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ETV enhances throttle control by using an ECU to manage fuel and air delivery to the engine.
The slim, strong carbon-fiber belt offers greater durability and a slimmer design compared to traditional belts.
Features a 6-speed overdrive transmission for efficient open-road touring and responsive performance.
Dual air-assisted rear shocks provide adjustable control for varying passenger and cargo loads.
Ergonomically designed individual seat and backrest offer luxury and support for the passenger.
Combines classic styling with modern electronics for comprehensive rider information display.
Kawasaki's unified braking system that applies front and rear brakes simultaneously for enhanced safety.
Standard top-opening hard saddlebags offer 10 gallons of weatherproof storage each, with sturdy locks for security.
Easy-to-use cruise control maintains steady speeds between 35-85 mph in select gears.
Top-opening, metal-reinforced saddlebags made from top-grain cowhide with quick-release fasteners.
Contoured and cushioned rear seat and backrest with chrome-plated steel supports for passenger comfort.
Long-stroke, single overhead-camshaft V-twin engine delivers incredible torque and quick revving for superior power.
Forward-mounted floorboards and foot controls, low seat height, and mass centralization ensure a comfortable ride.
Extend factory warranty coverage up to four years with this comprehensive, honored plan at authorized dealers.
Qualified buyers can get up to 100% instant financing with zero down payment for most Kawasaki products.
Emphasizes wearing protective gear, riding defensively, and never riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Series represents a family of V-Twin touring motorcycles designed for long-distance comfort and performance, blending classic cruiser aesthetics with modern engineering. This series caters to riders seeking a powerful, reliable, and feature-rich motorcycle for extended journeys, whether across states or simply for weekend getaways.
The primary function of the Vulcan 1700 Series motorcycles is to provide a comfortable and capable platform for touring. Each model within the series is built around a robust 1,700cc (103.7 cu. in.) long-stroke V-Twin engine, engineered for strong torque output and dependable performance. This engine is paired with a 6-speed overdrive transmission, optimized for open-road cruising, allowing the rider to maintain comfortable engine speeds at highway velocities. The fully electronic throttle actuation system (ETV) enhances throttle control, enabling precise management of fuel and air supply to the engine, which contributes to smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Some models also feature cruise control, which integrates with the ETV system to maintain steady speeds between 35 and 85 mph, reducing rider fatigue on long stretches of road.
The motorcycles are liquid-cooled, with additional cooling fins, ensuring consistent engine temperatures even during demanding rides or in warmer climates. Digital fuel injection further refines engine performance, providing crisp throttle response and efficient combustion. The chassis design, typically a double-cradle, high-tensile steel frame, offers a stable and confidence-inspiring ride, crucial for carrying luggage and passengers over long distances. Suspension systems are designed to absorb road imperfections, with hydraulic telescopic forks at the front and twin air-assisted shocks at the rear, often featuring adjustable rebound damping to fine-tune the ride quality based on load and road conditions. Braking is handled by dual disc brakes at the front and a single disc at the rear, with some models offering an optional K-ACT anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced safety, which intelligently applies both front and rear brakes when either lever or pedal is engaged.
The Vulcan 1700 Series emphasizes rider and passenger comfort, making long rides enjoyable. Models like the Voyager and Nomad are equipped with large, frame-mounted fairings and windshields to provide significant wind protection, reducing fatigue from wind buffeting. Lower vented shields on some models further enhance airflow management. Seating is a key comfort feature, with ergonomically designed premium seats and backrests for both rider and passenger, often featuring a wraparound design for added support. Floorboards for both rider and passenger allow for varied foot positions, contributing to comfort on extended trips.
Storage capacity is a significant aspect of these touring machines. The Voyager and Nomad models come with generous hardcase touring saddlebags, often top-opening and weatherproof, providing ample space for luggage. These saddlebags are typically reinforced and feature sturdy locks for security. Some models, like the Classic LT, feature studded leather saddlebags made from top-grain cowhide, which are deep-dyed for durability and include quick-release fasteners hidden by chrome buckles.
The instrument panels combine classic styling with modern electronic features, providing essential information such as fuel range and average miles per gallon. Audio systems, compatible with devices like iPods and MP3 players via an accessory harness, are available on certain models, allowing riders to enjoy music on the go. The overall ergonomics, including a low seat height and favorable mass centralization, make these motorcycles manageable in traffic and at low speeds, despite their substantial size. The dual slash-cut mufflers contribute to a distinctive and soul-stirring exhaust note, enhancing the overall riding experience.
While the manual does not explicitly detail maintenance features, the design choices in the Vulcan 1700 Series imply a focus on durability and ease of ownership. The use of a Carbon-Fiber final drive belt, for instance, is noted to be nearly 40 percent stronger and slimmer than traditional Kevlar belts, suggesting greater durability and potentially longer service intervals compared to chain drives. Liquid cooling helps maintain optimal engine temperatures, which can contribute to engine longevity and consistent performance, reducing wear and tear associated with overheating.
The robust construction of components like the saddlebags, with metal reinforcement and sturdy locks, indicates a design intended to withstand the rigors of touring. The electronic throttle valve system, being fully electronic, may reduce the need for mechanical adjustments associated with traditional cable-operated throttles. The overall engineering, with a focus on dependable performance, suggests that routine maintenance, as outlined in the owner's manual, will be straightforward for authorized service centers. Kawasaki's commitment to quality materials and advanced technology aims to provide a reliable motorcycle that requires predictable maintenance, allowing riders to focus more on the journey and less on unexpected repairs.
General| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 1700cc |
| Cooling System | Liquid |
| Bore x Stroke | 102 x 104 mm |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Frame Type | Double-cradle |
| Rear Suspension | Swingarm |
| Front Brakes | Dual 300mm discs with twin-piston calipers |
| Front Tire | 130/90-16 |
| Rear Tire | 170/70-16 |
| Overall Width | 1000 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20 liters |
| Rear Brakes | Single 300mm disc with twin-piston caliper |
