2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700/LT Review

[The_AirHawk]

Originally Posted by efrainv

The review article was quite comprehensive and it points out a lot of the positive aspects of the bike. However there is a failure to mention the negative aspects. For example, I just purchased a 1700 and I'm not satisfied about the extreme howling and wrenching noise, especially around the 30 mph range, and also at about 18 mph and continuing through 50 mph.

It's the Midget that was trying to finish the assembly - he's stuck beneath the seat and wants out...........

[seruzawa]

Originally Posted by Kevin_Duke

What exactly does a "wrenching" noise sound like? We've ridden several V17s and haven't noticed a noise problem.

"Wrenching" noises sound like this:

Thunk! "Ow.. G_D DAM_ IT! Stupid Japanese piece of crap!"

[cherrycherry]

thank you for your share ,very great

[A Star Ride]

Originally Posted by efrainv

The review article was quite comprehensive and it points out a lot of the positive aspects of the bike. However there is a failure to mention the negative aspects. For example, I just purchased a 1700 and I'm not satisfied about the extreme howling and wrenching noise, especially around the 30 mph range, and also at about 18 mph and continuing through 50 mph.

I have owned a number of bikes, and find the sound of this bike to be extremely annoying. I do not feel that long trips will be enjoyable on this bike due to the extreme noise produced by the bike.

I have tried working with Kawasaki and my local dealer and the only response I receive is that the sound is " normal motorcycle noise." I'm sorry but my experiece tells me something different.

I cannot recommend the bike.

Are you sure it isnt helmet noise?

[The_AirHawk]

Originally Posted by A Star Ride

Are you sure it isnt helmet noise?

It's prolly noise from the intake (the "howling") and clatter from the valvetrain. Otherwise known as "normal motorcycle noise".

[Kenneth_Moore]

Originally Posted by The_AirHawk

It's prolly noise from the intake (the "howling") and clatter from the valvetrain. Otherwise known as "normal motorcycle noise".

It's amazing how much better motorcycles run when you're wearing earplugs.

[The_AirHawk]

Originally Posted by Kenneth_Moore

It's amazing how much better motorcycles run when you're wearing earplugs.

Yeah, it is, iddn't it?

[A Star Ride]

Having ridden a twin for 14 years before getting the v-4, it took some getting used to. Sounds more like a 70's muscle car then a typical motorcycle.

[The_AirHawk]

Originally Posted by A Star Ride

Having ridden a twin for 14 years before getting the v-4, it took some getting used to. Sounds more like a 70's muscle car then a typical motorcycle.

I have a friend, has this VFR (now two-gen's old) with a Black Widow exhaust on it. I rode it one time........... ah, the sound.........



like God ate a bowl of chili........ pure heaven......

[efrainv]

The sound has been described as "howling" or "whinning" noise. It starts about 18mph and about 30mph. If the speed is kept constant the sounds gets louder a then sounds like unlubricated parts rubbing together. Similar to the sound of worn out break pads when breaks are applied.
I have never heard a sound like that in any of the motorcycles or motorscooters I ever owned from Chushman to Shadows to Goldwing.
efrainv