At the heart of the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic custom - cruiser motorcycle, Kawasaki utilizes a 1700 cc (103.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 73.8 HP (53.8 kW) while maximum torque reaches 146.4 Nm (108 lb-ft) at 2,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 43.4 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Vulcan 1700 Classic measures 345 kg (761 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 HP/kg (4.67 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 721 mm (28.4 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,666 mm (65.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20.06-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 185 km/h (115 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2009 to 2014, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
43.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.21 HP/kg (4.67 kg/HP)
Standover Height
721 mm (28.4 in)
Engine
Displacement1700.0 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power73.8 HP (53.8 kW))
Torque146.4 Nm (14.9 kgf-m or 108.0 ft.lbs) @ 2250 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionTCDI with digital advance
LubricationForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi-disc, manual, electronic cruise control
Performance
Top Speed185.0 km/h (115.0 mph)
ExhaustTwin, stacked
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone
Rake30.0°
Trail169 mm (6.7 inches)
Front Suspension43mm hydraulic fork
Front Travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping
Rear Travel79 mm (3.1 inches)
Wheelbase1666 mm (65.6 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-16
Rear Tyre170/70-16
Front BrakesDouble disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Rear Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
WheelsAlloy, 10 spokes
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.345.0 kg (760.7 pounds)
Seat Height721 mm (28.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1156 mm (45.5 inches)
Overall Length2499 mm (98.4 inches)
Overall Width1026 mm (40.4 inches)
Fuel Capacity20.06 litres (5.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsMetallic Diablo Black, Two-tone: Luster Beige/Pearl Crystal White
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.
