– Kawasaki Vaquero 1700 Review –
There is a very engaged and well-established subculture in the motorcycle world. They even have their own racing classes! I am obviously referring here to Baggers. This is a segment that is often associated with American motorcycles and with good reason, as the market share of the American Bagger is extremely high.
However, Kawasaki does not hesitate to offer their version of the Bagger under the Vulcan platform. The Vulcan is already well known in the classic cruiser form and Kawasaki offers us two larger motorcycles, namely the Vulcan 1700 Voyager (Touring) and the Vulcan Vaquero (Bagger).
Today, it’s with the Vulcan Vaquero that I’m taking for a ride!
Conception & Design
At first glance, we can see that the Vaquero has a lot of similarities with the American baggers. Its fairing is fixed on the frame, like the Harley-Davidson Road Glide, very small windshield, and matching saddlebags.
Whether in the size of the controls, the style of the handlebars, the footboards with heel-toe shifters and or the general line of the bike, the Vaquero embraces the bagger formula that we easily recognize, but with a Kawasaki touch.
The general aesthetic of the Vaquero is neat and attention to detail has been paid to offer a motorcycle that is pleasant to look at, no matter the angle. The 2023 Vulcan Vaquero is painted in a “Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray”, which gives it a beautiful look and enhances its line and curves.
As for the heart of the Vulcan, Kawasaki gives us a semi-chromed 1700cc V-twin engine. An interesting displacement with OK power at only 82 HP and 107lb of torque.
The low-end torque is good, but something tells me the engine could breathe more… With a motorcycle of this size and weight, you would expect a slightly more powerful engine.
I haven’t done in-depth research, but I’m confident that there are some interesting engine upgrade options available on the market.
That said, the engine offers a nice original sound both on acceleration and deceleration and will satisfy most owners.
The 6-speed transmission comes with an extra-long gear range and belt final drive, which provides pleasant city driving and rev/sound comfort on the open road.
Comfort and Ergonomics:
The Vulcan Vaquero offers a nice, very comfortable driving position with a seat height of 28.7 inches. The seat is almost as comfortable as that of the Versys 1000.
The Showa telescopic front suspension as well as a swingarm with 2 pneumatic shock absorbers at the rear is flexible enough for our roads and suitable for long outings.
I had the opportunity to go on a long ride with this Kawasaki and I really appreciated its flexibility and its geometry which makes it a docile and easy to control motorcycle.
Note that the motorcycle weighs more than 380kg (840lb), similar to its American counter parts, which requires a certain amount of respect when handling while stationary and at low speed.
Technology and Features:
The instrumentation is rather simple and effective. Easy to read with controls that are well positioned and natural to operate, which also includes the Cruise control from the factory.
Featuring a large analogue-style speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and coolant temperature, and an LCD screen with other info such as remaining fuel range and gear selection, the instrumentation combines various technologies with a classic aesthetic and a beautiful finish.
The fuel tank is smaller than the competition, at 20 liters. A slightly larger tank would have been appreciated, especially with a 1700cc engine. The Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager also has the same tank capacity. Is it the result of the design? I’m not sure, but I believe it’s a valid question.
For stopping power, the Vaquero is equipped with the K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) braking system with two 300mm discs and 4-piston calipers at the front for an efficient braking.
The K-ACT System offers advanced anti-lock braking that not only combines the front and rear brakes, but also controls brake pressures. For example, let’s say the rider pulls on the front brake lever. To keep the bike from pitching forward, the ABS ECU actuates the rear brake (via fluid pumps) to ensure that the front-rear balance is maintained. A great feature for a motorcycle of this weight.
For those who are interested, the Vaquero comes with a radio and speakers. Personnaly, I already don’t listen to a lot of radio in my car so you can imagine riding a motorcycle… Regardless, there are numerous individuals who will enjoy such entertainment, so enjoy listening to your favorite tunes!
Final Thoughts:
In summary, I was pleasantly surprised by the Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero. If you’re interested in purchasing one, the price will be around $21,400, which is quite reasonable for the category and compared to the competition.
Any fans of baggers here? Would you dare to try it or your heart and soul are sold to the bar and shield?
Ride safe!
Jean-Sebastien Mackay
Riding motorcycles since the 90's - Husband - Father - Army Veteran - Founder of KNUCKLE
Kawasaki should be applauded for soldiering on with this venerable model and how well they adapted it to current trends; i.e. V-Twin.
Kawi was a good decade ahead with offering a 6 cylinder luxury/bagger touring cycle. Then “downsizing” to a inline 4 with the Voyager XII. With this iteration Kawasaki was better able to offer more with less and at the same time offer it for less money. Here Kawi would establish itself as the value leader. Year in & year out, it’s a position that Kawasaki has been able to hold. Hold by being able to offer arrived and true platform at a price point of the competition used offerings. Bravo Kawasaki and let the goid times roll!
It’s a great alternative to Harley-Davidson Touring bikes and the price tag is also really interesting.
I own a 2019 vaquero. It’s really time for a new design for the dash. It’s been the same design since 2011.
The gauges aren’t too bad. Personally, I would start with the radio…