14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki VN1700 Classic - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Kawasaki VN1700 Classic is a heavyweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its 1700cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers strong low-end torque ideal for comfortable highway cruising. This model is best known for combining retro aesthetics with contemporary technology and fuel injection efficiency.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Kawasaki VN1700 Classic |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Fuel control | SOHC |
| Fuel system | Injection |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches) |
| Torque | 135.00 Nm (13.8 kgf-m or 99.6 ft.lbs) @ 2750 |
| Power | 73.76 |
| Engine details | Fuel injection: 42 mm x 2 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Twin-piston. K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS. |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Dual twin-piston calipers. K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS. |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 170/70-B16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 130/90-B16 |
| Rear suspension travel | 80 mm (3.1 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks 4-way |
| Front suspension travel | 140 mm (5.5 inches) |
| Front suspension | 43 mm telescopic fork |
| Trail | 169 mm (6.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 30.0° |
| Frame type | Double-cradle, steel |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 20.00 litres (5.28 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,665 mm (65.6 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Overall width | 1,025 mm (40.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,500 mm (98.4 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,155 mm (45.5 inches) |
| Seat height | 720 mm (28.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 349.0 kg (769.4 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Black |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
73.8 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track10%
City40%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring70%
Passenger65%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders who already have some experience with big, heavy cruisers and are comfortable managing low-speed weight. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and laid-back highway travel rather than outright speed or sporty handling. |
| Rider Fit | A tall and very heavy machine that rewards riders with reasonable strength and confidence maneuvering it at parking-lot speeds. |
| Character | A classic-styled big-inch V-twin cruiser that delivers strong low-end torque, a relaxed riding position, and a traditional, unhurried feel. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking agile cornering, sport-bike acceleration, or any kind of off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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