Built around Kawasaki's touring motorcycle platform, the 2012 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic Tourer relies on a 1700 cc (103.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 72.4 HP (52.9 kW) at 5,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 136 Nm (100.3 lb-ft) at 2,759 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 42.6 HP per liter and a 2,241 rpm working window between peak torque (2,759 rpm) and peak power (5,000 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the VN 1700 Classic Tourer measures 382 kg (842 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.28 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 730 mm (28.7 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,665 mm (65.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2011 to 2017, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
42.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.28 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
2,759–5,000 rpm
Standover Height
730 mm (28.7 in)
Engine
Displacement1700.0 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power72.4 HP (52.9 kW)) @ 5000 RPM
Torque136.0 Nm (13.9 kgf-m or 100.3 ft.lbs) @ 2759 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. ø42 mm x 2
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionDigital
LubricationForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchWet multi-disc
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble-cradle, steel
Rake30.0°
Trail169 mm (6.7 inches)
Front Suspension43 mm telescopic fork
Front Travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks 4-way
Rear Travel80 mm (3.1 inches)
Wheelbase1665 mm (65.6 inches)
Ground Clearance140 mm (5.5 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-16
Rear Tyre170/70-16
Front BrakesDouble disc. Anti-locking brakes (ABS)
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.382.0 kg (842.2 pounds)
Seat Height730 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
