Kawasaki Vulcan VN1700 Voyager Custom - 2012 Specifications and Reviews

The 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan VN1700 Voyager Custom is a large-displacement cruiser designed for riders seeking comfort and power on long-distance rides. Its liquid-cooled 1700cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, accessible torque ideal for highway cruising and touring. Known for its commanding presence, classic styling, and well-appointed touring features, it appeals to experienced riders who value stability and presence over sport performance.

2012
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General information

CategorySport touring
Year2012
ModelKawasaki Vulcan VN1700 Voyager Custom
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
IgnitionTCBI with Digital Advance
Fuel controlSOHC
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
Torque136.00 Nm (13.9 kgf-m or 100.3 ft.lbs) @ 2750
Power71.07
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/70-16
Front tyre dimensions130/90-16
Rear suspension travel80 mm (3.1 inches)
Rear suspensionSwingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping
Front suspension travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Front suspension45mm 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 clearance145 mm (5.7 inches)
Overall width970 mm (38.2 inches)
Overall length2,510 mm (98.8 inches)
Overall height1,290 mm (50.8 inches)
Seat height730 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc382.0 kg (842.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsBlack
Factory warranty36 months
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

71.1 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City35%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding55%
Touring92%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with some experience handling big, heavy cruisers at low speed, since the 382kg mass demands confident, deliberate control.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed long-distance highway cruising and boulevard touring rather than sport riding or quick city errands.
Rider FitLow seat height and relaxed cruiser ergonomics suit riders of most sizes, but the substantial weight means shorter or less physically strong riders may struggle with slow-speed maneuvers and parking.
CharacterA laid-back, torque-rich V-twin cruiser with custom styling that rewards smooth, unhurried riding over aggressive throttle inputs.
Not Ideal ForNot a fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or a lightweight, flickable machine for tight city traffic.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2012 Kawasaki Vulcan VN1700 Voyager Custom 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 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan VN1700 Voyager Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 degrees and a forward-leaning 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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