View Full Version : VN 1700 Voyager/VN 1700 Classic Tourer
gnomad
09-20-2008, 10:50 AM
Here is the UK Lineup of '09 Kawasaki's. http://www.kawasaki.co.uk/ Don't see a Nomad!
superduty
09-20-2008, 11:26 AM
I guess that answers the question of what the mystery bike was in the other thread.
I'm not a trunk guy, but I kinda like the new bag design and definitely like the new rear tail light. I think all these bikes need a fuller front fender though.
Oh, and I see a cruise control and 6th gear too. I'd love a cruise control.
kioti
09-20-2008, 11:33 AM
New Nomad changes:
1700 cc, 6 speed trans, top loading bags, belt drive.
New VOYAGER based on the 1700 Nomad:
Fairing, trunk, 1700 cc, top loader bags and belt drive.
Pic's here: http://jokerbob.zoomshare.com/
The new Voyager looks like the spy pic's floating around.
skeeter
09-20-2008, 11:46 AM
The Nomad In Europe is called the Classic Tourer is it not? so 1700 Nomad. Nice!
pirate
09-20-2008, 11:49 AM
Interesting. It's exciting to see some new model pics. Going off of first impressions, I like the look of that 1700, but I like my 08 better. Something about those saddlebags on those new pics that I don't quite like.
Voyager looks pretty cool!
Yellow Jacket
09-20-2008, 11:50 AM
INTRODUCING A NEW SERIES OF 1700cc V-TWIN CRUISERS
For 2009, Kawasaki is proud to introduce its newest series of big V-Twins. The VN1700 series, successors to the VN1600 models, all featuring powerful 1700cc engines, confidence inspiring handling and trademark Kawasaki craftsmanship.
The new engine design is similar to that of the mighty VN2000, but features a SOHC rather than OHV arrangement. Its increase in displacement and long-stroke design ensure both torque and horsepower gains over the VN1600 models. New features include Kawasaki’s first fully electronic throttle valve system, a new 6-speed transmission with overdrive, and belt final drive like the VN2000 and VN900 models.
The new lightweight chassis is more compact than that used on previous models. Chassis design and suspension settings result in light handling while maintaining good straight-line stability.
Bodywork and engine covers were completely redesigned. Like on all Kawasaki Cruisers, meticulous attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship result in a motorcycle that turns heads whether parked in front of a café or cruising down the highway.
The VN1700 series is comprised of three models: VN1700 Voyager, VN1700 Classic Tourer and a VN1700 Classic. Variations in tuning and equipment mean there is a VN1700 model for all Kawasaki Cruiser fans.
Brief overview:
VN1700 Voyager: Kawasaki’s first V-Twin “full-dress” tourer features all the comfort features, equipment and optional accessories necessary for long-distance two-up touring.
VN1700 Classic Tourer: Cruise control, large windshield, hard panniers, passenger floorboards and luxury backrest enable comfortable two-up touring. Ideal for overnight or weekend tours with a passenger.
VN1700 Classic: Whether looking to ride around town or to escape the city for the day, the Classic offers a great V-Twin pulse, effortless handling and timeless looks.
FIRST EVER JAPANESE FULL-DRESS V-TWIN TOURER
Designed for those riders who set their sights beyond the horizon, the new VN1700 Voyager offers everything needed for comfortable long-distance touring… with or without a passenger.
Kawasaki’s first full-dress V-Twin, the new Voyager is equipped with a large front cowl and windshield, as well as leg shields for superior protection from the wind and elements. Ample storage care of a rear mounted “trunk”, hard panniers and dual glove boxes ensure that all the touring necessities, and even a few luxuries, can be accommodated.
Essential touring features like cruise control and a 6-speed transmission with an overdrive gear are joined by Kawasaki’s latest innovative technology. Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) complements rider actuated brake control with supplementary brake force enhancement for confident, highly effective braking in all situations. Kawasaki’s first fully Electronic Throttle Valve (ETV) system offers smooth, natural engine response.
The new 1700cc long-stroke liquid-cooled V-Twin engine offers increased torque and power output for superior passing performance. The new powerplant is mounted in a compact, lightweight frame that delivers both light handling and straight-line stability.
pirate
09-20-2008, 11:52 AM
Thanks for posting that, Bob. It was interesting to read.
Yellow Jacket
09-20-2008, 12:09 PM
The info I posted was from the Kawasaki UK website.
The Kawasaki US website lists:
Vulcan 1600 Meanstreak
Vulcan 1600 Nomad
Vulcan 1600 Classic
Vulcan 1700 Nomad
Vulcan 1700 Classic
Vulcan 1700 Classic LT
Vulcan 1700 Voyager
Still trying to swipe some pics from the Kawasaki website, unsuccessfully so far. In the meantime you can see them here:
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=379
dantama
09-20-2008, 12:17 PM
I wish that they kept the drive shaft :(
I think the Nomad bags were the best bags out there, didn't see a need for changing them. The new ones have a yamaha look to them. They might grow on me, but I was as happy as can be with the past ones.
Yellow Jacket
09-20-2008, 12:29 PM
Here are some pics:
Classic 1700
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff109/retsiem/2009%20Kawasaki/classic1700.jpg
Nomad 1700
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff109/retsiem/2009%20Kawasaki/nomad1700.jpg
Voyager 1700 Left View
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff109/retsiem/2009%20Kawasaki/voyager1700left.jpg
Voyager 1700 Right View
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff109/retsiem/2009%20Kawasaki/voyager1700right.jpg
Blue Voyager
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff109/retsiem/2009%20Kawasaki/voyager1700.jpg
dantama
09-20-2008, 12:45 PM
Things that caught my eye
Delivers significant torque and power gains over its predecessor.
Gear position indicator, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption.
The Voyager has a convenient cigarette lighter-style power port on the dash
frame uses the minimal amount of forged parts and metal for a reduction of 4.4 pounds and a 40-percent increase in rigidity. With a shorter seat to steering head distance
Advanced Coactive Braking Technology (K-ACT) enabling riders to execute controlled, balanced braking. Available on the ABS equipped Voyager, the new system is designed to complement the rider’s braking inputs, and utilizes control valves to distribute the ideal amount of brake force for maximum stopping performance. With input from pressure and speed sensors, the brake ECU sends directions to the motor-driven hydraulic pumps so they deliver the proper amount of pressure to the brake calipers. This speed sensitive system provides a progressive engagement and disengagement that delivers a natural feel to the rider. With the anti-lock braking (ABS) function incorporated into the K-ACT, the wheels are prevented from locking up, even under strenuous braking.
The cruise control is conveniently operated from the right side of the handlebar and can be activated between 30 and 85 mph in third gear or above. Disengagement is easily accomplished by using the brake lever, clutch lever, rear brake pedal or closing the throttle.
For maximum control in tight corners and when executing parking lot maneuvers, K-ACT’s coactive function does not engage when braking is initiated at speeds below 12mph and the ABS function is automatically disengaged at speeds below 4mph.
the radio that’s reminiscent of 8-track players from the 1960s. WTF ???
ponch
09-20-2008, 01:14 PM
I'd like to know how much will they cost? It seems like they made it more like a victory and may be harley. 6 speed, belt drive. The engine seems victoryesque. It would be neat to try one, but I don't think I'd trade mine just yet. The bags on the new nomad make it look like a hump on a camel. If anyone here buys one, I'd like to hear there report.
cactusjack
09-20-2008, 01:29 PM
That 1700 Voyager is one beautiful bike! I wonder when they plan to post prices on the Kaw website?
Netnorske
09-20-2008, 01:37 PM
The Voyager has some nice features, but does anyone besides me think those color combinations are butt ugly? The bags didn't need a makeover either...
I too want to know what the MSRP on these bikes will be.
Kris
dantama
09-20-2008, 02:01 PM
Video walk around here
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=379&content=video
More likes
- Leg shields have air vents that allow airflow to the legs to be adjusted
Light handling chassis
- A more compact package than its predecessors, the new frame features a shorter wheelbase, and shorter distance between the seat and frame head pipe, for improved rider ergonomics and easier maneuverability
- The new frame is 4.4 pounds lighter than its predecessors, and has a 40% increase in rigidity
- The compact design contributes to light handling and facilitates handling at low speeds, especially when executing precise slow speed maneuvers like parking or making U-turns
15% more torque, 20% more horse power
They did cut the warranty in ½ Only 12 months now.
mncruiser
09-20-2008, 02:24 PM
First thing that stood out to me were the bags, they have a "beetle bag" kind of thing going on, not sure I like them. The bags on my bike are what drew and finally hooked me. Will have to stare at the bike some more and see one in person.
pirate
09-20-2008, 02:26 PM
The blue & black Voyager is one sharp looking bike! Wow!
Will that Voyager be considered a Nomad Voyager??? Sure appears to be the same bike as the Nomad with extras.
Yaawhoooooooooooo
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/4958bf98-0638-487a-8605-14ec5b329475.jpg
I like the red for the voyagers
Nix that, went to the kaw website and saw the titanium/black NOW THAT is sharp
Welcome back Jon.
Colors - Yeah, too bad they still have black/black. At least one other combo caught my eye.
Belt-drive is destiny, too much efficiency to pass, not too many people, except Dan, worried about gravel roads.
Only 12 months warranty on a brand new engine and major re-design - that must have taken some thought on management's part, probably looking to sell a lot of the extended warranties.
Although listed as a cruiser and not a true competition for Gold Wing lovers, I would think that it has better design and over-all technology and function than either the Victory Vision or Yamaha Venture.
It will be sometime next spring before this option arrives in East Texas. I have plenty of time to read evaluations and rider reports before any test ride.
As a 6'7" rider, I'm a little concerned about the descriptions of a smaller profile. I was hoping for something bigger with more leg room then a Gold Wing or my BMW LT.
waterman
09-20-2008, 04:42 PM
Welcome back Jon.
Colors - Yeah, too bad they still have black/black. At least one other combo caught my eye.
Belt-drive is destiny, too much efficiency to pass, not too many people, except Dan, worried about gravel roads.
Only 12 months warranty on a brand new engine and major re-design - that must have taken some thought on management's part, probably looking to sell a lot of the extended warranties.
Ahemmmmmmmm,
I have about 2 miles in and out of my place on gravel.
Really don't care for the bag looks. Top Load. I love the side load of the old bags.
formikec
09-20-2008, 04:55 PM
That 1700 Voyager is one beautiful bike! I wonder when they plan to post prices on the Kaw website?
x2
I love me some Voyager if I had enuf money for a new one. lol
Waterman, yeah, but I though you picked it up and carried it those two miles :)
I don't know, I ride a chain drive on gravel some and no problem except dust. Is it really that big an issue with a belt? Can't they enclose or shield it effectively?
ponch
09-20-2008, 05:20 PM
It's a big deal if a stone gets between the belt and pulley.
Waterman, yeah, but I though you picked it up and carried it those two miles :)
I don't know, I ride a chain drive on gravel some and no problem except dust. Is it really that big an issue with a belt? Can't they enclose or shield it effectively?
oldbikers
09-20-2008, 06:16 PM
nice bikes but I will just keep what I have
"With a shorter seat to steering head distance" As a tall guy this has me worried. Can't wait to sit on one.
I also wished they had not changed the 1600 Nomad bags. Everything else is great. Maybe by spring COBRA will have slip-ons.
This guy better be 6'5", or this bike looks more cramped than a GL1800. Notice his high knee and forward foot position on the boards. Looks like this bike may have been tested by Asians and not Texans. I will be pretty disappointed if I don't fit.
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/094c52c7-5112-4f43-97f9-aae62374586f.jpg
glwilson
09-20-2008, 07:10 PM
Thus far, including the nomad, there isn't really a bike (with hard bags) that fits a short guy like me.
Being only 5"6"; this bike will likely fit me better than any other -- but you are right -- the guy in the picture looks terribly uncomfortable.
I haven't gone out to look at my nomad; but doesn't the foot board look like it is a lot higher than the nomad's? -- sure looks like it to me. Even if not; looks like this could be lower to fit a taller person better than where it is at in this pic.
I have my guess as to how much they will ask -- and I will go on record to say I would be interested in ordering one -- even though I am not entirely impressed with the design-lines of the bike. It will have to grow on me before I commit.
This guy better be 6'5", or this bike looks more cramped than a GL1800. Notice his high knee and forward foot position on the boards. Looks like this bike may have been tested by Asians and not Texans. I will be pretty disappointed if I don't fit.
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/094c52c7-5112-4f43-97f9-aae62374586f.jpg
I just don't see this guy doing a 600 day in this position. Ouch!
radco
09-20-2008, 07:20 PM
LOVE the New version for the Most part.. The bags well The NOMADbags are better,, IMO.....The Fairing is nice,just have to get used to built in Spot lights......CANNT wait till one arrives at my dealer,,,,,2 years of college left for my daughter, then Im free :) unless I get married again :( And some more to read about the NEW VULCANs,,,,,,,,Rich
http://www.motorcycledaily.com/20september08_kawasaki2009vulcan1700voyager.htm
glwilson
09-20-2008, 07:21 PM
I am also wondering if the ride is as good with a shorter wheel base.
I haven't looked at the stats -- but wonder if it isn't closer to the HD Soft-tail wheel base length. That might be something of a set-back on comfort -- but am not an expert in these issues.
Trophy Wife on the back looks good though....
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/094c52c7-5112-4f43-97f9-aae62374586f.jpg
ice793
09-20-2008, 07:31 PM
ultra classic look out!
ringadingh
09-20-2008, 08:20 PM
I agree Jon, the blonde on the back is one of the best features on the bike. ;)
Overall I like the look of the new Voyager, but there are a few things I would like to see changed. I agree with most of you that the old sidebags look better, and the fairing is hard to get a good view from different angles to make an honest opinion of it.
Kawasaki saved some money by being frugal with the chrome . The rear footboards are painted black, whereas the older bikes had chrome bottoms. And its hard to tell if the wheels are polished aluminium or not, and the front fender looks a little small for the bike.
I do like all the creature comforts they have included like the radio with Ipod jack, cruise control, power port and tach.
I'll have to see one in person and maybe take one for a spin before I really know if its something I would want in my garage.
bosko
09-20-2008, 08:37 PM
Wow, I like it. Not sold on the bags either but they aren't ugly.
Love the new engine and belt drive, hell I even like the fairing and trunk on the Voyageur.
I'd buy one of each model, but I HAVE to keep my 08. LOL
Yep...bags are a let down...I feel the bags didn't need to change either. One thing I noticed on the spec sheet is the tank is still 5.3 gallons, but with a 6th gear, the MPG will be better. Wonder what the range will be?
Never have been a "belt" guy, but in watching the video it said that the belt is made of a better material that gives it 40% more rigidity. I'm assuming that's 40% more life?
Overall, I like the 2009 Nomad and Voyager. It's gonna have to grow on me in certain areas tho.
Once someone rolls into the door here at KawaNOW with one, let me know.
At least the tire sizes are the same as before, maybe with enough on the road somebody besides Bridgestone will make one for the rear.
coacha
09-20-2008, 09:32 PM
My first impression of the new 1700's was wow for the Voyager and what did they do to the bags on the Nomad? Wife loves the full dress Voyager and I must admit that I like it too...except for the bags.
Can't wait to see one at a dealership. I was also wondering about the pictures and the leg room. I'm a little over 6' and I don't want to be too cramped up.
If we get a Voyager, do we get kicked to the curb?
bosko
09-20-2008, 10:12 PM
No you can stay. But you have to get rid of that picture in your sig line. http://s2.images.proboards.com/lipsrsealed.gif
ponch
09-20-2008, 11:51 PM
THe bags are fugly. There, I said it.
My first impression of the new 1700's was wow for the Voyager and what did they do to the bags on the Nomad? Wife loves the full dress Voyager and I must admit that I like it too...except for the bags.
Can't wait to see one at a dealership. I was also wondering about the pictures and the leg room. I'm a little over 6' and I don't want to be too cramped up.
If we get a Voyager, do we get kicked to the curb?
schoeney
09-21-2008, 12:51 AM
Wow, Pretty exciting upgrades to the Nad. I am just glad they kept the name so all you guys that buy it will stay on the website!
I think I will wait at least 1 year until the bugs get worked out.
On the surface both bikes should be winners...not sure I can warm up to belt drive...I have heard a few horror stories about new road construction (rocks/tar) causing problems.
rksaw
09-21-2008, 02:04 AM
I like the Nomad...but maybe I'm just not a touring guy, because I can't stand the fairing and all the "add ons" on the grips of the Voyager. I'd be interested to see the bags on the N'ad and see just how easy it is to get gear in and out of them. I think that these bike will end up giving Honda and Harley a run for the money, and with the belt drive on the Nomad, the Star bikes better look over their shoulders as well.
Rich
personally It looks like the seat on the 09 nad is a lot more comfortable then on the 08 nad.
dkdixie
09-21-2008, 07:14 AM
Trophy Wife on the back looks good though....
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/094c52c7-5112-4f43-97f9-aae62374586f.jpg
Looks more like it could be his "daughter!"
gnomad
09-21-2008, 09:01 AM
Interesting to see on Kawi's website all of the measurement specs on the Voyager are still TBD. The Nomad is 50 lbs heavier,1/2 inch shorter in length, 1/2 inch narrower over an inch higher seat height, and 2.6 inches shorter in overall height. I would imagine the Voyager will be basically the same except heavier
glwilson
09-21-2008, 09:35 AM
The profile of the bike has changed a lot (dramatically in my opinion) -- to include a higher seat height -- which isn't what I needed personally.
http://i523.photobucket.com/albums/w359/glwilson_1955/2008Nomad.jpg
http://i523.photobucket.com/albums/w359/glwilson_1955/20091700Nomad.jpg
http://i523.photobucket.com/albums/w359/glwilson_1955/2009Voyager1700.jpg
speedbyu
09-21-2008, 09:58 AM
I am like the rest of you, not sure about the bags and fairing. From the pictures the fairing is kinda ugly. Have to see on in person. I wonder if my Wide Open fairing will fit on the Nomad.
If not I will just have to wait and pick up somebody low mileage '08 for a good price. :)
Another thought.............if they were gonna use belt and give it a bigger motor, why not use the 2053 cc they already have and build on it. I have ridden the 2000 and it is one nice bike and has lots of power.
Just my .02's
Bill
ridemslow
09-21-2008, 10:27 AM
+1. And Ditto that. Keep the drive shaft, love my side loading hard bags. Aside from that, I like what I see in pictures from the web site. :-/quote author=dantama board=general thread=6745 post=120383 time=1221931054]I wish that they kept the drive shaft :(
I think the Nomad bags were the best bags out there, didn't see a need for changing them. The new ones have a yamaha look to them. They might grow on me, but I was as happy as can be with the past ones.
[/quote]
gnomad
09-21-2008, 10:32 AM
When you put the pics of both Nomads together there looks to be quite a few inches difference in the rider/passenger area. The '09 backrest is quite a bit farther forward than on the '08. It also looks like the riders seat is a bit closer to the rear jug. All this combined with the shorter tank design will definitely tighten it up in there. Not really an issue with my wife and myself, considering I am about 5'8" and my wife looks a lot like the model on the Voyager ride(Except her vest doesn't stick out as far in the front). So aside from the seat height being an inch higher it won't bother me any.
dantama
09-21-2008, 11:05 AM
I wonder if Kawi noticed how many of us are buying risers to shorten the reach to the bars?
radco
09-21-2008, 11:18 AM
IMO the bags make it look like a Star Bike,,, The Fairing is different in alot of ways and IMO a good thing to be different,, My first look at the Fairing was Not too nice,, BUT the more I look the better I like it.. The Trunk is also Star style with HD Hindge set up. Side opening is a good thing I assume,, no ned to worry about gear on passenger seat that way..... The Bags should be NOMAD bags so it LOOKs Like a NOMAD not a Star....NOW if they let you order the Voyager w/o saddle bags and add the Nomad bags they have MY VOTE for next bike 100%.Or I can sell the Voyager bags ,make my Nomad into a Classic and put my Nomad bags on the Voyager :) Rich
nomadman
09-21-2008, 12:07 PM
Missed the long stretched fueltank of the 1600, now an ugly front extension on the seat that covers the tank.
Bags to large, tank to small! in my opinion.
Keep my V2K Classic! First see in real.
Nomadman
dantama
09-21-2008, 12:27 PM
Over at the voyager site, they aren't too happy.
Most of the comments are along the lines of how Kawasaki stuck it to them by not having it be an inline 4.
For the most part they don't seem to be aware that Nomads exist, and don't make the connection of this being an upmarket Nomad.
Here is a typical comment.
I am extremely dissappointed! A V-Twin with "retro" styling like the Venture? What was Kawasaki thinking!!!! :-O They probably thought that because HD has (I believe) the top selling tourer, that everyone would want a V-Twin. Wrong! In that survey taken a few years ago, most wanted anything BUT a V-Twin. The only reason HD is top selling is because of the image that HD is so good at marketing. I'm afraid my trusty real Voyager will be run as long as possible, and at that time, if a REAL Voyager is not available, I will be shopping elsewhere for a new touring machine. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gifm: Just can't belive they would make such a blunder. Hopefully, they will realize the error of their ways, and come out with a real Voyager sooner than later, and not a Vulcan with a top box! D A N G!
Netnorske
09-21-2008, 12:50 PM
You may or may not need risers with the '09 because it does appear the rider sits closer the the bars with the shorter tank.
I also see the boards are on a more horizontal plane (probably because you don't sit so far back) than on previous models.
The engine guards have a different shape as well and could affect how your pegs get oriented. It will be interesting to hear from those that take the plunge.
I'm gonna run my '08 into the ground before I even think of upgrading. Besides, I just got it comfortable ;)!
Kris
glwilson
09-21-2008, 01:14 PM
Doesn't anyone see the resemblance to the HD Heritage Soft-tail (one of the top-selling HD models; in fact; I believe is the top-selling model)?
When looking at a side-by-side comparison; the new Kawa model and HD ST have much the same design lines (bike only -- not including bags and fairing)
Can someone with some Photoshop talent try putting the old nomad bags on the new model -- just to see for kicks? (Dan? You seem to be good at that.)
dantama
09-21-2008, 04:36 PM
This was pasting a nomad lid on the voyager spy shot.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y237/dantama/1870a4af.jpg
glwilson
09-21-2008, 05:37 PM
Thanks Dan. Looks like I am going to have to let the new bags "grow" on me a bit yet.
rflnomad
09-21-2008, 06:43 PM
Pretty neat. But the Nomad is almost paid off and we really do not need payments.
I have a feeling we will keep the Nomad for a LONG time.
scion0
09-21-2008, 06:54 PM
Once someone rolls into the door here at KawaNOW with one, let me know.
yep, we'll all have to ride it!!!!
ponch
09-21-2008, 07:35 PM
The 2000 engine is not as reliable as the 1600 engine. I am sure that was a factor.
I am like the rest of you, not sure about the bags and fairing. From the pictures the fairing is kinda ugly. Have to see on in person. I wonder if my Wide Open fairing will fit on the Nomad.
If not I will just have to wait and pick up somebody low mileage '08 for a good price. :)
Another thought.............if they were gonna use belt and give it a bigger motor, why not use the 2053 cc they already have and build on it. I have ridden the 2000 and it is one nice bike and has lots of power.
Just my .02's
Bill
coacha
09-21-2008, 11:08 PM
No you can stay. But you have to get rid of that picture in your sig line. http://s2.images.proboards.com/lipsrsealed.gif
Which one? Oh, the one with me and the bike? I'd have to take one with the Voyager.
rksaw
09-22-2008, 01:05 AM
Over at the voyager site, they aren't too happy.
Most of the comments are along the lines of how Kawasaki stuck it to them by not having it be an inline 4.
For the most part they don't seem to be aware that Nomads exist, and don't make the connection of this being an upmarket Nomad.
Here is a typical comment.
I am extremely disappointed! A V-Twin with "retro" styling like the Venture? What was Kawasaki thinking!!!! :-O They probably thought that because HD has (I believe) the top selling tourer, that everyone would want a V-Twin. Wrong! In that survey taken a few years ago, most wanted anything BUT a V-Twin. The only reason HD is top selling is because of the image that HD is so good at marketing. I'm afraid my trusty real Voyager will be run as long as possible, and at that time, if a REAL Voyager is not available, I will be shopping elsewhere for a new touring machine. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gifm: Just can't believe they would make such a blunder. Hopefully, they will realize the error of their ways, and come out with a real Voyager sooner than later, and not a Vulcan with a top box! D A N G!
Hopefully they'll come around. I think that many who are looking at Kawi for the first time will be impressed. http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif I had always "ridden red" until I bought my N'ad. I had never even considered anything except Honda for many years, but the Royal Star of the '90s first caught my attention when it came out. The Nomad solidified it for me as I started looking at it's benefit and was disappointed with the lines on the VTX. :-/
I think that both of these bikes, the Voyager and the Nomad will do well. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gif I just can't wait to see some of the magazines and their long term tests and write up. A comparison will also be good. http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif
Rich
moenko
09-22-2008, 05:04 AM
I'm just happy they didn't bring a bike out that's soooo superior in styling and technology that I would itch to upgrade. The 1700 series doesn't do much for me at this point; will be gladly sticking to the VN1600-D1. Belt drive ??? I always thought that's the cheaper alternative to a direct drive; saves some weight but nowhere near as reliable. Can't wait to read the first ride reports on the "usual" test sites and from members here that might find the upgrade worthy.
Can't wait to see the MSRPs on the new line!
scion0
09-22-2008, 06:50 AM
I was hoping for a bigger engine. I agree with an earlier post that there should be an option with the 2000 engine in it.
mrbill69
09-22-2008, 07:00 AM
I sure hope it has a more sophisticated fuel injection/engine management system.
moenko
09-22-2008, 09:51 AM
You mean one that doesn't hesitate or need a "fast idle" knob ?? http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
I sure hope it has a more sophisticated fuel injection/engine management system.
dogdoc
09-23-2008, 03:42 PM
Seems kawa has too many different bikes in their stable this year. retaining old 1600 Nomad, and then the 1700 Nomad and all the 1700 line up and the 2000 line up. Thats alot of bikes. I DO LIKE that Voyager. I need the price first though. I see they used a single crank pin to sound more like potato-=potato,, Its got it all, maybe a chrome cup holder is all you would need. Might save money not buying all this bling for the Nomad??? :-)
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