW {73.4 PS} @ 5,000 rpm Maximum Torque‡ 136 N·m {13.9 kgƒ·m} @ 2,750 rpm ‡ Power / Torque figures measured at the crankshaft.

Details MSRP* TBA Colour Metallic Graystone / Metallic Spark Black Warranty 36 months warranty

ADDITIONAL COST OPTIONS Good Times Protection Plan 12 or 24 months (Kawasaki GTPP coverage begins after the standard limited warranty expires) * The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price does not include freight, pre-delivery inspection or applicable taxes. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours may vary by market.

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager – UK/European Specifications/Technical Details UK/EU MSRP Price: See UK/European Kawasaki Dealer for pricing.

Engine Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke V-Twin Displacement 1,700 cm³ Bore x stroke 102 x 104 mm Compression ratio 9.5:1 Valve/Induction system SOHC, 8 valves Fuel system Fuel injection:?42 mm x 2 Ignition Digital Starting Electric Lubrication Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump Transmission Transmission 6-speed, return Final Drive Belt Primary reduction ratio 1.515 (50/33) Gear ratios: 1st 3.077 (40/13) Gear ratios: 2nd 1.900 (38/20) Gear ratios: 3rd 1.407 (38/27) Gear ratios: 4th 1.143 (32/28) Gear ratios: 5th 0.967 (29/30) Gear ratios: 6th 0.806 (29/36) Final reduction ratio 2.250 (72/32) Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual Frame Frame type Double-cradle, steel Rake/Trail 30? / 177 mm Wheel travel, front 140 mm Wheel travel, rear 80 mm Tyre, front 130/90B16M/C 67H Tyre, rear 170/70B16M/C 75H Steering angle, left / right 35? / 35? Suspension Suspension, front 45 mm telescopic fork Suspension, rear Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks Rebound damping: 4-way Brakes Brakes, front Dual 300 mm discs Dual 4-piston Brakes, rear Single 300 mm disc Twin-piston Dimensions Fuel capacity 20 litres Performance Maximum power 54 kW {73 PS} / 5,000 rpm Maximum torque 136 N·m {13.9 kgf·m} / 2,750 rpm

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager – Australian Specifications/Technical Details Australia MSRP Price: TBA

ABS version only.

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