Built around Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic utilizes a 1700 cc (103.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 146.5 Nm (108 lb-ft) at 2,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches) with a 9.5:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the Vulcan 1700 Classic measures 345.2 kg (761 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 719 mm (28.3 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.
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.
Standover Height
719 mm (28.3 in)
Engine
Displacement1700.0 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Torque146.5 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)
IgnitionTCBI with Digital Advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone
Rake30.0°
Trail170 mm (6.7 inches)
Front Suspension43mm hydraulic fork / 5.5 in.
Rear SuspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping / 3.1 in.
Wheelbase1666 mm (65.6 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-16
Rear Tyre170/70-16
Front BrakesDouble disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.345.2 kg (761.0 pounds)
Seat Height719 mm (28.3 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.
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.
