Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT - 2009 Specifications and Reviews

The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT is a heavyweight cruiser touring bike designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort and classic styling. Its liquid-cooled 1700cc V-twin engine delivers reliable power, while extensive touring amenities make it ideal for extended road trips. Built for cruiser enthusiasts who prioritize stability, low-seat positioning, and American-style aesthetics.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2009
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionDigital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
Fuel controlSOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x stroke102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches)
Compression9.5:1
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,666 mm (65.6 inches)
Overall length2,499 mm (98.4 inches)
Overall height1,466 mm (57.7 inches)
Seat height721 mm (28.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc365.1 kg (804.8 pounds)

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/70-16
Front tyre dimensions130/90-16
Rear suspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping / 3.1 in.
Front suspension43mm hydraulic fork / 5.5 in.
Rake (fork angle)30.0°
Frame typeSteel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsMetallic Nocturne Blue/Pearl Burnish Beige, Metallic Dark Green/Pearl Burnish Beige
Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City35%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring92%
Passenger88%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with some experience handling big, heavy cruisers, as the low-slung weight and long wheelbase demand confident low-speed control.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed long-distance touring and cruising, with strong torque low in the rev range for effortless highway passing rather than outright speed.
Rider FitThe low 719mm seat height makes it approachable for shorter riders, but the near-362kg weight means good upper-body strength and balance are needed at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterA classic, laid-back V-twin cruiser character with deep torque, a relaxed riding position, and a heavy, stable feel on the open road.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, sporty 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.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 721mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Classic LT, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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⚠ Safety Recalls (1)

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES Oct 2010 · 10V507000

KAWASAKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 VULCAN MOTORCYCLES. THE ENGINE MAY STALL IF THE RIDER IS COASTING WITH THE CLUTCH PULLED IN DUE TO AN IMPROPER SETTING OF THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT (ECU).

Risk: ENGINE STALLING COULD CREATE A POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ECU WITH ONE CONTAINING REVISED SETTINGS TO ADDRESS THE ENGINE STALLING. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KAWASAKI CONSUMER SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT 1-866-802-9381.

Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →

Rider Reviews

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