14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad is a heavyweight cruiser-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking comfortable long-distance travel with classic styling. Its 1700cc V-twin engine produces robust low-end torque ideal for highway cruising, while the relaxed geometry and touring-specific features make it well-suited for extended journeys. Known for its reliability, smooth liquid-cooled performance, and practical belt-drive transmission, the Nomad caters to experienced riders prioritizing comfort and stability over sportiness.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Fuel control | SOHC |
| Fuel system | Injection. Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches) |
| Compression | 9.5:1 |
| Torque | 146.45 Nm (14.9 kgf-m or 108.0 ft.lbs) @ 2750 |
| 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 |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 170/70-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 130/90-16 |
| Rear suspension | Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping / 3.1 in. |
| Front suspension | 43mm hydraulic fork / 5.5 in. |
| Trail | 178 mm (7.0 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 30.0° |
| Frame type | Steel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 20.06 litres (5.30 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,666 mm (65.6 inches) |
| Overall width | 1,026 mm (40.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,499 mm (98.4 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,466 mm (57.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 729 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 378.3 kg (834.0 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Metallic Imperial Red/Metallic Phantom Silver Pearl Boulogne/Metallic Spark Black |
| Factory warranty | 24 months |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
5.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City30%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring95%
Passenger90%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very heavy, long-wheelbase cruiser at low speeds and in traffic. |
| Purpose | Built for long-distance highway touring with a passenger and luggage rather than for sport riding or commuting. |
| Rider Fit | Riders 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. |
| Character | A big-torque, low-revving V-twin cruiser that rewards a relaxed, unhurried riding style and long open roads. |
| Not Ideal For | Not 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.
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