Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager - Hidden features explained! - Full In Depth Review!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มิ.ย. 2024
- The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is a traditionally styled long distance tourer which has several hidden features that make it pretty great. It's always been a great value in the segment, but the features also make it a fully enjoyable motorcycle to own! Want to see it in person? Connect with the amazing team at Jim Gilbert's Wheels and Deals here: powersports.wheelsanddeals.ca...
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The real benefit of the key removal is not having to turn off the bike to unlock your storage areas
I would add, very low maintenance. Self adjusting valves, hydraulic clutch, flip up gas cap, uses laser spark plugs good for many miles. Also, the radio antenna is adjustable, rotates closer or farther from the trunk. You can also unscrew the antenna and stow it in the top case. Has fly by wire throttle. Also handlebar levers are adjustable. Headlight and running lights are easily switched to LED.
You know your stuff! Thanks for sharing!
I've owned a Voyager for three years and didn't realize I could take the key out while it was running. I have always wondered why the switch was shaped that way though. 🤯
Haha. That's what I try to do! I try to find things that some of the other videos aren't saying. Thanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe!
Do not I repeat, do not use a compressor or gas station air to add air on the shock absorbers! Amazon has one specially made for it.
You're saying this because of a fear of gas stations having too much pressure?
@@PeterLoweOne yes. They make special pumps for those shock absorbers available on Amazon. It’s about 8 inches long and it has a dial on it.
kawasaki sells the pumps for these
Absolutely DO NOT use anything other than a small hand pump especially made for motorcycle air shocks - if you use a compressor air hose you will IMMEDIATELY blow out the shock seals. Been there, done that. Even a bicycle tire air pump is too much.
@@commpaysoftware6246 So I've heard from riders who have filled this with larger compressors, but I agree with you and the other commenters who have cautioned against using anything with high pressure. I think a MANUAL bicycle pump isn't going to be an issue at all, but it sounds like controlling the pressure is important.
I had a 2005 Yamaha Road Star Silverado 1700 that I loved a lot. It was the BEST bike I've ever owned... UNTIL. On Saturday 4/20/24 an 87-year-old woman REAR-ENDED me as I was stopped for a traffic light behind other vehicles. She totaled my bike, and I got 2 cracked ribs, a badly sprained right shoulder, and 2 large hematoma's on my legs (1 on each leg) out of the accident. I'm still healing up, but I'm getting there.
Once that lady's auto insurance paid for my totaled motorcycle, I found (and bought) a 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager 1700. This is now my "New BEST Bike I've ever owned!" I LOVE IT!
It's a little heavier than my Yamaha but it's better balanced and actually easier to handle. And with the 6-speed transmission and electronic Fuel Injection I get a LOT BETTER gas mileage with the Kawasaki. I averaged about 26-27 MPG with the Yamaha. I'm getting 35-36 MPG with the Kawasaki. My only "not too happy" with the Kawasaki is that whoever had it before me removed the stock exhaust and put loud pipes on it. SMH.
I'd love to find a good stock exhaust for it. That way it would be quieter, and I would have no more "popping" out of the exhaust when I let off the throttle. Some people like LOUD bikes. I'm NOT a fan of LOUD! I prefer a good stock exhaust and a nice quiet ride.
Other than that, I LOVE my 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager! It's powerful, it's comfortable, it's smooth, and it's a great ride!
I have a 2016 Voyager and absolutely freaking love it! Great motorcycle and aaesome video!
Thanks for watching!
I just bought a 2016 Vulcan Voyager 1700 on May 10th, 2024, due to an 87-year-old woman REAR-ENDING me on my 2005 Yamaha Road Star Silverado 1700 and totaling my bike. I loved that Yamaha, it "was" the BEST bike I've ever owned until I got this Kawasaki! I Love it even more than my previous Yamaha. It's a about 100 pounds heavier than the Yamaha but it's much better balanced and easier to handle.
@@zachredner8 glad you're safe!! I have my 16 voyager but also still have my 07 Yamaha roadstar. I refused to get ride of the roadie. That's bike is fun to cruise around town but voyager hands down long trips, more comfortable
I had the Vaquero and loved it but almost dropped it due to weight, when my wife was getting on. I have bad knees from the military. I went to a Can Am RT limited and wife loves it. I am looking at this bike again due to had knee surgery and am better but still keeping the Can Am for long rides with the wife. I like that the Voyager has all the stuff I had to go out and buy for the Vaquero like driving lights, passenger floor boards and more. I have been thinking about a Harley but not a fan of having to work on a bike all the time. Every Japanese bike I've owned I haven't had to do anything other than regular maintenance. I have a Honda St 1300 with 62,000 miles and still runs like a dream. Great vid look forward to more.
I had a Honda st1100 and it was fantastic, then a r1200rt which was also pretty good
I now have a 2012 Harley ultra and it’s been awesome, put 83,000 miles on it don’t be put off by “having to work on it all the time”, I never have to and it has been super reliable!
Great video! Thanks for pointing out some of the neat features, such as the ability to ride without the key in ignition. My Vulcan has some scrapes from keys. I just did paperwork for a brand new 2022 Voyager. I appreciate your video.
So, did you buy it.
Thanks for the review, I currently have a 2014 Nomad. Basically the same bike and I really enjoy it. Looked at a new voyager because my wife and I are able to take longer trips now.
Just bought a 2018, it's in Edmonton and I'm in southern Ontario. Can't wait for spring so I can fly out and ride it home! Your video helped me make the decision to buy this particular model and the deal I got I couldn't resist. Thanks for the video!
That's awesome! Congratulations! Feel free to subscribe, I've got a lot more planned for 2023!
I own the '09 model. and still LOVE it. I get 6l / 100km or lower on the highway. 400kms to a tank, (300kms when light comes on) 20 litre tank. I use to fit 3 large pizzas in the trunk and 2 12 packs in the saddle bags, so I was the gopher. It does fit 2 full face helmets.
Honestly the style has not changed. It works! I did add two rear speakers (Kawasaki) and nice for the audio.
Given this is a touring bike with hard bags. The air adjust shocks should have a single common shrader valve to adjust pressure in both shocks at the same time. I use a progressive brand hand pump for the same type shock on my Vulcan 1600.
I agree. Having said that, it would be trivial to add that feature if you felt it was really necessary.
Great review. Thanks Peter.
Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed your vid and love the bike. How do I increase the lighting on the dashboard instruments?
Great looking ride. Hope to purchase one day soon.😊
Love it. I have a 2000 NN1500 Classic Nomad. Next upgrade will be a Voyager. Sadly in the UK they are not so easy to find. Love your commentary a Good pitch
Thanks for your kind words!
I bought one last year 2009. Nice bike.
Great demo. Is there a speed that the linked braking works at. I thought it was slow speed only.
Nice presentation... What year was th bike you highlighted here??
Best bike for the money
Greetings
As always another fantastic detailed video 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸
What year is it, and is it for sale?
Thank you so much for assisting me.
I really like the color.
This is a 2023 and it has already sold. We do have more coming in, but we film in Canada. You might have to find a local dealer.
Excellent tour of this bike. Is that top box easily removable?
Thanks for watching! It's not easily removable, but you may find the Vaquero to be an interesting bike. Here's a link to my review of that bike. th-cam.com/video/jBIr7KGzFXI/w-d-xo.html
Yes I live in West Australia unfortunately you cannot buy a new Kawasaki Voyager 1700cc now in Australia. I brought my one new in 2012. It has 135.000km and still runs like a dream. I do my own maintenance. Very easy to work on. No faults or breakdowns to date. Engine doesn't use any oil between services. So much cheaper then HD and Indian. Thank you for your review
Thanks for sharing your experiences! That's awesome! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your bike!
Have you had any cooling system issues? What about gear selector gage?
No cooling system or gearbox problems. I replaced the coolant every two years. And engine oil and filter every 5.000km.
Any videos to troubleshoot cruise control?
You're in Fredricton, NB? That's amazing, I may call you guys up at the end of this year!
Love this bike!
Yes, I film every day in Fredericton. Jim Gilbert's PowerSports is the number 1 volume Kawasaki dealer in the country! It's definitely a destination store! There is all kinds of inventory right now, but if you want something specific, you should reach out soon just to make sure they can reserve what you're looking for. Some models aren't available in big numbers!
@@PeterLoweOne Understood Peter! Thanks a lot!
Great walkthrough.
Does it have quick shifter?
Same key for ignition and all bags?
Steering lock?
USB-outlet? Or wiring for it?
Thanks for watching! No quickshifter. Yes to same key and ignition lock. You can get wiring to charge a phone etc. So, yes to a USB charger potential, but not a USB connection for data to the bike.
@@PeterLoweOne Thank you
Is a center stand available? TPMS? Just such a pain to even check tire pressure without one. Also a bike this large takes up less garage space on a center stand. That is just a really beautiful bike. I'm sure it is typical Kaw quality.
GPS Options would be available on a smartphone I guess. What mounting otins would you have?. Great bike!
I know quadlock is popular.
so with the linked brakes, they become 'unlinked' i think at under speeds of 18 mph correct? i think that's the spec, not sure. And that has the heat management system as well, where there's fans that activate with the radiator fan to vent exhaust heat away from the rider, not sure if that was in the video or not.
I haven't driven this bike yet, so I'm still actually learning things from owners that aren't readily visible from the spec sheet. I'll have to look into that linked braking system. I thought I mentioned that heat venting, but I'll have to go back and watch this video. I'll make sure I'm more clear about the venting, and look into the linked braking system in more detail so that my next video on this bike can include greater context. Thanks for watching!
I believe they added the venting in like '12 or something, the newer ones definitely have it. My '13 has it. Works really well.
Love the machine. i have been a Gold Wing rider for 20 years but they have now over sported and overpriced the bike and I do not like the new body lines. That said I am interested in a 2022 and my question is do the 22 and 23 share the same features? Thanks in advance.
Yeah. They're the same bikes. So no functional changes between the two.
I have a 09 voyage and does it have the kact brake system
Good luck getting a test ride on the Voyager. Most kawi dealers wont do it.
Used bike shops will. If you like that used one, and still want a new one, go get it. I test rode two used ones that way and bought the second one. Bobz Bikz….
doesn't make sense does it? you can take Harley at twice the price, or an Indian out at twice the price, but not a kawi.
Are the newer saddlebags on the Voyager/Vulcan/Nomad still prone to cracking? I have a 2009 Nomad and the crack propagating several inches from the rear most rivet on the hinge (both bags) is one of the few gripes I have about it.
I haven't seen anyone with that issue on the bikes that I've seen come in and out of here. I may not be the best person to ask though.
I bought a 2013 Voyager used about a year ago, have put about 10k mi on it to bring it to 30k, and my bags and trunk are solid, whole, and still look great!
I have the same motorcycle
I have had Kawasaki motorcyles all my life. Why don;t they (Kawasaki ) come up with a 2000 Limited set up like the 1700 Voyager? I have both bikes mentioned here so I know the 2000Limited set up like the 1700 Voyager would be Awesome.
Does the back travel pack come off for just day travel, ie sissy bar?
It does not. If you wanted a bike like that you should get the Vulcan Vaquero.
Thanks for this detailed video! I’m passing on the overpriced Harley baggers. Will be looking forward to upgrading my Vulcan cruiser to a different variation of this bike soon. I’m going with the Vaquero. 👍🏾
I'll be filming the 2024 Vaquero soon!
How do you control the heat that comes off this bike? I have tried re-chipping and changing the coolant, but looking to see if there is anything else.
Buy a water cooled 4 cylinder bike.
Just kidding…I love my Kawasaki “Fat Girl” but she can throw some heat! Ivanized helped a bit.
I love my 2014 voyager, the only complaint I have besides the quiet exhaust is it’s a royal pain to pick up if you drop it, as the crash bars don’t sick out as far as other bikes where you can rock it back up as opposed to the traditional “put your back to it and push”.
I actually like the exhaust note. Nice time without being "that guy" in the neighborhood. But yeah. You don't want to have to pick it up after dropping it!
You're absolutely right about how hard it is picking the bike up from an accidental drop because of the way the rear crash bar is shaped. You could clamp a bar facing toward the front of the bike on the horizontal which will help us pick it up easier. I started carrying a small sizzer jack to get the bike up a bit higher to assist me on picking the bike up. I hope this helps you.
In comparison to picking up my 600# Yamaha Super Tenere to picking up my 900# Voyager, the Voyager so much easier. Neither are fun to pickup.
@@sirdirtydog705 haha! You're not supposed to be dropping bikes! 🤣
I love my 2014 as well! I ended up changing the exhaust out for Cobra Tri-Ovals. Which gives it a very nice sounds!
Nice overall video!
You mentioned something briefly about bluetooth capabilities. Can I connect my phone's bluetooth to it for audio?
And what about front fork lock? My VTX1800 will lock with the stand down, handlebars turned to the left.
You definitely can pair your phone to the speakers for music. As far as having a steering lock, I'm almost positive that the bike has that, but this one has sold since the video, so I'll have to wait for the 2023 to arrive to check it. Look for that video on this channel when it arrives!
This may have changed, but on my '13, I had to use the iPod adapter kit, then I got a BT dongle for like $30. This let me pair my phone and use handlebar controls to change tracks etc, while seeing the track info on the dash receiver.
Also, it does have a steering lock, works how you describe.
Good job with the vid sir. I am contemplating getting one. Q: are the saddlebags removable? Thank u. Keep up the great work!
My understanding is that they're fixed. I assume that if they get damaged, they could be removed to be replaced, but they're definitely not removable in the way that other Kawasaki bikes have removable saddle bags. Thanks for watching!
@@PeterLoweOne just watched a vid by a gentleman, last name "rager". 3, 10 mm bolts each side, and off they come. thank u sir!
@@1219magnum Perfect! Thanks for sharing that back with me!
@ub54 -
Why would you desire to remove the saddlebags? Components behind the handbags were designed to be hidden out of the way from view, the same way Goldwings look off-putting without its bags on.
@@thespadestable just to kleen em, nothing more. even though I can kleen my KLR bags while on, I take em off anyway. I'm a retired guy who's got time ;-)
Which one is better the vaquero or voyager
Hi can you do a video on the vaquero please
Absolutely! I'm waiting for some of the 2023 bikes to arrive, and I know that one is on order. I'm really looking forward to doing a proper in-depth video on that bike as soon as I can. Be sure to subscribe to see it!
Linda Linda Linda. Show de bola..kawasaki.
Yamaha star venture 2023 vs Kawasaki vulcan voyager 1700 2023 Can you make a comparison?
DO NOT USE AN AIR COMPRESSOR ON THE SHOCKS!!! USE A HAND PUMP ONLY!!!
I'll be filming a 2023 versionthis bike again this week. I didn't have the correct information the first time. I'll point this out the next time.
Wow a nice cruiser bike
Agree. I’d love a bike like that - and somewhere nice to cruise it
How much pressure is recommended
It's noted in the manual that comes with the bike for weight and stability
I carry a zero loss hand operated air pump for shock on my Royal Star Venture
How about its plastic trunk lid and sides? They are soft, aren't they? That were the only problem I decided not to buy it. I almost did. I hope a newer models have a much better plastic quality. Great presentation by the way.
Thanks for watching! I didn't really see an issue with the plastics on this, but I'll pay close attention the next time I review one of these. This bike sold soon after I did this video, so I can't go back to it right now.
@@PeterLoweOne I understand. That is the only issue I can't live with it for years. Thanks for your reply :)
I'm pretty happy with the stiffness of mine. They do have some flex, but nothing that concerns me. They feel similar to or stiffer than the bags on my old Road King.
what is the size of the crash bars?
I'm not sure, I'm sorry.
32 mm dia
Can you do one a Vn 900
Yes! We're getting a number of Vulcan's in this week, so I'll get every one of them on video as soon as they've run through the shop. Expect to see our first ones in the next couple of days... I think the one that you're asking for may be one of the first ones built.
do it have a reverse gear in it like the Honda Goldwing
It doesn't. I agree that would be nice, but you also pay a LOT more for a Goldwing. Although the bikes serve a similar purpose, they're almost in a different class when you consider the price difference.
@@PeterLoweOne I think that all heavy motorcycles should hhve a reverse gear .
@@Anthony-uy2im I don't disagree. But I think the owners of this bike figure it out. People can always play the game of "this bike should add that feature" but it won't matter how well equipped a bike is, there is always a call for more. I think if they refresh this bike and bring a complete update, that would be something that I'd look for, but I'm ok with this bike as is too.
The "reverse gear" on motorcycles is essentially the starter motor being forced to engage and run backwards. They are not cheap to replace nor are they easy. Personally I would not have one unless I owned a trike. Use common sense and always look ahead when parking and not park in a way that you need to back up. Furthermore if it because of the weight of the bike perhaps a trike is the way to go. I would feel unsafe riding a bike I am unable to move backwards.
@@jefferyepstein9210 True about the starter motor. But...When did you ever hear of putting a starter on a G/Wing? I'm 72 years old and pushing a 900 lb. bike uphill is not an option.
Been watching a few more of your videos and videos from other people specifically on the Cruiser line from Kawasaki and something i've kept hearing mentioned (and that you've said in passing) is that a touring bike is not a good first motorcycle, but why? could you elaborate more on that in a future video? i am interested in buying one but since vehicles are expensive in my country realistically i could only get one, and if i do, i would want it to be the best of the line, like the Voyager.
The first and biggest barrier is that this is far too heavy to actually learn skills on. This bike is almost 900 lbs before you add any gear or a rider. If you're new to motorcycles, you need to learn the skills. Lots of people can operate a motorcycle, but less people can truly ride one. Meaning if an emergency situation comes up, can you handle it. If you get into a corner too fast, do you know what to do. On a lighter bike, your reactions will move the bike quicker, and by the time you ride a bike like this, you'll have enough experience to avoid trouble that a new rider won't predict. You can tour on lighter bikes! I've toured on all kinds of bikes, and I plan to continue to tour, but I'll never ride a bike this big. I can have more fun on a lighter more manoeuvrable bike.
@@PeterLoweOne Alright, thanks for the info.
21st Century and some bike manufacturers still use incandescent bulbs. Sheesh.
I wonder if this is due to the global chip shortage. I've worked in the Auto industry for most of Covid, and the inventory issues that arose during that time, and manufacturers were making ALL KINDS of choices that seemed odd. I know that the Z900RS SE that I bought has incandescent signal bulbs in Canada, but LED in other world markets. I'm with you, I think it's time that these bikes all have LED's, but it's not something that would stop me from buying the bikes.
Hold on to about $3k for upgrades... you'll have everything you want. Its a Japan Harley... toss some parts made for the HD... and a keyless ignition youre good to go.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Would you happen to have a source for the keyless? That's like the last thing I need haha
@@EpicHaze50 digitalguarddawg.. give them a call and buy direct. They tend to work deals if you work them...
How to reduce height
Everything that's important ,we're going to talk about in a second.
Naaa I own a vaquero and that's my biggest gripe about the bike..It needs at least blue tooth for the sound system..
My only complaint is your review on the 2023 will be EXACTLY the same. Come on Kawasaki, how about some upgrades to this model.
Nah! I'll find some new things to say about it. To be fair to Kawasaki though, the value is there in this bike, creating a new platform, or making significant changes will cost the consumer more money, and that may minimize its value advantage. But yeah, I'm like you... I always like to see things get updated. Having said that, I just bought the Z900RS SE and while I love the modern components on that bike, I also love it for the way it brings me back to what motorcycles used to be. Sometimes everything new takes away from everything that's already great.
@@PeterLoweOne Don't get me wrong I love my 2015 Voyager I would like to see some small changes like squaring off the bags or anything to give it a fresh look. If they wanted to increase the HP I wouldn't complain. LOL
@@douglashawkins4402 If you want to increase the HP, look at having your ECU flashed by Ivan's Performance Products. If I'd not done that, I'd have traded my '09 Voyager years ago.
@@Peg228NZ Yes I have that done. I wouldn't own the bike without it. Makes a huge difference for sure.
Wish there was a better wiring diagram to add amp.......that is a nightmare
Hi
In 2024, not having Apple Car Play, or preferably Android Auto, is kind of dumb though. If if was there, and lots and lots of people would want it to be, nobody would be forcing you to use it.
my 2009 won't do bluetooth.
The current model needs an adapter. I'm not sure how far back that's compatible.
@@PeterLoweOne where do you find these adapters? i just bought this bike and am unfamiliar with them
@@robarnold4570 I would check with your local dealer to see what they say. I haven't seen the part myself, but they were the ones to tell me about it.
It's a cruiser with bolt on's
Sure. And that's what appeals to a lot of people!
Such a shame they spoilt the retro vibe by fitting some LEDs and abs ☹️
For the shocks sorry
Apple car play/CCP made iPhones are a no no for me . A great reliable bike though!
I lowered my volume to 0, and now can't get it to come back up.
I forgot 2012 Voyager
Shocks or radio? You might try lifting the weight from the shocks and then adding for shocks. On the radio, be sure it's not muted.
I've had both Yamaha shifts better ❤
First!!!!
Haha! With enthusiasm!
Look out for turtles
Everything but training wheels
For the shocks sorry
I don't remember off hand, but you can find the owner's manual online at www.kawasaki.ca