Kawasaki Vulcan 1700: Wins Your Heart at “First Impression”

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700: Wins Your Heart at “First Impression”

Most of us often get tentative or judgemental regardless of whether we come across a new person or an object. When you lay your eyes for the first time on the Kawasaki Vulcan or VN 1700, you’d, almost instantaneously, form an opinion about it. The impression would, however, be nothing short of “great.” The VN 1700 is, after all, a kickass motorcycle in the world of cruisers that’ll make you fall in love with its rumble.

This two-wheeler retains the Kawasaki Full-Voyager’s powerful engine, though a lighter version with a more macho look, but cheaper than the likes of Victory Cross Country and Harley Street Glide. That speaks for its steady demand in auctions that offer wrecked and salvage motorcycles for sales. Let’s have a look what’s in it for you.

Power and Mileage Ride the VN 1700 once, and you’ll instantly feel the difference in the thrust it gusts compared with many of the renowned cruisers like that of the Harley Davidson Forty-Eight. Powered by a 1700 cc V-twin, four-valves-per-cylinder engine - approx. 300 cc more than the Yamaha VMax - the VN 1700 delivers 72 bhp @5200 rpm, with a torque of 108 lb-ft @ 2,250 rpm. It comes with a six-speed transmission, with the capability to supply ample power in the top gears, thanks to its advanced electronic throttle actuation system. The VN 1700 offers a decent fuel economy of 35 mpg.

Ride and Built Quality Although the VN1700 is a sleeker version of the Full-voyager, it still weighs (382 kg) more than many of the cruisers out there. Shorter wheelbase and distance between the steering heads, among other features, ensure sweet handling, making the bike super easy to maneuver at slow speeds. Pay attention to the frame-mounted fairing with chromed headlamp, and it also comes with chrome accessories. On top of it, you’d agree that it’s absolutely gorgeous on the styling.

Features Once again the VN 1700 wins hearts with its numerous standard goodies compared with what you usually find in similar cruiser bikes. Begin with the reinforced cowhide saddlebags to the pair of top-grain, which are available in the 2011 and the subsequent models. In addition, you have an ABS system, cruise control system, side bags on the rear, and a twin 40-watt speaker, besides the eye-catching high mount fairer.

Conclusion Given its excellent handling and power performance capabilities, the VN 1700 is arguably one of the best two-seat cruisers, perhaps better than most Harleys for many. Loaded with standard features and equipped with effective controls for smooth maneuvers, this motorbike is less expensive than numerous other great cruisers in its range. Still, the VN 1700 may not be an ideal ride for everyone when it comes to its price. In such a scenario, you can take advantage of salvage motorcycles auctions where you can find almost every cruiser make and model, with many requiring only minimal repair. All you need is to do the right research. Have a great ride!