2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS Specs & Review

Kawasaki’s Vaquero is a big-bore V-twin bagger aimed at riders who want classic styling with modern tech and long-haul comfort. In this Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS review, we break down the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS specs to help you see where it fits in the heavyweight cruiser segment.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1,700 cc
• Engine type: 4-stroke, 52-degree V-twin, liquid-cooled
• Power: 82 hp @ 5,000 rpm (ISO 4106)
• Torque: 107.6 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm (146 Nm)
• Curb weight: 844.5 lb (383 kg)
• Seat height: 28.7 in (730 mm)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Vaquero is a 1,700 cc, 52-degree liquid-cooled V-twin that prioritizes real-world thrust over headline horsepower. The numbers say it all: 107.6 lb-ft hits at just 2,750 rpm, delivering effortless roll-on and easy two-gear riding through town. With 82 hp at 5,000 rpm, there’s enough up top for confident freeway merges and long grades without feeling strained.

Fueling is handled by DFI with dual 42 mm throttle bodies and Electronic Throttle Valves, giving smooth, predictable response that suits relaxed cruising or spirited backroad pacing. The 6-speed gearbox features overdrive for low-rpm highway comfort and Kawasaki’s positive neutral finder for fuss-free stops. A carbon fiber-reinforced belt final drive keeps maintenance simple and vibes low for long-term ownership.

If your ride plan mixes urban errands, interstates, and scenic detours, the Vaquero’s broad torque plate and easy gearing make it feel flexible and unhurried. It’s a classic V-twin experience with modern refinement.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS Seat Height

The chassis leans into stability: a steel double-cradle frame, 65.6 in (1,665 mm) wheelbase, 30-degree rake, and 7.0 in (178 mm) trail. That geometry keeps the bike planted at speed and predictable in sweepers. Up front, a 45 mm Showa telescopic fork offers 5.5 in (140 mm) of travel, while the rear uses twin air-assisted shocks with 4-way adjustable rebound and 3.1 in (79 mm) of travel. Ground clearance sits at 5.7 in (145 mm).

As for the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS seat height, it’s a low 28.7 in (730 mm). Shorter riders will appreciate the easy reach to the ground, and taller riders get a relaxed, feet-forward stance that fits the bagger brief. The Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS weight comes in at 844.5 lb (383 kg) curb, so it’s substantial in parking lots, but the low seat and balanced geometry help reduce the intimidation factor during low-speed maneuvering.

Tire sizes are cruiser-standard (130/90-16 front, 170/70-16 rear), contributing to a comfortable footprint and stable steering feel. Overall width is manageable for city filtering, and the big fairing adds real-world wind protection without numbing the riding experience.

Equipment & Features

Braking is robust with touring-grade reassurance: dual 300 mm front discs with dual 4-piston calipers and a single 300 mm rear disc, all managed by Kawasaki’s K-ACT ABS. Electronic rider aids include Electronic Cruise Control and Electronic Throttle Valves, a thoughtful pairing for long days on the highway.

Comfort and convenience are a highlight. The integrated audio system brings AM/FM/WB with SiriusXM compatibility, driving fairing-mounted 40 W speakers. The system is compatible with intercom headsets, making rider-to-passenger chatter or group comms clean and simple. Hard, lockable, sealed saddlebags offer generous capacity—nearly 10 gal per side—so weekend kit or daily office essentials are easy to stash. Fuel capacity is 5.3 gal (20.0 L), striking a sensible balance for touring legs.

Under the skin, you get a steel double-cradle frame, TCBI ignition with Electronic Advance, and the carbon fiber-reinforced belt final drive. Tires and suspension are well matched to the chassis, and the finish is classic Kawasaki—this year in Metallic Brilliant Golden Black. Warranty (US) is a 36-month limited plan. Pricing (US) sits at an MSRP of $19,999 with a destination charge of $840.

Who Is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS For?

This is a big, fully featured bagger best suited to experienced riders who want relaxed torque, stable handling, and tour-ready amenities straight from the showroom. It can do daily commuting thanks to its low seat and belt drive, but it really shines on weekend escapes and long trips where cruise control, audio, and saddlebag capacity pay dividends. Newer riders may find the size and mass a step too far for a first bike.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS focuses on what matters for a bagger: meaningful low-end torque, confidence-inspiring stability, and a thoughtful features list that enhances the ride without clutter. K-ACT ABS, cruise control, and a quality audio system pair naturally with a smooth 6-speed and low-maintenance belt drive.

Its heft is real in tight spaces, and rear suspension travel is on the shorter side, but the low 28.7 in seat height, excellent storage, and big-fairing comfort make it a compelling highway partner. If your shortlist prioritizes torque over revs, long-haul ease, and classic style, the Vaquero deserves a hard look among heavyweight cruisers. The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS specs back up the experience.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS good for beginners?

  • It’s not ideal for beginners due to its size, 1,700 cc displacement, and 844.5 lb (383 kg) curb weight.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS?

  • The seat height is 28.7 in (730 mm).

• How heavy is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS?

  • Curb weight is 844.5 lb (383 kg).

• What are the horsepower and torque figures?

  • 82 hp @ 5,000 rpm and 107.6 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm (146 Nm).

• Does it have cruise control and ABS?

  • Yes. It features Electronic Cruise Control and K-ACT ABS.