Cruisers

2009Kawasaki VN1700 Classic

40 fields on record

The 2009 Kawasaki VN1700 Classic is a large-displacement cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its 1700cc V-twin engine delivers substantial low-end torque ideal for highway cruising and laid-back riding. Known for comfortable ergonomics and traditional aesthetics, it appeals to experienced riders wanting timeless cruiser character.

Capacity: 1700.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 345.0 kg
Seat height: 721 mm
Power: 139.0 HP (102.2 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 2009 2010 2011 2012

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding40%

Daily riding60%

Touring70%

Two-up65%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and laid-back highway travel rather than outright speed or sporty handling.
Built for: A classic-styled big-inch V-twin cruiser that delivers strong low-end torque, a relaxed riding position, and a traditional, unhurried feel.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking agile cornering, sport-bike acceleration, or any kind of off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 721mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Kawasaki VN1700 Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1700.0 ccm
Power: 139.0 HP (102.2 kW)
Torque: 135.0 Nm (13.8 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.4029 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 102.0 x 104.0 mm
Compression: 9.5:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1666 mm
Overall length: 2499 mm
Overall width: 1026 mm
Overall height: 1156 mm
Seat height: 721 mm
Wet weight: 345.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.10 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Double-cradle, steel
Front suspension: 43mm hydraulic fork
Rear suspension: Swingarm with twin air-assisted shocks, with 4-way rebound damping
Front wheel travel: 140 mm
Rear wheel travel: 79 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 169 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
Front tyre: 130/90-16
Rear tyre: 170/70-16

Other

Color options: Black

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2009	2010	2011	2012
Capacity	1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)	1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)	1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)	1700.00 ccm (103.73 cubic inches)
Seat height	721 mm (28.4 inches)	721 mm (28.4 inches)	721 mm (28.4 inches)	720 mm (28.3 inches)
Fuel capacity	20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)	20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)	20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)
Color options	Black	Ebony	Ebony	Black