Model Information OVERVIEW ----------------------------------------P2 AT A GLANCE-------------------------------------P4 KEY FEATURES----------------------------------P5 POWERFUL 1700cc V-Twin------------------------------- P5 LIGHT-HANDLING CHASSIS---------------------------------P5 KAWASAKI CRATHSMANSHIP------------------------------P12 COLOUR(S) ----------------------------------------P18 SPECIFICATIONS --------------------------------P19 MODEL NAME: Vulcan 1700 Nomad ABS / Classic ABS MARKETING CODE: VN1700DDF / VN1700FDF Version: 26 th March 2013
OVERVIEW INTRODUCING A NEW SERIES OF 1700CC V-TWINS Kawasaki is proud to introduce its newest series of big V-Twins. The VN1700 Series, successors to the VN1600 models, feature powerful 1700cc engines, light handling and trademark Kawasaki craftsmanship. The new engine design is similar to that of the mighty VN2000, but features a SOHC rather than OHV arrangement. Its increase in displacement and long-stroke design ensure both torque and horsepower gains over the VN1600 models. New features include Kawasaki s first fully electronic throttle valve system, a new 6-speed transmission with overdrive, and belt final drive like the VN2000 and VN900 models. The new lightweight chassis is more compact than that of previous models. Chassis design and suspension settings result in light handling. Bodywork and engine covers were completely redesigned. Like on all Kawasaki Cruisers, meticulous attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship result in a product that turns heads whether parked in front of a café or cruising down the highway. 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 2
OVERVIEW The VN1700 Series is comprised of four models: the VN1700B, VN1700D and VN1700F and VN1700K. Variations in tuning and equipment mean there is a VN1700 model for all Kawasaki Cruiser fans. VN1700B shown VN1700D shown VN1700B Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS: Kawasaki s first V-Twin full-dress tourer features all the comfort features and equipment necessary for long-distance two-up touring. (For more details about the VN1700B please refer to the VN1700B Model Information.) (For more details about the VN1700K please refer to the VN1700K Model Information). VN1700D Vulcan 1700 Nomad ABS: Electronic Cruise Control, large windscreen, hard panniers, passenger floorboards and luxury backrest enable comfortable twoup touring. Ideal for overnight tours with a passenger. VN1700F Vulcan 1700 Classic ABS: Whether looking to riding around town or to escape the city for the day, the Classic offers a great V-Twin pulse, effortless handling and timeless looks. 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 3
AT A GLANCE All-new 1,700 cm 3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke V-Twin - P.6 Long-stroke engine based on that of the VN2000 delivers significant torque and power gains. Two versions were achieved via FI settings and muffler systems. Instruments - P.14 Tank-mounted instrument console features a large-face speedometer, LCD display and gear position indicator. Ergonomic riding position - P.11 Upright riding position contributes to rider comfort. Low seat height and shape make it easy to reach the ground with both feet. LED taillight - P.15 Used for the first time on a Kawasaki cruiser, the attractive LED taillight contributes to styling. Electronic Throttle Valve System - P.7 Kawasaki s first fully electronic throttle valve (ETV) system delivers smooth, natural engine response. 6-speed transmission with overdrive - P.8 New 6-speed transmission includes an overdrive gear for relaxed highway cruising. Electronic Cruise Control - P.8 (VN1700C only) Convenient Electronic Cruise Control is controlled from the right handle. Belt drive - P.6 Smooth and efficient belt drive uses carbon fibre as a tensile material. Slimmer than a Kevlar belt, it reduces weight and contributes to appearance. Model variations - P.9 VN1700D shown Varying by model, additional features like lockable panniers or saddlebags offer storage space, windscreens provide wind protection, and backrests increase passenger comfort. Superior passing performance - P.7 Engine tuning ensures strong acceleration in the 50-70 mph range, facilitating overtaking. Light handling - P.9 Compact new chassis designed for light weight and light handling. Kawasaki craftsmanship - P.13 Elegant bodywork and engine covers were designed by hand, resulting in shapes pleasing to both the eye and touch. 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P A GE 4
POWERFUL 1700CC V-TWIN ENGINE Newly designed engine is based on that of the VN2000. It offers both significant torque and power gains over its predecessor, as well as superior passing performance. All models feature Kawasaki s first fully electronic throttle valve system, which together with the fuel injection system offers smooth, natural engine response. Another change from the VN1600 series is the new 6-speed transmission featuring an overdrive gear. VN1700E shown VN1700E shown Powerful 1700cc V-Twin engine * Long-stroke, liquid cooled, SOHC, 8-valve 1,700 cm 3 V-Twin engine was designed to deliver high levels of torque. Bore and stroke measure 102 x 104 mm. Torque is approximately 15% greater than that of the VN1600D. * Valve system is based on that of the VN2000, but uses a SOHC arrangement instead of OHV for more direct engine feel and easier merging onto freeways. * Large capacity airboxes are located on either side of the engine. * Semi-dry sump (like that on the VN2000) allowed the crankshaft to be lowered, enabling a longer stroke without increasing engine height. * Both pistons are connected to a single crankpin. Primary balance is satisfied care of two counter-balance shafts. * Small-diameter iridium spark plugs reach deep into the combustion chamber for high combustion efficiency, especially at low-load operation (near idling). * Belt final drive is quiet and efficient and helps reduce maintenance chores. Using carbon fibre instead of Kevlar as a tensile material, the belt offers high strength (tensile strength is increased by 40%) with a slim size and light weight. Belt width (28 mm) is more comparable to that of the VN900 models (26 mm) than that of the VN2000 (40 mm). (Photo 1) 1 VN1700E shown 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 5
Engine tuning variations * Two series of engines were designed for the new VN1700 models: one for the VN1700C (and VN1700A/B), and one for the VN1700E and VN1700G. * The difference was achieved through different FI settings and muffler systems. On North American models, the result is that peak torque (up about 15% from the VN1600D) and peak horsepower (up about 20% from the VN1600D) occur at different rpm: Max torque Max power VN1700B/D @ 2,750 rpm @ 5,000 rpm VN1700F @ 2,250 rpm @ 4,500 rpm * All models feature dual mufflers with the same base construction as those on the VN2000. However, the VN1700D (like the VN1700B) features twin mufflers (one on each side), where the VN1700F feature dual mufflers on the right side of the bike. (Photos 2-3) 2 3 VN1700D shown * The clutch on the VN1700D and VN1700B models features six damping springs for 3-stage progressive damping that contributes to smoother feeling when getting back on the gas. Superior passing performance * Engine tuning offers superior acceleration in the 50-70 mph (80-113 km/h) range. Even in overdrive, the engine pulls strongly in this speed range, facilitating overtaking at highway speeds. ETV (Electronic Throttle Valve) System * Kawasaki s first fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of both the fuel (via fuel injectors) and the air (via throttle valves) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response. (Photo 4) * Control of both fuel injection and airflow enables precise cold-engine idling speed control. 4 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 6
* The simple system makes it easy to incorporate other systems, like Electronic Cruise Control (please see below). * Twisting the throttle grip actuates a throttle pulley on the throttle body. The Accelerator Position Sensor (APS), also located on the throttle body, sends a signal to the ECU, which then actuates the throttle valves via a DC motor. Throttle position is confirmed to the ECU by Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). (Illustration A) * Redundancy in the system (APS and TPS each send two sets of signals to the ECU) ensures some control is maintained in case of failure. * Because the throttle grip is connected to cables, the feel at the grip is like a standard cable-operated throttle. (Photo 5) A 5 6-speed transmission with overdrive * 6th gear is an overdrive gear, contributing to stress-free riding and better fuel economy when cruising at highway speeds. Electronic Cruise Control (VN1700D only) * Operation of the Electronic Cruise Control is conveniently from the right handle. (Photo 6) * The system can be activated between 30 mph (47 km/h) and 85 mph (137 km/h) in 3rd gear or above. * Operating the brake lever, clutch lever or rear brake pedal causes the Electronic Cruise Control to be disengaged. Closing the throttle beyond the zero-throttle position is another instinctive way to disengage the system. 6 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 7
LIGHT-HANDLING CHASSIS With VN1700 series models featuring a more compact package than their predecessors, the new frame was designed for light weight and light handling. Light handling * Designed from the start to be as light and slim as possible, the frame minimises the number of forged parts and trims any unnecessary meat. The only forged parts (the down-tube joint, engine brackets, side-stand bracket, rear fender/shock absorber bracket) are areas that require additional strength. The new frame is lighter than that of the VN1600A, with greater torsional rigidity. * More compact in design, the VN1700 has a shorter wheelbase than both the VN2000 and VN1600. The compact design contributes to light handling. * Shorter distance between the seat and frame head pipe facilitates handling at low speeds, especially when executing U-turns. * Tyre choice and suspension settings also contribute to the light handling. Chassis variations * The VN1700D adds wind protection care of adjustable handlebar-mounted windscreens. (Photos 7-8) 7 VN1700D shown 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 8
* Sub-windscreen and deflectors on the VN1700D further increase wind protection performance. The sub-windscreen covers the area between the windscreen and headlamp when the windscreen is in the raised position. The fork-mounted deflectors help direct air away from the rider s legs. (Photo 9) 9 * The VN1700D features hard, lockable panniers (same as those on the VN1700B). The topopening panniers each provide 38 litres of sealed storage space for overnight touring. (Photos 10-11) 10 11 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 9
* Rider and passenger seats differ between the VN1700D and VN1700F. The rider seat of the VN1700D is the same as that on the VN1700B; passenger seat is also sculpted for greater all-day comfort. Seats on the VN1700F is the same except for the studs. (Photos 13-15) 13 14 VN1700D shown * Also contributing to passenger comfort, the VN1700D features a luxury backrest with integrated passenger grab bars.. (Photo 13) * As a final contribution to passenger comfort, the VN1700D features passenger floorboards instead of the footpegs featured on the VN1700F. (Photo 17) 17 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 10
* Dual adjustable rear air-shocks ensure a comfortable ride feel. Settings are different between the VN1700D and VN1700F. VN1700F also feature chromed shock covers, contributing the luxurious finish of the rear of the bike. (Photo 18) 18 * Front and rear guards on the VN1700D help protect the bike s engine and panniers in the case of a stationary fall. Convenient helmet locks located on the left- and right-side pannier guards. (Photos 19-20) 19 20 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 11
KAWASAKI CRAFTSMANSHIP Kawasaki Cruisers have always been a showcase of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The VN1700 series models are no exception. Like on the VN2000 models and VN900 models before them, design of the engine covers and bodywork on the VN1700 models received meticulous care to ensure the bikes not only look good from any angle, but also that their elegant form is as pleasing to the touch as to the eye. Engine * Basic engine structure has a great impact on a V-Twin engine s appearance. Using a semi-dry sump enabled the engine s longstroke configuration without increasing its height. (Photo 21) * The line created by the top of the airbox and the cylinder heads forms a curved lined that continues to flow through the bike. * Deeply chromed engine covers have curved upper surfaces. Their threedimensional form adds volume and gives a quality appearance. VN1700D shown * Like those on the VN2000, the edges of the fins receive a special NC treatment that makes them gleam in sunlight. * All the non-chromed parts of the engine have a matt black finish that further accentuates the chromed parts. * Slim design of the belt drive contributes to appearance, especially on the VN1700F. 21 Bodywork * The elegantly shaped fuel tank tapers at the rear, contributing to the VN1700 s curvaceous figure, its lines flowing through the rest of the bike. The fuel tank s curves have constantly varying radii, giving the bike a dynamism that is both powerful and sexy. Its hand-sculpted contours are pleasing both to the eye and to the touch. (Photo 22) 22 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 12
* Ignition switch allows on-position key removal, preventing key bunches from damaging the instrument cluster or tank while the bike is in operation. Turning the ignition switch collar to the OFF position turns the engine off and necessitates re-insertion of the key to restart. * Multi-function LCD displays on the tank-mounted instrument cluster are controlled by switches on the right handle. Features include a gear position indicator (new for Kawasaki cruisers), fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption. (Photos 23-24) 23 24 VN1700D shown * Pushing the S switch to the left ( MODE- A ) toggles the lower display between CLOCK, RANGE (remaining cruising range) and AVERAGE (average fuel consumption). Pushing the S switch to the right ( MODE-B ) toggles the upper display from ODO to TRIP-A to TRIP- B and back. (Photo 25) * Kawasaki craftsmanship is also evident in the styling motif of the front fender. 25 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 13
* Liberal use of chrome contrasts nicely with the bodywork s deep, lustrous paint. In addition to the engine, the fender brackets, light stays, pannier accents (VN1700D), front and rear guards (VN1700D), and rear shock covers (VN1700F) are all chromed. (Photos 26-27) 26 27 VN1700D shown * Motif from the front fender continues on the rear fender. * The VN1700 is the first Kawasaki Cruiser to feature an elegant LED taillight. (Photo 28) 28 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 14
COLOUR(S) VN1700D: * Metallic Graystone VN1700F: * Metallic Titanium Metallic Spark Black 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 15
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type Displacement Bore and Stroke Compression ratio Valve system Fuel system Ignition Starting Lubrication VN1700DDF/FDF Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke V-Twin 1,700 cm 3 102 x 104 mm 9.5:1 SOHC, 8 valves Fuel injection: ø42 mm x 2 Digital Electric Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump DRIVETRAIN Transmission Final drive Primary reduction ratio Gear ratios: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th Final reduction ratio Clutch 6-speed, return Belt 1.515 (50/33) 3.077 (40/13) 1.900 (38/20) 1.407 (38/27) 1.143 (32/28) 0.967 (29/30) 0.806 (29/36) 2.250 (72/32) Wet multi-disc, manual FRAME Type Wheel travel: front rear Tyre: front rear Caster (rake) Trail Steering angle (left/right) Double-cradle, steel 140 mm 80 mm 130/90B16M/C 67H 170/70B16M/C 75H 30 o 169 mm 35 o / 35 o SUSPENSION Front: Type Rear: Type Rebound damping 43 mm telescopic fork Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks 4-way BRAKES Front: Type Caliper Rear: Type Caliper Dual 300 mm discs Dual twin-piston Single 300 mm disc Twin-piston 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 16
SPECIFICATIONS DIMENSIONS Overall length Overall width Overall height Wheelbase Ground clearance Seat height Curb mass Fuel capacity PERFORMANCE Maximum power VN1700DDF 2,500 mm 1,025 mm (EUR/USA/CAN) 995 mm (AUS) 1,465 mm 1,665 mm 140 mm 730 mm 382 kg 20 litres 54 kw {73 PS} / 5,000 rpm (EUR/AUS) VN1700FDF 2,500 mm 1,025 mm (EUR/USA/CAN) 985 mm (AUS) 1,155 mm 1,665 mm 130 mm 720 mm 349 kg 20 litres 55 kw {74 PS} / 5,000 rpm (EUR/AUS) Maximum torque 136 N m {13.9 kgf m} / 2,750 rpm (EUR/AUS) 135 N m {13.7 kgf m} / 2,750 rpm (EUR/AUS) 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. 2009MY VN1700 Series MODEL INFORMATION P AGE 17