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2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic Overview
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic is a custom / cruiser motorcycle built around 1700 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a V2 engine running SOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 9.5:1. 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic delivers 55 kW @ 5000 rpm of peak power and 135 Nm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 185 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2009 VN 1700 Classic tips the scales at 349 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 720 mm and spans a 1665 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2009 VN 1700 Classic - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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⚡
Strong power output: 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic makes 55 kW @ 5000 rpm with 135 Nm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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🔧
Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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📏
Accessible seat height: At 720 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.
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Large fuel range: The 20-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
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Age-related wear: As with any used VN 1700 Classic, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Throttle response and fuelling
The fuel injection on the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.
Valve clearance checks
SOHC engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.
Low-speed confidence
At 349 kg, the VN 1700 Classic is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
VN 1700 Classic - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained VN 1700 Classic should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any VN 1700 Classic. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The VN 1700 Classic's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used VN 1700 Classic. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.
2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic have?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic uses a V2 engine with 1700 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled, plus cooling fins.
What is the top speed of the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic has a factory-quoted top speed of 185 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic weigh?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic weighs 349 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic make?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic produces 55 kW @ 5000 rpm of power and 135 Nm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic has a 20-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 333-400 km between stops.
Is the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic suitable for shorter riders?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic has a seat height of 720 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.
What brakes does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic have?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic uses 2 x 300 m discs, 2 piston calipers, ABS at the front and Single 300mm disc, 2 piston caliper, ABS at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic use?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic runs 130/90 B16M/C front and 170/70 B16M/C rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic have?
The 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic is fitted with a 6 Speed transmission.
Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic Spec Evolution
The Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic was produced across 6 model years (2010-2017). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2010 |
2012 |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
| Wet Weight |
349 kg / 769 lbs |
349.0 kg / 769.4 lbs |
349.0 kg / 769.4 lbs |
349.0 kg / 769.4 lbs |
349.0 kg / 769.4 lbs |
349.0 kg / 769.4 lbs |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4 valve per cylinder |
Fuel injection: 42 mm x 2 |
Four stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4 valve per cylinder |
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| Engine Type |
V2 |
V2, four-stroke |
V2, four-stroke |
V2, four-stroke |
V2, four-stroke |
V2, four-stroke |
| Seat Height |
721 mm / 28.4 in. |
720 mm / 28.3 in. |
720 mm / 28.3 mm |
720 mm / 28.3 in. |
720 mm / 28.3 in. |
720 mm / 28.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
| Fuel Control |
SOHC |
SOHC |
SOHC |
Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
| Frame Type |
Double-cradle, steel |
Double cradle, steel with box section single-tube backbone |
Double cradle, steel with box section single-tube backbone |
Double-cradle, steel |
Double-cradle, steel |
Double-cradle, steel |
| Wheelbase |
1,666 mm / 65.6 in. |
1665 mm / 65.6 in |
1,665 mm / 65.6 in. |
1,665 mm / 65.6 in. |
1,665 mm / 65.6 in. |
1,665 mm / 65.6 in. |
Key Specifications
Power
55 kW / 74 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque
135 Nm / 13.7 kgf-m / 99.6 lb-ft @2750 rpm
Top Speed
185 km/h / 115 mph
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal
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Full 2009 Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic Specifications
Year
2009 - 10
Colours
Black
Make Model
Kawasaki VN 1700 Classic
Ground Clearance (mm)
130 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)
5.1 inches
Seat Height
720 mm / 28.3 mm
Wheelbase
1665 mm / 65.6 in
Ground Clearance
130 mm / 5.1 in
Height
1155 mm / 45.5 in
Length
2500 mm / 98.4 in
Width
1025 mm / 40.4 in
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal
Wet Weight
349 kg / 769 lbs
Stroke
4
Fuel Control
SOHC
Engine Type
V2
Displacement
1700 cc / 103.7 in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4 valve per cylinder
Fuel System
Injection. Digital fuel injection, dual 42mm throttle bodies
Bore x Stroke
102 x 104 mm
Compression Ratio
9.5:1
Cooling System
Liquid cooled, plus cooling fins
Engine Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Exhaust
Twin, stacked
Fuel Induction
Electronic fuel injection, 42 mm dia. x 2
Ignition
TCDI with digital advance
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Clutch
Wet, multi-disc, manual, electronic cruise control
Final Drive
Belt drive
Final Drive Ratio
2.250:1
Gear Ratios
1st 3.077 / 2nd 1.900 / 3rd 1.407 / 4th 1.143 / 5th 0.967 / 6th 0.806:1
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission / Drive
6 Speed
Frame Type
Double cradle, steel with box section single-tube backbone
Suspension - Front
43 mm Telescopic fork
Suspension - Rear
Swingarm with twin air-assisted 4 way adjustable shocks for rebound and damping
Rake
30°
Steering Angle
35° / 35°
Trail
169 mm / 6.65 in
Wheel Travel - Front
140 mm / 5.5 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
80 mm / 3.2 in
Brakes - Front
2 x 300 m discs, 2 piston calipers, ABS
Brakes - Rear
Single 300mm disc, 2 piston caliper, ABS
Tyres - Front
130/90 B16M/C (67H)
Tyres - Rear
170/70 B16M/C (75H)
Wheels
Alloy, 10 spokes
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