Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad - 2015 Specifications and Reviews

The 2015 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad is a full-featured cruiser designed for long-distance touring and comfortable highway riding. Its spacious windscreen, saddlebags, and accessible 730mm seat height make it ideal for riders seeking stability and practicality on extended journeys. Known for its powerful 1700cc engine and impressive carrying capacity, the Nomad delivers classic cruiser character with modern touring convenience.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2015
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
IgnitionTCBI with Digital Advance
Fuel controlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 104.0 mm (4.0 x 4.1 inches)
Compression9.5:1
Torque146.45 Nm (14.9 kgf-m or 108.0 ft.lbs) @ 2750 RPM
Power73.00 HP (53.3 kW) @ 5000 RPM
Engine details52° V-twin
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Two-piston calipers. ABS.
Rear tyre170/70-16
Front tyre130/90-16
Rear wheel travel79 mm (3.1 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping
Front wheel travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Front Suspension43mm hydraulic fork
Trail178 mm (7.0 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.0°
Frame typeSteel, double-cradle with box-section single-tube backbone
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,666 mm (65.6 inches)
Ground clearance140 mm (5.5 inches)
Overall width1,026 mm (40.4 inches)
Overall length2,499 mm (98.4 inches)
Overall height1,466 mm (57.7 inches)
Seat height730 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc378.3 kg (834.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsWindscreen.
Factory warranty24 months
Carrying capacitySaddle bags
StarterElectric
Color optionsMetallic Titanium/Metallic Spark Black

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

2015 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Nomad Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 730mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2015 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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