2009 Kawis...return of the Voyager....sort of

[Squidward]

http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=379&content=photos
Voyager 1700:
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/0cc1f77f-f0a7-4607-b4b3-289286c29739.jpg

On top of the new 1700cc Voyager, there is an all new ZX-6R(available in limited edition Monster Energy livery), the U.S. arrival of the ER-6N, a Monster Energy edition ZX-14, the new KLX250SF street-legal motard, new 1700 Vulcans, Monster Energy KX450F/250F/100/85/65, Monster Energy KFX450F quad, as well as the standard BNG&C that every manufacturer gets.

ZX-6R:
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/e1a04606-233e-4d7e-85b6-8148eb3202f6.jpg

ER-6n:
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/a6c80bd1-246d-419e-b607-5afb7ce85856.jpg

KLX250SF:
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/1459e54c-f689-4846-a2c1-600481502345.jpg

[Jbay]

:shock: :shock: :shock:

[ripleyb]

Me likes! :clap:

[DaveC]

This is not my Voyagers dash!

http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/6c00d3d7-def1-40b1-beec-78ee1ba31822.jpg

[bjfunbear]

I saw one of those , but thought it was the 900. WOW I think that will be my next bike.Kevlar belt 6speed and ABS .. very nice how much?

[skidrow]

as the owner of a yamaha venture....looks like they may have given yamaha a good spanking..hats off to them...they may have my money soon.:clap:

[ColGoodnight]

The Eliminator 125 and Super Sherpa 250 also return to Kawasaki's American line-up.

Tom

[voyagerrider]

Well, its certainly not what I expected. I was kind of thinking it would be a I-4 based on the Courours 14. Lots of guys on the Voyager forum, American Voyager Association, are upset about it. It kind of looks like the Yamaha Venture, but has some improvements.
I will reserve judgement until I see it in person, sit on it, and maybe take it for a ride.
Marty

[flb_78]

It it was shaft driven instead of belt driven, it would almost be a perfect machine, but I strongly dislike belt drive.

This thing blows my Venture out of the water.

Too bad there's no price on the website. I bet it costs as much as a Harley Ultra or RoadGlide if not more.

[scar04]

Hmmm, Electraglide much????:wary:



http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/0cc1f77f-f0a7-4607-b4b3-289286c29739.jpg

http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery%20B/Harley%20FLHTC%20Electra%20Glide%20Classic%2007.jp g

[kurt]

Hmmm, Electraglide much????:wary:



http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/0cc1f77f-f0a7-4607-b4b3-289286c29739.jpg

http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery%20B/Harley%20FLHTC%20Electra%20Glide%20Classic%2007.jp g

My thoughts exactly. It will be close enough in price that I would pick the Electra Glide over the Kwak.

[Rick572]

Its a nice bike, but the deal breaker for me is the belt drive. I have one belt drive bike and now choose a chain or shaft shaft drive.

[TLRam1]

Its a nice bike, but the deal breaker for me is the belt drive. I have one belt drive bike and now choose a chain or shaft shaft drive.


It it was shaft driven instead of belt driven, it would almost be a perfect machine, but I strongly dislike belt drive.

Why is that?

[pacman]

Hmm, Momma Kaw is bringin the heat, but there's still a glaring omission in their line up: A ZRX1400R.

Other than that, I like what KHI is doing in the US market. The Connie is a knockout, the Versys is nearly the perfect middleweight utility bike. The ZX series is better than ever (still not world beaters, but very good). Now a new standard, a SM and a great looking dresser. Way to go Kawasaki! :clap:

Overall, there's more excitement in Kawasaki's pinky finger than in all of Honda. :lol2:

[bjfunbear]

Seems like when I go to the dealerships the ultras are priced around 22-24k , I am betting they price this voyager 16-17k. Id much rather have a belt then chain ,but shaft is prefered.

[MIKEYLIKESIT]

Why is that?

x2, i thought belt was the way to go. i have never owned one thoe.

[KenH]

The ER-6n, is it a naked Ninja 650 or a short Versys? I'm glad to see more becoming available in the way of 500-750cc standard bikes, but why do motorcycles have to be so ugly these days? The turn signals look expensive to replace.

[flb_78]

Why is that?

On my 03 Roadstar, I broke 2 belts. The 2nd one cost me a buttload after all was said and done. You get a little rock in the belt and it wears a hole in it and severely weakens the belt. It's fine for custom bikes and bar hoppers, but for long distance touring, I prefer shaft driven.

No alignment to worry about. Almost maintenance free except for an occasional oil change. Smooth, quiet.

[CBAT]

My thoughts exactly. It will be close enough in price that I would pick the Electra Glide over the Kwak.

One big difference is this is a frame mounted fairing instead of carrying the extra weight on the handlebars. I"m glad they have cruise control and ABS. It's a possible winner in my eyes.

[pacman]

Wicked. :trust:

http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i77/wstecker/monsterenergyzx14.jpg

[TwoLane]

Looks like the trunk is the Ultra Classic, and the bags, Victory. But it's neat lookin' anyway.

But I'm interested in the Victory Vision too, so these big dressers all speak to me, even though I'm on a sport tourer now. Some members commented on the belt drives. Please share more, or in an appropriate thread if need be. I've had chains of course, and my third shaft now, but not a belt yet. Before I consider the Vision completely, help me "see" the belt issue more clearly.:eat:

[Michelle]

ER-6n:
http://www.kawasaki.com/ImagesMain/Products/ActionShots/a6c80bd1-246d-419e-b607-5afb7ce85856.jpg


Oh I likey!

I keep gravitating towards these naked bikes. :ponder:

[Astroman]

THose are some ugly bikes from Kawasaki i guess this year Japanese compete, who's going to have the ungliest lineup for 2009.. looks like kawasaki is ahead at this moment! I hope they dont mess up the new GSXR1000...

[LongR1]

already had guy call on Voyager. they are not available yet and no price, and kawasaki said at show, they may be 2010 model. no date on when they will be out. no weight specs or anything, tho just plain classic vn1700 weighs 767 curb weight. so i guess thats wet weight not dry weight. guessing its gonna be in same weight as goldwing from looks of it.

[CBAT]

The more I look at it the more I like it. I like the titanium/black model. A bike this big, what's a hundred pounds plus or minus? :lol2: I'll be running down to take a look as soon as they arrive. LongR1; will they have a prototype at the Cycle World show?

[DaveC]

I have a first gen XII ( so they well be called) and I wonder if this can keep pace on the twisties? Being a big V I don't see it out running my I-Gen.
Victory warranties their belt for 100K. Thats faith right there!

[LongR1]

i would say yes.. it should be at show. wish they gave more info on bike, but sounds like they are not sure when its coming and prolly doing finishing touches to production bikes. guys that went to dealer show, said its beautiful. engine has nice lines and its really really nice. just hope price tag isnt too high. if it comes in 17-18k$ that would be okay...but much more and it might be too close to wing or other bikes. still hoping lower price in 15-16..but i woudnt bet on that.

[ed29]

I am surprised that the Sherpa came back unchanged, and at $4,500 it seems a bit pricey to me. I recognize that it is the same MSRP as the CRF-230L which is also I think a bit over priced for the goods. For only 400 more dollars they have the KLX , which is technologically a far superior machine. Seat height not withstanding.

[CBAT]

i would say yes.. it should be at show. wish they gave more info on bike, but sounds like they are not sure when its coming and prolly doing finishing touches to production bikes. guys that went to dealer show, said its beautiful. engine has nice lines and its really really nice. just hope price tag isnt too high. if it comes in 17-18k$ that would be okay...but much more and it might be too close to wing or other bikes. still hoping lower price in 15-16..but i woudnt bet on that.

17-18K compared to 23K+ for an HD Ultra Classic is very competitive. I don't see this as competition for the Gwing. Apples and oranges.

What's up with that low fender on the Sherpa? Yuk!

[voyagerrider]

I have a first gen XII ( so they well be called) and I wonder if this can keep pace on the twisties? Being a big V I don't see it out running my I-Gen.
Victory warranties their belt for 100K. Thats faith right there!

I also have a XII a 1996 with 63K on it. When this new one came I was disappointed because I was hoping for I-4 based off the Concours 14. More I read about this one the more I like it. A frame mounted fairing, the V-twin is ohc not pushrod, and the ABS is disabled at parking lot speeds. That just a few of things I like. Go to the Kawasaki web site and read about all the features. The more I look at it the more I like the styling.
I will wait a few years until I get 100k at least on the XII, unless I get a realy good deal
Marty

[CBAT]

I'll help:



Powerful 1700cc V-Twin engine
- Liquid cooled, 4-valve per cylinder, fuel-injected 1700cc V-twin engine
- Long-stroke 102 x 104mm bore and stroke helps deliver high levels of torque - approximately 15 percent greater than that of the Vulcan 1600
- Valve system is based on the Vulcan 2000, but uses a SOHC arrangement instead of OHV for more direct engine feel and quicker revving
- Semi-dry sump allows a lower crankshaft placement and a longer piston stroke without increasing engine height
- Single-pin crank provides the desirable power-pulse feel
- Twin counter-balancers handle smoothing the engine pulses
- A large capacity airbox is located on both sides of the engine
- Small-diameter iridium sparkplugs reach deep into the combustion chamber for high combustion efficiency, especially at low-load operation (near idling)
- Features dual mufflers, one on each side of the bike
- Engine tuning offers superior acceleration in the 50-70mph (80-113km/h) range
- Even in overdrive, the engine pulls strongly in this speed range, facilitating overtaking at highway speeds

Next Generation FI
- Based on systems already on Ninja 650R and Vulcan 900
- Utilizes one sensor in place of the usual three, for less complexity and weight
- The touring-oriented Voyager utilizes a FI and exhaust set up to deliver its torque and horsepower peak at a higher rpm

Electronic Throttle Valve System
- Kawasaki’s first fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of intake air (via throttle valves) and fuel (via fuel injectors) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response
- Control of both fuel injection and airflow enables precise cold-engine idling speed control
- From the rider’s perspective, the ETV works like a standard cable-operated throttle - the throttle grip is still connected to cables, so the feel at the grip is the same
- Twisting the throttle turns a throttle pulley on the throttle body actuating the Accelerator Position Sensor (APS), located on the throttle body, to send a signal to the ECU, which then actuates the throttle valves via a DC motor. Throttle position is confirmed to the ECU by Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
- APS and TPS send two sets of signals to the ECU for system redundancy in the unlikely event of a sensor failure.

Cruise control
- Operation of the cruise control is conveniently from the right handle
- Cruise control can be activated between 30mph (47km/h) and 85mph (137km/h) in 3rd gear or above
- Operating the brake lever, clutch lever or rear brake pedal disengages the cruise control as will closing the throttle beyond the “zero-throttle” position

On Board Diagnostics
- Diagnostic system allows self testing of the electronic systems on the Vulcan 1700
- Displays codes on the instrumentation, which can be read by owner; using accessory manual

Transmission / Final Drive
- Six-speed transmission
- 6th gear is an overdrive gear, contributing to stress-free riding and better fuel economy when cruising at highway speeds
- The clutch features six damping springs for three-stage progressive damping that contributes to smoother feeling under hard acceleration
- 28mm carbon fiber final drive belt has a 40 percent higher tensile strength than current Kevlar units nearly twice its width and allows the Vulcan 1700 to use a slim belt only 2mm wider than that on the Vulcan 900
- The drive belt is quiet and efficient and helps reduce maintenance chores

Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-Braking Technology (K-ACT)
- Available on ABS models, Kawasaki’s sophisticated new K-ACT enables riders to execute controlled, balanced braking in all situations. Designed to complement the riders’ applied brake control, the system distributes the ideal amount of brake force to maximize braking efficiency
- Rider actuation of the front brake lever and/or rear brake pedal causes brake fluid to act directly on caliper pistons per usual brake systems. Pressure sensors at each brake master cylinder, front and rear detect the amount of braking force the rider is applying while the ECU measures the vehicle speed at time of initial brake application via the vehicle speed sensors at the front and rear wheels
- After determining the amount of corresponding brake force needed for maximum braking efficiency, motor driven fluid pumps in front and rear pressure control units, increase pressure to the front right caliper and/or rear caliper as necessary
- Two more pressure sensors (one measuring front right caliper fluid pressure, the other measuring rear caliper fluid pressure) provide feedback to the brake ECU
- K-ACT also incorporates anti-lock braking (ABS) function so the wheels do not lock up
- For maximum controllability in tight corners and when executing U-turns, K-ACT’s coactive function does not engage when braking is initiated at speeds below 12mph and the ABS function is disengaged at speeds below 4mph
- Both ABS and non-ABS models utilizes dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a dual-piston rear disc brake for smooth, powerful stops

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
- Designed to be as light and slim as possible, the frame minimizes the number of forged parts and trims any unnecessary metal. The only forged parts are areas that require additional strength - the down-tube joint, engine brackets, side-stand bracket, and rear fender/shock absorber bracket
- 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

45mm Telescopic Fork
- Provides superb steering feedback and excellent ride quality
- Features 4-way preload adjustment

Dual Adjustable Rear Air-Shocks
- Feature Air adjustable spring preload to match the load
- 4-way rebound damping for a smooth and comfortable ride
- Settings are specific to the touring needs of the Voyager

9-Spoke Cast Wheels
- Allows the use of tubeless tire and complement its new muscular styling
- 130/90 front and 170/70 rear radial tires offer good traction, smooth ride and classy style
- Tire choice and suspension settings augment the light handling characteristics

V-twin Visual Appeal
- Basic engine structure has a great impact on a V-Twin engine’s appearance.
- The line created by the top of the airbox and the cylinder heads forms a curved lined that continues to flow through the bike.
- Deeply chromed engine covers have curved upper surfaces. Their three-dimensional form adds volume and gives a quality appearance.
- The edges of the fins receive a special NC treatment that makes them gleam in sunlight
- All the non-chromed parts of the engine have a matt black finish that further accentuates the chromed parts

Bodywork
- Muscular front fairing is reminiscent of classic American muscle cars in its sculpted, flowing design.
- Chromed headlamp cover and twin fog lights contribute to the muscle car theme
- The fuel tank’s hand-sculpted contours employ constantly varying radii, giving the bike a dynamism that is pleasing both to the eye and to the touch
- Its lines flowing through the rest of the bike, the elegantly shaped fuel tank contributes to the Voyager’s curvaceous figure
- Liberal use of chrome contrasts nicely with the bodywork’s deep, lustrous paint. The engine, front and rear guards, accents on the panniers and trunk and the trunk brackets are fully chromed
- Motif from the front fender continues on the rear fender, which features an elegant LED taillight
- Front and rear guards help protect the bike’s bodywork in case of a fall
- Dual 35W fog lights have a dedicated On/Off switch and can be adjusted vertically
- In addition to the taillight on the rear fender, the Voyager also has a large, highly visible LED taillight mounted on the rear of the trunk that contributes to its appearance

Classic Retro Dashboard
- Instrument layout and large round dials give the Voyager’s console a classic automotive elegance, that is reinforced by the font used on the instrumentation
- Even the radio has a classic look, reminiscent of the 1960s
- Multi-function LCD display in the center of the instrument console is controlled by switches on the right handle. Features include a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range and average fuel consumption
- Analog displays include speedometer, tachometer and coolant temperature gauge
- Audio system with twin speakers features radio (FM/AM/WX) and compatibility with an iPod, XM tuner or CB radio unit
- The audio system (and iPod) can be operated by switches on the left handlebar
- Ignition switch allows on-position key removal; preventing key bunches from damaging the luxurious chrome finish around the ignition area while the bike is in operation
- Turning the ignition switch collar to the ACC” position allows accessories to be used while the engine is off and turning it to the “OFF” position turns the engine off and necessitates re-insertion of the key to restart
- A number of features facilitate long-distance touring and rider and passenger comfort

Wind protection
- Large windshield and front cowling protect rider and passenger from wind and elements
- With the front cowling mounted to the frame, any wind buffeting is transferred to the bike rather than the handlebars, contributing to reduced rider fatigue on long trips
- Leg shields have air vents that allow airflow to the legs to be adjusted

Ample storage
- 13.2 Gal (50L) lockable trunk is large enough to fit two full-face helmets
- Top-opening panniers are also sealed and lockable, with a volume of 8.6 gal (38L) each
- Up front, lockable glove boxes provide a handy place for storing small items and accessories. An iPod jack (optional connector required) is located in the left-side glove boxComfort
- Sculpted seat designed for both comfort and easy reach to the ground
- Upright riding position and floorboard contribute to all-day touring comfort
- Roomy passenger seat is complemented by padding on the trunk that provides back and arm support
- Rear floorboards contribute to passenger comfort
- Dual adjustable rear air-shocks ensure a comfortable ride feel

Long range
- 5.3 gallon fuel tank offers a substantial range, helping to minimize fuel stops when out on the open road

[klb1122]

Other than that, I like what KHI is doing in the US market. The Connie is a knockout, the Versys is nearly the perfect middleweight utility bike. The ZX series is better than ever (still not world beaters, but very good). Now a new standard, a SM and a great looking dresser. Way to go Kawasaki! :clap:

Overall, there's more excitement in Kawasaki's pinky finger than in all of Honda. :lol2:

Couldn't have said it better myself. Kawi seems to be covering just about everything these days. I love mamma GREEN!!!!!!!!!:clap:

[Rick572]

Why is that?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick572
Its a nice bike, but the deal breaker for me is the belt drive. I have one belt drive bike and now choose a chain or shaft shaft drive.

Quote:
It it was shaft driven instead of belt driven, it would almost be a perfect machine, but I strongly dislike belt drive.

My other bike is a harley, belt driven. Belt broke at 8700 miles. Had to pay $140. to get the bike hauled 4 miles home, cause the dealer was closed, had to wait 10 days from the dealer to get a belt for me,@ $178. which was not
covered under warrentee, and they wanted another $400. to install the new belt. If it had been a chain drive, a master link would have gotten me home, with a shaft drive it is not a concern at all, except for some bmws, and even then the don't all of a suddent go out. I still have the harley, but otherwise would never consider a belt drive.

[pacman]

Some nifty technical innovations in the Voyager, but this one I don't get:


- Single-pin crank provides the desirable power-pulse feel
- Twin counter-balancers handle smoothing the engine pulses


Do we feel the power pulses, or do we not?

[Jack Giesecke]

On my 03 Roadstar, I broke 2 belts. The 2nd one cost me a buttload after all was said and done. You get a little rock in the belt and it wears a hole in it and severely weakens the belt. It's fine for custom bikes and bar hoppers, but for long distance touring, I prefer shaft driven.

No alignment to worry about. Almost maintenance free except for an occasional oil change. Smooth, quiet.

I had wondered about rocks, even questioned the Ulysses on a thread once. Someone told me they were rock proof. I never owned one, don't really know the ins and outs of living with a belt. I know I don't wanna change one out unless it's on a Victory. :lol2:

Yeah, shaft drives are bullet proof, just ask Scott. :rofl:

Ever had to pull the engine on a Vulcan 1500? My GAWD that thing is heavy! I don't particularly like Vulcans, but they do sell MSRP a lot less than some of the competition. Be interesting to see what the new Voyager sells for. I do know this, I like the old one better just lookin' at it.

[Dragwn]

Looking from the seat perspective, the fairing reminded me too much of a `70's Vetter fairing, all that was missing was a chrome cigarette lighter.

[dukey33]

Since I'm a cruiser fan, I do like the new Voyager. But I also would have liked to see Kawi bring something back to the luxury tourer class to go against the wing and LT.

In any case, I am looking forward to seeing a V'ger and possibly demo riding one too.

[KenH]

1700cc long-stroke engine for more mid-range torque and a 6-speed trans?

BMW built a car with a torquey engine and deemed a 4-speed plenty. Few bought the car. BMW replaced the trans with a 5-speed with the same high and low ratios, and it sold well. Funny thing, but the 5-speed cars were a shift slower than the 4-speed cars.

[RedRocker]

Id much rather have a belt then chain ,but shaft is prefered.

+1

[scar04]

I havent had a problem with the belts on my bikes, but then, I dont do any offroad stuff on my bikes.

[NUTT]

That little SM looks like a neat little bike, but, why only a 250? Same question to Yamaha with their WR250X?

It just seems to me that they aren't really as practical as the Suzuki DRZ400SM. Motorcycle Consumer News recently thought the same thing about a 250 SM (namely the Yamaha) when they did an SM article.

[poser]

That little SM looks like a neat little bike, but, why only a 250? Same question to Yamaha with their WR250X?

It just seems to me that they aren't really as practical as the Suzuki DRZ400SM. Motorcycle Consumer News recently thought the same thing about a 250 SM (namely the Yamaha) when they did an SM article.

especially when they cost nearly as much as the DRZ400SM

how many bikes do you think they'll make out of the 650r motor

[pub610]

[QUOTE=Squidward;487521][url] as well as the standard BNG&C that every manufacturer gets.

What is BNG&C?

[Chirpy]

BNG&C = Bold new graphics and colors

Single-pin crank provides the desirable power-pulse feel

Single crank pin also gives a very "Harley-like" sound, instead of BLAAAAT.

[CBAT]

LINK (http://kawasaki.com/Products/product-specifications.aspx?id=379)

The price is posted.... $16,799-$17,899. :clap: That'll get some attention.

[TALLSWEDE]

I sat on the thing at the Houston motorcycle show, it was HUGE. :eek2: It was as wide as a barn door. Looked nice enough but I traded in a Road Star for a standard bike cause I got tired of scaring myself dragging the floorboards going around corners in town. As far as belts go, the Roady was the only bike I've had with one. It would squeak at low speeds, you could adjust it all you wanted and it would start squeaking again after a few hundred miles. Otherwise no other problems. I would buy another cruiser, even another RoadStar but it couldn't be my only bike.

Kevin

[LongR1]

first ive seen on price, but that will be okay. still havent ordered them yet or got release date on them, but im guessing we will prolly see that stuff in coming days/weeks.

[CBAT]

first ive seen on price, but that will be okay. still havent ordered them yet or got release date on them, but im guessing we will prolly see that stuff in coming days/weeks.

I would like to know when they might become available.

[humanrace]

I'm in the market for a 250 SM and I got to see the Kaw and the Yam at the Houston show. The Kaw has the plastic radiator overflow under one of the plastic side covers. I would be afraid of breaking the bottle in a simple tip over. I wouldn't base my purchase on this one criteria but it could be the deciding factor if all else is equal. Anyone have experience with these 2 bikes?

The Kaw250 is only about $500 cheaper than the KLR650!!!! but I LIKE.

[LongR1]

as soon as we get order forms, we should know release date(month of release anyways) ill post it up here in this thread. they wont ship them to dealers, until dealers fill out order forms.. no matter... we might order 6 or 7 and kawi will send us 1-2. what they did last year with ninja 250. we ordered 10 and they let us have 3....woopiee.

but i will see if i can call rep tomorrow and find out if he knows.

[RedRocker]

My last bike was an Ultra Classic, I have to say that's a nice looking bike.
As far as dragging foot boards, you just need to grind them down on a few
corners to clearance them a little. :eek2:

[Sheep]

895.2lb (ABS)...:eek2:
Another one requiring an additional garage bay plus a CDL! :doh:

[Chirpy]

Yeah, and to think I used to feel that my Dad's 77 GoldWing was heavy, at 540 pounds or so.

I try to pretend like I don't know that the XR1200 is heavier!