Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad - 2009 Specifications and Reviews

The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad is a cruiser-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort and classic styling. Its 1700cc V-twin engine delivers reliable highway performance with digital fuel injection for smooth power delivery. Known for its spacious riding position, generous storage capacity, and passenger-friendly design, it excels at extended touring while maintaining traditional cruiser aesthetics.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2009
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Fuel controlSOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection. Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
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

Wheelbase1,689 mm (66.5 inches)
Overall width1,026 mm (40.4 inches)
Overall length2,499 mm (98.4 inches)
Overall height1,440 mm (56.7 inches)
Seat height749 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc373.1 kg (822.5 pounds)

Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad 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 suspension45mm 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 Diablo Black, Two-tone: Candy Diamond Red / Pearl Luster Beige, Two-tone: Metallic Nocturne Blue / Pearl Luster 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%
City30%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring95%
Passenger90%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very heavy, long-wheelbase cruiser at low speeds and in traffic.
PurposeBuilt for long-distance highway touring with a passenger and luggage rather than for sport riding or commuting.
Rider FitRiders benefit from decent height and upper body strength to muscle the substantial weight around at parking-lot speeds, though the low seat height helps shorter riders reach the ground.
CharacterA big-torque, low-revving V-twin cruiser that rewards a relaxed, unhurried riding style and long open roads.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or a lightweight, nimble city runabout.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 749mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad, 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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