A great touring V-twin that nobody buys
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- Опубликовано: 4 окт 2024
- In this video I'll discuss another great V-Twin touring bike that nobody actually buys.
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I've always been a Harley guy. I hadn't ridden in a long time. I started looking at Road Glides. Then I came across a video review of the Kawasaki Voyager. I test roade one and liked it. Then when I saw that it was $8,000 to $10,000 less than a comparable Harley, I was sold. Just took my first road trip on it and I'm very happy.
I loved my voyager right up to the day I totaled it. I buy metric because I can get twice the bike for half the money. I refuse to pay for status.
@@whdbnrm3023 What is "metrics"-European?
@@martinrea8548 They mean Asian mostly, but yes metric as in the fasteners.
I used to have Victorys, they use metric, but they really weren't called metric bikes.
@@kenfan5666it isn’t that. It’s just a bunch of dummies thinking they’re better than everyone else because of what they bought. Diesel guys look down on the heavy duty gas truck owners. Muscle car guys hate JDM guys, corvette owners hate everyone that isn’t driving a corvette, car owners hate truck owners who have no reason to own a truck, does guys hate Chevy and dodge, Chevy guys hate ford and dodge and dodge guys hate everyone. It’s just a bunch of frat guy garbage. Hell there are sport bike owners that do nothing but talk shit about cruisers and how slow they are. Yet they’re the same guys that own trucks that are big and slow lol. People are just stupid. Sure there are exceptions to the rule and they may not like you because you’re Asian. It’s mostly just a Harley is better than everything else rule. Ride what you like man
Ken just ignore hose guys! “Honestly i feel it has very little to RACE.” MORE LIKE BRIAN CELLS!!!! But yeah, I hear em all the time talk trash like that too. (Lots of them have Asian wives ect.)They just think that the “big bikes Harley makes are superior over any other bikes.” Like F250 were to Toyotas and such… It’s more (little big man syndrome.)
They just can’t admit that anybody else is just below the set face beating them technologically at the game!!!! (Keep your head up and go get a GOLDWING!) ;)
I m 72 and a return rider from a 30year layoff.About 3years ago I paid six thousand for a vulcan 1700cc with nine thousand miles on it.My Son-in-law just paid $28,000 for a Harley and we ride together, I enjoy my Kawasaki as much as he does this HD.
you're a smart man..
i love my 2012 Voyager with it Ivanized. and it does not void the warranty. It is beautiful for long rides
I have a 2019 Voyager. Bought it at a dealer with 498 miles for only $14,700.
Fantastic machine. Mine is bone stock and I suffer no issues with herky-jerky concerning acceleration and handling.
I will admit the lack of Bluetooth connectivity is an oversight that Kawasaki should be ashamed of. I was able to resolve this issue with a bit of know-how and less than 100 bucks. I use "Coolstream" audio and found a power solution that made this a "turn the key and forget it" solution.
I now officially have 14,800 into this bike and love it. Harley offers nothing remotely close. I would have to spend 10.000 more to have full touring pack. Yes, I would get a touch screen with Harley but I saved 10,000 dollars.
I love this bike. Absolute best bang for your buck ever.
Exactly. I call my bike the budget tourer. I have 39K on my 2017 Voyager and an leaving for New Hampshire this Sunday. Fantastic bike for the money.
Yep - it falls a bit short in a few areas but it doesn't take that much $ to where you need it to be. It's like GPS systems . . . no bike or car GPS is as good as the Garmin or Tom Tom systems or these days even Google Maps.
I’ve ridden the Voyager and it’s a good solid bike. Comfortable and has plenty of power. If I were on a tight budget and wanting a capable tourer, it’d be on my short list for sure.
I bought a brand new Voyager last year, and it's a great bike. I'm a no frills kinda guy, so the lack of accessories for it really doesn't bother me. I like it for what it is, and you can't beat the price for them.
I have a 2007 Kawasaki Nomad. It's been a great bike. Comfortable, plenty of power, smooth, and I like the looks. Only paid $3,800 for it and I've put almost 30k miles on it.
I had an Ivan ECM reflash on my 2012 Vulcan 900. Made it a completely different bike. Best 400 dollar upgrade I've ever bought. BTW, Ivan is in Greenville, SC. His shop used to be in NY, but he moved down here a few years ago.
I'll second that Ivan flash. He fished my 2002 Roadstar Warrior 10+ years ago when he was in NY.
I'll 3rd Ivan's flash. Completely different bike after the flash.
Previous owner had Ivan flash done, I recently got the bike, what a beast
I'll 4th the Ivan flash....best upgrade for the Kawasaki
For years, where I live, there is a big "buy American" thing going on.
I ride a Yamaha Stratoliner. 1900 cc, about 100 horsepower, about 125 ft.lbs of torque.
The Stratoliner was made in America. Mine is a 2007 I bought used, for very little money.
Runs great, powerful, dependable. The metrics bring a lot of bang for the buck.
Exactly!
I ride a 06 Stratoliner, got mine for 4k...will smoke a stock HD, and some with engine mods. 77k on mine. I like HD, but it's not a necessity in my life.
@@darrellrhone1988 I agree. There are some who while at a gas station walked up to my old Vulcan. Said nice bike, saw the Vulcan badge, turned walked away without another word. Very interesting. Thanks for the reply,
Best of luck to You. Safe Riding!
Yup. 2008 Midnight. Got it in 2010. Put 47,000 on it so far. Not perfect, but great, reliable bike. Ultimate seat. Aftermarket top case.
I have a Voyager and love it but gotta say, those Stratoliners are some of the most beautiful bikes out there.
Great comments on the Voyager/Vaquero cruisers. Those that stay away, or those that buy and then later sell, mostly do so due to the lack of technology updates and lack of aftermarket support. Kawasaki has always taken the mindset of "set it" and "forget it" with their model lines. Honda had the same Goldwing design for 16 years, but they made improvements and upgrades along the way. The biggest complaints we hear about the Voyager and Vulcan is "lack of bluetooth", "no built-in GPS" and "limited aftermarket accessories."
HD, on the other hand, has just about anything you could possible think of, available in the aftermarket. The Kawasaki 1700 line has had a very slow grind to get the support that is now available, it's taken years to get here and there is no comparison to what's available for the Harley's.
For the low entry price into cruisers, especially when purchasing used, the Voyager and Vaquero leave a lot of money in your pocketbook to mod and add accessories! Exhaust, windshield, ECU program, big air kit, full stereo upgrades, subwoofer rings, LED headlights, grips, floorboards, seats, tour pack racks (not specific to Kaw, but other models can fit), handlebars, big front wheel kits (yes, now with ABS), trailer hitches, lowering kits, and more are now available for these bikes. Just ten years ago it was very hard to find any support for these bikes.
These bikes have seen well over 100k miles with regular maintenance. Are they a perfect cruiser? No. But there no comparison when it comes to the Bang for your Buck! Even if you drop an additional $10,000 on a Harley and you'd STILL want to add all the accessories!
I bought a 2017 Voyager three years ago. 40,000 miles on the bike now and no problems. Serve me very well and I love that bike. I would be tempted to trade it in if they would come out with a freshened up model with some better colors.
Great bike that loves the highway.
I bought a 2015 Voyager and am really impressed. It's been Ivan flashed and for the money I have zero complaints.
I've got the 2018 Venture SVTC. Love the bike. Even helped do a write up on removing the trunk to get the Eluder look. The best thing for me is the Sure-Park electric forward and revers. I'm short and this is a big help on rough ground or gravel. I put 16,000 mi on the first year and average 12,000 a year just going to and from work before COVID. I also flew a lot for work during this times for work. During COVID I still managed 8,000 mi per year and now starting to pick up again. A few complain about the engine heat, but I don't find it any hotter than other V-Twins. I think this is coming from the Water-Cooled crowd. It took a little bit to get used to the low RPM shifting but once my ears were tuned to the sound it's natural. It is a great bike. It has all the amenities other than car-play and a 5-year warranty. What most don't know is that Yamaha has a 100,000 mile engine warranty, just keep all those maintenance receipts.
I also bought a 2020 venture tc awesome bike love it no need to rev past 3000rpm tons of took rides great!
I bought a 2022 kawasaki valquero. And I love it. My first big bike or heavy bike. The one thing I kinda love the most. I had it for 3 months now I live in Bakersfield California. I've rode about 2900mi on it. And have not seen one anywhere I've rode. Makes me feel like it's a one and only. Lol. Love you videos.
As a Kawasaki Vaquero owner, I must say you Nailed this.one. You dropped the ball on a past Vaquero ride review. The problem and I must say the Ivanizing really makes these bike drivable. Very happy with mine now.
@mbarr1029 -
Own a 2020 Vaquero and a segment of the market don't know what they are missing. My only grip is I wish Kawasaki would upgrade the stereo system to have Bluetooth connection to allow phone GPS to sound over the speakers.
@@thespadestable Bluetooth? CoolStream Duo Model BTR102 . This is a 30 Pin Apple plug for the Optional Adapter in the left glove box. No adapter? Keith Barrott Scharon on Kawasaki forums has some home made ones. This guy is legit. Randy at Engineering Adapters is a pioneer on after market sound and cables for Vaqueros. All solid guys. I have been a member on the Kawasaki Forum for 7 years now. "mbarr10"
I bought a used Vaquero about 6 months ago, seriously loaded with thousands of extras and aftermarket add ons. It's a fantastic machine with loads of bells and whistles. I paid $6k and I see them all over for $10k with little or no extras. Now, my end game will likely be a HD... but for now I'm thrilled every time I ride it.
Yeah, we got one local for 7.5k here, with 27k miles approx.. I think that's a deal.. and you got yours for 6? nice work! I would add one to the stable if possible, anyday! I would like a Harley, but see the value in keeping my monies and getting more bang for less buck. I don't need a club to be cool 🙂
@@firbyd amen. It's really a great bike, and there's several great groups on FB that'll help you find whatever aftermarket gear you want for it. It rides just as comfy as my friends RG.
What year is your vaquero
@@donyemonroe4577 2011.
I’ve had 6 Kawasaki’s in the past. Most were either Vulcan Nomads or my last one was a 2018 Vulcan Voyager. All excellent bikes. Had absolutely no issues with either of them. The only reason I traded in my Voyager was that I have always wanted to ride an Indian. Bought a 2019 Indian Chieftain and love it as well. But, I absolutely do recommend the Voyager as a nice tour bike. Thx for highlighting it. Great vid.
Love my 2007 Yamaha Royal Star. Fantastic bike and extremely dependable
I have one also,still love it,had it for nearly 5 years
@@nflreading Going for a 5000 km ride starting tomorrow. Going through Alberta and British Columbia. Through the Rocky Mountains and down through Montana and back to Saskatchewan. Take care fellow Royal Star rider.✌️
@@canadiandeplorable2087 wow
Had a 74 CB 750K IN 1984 road it like I stole ( $500.00 cash , could not pay quick enough and get the heck out before he changed his mind ) never road before !
Got the vn900 in 2011 (only thing I have ever bought new ) ! Didn't learn to ride very well untill I watch your ride like a pro videos ! 68 and ride better than I ever road before ! Thanks !
Hi Jerry, hey I have one! The local metric shop here in San Diego has them for $16,995, but mine is a 2009. Very little difference between the first Voyager in 2008 and today. Just got back from a 2k mile ride from Durango CO to Arcata CA and down 1 to San Diego. Never missed a beat. But I just bought a Harley. Now that I'm retired I enjoy the idea of wandering the country on HD. The not so secret to Harley's success is the community. Everywhere I go there's a HD dealership and a free hot dog for me. I like that!
I was looking at getting a Pan America so I joined the owners groups. The stuff Harley is apparently letting out of the doors these days made sure I will never buy one. And the owners all acted like it was totally normal! I'm talking bikes on their 3rd engine in 4k miles, radiator hoses rubbing on exhaust header, the list goes on. Absolutely unacceptable.
@@BigChillingGoingDown 9
Upstate NY,I have a few friends that have/ had ventures, two still ride them, both had ecm's flashed and I've rode them. Nice bikes. One bike was totaled when a pickup pulled out in front of my friend who maneuvered but couldn't avoid the truck. My friend got a sore knee and a smashed bike. The only thing I found, I'd compared to my flhtcu is a higher center of gravity. But I would still consider getting one if I was in the market. Hats off to you sir I would bet you have saved countless lives with you programs
I Salute you.🇺🇲
I have an 18 Voyager
For 17 grand it’s hard to beat.
The biggest issue Kawasaki misses the boat on is not having a Bluetooth Audio system. Fast forward to 2023 as I type this
The only thing that has changed on the voyager and vaquero is the color scheme.
I still love my bike and have no regrets buying her.
My main ride is a 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad. I bought it used about 4 years ago for $3500, out the door, and I still love it. Yeah it doesn't have all the bells and whistles, yeah it isn't as fast as a lot of other bikes, not even as quick as my 2000 Nomad 1500 for some reason, but it really works for me. I remember taking a CVO Street Glide out for a ride when the HD demo trailer was at a local festival a few years ago. Great bike, gobs of power, but it just didn't have the ergonomics for me. I was quite happy to get back on my Nomad.
That jerkiness you're talking about in the throttle at low speeds, that took awhile for me to get accustomed to at first. But all I needed to was develop a finer touch with the throttle and it's not a factor at all at this point. I see myself keeping this Nomad for a long time. Sadly, Ivan doesn't offer his service for the 1600.
There's a service in South Caroline called Moore's dyno tune, they might do your bike. I'd check with them.
I rode a 93 Electra Glide since new. In 2017 bought a new Voyager. Immediately noticed the weight and handling that were a bit of a challenge. I bought Ride Like a Pro to teach me what I was doing wrong. Quickly I figured put that it's not the bike it's the rider. I handle the bike much better now. My wife and I tour with our Voyager all over New England mountain roads and the bike is a great touring platform.
Over my 40 Years of riding I've had this big beautiful variety of Japanese motorcycles. Being on my forever bike though that I plan on retiring with I have of course switched to an Indian vintage.
Why didn't I get a touring model? Is that what you're asking? Because when I retire if I'm going to go a thousand miles down south I'm going to stay there for a few months. I will be taking the truck with an enclosed trailer and once I back the motorcycles out that trailer will double as a camper for a place to lay my head down at night.
All that being said though that new flat black Kawasaki touring Vulcan is one beautiful bike.
I bought a Voyager new in 2018. Have just under 20,000 miles on it. Two issues, no color choices and not alot of specific aftermarket parts. We all know how universal parts work. Ride safe.
i agree with your thoughts.
i bought a 2016 indian vintage with 2,000 miles and gave $12,500 for it. i am very happy with it and we tour 8,000 miles a year.
I believe people don’t buy them because of the lower prices. This leads buyers to believe they are built cheap. I own a 2005 Vulcan Classic 1500 EFI WITH 102,000 km and all it cost me so far is tires and oil changes. It’s been a bulletproof ride since I brought it used in 2012 at 8600 km. I just love the handling and ride. I’ve put 1300 km in one day a couple of times and wasn’t sore anywhere, and that is with the original Kawasaki seat. Absolutely love this amazing piece of machinery.
I'm 68 years old, hadn't rode in 50 years. I bought a used 2008 Vulcan 900D LT Custom for $2.8k. I love it. It's less than 500#, easy to handle, quiet, decent power, and I can put my wife on the back. I did not want to spend Harley $$$ for a weekend rider. There is a nice market for these affordable bikes.
I had a 2006 Vulcan 900. Fun bike. Low maintenance and well made.
you live once ride a Harley once👍🏽
The LT is 650# wet.
Picked up a 2022 Voyager in March. Dealership would only take about $1500 off and of course they didn't offer me much for my 2019 Vulcan Classic 900.
I love the bike and quickly overcame my fear of the larger bike. Time to find some good parking spots to practice more low speed maneuvers etc. Thanks again for the videos Jerry
Big fan of the Voyager. Thanks for all your resentations.
You’re alright for a cop lol I enjoy your channel even confusing my friends doing parking lot drill during rides lol
I have a 2002 Honda VTX-1800 110 cu. in. V-Twin with 110 HP & 120 ft lbs of torque that my Harley riding Brother calls a “Hardly”! Great cruiser with more power than most Harley’s & you can pick a used one up for 1/3 the price of a comparable Harley, what’s not to like!
Thanks Motorman. Interesting point of view.
I went in to my local Kawasaki dealer a few years ago looking for the Voyager when my Ultra Classic tapped out after 60K miles and 6 years. They had none in stock. I rode off on an Indian Roadmaster. I liked my 2014 Harley Ultra Classic when it ran. I absolutely LOVE my Roadmaster. In one video you mentioned "you would be hard pressed to find a better touring motorcycle than the Harley Davidson". It wasnt hard at all.
Only good harley is a new one and if you crank the throttle it will get old fast. Its only a name.
@@XLR8RRICKpeople are slaves to the Harley badge / image. I would take a Kawasaki voyager over any Harley if they were the same price.
We looked at the Voyager. Felt very top heavy. Went with the Gold Wing.
I bought my 2012 StreetGlide 6 months old with 5000 miles on it.
I paid $18,700 for it.
10 years later, I still trust my Bike to take anywhere I want to go.
I have a 2010 Voyager and I have rode in in all kinds of weather, to include light snow. It is a dependable bike IMO.
2 of the most knowledgeable and experienced riders I know ride the Venture and Voyager. They roll for miles.
I bought my father’s 2001 Royal Star Venture V4 that he bought new when he moved to a Spyder. The bike was 20 years old and ran great…literally maintenance only and never once broke down! Sold it after having it 6 years for more than I paid him for it (which was fair trade-in value at the time I bought it).
Nothing wrong with the v-twin Japanese touring bikes but people want a Harley. It's that simple. In my travels on my RKC, it's extremely rare to see a Japanese touring bike that's not a Gold Wing.
Not all people want a Harley!
@@mustangfan3295 Do you have reading comp issues? Obviously not everyone wants a Harley but 99.9999% of people looking for a big v-twin touring bike wants a Harley.
When I had my Voyager most Harley riders thought it was a Harley coming toward them. At stops the Harley riders would have to lean in to read "Vulcan " on the tank emblem. ;-)
@@Dave-sw2dm Must have been your accountant type Harley rider. Khaki pants and blue blazer by day, Cut with a big HOG patch on the weekends.
It's actually 72 HP 108 torque and if you upgrade pipes, air filter Ivan flash 80+ HP. Still not as much as the big touring high-end bikes. It has more than enough though and none of my Harley buddies leave me behind. Now my nephew's sport bike leaves me like I'm standing still...LOL. Thanks for the review showing an alternative. You can own a great bike without breaking the bank.
You nailed it. I have a Vulcan 1500 Classic for almost 15 years and love it. The Vaquero and Voyager have not changed or been updated in forever. That’s the main reason I haven’t even thought about buying one. If they do a redesign or upgrade, I’m in. Others have told me that as well.
I have owned and ridden a '96 Vulcan 800A and a '02 Nomad 1500. Both bikes were a pleasure to ride and own. The appeal for both bikes was affordability and styling. I think Kawasaki did a better job than the other metric cruiser manufacturers of those model years in selling the Harley cruiser styling without looking cheap . Both bikes had a lot of chrome and were often mistaken for HD cruisers. I ride a '13 Electra Glide Classic now and absolutely love it. But, I have a lot of respect for the Kawasaki bikes because they proved to be reliable and offered the style that I wanted in my motorcycle. The Nomad was a solid touring machine. I would not hesitate to purchase another if I was in the market to get a new bike.
I owned a 2010 Voyager ABS for 60,000 miles. Never had an issue with fueling and in 2010 it was a better bike than the 2010 Road Glide Ultra. In 2016 Kawasaki had made zero improvements but Harley came out with the Rushmore Road Glide Ultra so I switched.
The only rideability change I made was adding gold valve emulators and springs in the forks.
Kawasaki has a history of making new models and tweaking a little and then just running the same as long as possible.
Most of us that were riding Kawasaki Voyager XII with the inline four were hoping for an improvement and update to that bike instead of making a Harley wannabe. I didn’t like the goldwing, and found the Voyager 1700 to be a better bike than the Road Glide at the time and there were no other choices for me in 2010.
Yea there was….Victory
@@xc_4x4 I tried the vision, but it was too stretched out for me and the only one that looked kinda decent was the orange with black flames that came out later. I only consider frame mounted fairings.
I bought a 2018 star venture with the transcontinental package. Used and got to test ride it. Bike rides like a Cadillac. The stock sound system is great. Would like to get the ecm. The rev limit isn't bothersome when you get use to it. Love mine. Its dose get a little 🔥 in the 100 degrees weather here in tx. But so have my othe air cooled bikes.
Had a Honda 1,300 touring bike! Wow! Everything hurt when I rode it! Bought a GoldWing! Awesome bike! Looked at the big Yamaha and rode it. Came really close to buying it! Really enjoyable ride! Huge motor!
I would take Venture any day of the week. I really wanted a HD but truth be told....HD is not made for 6 foot plus riders. I have a Raider that fits me comfortably. Was going to trade it in for a Road Glide....the RG felt like a toy....I even rode an Indian and my knees were above the tank. Sat on that Venture and it feels much bigger....longer wheel base so your legs are further out in front of you. HD will never change their design to accommodate taller riders....too bad.
I've got a 2004 Sportster 1200 that I would gladly trade for a bike that fits my 5'6" frame, any takers?
Love my vaquero, I got a 2016 with 6,000k on it for 13k up in Canada. One of the best bikes I’ve owned
The reason the metric cruisers are not selling like they did at one time is because HD upped their game. The HDs today have 100hp and 120 ft lbs torque, don't leak oil, much smoother than ever before, six speed trans, and much more reliable with many owner logging 100,000 miles with no major issues. I almost forgot the resale value as well.
Exactly Right!
2011 Vaquero owner here. Aftermarket airbox, slip ons, and Ivaned. My only trouble is an annoying blinker switch that doesn't like to turn on after getting rained on. You're a champion of the community, Jerry.
I had one of the old 4 cyl 1200 Voyagers - built to compete with the 80's Goldwing 1200 - and I really liked it. At one time it was the biggest touring bargain in motorcycle-dom 🏍
I really like both. Colors are very limited but am thinking of getting a used voyager and the Ivan flash for a while now, just supplementing the funding for now. Can pick up used ones from about 6500 to around 11,000
I’ve got A 2012 voyager and it’s the best bike I have ever owned . I’ve done some up grades like Sharkroad exhaust and stereo upgrade from hogtynes . I just wish they would update the electronics , stay current with the rest , Bluetooth ,nav etc. and my biggest issue is the heat this bike gives off , holy crap . But otherwise it is the best bike I have ever owned .
I had a 2014 vaquero it was a very reliable bike I had 78,800 miles on it when it got totaled. I want another one , one of these days. have a Vulcan s & Honda CTX 1300 now
After a couple of smaller Hondas and Yanahas, I bought my first touring bike in 2003. It was a 1999 Yamaha Royal Star Venture (RSV) with only 3,200 miles on it. I paid $10,000 cash for it from a Yamaha dealer and it still had 1-1/2 years left on its 5 year unlimited miles warranty. The RSV remained largely unchanged throughout its years of production. I owned the bike until the fall of 2009, when I wrecked it riding with a trailer in tow. It had 88,000 mikes and I had a rear shock on order for it which I was graciously allowed to cancel. I replace the RSV with a 2003 Ultra Classic Electra Glide that had 8,000 miles on it. I purchased a 3 year extended warranty through Harley's program, and it's come in very handy until I was not allowed to renew it any longer.
I now have 125,000 miles on my Electra Glide, so I feel somewhat qualified to talk about them. Now bear in mind that neither bike is comparable to what is being offered today, but I think the differences of quality, reliability, fit and finish, and overall experience still apply. Being that the 1999 RSV was no different than a 2003 model, I can compare the two as if they were the same year. The RSV was a few thousand dollars less than the Harley, and then add another couple of thousand in warranty premiums and the RSV was very compelling. Yet, it was hard to find a dealer with a new one on the floor. As Jerry said, some had new old stock that was a couple of years old, so why would they buy more inventory?
I learned that there were almost no aftermarket accessories for the RSV available from the dealer, but I belonged to a group call the Venturers, who had members that manufactured and sold some items. For instance, I bought a trailer hitch for my bike that was very nicely made. But overall very few. I don't have to tell you just how many dealer items are available for Harleys. It's almost limitless how much is available from the dealer and the aftermarket. The quality of the bodywork on the RSV doesn't compare to the Harley. The RSV bodywork is thin and cracks with age. The RSV paint is easily marred just from road debris coming off the front wheel. The front fairing cracked where the windshield is mounted under the plastic chrome trim panel. I repaired it myself, the repair being hidden under the chrome trim. I never put foot pegs on the crash bars of the RSV, because the bars were so thin they would flex if I put too much pressure on them, and crack the lower farings that were mounted on them.
While the Venturers provided a great community which I participated in, Harley-Davidson has its owners group HOG which is integrated with Harley-Davidson and the dealer network. There are chapter rides, and my particular dealer ship sponsors their "Saddle Up Saturday" rides during the riding season. While the Venturers gave me a community, it was mostly online, except for times when we met during Americade. The community as a Harley-Davidson owner is unparalleled.
As for the machines themselves, the RSV engine was a liquid cooled V-4 powerhouse. It was very reliable and its five speed transmission shifted nicely. Its brakes were sub-par, and its electrical output was a puny 30 Amps compared with Harley's 45. It had four carburetors, each having a 15 watt, thermostatically controlled heater (60 Watts). The cold weather behavior was really very good, so I had no complaints about not being fuel injected. In 2012 I replaced the 5 speed transmission of my Harley with a Screaming Eagle 6 speed transmission. That is something that cannot be done on the RSV. The Audio/CB system of the RSV was a Clarion system that looked like the kind sold by aftermarket companies. The Harleys is wholly integrated into the switch gear, and the quality of the switch gear (including weather resistance) is clearly superior.
DO I HAVE TO MENTION THE SOUND OF THE ENGINE???
Handling of both models is fine, but nothing is like the sound of Harley's Big Twin engine. If you like the sound of a radial engine on an airplane, then you understand.
So when buyers are choosing to buy a big touring bike, they are making choices that go beyond what can be gleaned from a brochure. I sure was happy on my RSV, and I would be again if I couldn't ride my Harley. It's because I love to ride they are both great bikes. The last time I met a Venture owner while riding my Harley, we stopped and had a great conversation.
See you on the road.
I test rode the vaquero a while back before I bought my 1st harley. I didnt care much for the power delivery when I was getting around a curvey road near a lake by the dealer
I think the Voyager is a very capable tourer. You can get one that is 2 or 3 years old for a song.
Low resale value can negate the savings over buying a Harley. You may have hit on another reason metric touring bikes don't sell well.
I've ridden a few Voyagers, I consider it the most comfortable bike I've ridden and did not encounter any driveability issues. I didn't like that it has the old timey ipod connector rather than USB (that may have been updated) and it is, as you noted, not great at low speeds. There's really nothing I'd rather take down I-10 though so if you do a lot of freeway riding, seriously consider it.
In Oz, about 6 years ago it, it was a toss up between a Harley, Voyage or Victory for my new bike to replace the Beemer. I'd ridden a Road King in NZ for about 10 days and loved it. But back in Oz, the wife joined in test riding a few Harley models and could not get into them, and the dealer was completely disinterested in helping us try different options, so Cross off the Harley. I thought the voyager had everything we needed until a road test. Unfortunately the out of box performance was inadequate, no sense of get-up and go. The Victory ticket all the boxes as the dealer had sensibly made available for demo a Cross Country with their Stage 1 fitted. I laid money on the table at the end of the ride, and have been delighted since.
What kind of beamer? I love my K12 LT, the victory CC looks really stunning as well
@@firbyd 'twas a little R1150R. The Victory got the grin back that the Beemer just couldn't muster.
I bought a 2021 voyager in 2021, it being my first motorcycle. I found it easy to learn on, handles great and rides great. I can't compare it to any other bike since its my first. I had the ecu flashed and that cleared up the jerky throttle, which was all government limit crap!!!
The Royal Venture 2006 we have is hands down the nicest bike , plus any pre 2016 Harley duals fit with a simply made aluminum bracket . All in 5 years ago 4200.00 with 32,000 kms , I validate my statement from over 50 years of riding all brands of motorcycles .
Have 134,000 miles on my 2001 Kawi Nomad. It’s been a great bike. I keep saying when something major breaks (not worth fixing vs the price of the bike) I will get a new bike. Been saying that for 20 years now and it just keeps going, damn bike won’t break.
I’m one of the nobody’s Jerry! Great bike as all of mine are! I have never been one to follow the pack. Bought a 2018 with the TransContinental Package and 3700 miles on it for $17500 from Libby’s in New Haven CT. 👍😎
I had a 2002 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad 1500 for a number of years with no problems and absolutely loved the bike. I sold it and bought the 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager and Man oh Man, what a nice riding machine. The braking system is phenomenal and it has plenty of power. Picking it up from an accidental drop is a is hard thing because of the way the rear crash bar is shaped and designed, but it saves the bike and box saddle bags from damage. I now carry a small sizzer jack in the beer box to help lift the bike. I don't know why you say these bikes aren't selling, they are a great handling piece of work. I know people who own them and they totally enjoy the bike. Take Care and Be Safe.
They are a real bargain touring bike and the ride great. I say they don't sell because you rarely see them on the road and most dealers won't stock them because they say they just sit in the showroom sometimes for years.
There is another guy in Taylors, NC (Moore's Mafia) who also does the flash. Makes the Voyager run incredibly well and like it should !!
In the 70s-80s, a lot of people complained about how "top-heavy" big Yammies and Kaws were. And it seemed like nobody at the dealerships was listening and passing the concerns on to the management and techs. Hopefully, they've corrected that problem by now. Being a non-American company didn't help either.
Bang for the buck... but the ECM flash is a must do. Plenty of accessories if you have imagination.
Why do they not sell.... some people don't know about them. I believe some people think HD is the only manufacturer of motorcycles.
Great used prices.
I agree, Ivans flash is a must. Without it the bike is almost not rideable. Can't understand why Kawasaki never fixed that and the atrocious front seat.
Idk nothing about motorcycles but Im looking into getting one.
Well, just something unappealing about metric bikes. My personal take as a new rider is I bought a 2022 XL883N because I've always wanted one and deep down I knew if I got something else to start with, I wouldn't have been satisfied. I got my son a Yamaha Bolt, he loves it, but to me there is something lacking and left to be desired as far as the difference between it and the HD. When I'm ready for by "big" bike I'll go straight for a Glide with a Batwing fairing rather than waste time and money on something that doesn't quite "check all the boxes". So far my Harley checks off all the boxes, Looks, sound, and feel. There's just nothing quite like a Harley when it comes to cruisers and touring bikes, and in my opinion , like many others, it is worth some extra money to just go and get what you really want instead of being left wanting. Life is short. That being said, any two wheels is something because riding is better than not riding.
You said it long as you on 2 wheels
1 problem is that although the harley is more expensive, it certainly keeps its value better than the kawi, i bought the 2022 vaquero, ivan tune absolutely a must, cheap radio, very comfortable though, lack of power, overheating and performance is a main issue, also accessories are way overpriced for this bike, ended up selling for a loss and bought a used honda f6b, totally different bike that i fell in love with
I had a Midnight Venture, now I have the Vulcan Voyager 1700. Big bikes but fun to ride.
Everybody has a story and here's mine. Prior to buying my 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager in 2011 (new) I had owned a Yamaha XV1100 and loved it. I'd clocked up over 150K/kms and decided to trade it for the Kawasaki. I wanted a bit more comfort, the ABS, cruise control and the audio. I couldn't justify the expense of the Goldwing which I had ridden twice. Eleven years later in 2022 I sold the Kawa with 98K/kms on the clock. In the time I'd owned it I'd replaced the screen - the original had become yellow and crazed. Kawasaki Australia wanted $700; I found another manufacturer who charged me $250. I had a right front fork leg replaced as the inside had become grooved and oil was leaking from the fork. The new owner had to have a fuel line replaced and the cruise control switch replaced. He has been told the tank has some rust and will need replacing - hopefully he can find one among the Vulcan riders group he belongs to. The bike had plenty of grunt when it needed it but was a pleasure to ride for a long time thanks to the comfortable seat and the high screen keeping the wind off. Six speeds and belt drive make a good combination (the Yamaha was 5 speeds and a shaft). Sadly, the Voyage no longer sold in Australia - they were about half the price ride away of the Harley they were cloned from. I sold the Voyager and bought a Can Am Spyder. I'm getting on and wanted to keep riding so 3-wheels seemed to be the best option.
Having owned a 2011 Vaquero, I can take a shot at why the Voyager doesn't sell. I think you hit on almost all of these: Top heavy bike; poor handling at low speeds due to weight/center of gravity and throttle response; heat issues - rider/passenger heat issues that is; lack of engine power; audio system lacks features found on competing makes and hasn't changed since my 2011 as far as I can tell (a 3.5mm aux connection? Really? Even my Spyder F3 has a USB aux input.). It appears to me that folks looking for a full-dress touring bike are willing to pay the extra bucks to avoid owning a thoroughly oudated machine. I can honestly say that I was when I went shopping for a new bike last year. That doesn't mean it may not be a good bike for someone who just doesn't want to or can't put down the bucks for a more current design, but you get what you pay for. I just got tired of the heat issues, poor handling and lack of solutions from Kawasaki and found someone who wanted a Vaquero. I sincerely hope that he's still riding it and having fun.
Before the AVA hit squad starts looking for me, I'm not a Kawasaki hater. I've owned my share of Green Machines over the years besides the Vaquero; a KZ1300 in touring dress (now *there* was a touring bike with cojones!), a Voyager XII, a KLR 650. All three had their quirks (what bike doesn't?) but in the main were solid, reasonably priced motorcycles with great support from my local dealer. It's a shame that Kawasaki has the habit of developing a model and carrying it virtually unchanged for many years, with only minor tweaks. That might have been okay in the 80's and 90's, maybe, but it doesn't look like that's a sound plan today.
These days I ride a 2022 Street Glide and didn't grudge the additional money over the Voyager. Nobody likes paying more but if I'd bought a Vaquero or Voyager new in 2022 it would be substantially the same bike I bought in 2011.
I’ve owned 2 Vulcan Voyager 1700’s Great bike, not perfect but you can’t expect it to be for $13,500 brand new left over pre 2020 chaos. You get it Ivanized and you can’t beat the power and sound it makes for the money. $400 ECM flash makes a world of difference.
And replace the nut crusher seat.😂
@@helmutwerner8401 absolutely, I put a mustang vintage tourer, a little too hard but ten times better than factory
I've owned my 1700 Nomad for 13 years and still enjoy it. Very reliable and fun to ride. I've also rented multiple new Harley Electra Glides on my travels and enjoy them too. Yes the newer Harley's are nicer than the now 14 year old Vulcan 1700 platform. But are they $4k - $6k nicer than the Kawaski? Having spent thousands of miles on both, I can honestly say that in my experience they are not. If I were in the market for a new touring cruiser today I would get a 1700 Voyager. And if I were king of the world, I would make Polaris bring Victory back. The Cross Country was the sweet spot between the value/performance driven metric touring cruisers and the premium/heritage domestic baggers.
I bought a new 21' Vulcan 1700 Vaquero this year for WAY less than a Harley or Indian and I love it. The only way I was buying a similar Harley or Indian was used. Plus, there's a few guys out there that'll "Flash" your ECU and improve performance fairly cheaply. MPG, HP, Torque, everything. Much like Harley's Stage II, III, etc.
In the above video I stated, you can buy a new Voyager for way less than a new H.D. touring bike and that you can get the ECU ''Flash'' for about 350 bucks and the Kawasaki wouldn't have the drivability problems. So if I was having a quiz on the above video, you'd pass that quiz. 😁
@@motorman857 I checked out a number of videos since I bought my Vaquero. I priced similar Indians & HD's where I live and they're almost twice as much as I paid. I'm not rich and I've owned 2 different 79' KZ1000 ST's. I will say, my side cover fell off a year after I bought it and had to replace the bolts myself. Luckily it fell off when I was stopped and not riding. I have a 21' that was NOS effectively I bought in 22'.
have had mine since 2017..Ivanized...40 k ...keep bike above 2500 in all gears ...good to go... 3year warranty ...$600 for 3 more years ..haven't had it to dealer once...easy maintenance 1 bath fluid change..by the way thanks for the riding tips...
Customizablity is also an issue with the metrics. I was a big Yamaha fan and still love the RoadStar. Now that I have a Harley though for what I want it checks all the boxes and the parts available are endless.
The Yamaha Star Eluder has always had me wondering. The last of those was the 2018. I test rode it and liked it. I was looking for a current year one. And all the site shows is the 2018. So I guess we have to buy the Star Vemture and take off the tour pack.....
I think they ceased production of it in 2021
Just bought an 04 Vulcan Nomad.. 2600 bucks. first big bike purchase. No regrets!
I owned a 1500 Vulcan classic for 15 years. Here’s why I switched to a Harley street glide.
1. In my area I was completely on my own as far as parts and service, the local Kawasaki dealership was no help. They never stocked parts and often times I would have to research what parts and part numbers I needed because they ordered the wrong stuff several times. Plus it took a week to get parts. Meanwhile my Harley buddies could run down to the local dealership and 9 out of ten times they had the part in stock this also comes in handy while traveling given that there is usually a Harley dealership within a few hours if you break down
2. Reliability. My Vulcan broke down more than any of my buddies Harley’s. I don’t know if my bike was built on a Friday but I had a lot of issues in that 15 years. I know this isn’t typical
3. Harley has more options. Especially in the aftermarket parts area. The aftermarket performance parts arena for metric cruisers has really dried up in recent years compared to what it used to be
4. I think it’s a safer bet that I’ll be able to get parts for a Harley in 20 years. I could be wrong but who knows
On a side note in my area the Harley dealers won’t let you test ride a bike except on demo days and the metric dealers all but throw the keys at you to get you on their bikes…🤷♂️. I think it might be dealership depending because I do know one Harley dealer that will let you take bikes out.
I have a similar story as most of these posts. I was ready to dish out 25K for a Road Glide and I was trading in my 98 Honda Shadow with 86k on it. So I went to our Honda/Kawasaki dealer and there was 2016 new Vaquero for 15K on the floor. Test road it and was hard pressed to see the 10K difference with the HD. So know I don't know what to do, the Vaq is water cooled. Dealer calls me and says he has a 2014 Vaq with 1800 miles on it. The wife's husband rode into 2016 and passed with cancer. Test road it, color was burnt orange and thing was still like new. Sold, they gave me 2600 for my Shadow and the balance for the Vaq was 5399.00 When we ride with all my bro's and stop almost everytime someone comes over and checks my bike out, it drives my bro's crazy.
I ride a Vlucan Nomad 1700 and I love it
Don't know about the current Kawas, but I had a 1500 Vulcan Nomad (sort of a Road King configuration) at the same time I had an Evo Ultra, and both were good bikes -- put right at 105-110K miles on both of them (had a 150 mile daily commute at the time) in all sorts of weather. The HD was a tad more nimble and was happier above 75mph, but both were wonderful at the long pavement (20-22 hours a day in the saddle was pretty common with both on longish rides -- east coast to the Dakotas... Rocky Mayer built the saddles for both). Surprisingly, the Nomad leaked way more oil than the HD, which was nearly leak free except for the base-gaskets as the miles mounted...
Hello Jerry, in 2010 I purchased a 2009 Kawasaki Nomad, it was a great bike and after 10 years zero issues, traded in in on Z900rs. Rode that for 3 years, traded it in on 2023 Kawasaki Voyager, love the bike but the accessories are hard to get, no more Vance/hines pipes for the 1700, Kawasaki has dropped a lot of accessories, can’t get the rear speakers for the top case, some Kawasaki dealers didn’t even bring the vaquero or the voyager in this year to sell, in British Columbia that is. I’m just adding my comment on my experience with this since I purchased the bike in middle of March. I’m happy with the bike, but I think Kawasaki is letting the cruiser bikes fall by the waist side. Ride-on
Another reason why they may not be selling as quickly is due to the lack of after market parts and upgrades available. Conversely with Harleys, the availability of these options is why Harley has such a strong market appeal.
I would buy a Harley if I could afford one, but I can’t. I am very happy with my Vulcan Voyager mostly because I was able to pay cash for it. I just love to ride.
And you can ride the same places.
During the COVID 19 shit I had ordered a new Helmet that took weeks to come in. The guy called me and said your helmet is came in. I went to the dealership to pick it up and notice a 2018 Goldwing Tour marked down $6800.00. I had asked the Sales Manager that I have bought from him before, and he stated that they are trying to move it off the showroom floor. I asked what is wrong with the bike and he stated that all the customers are buying the DCT automatics. I had previously owned a 2004 Honda Goldwing but jumped back into an Indian Scout which made my back hurt due to the suspension setup. Got a good trade on it and got a good deal on the Goldwing Tour.
the motorcycle stores around us won't let you test ride until you get pre approved for the loan
I believe the Yamaha Transcontinental is priced too high when comparing to Harley, Indian, BMW and Honda touring bikes. That doesn’t mean it’s not as good but when you’re trying to compete against the standards, you have to beat them in price considerably in order to get buyers to choose a different option. It’s how Lexus and Infiniti made their mark against BMW and Mercedes with cars. The Kawasaki’s lack of change, same body style and engine size for years is what hurts them, even though they are priced well. People want bikes to either change their engines and make improvements in power or accessories over the years. If the Yamaha had been priced sub $20k, I think they would have sold more. It’s supposedly a nice riding bike.
My thought always was - if you want a bike that looks like a Harley, buy a Harley. I know if I buy a non-Harley, after driving my Road King, it’ll be a Goldwing, a sport tourer or an adventure bike. If I want a full dresser, it’d be a Harley.
Here's another reason to buy a metric: you own other bikes, aren't really a cruiser guy, but you do want a v-twin cruiser with classic American styling, so your budget for a 2nd or 3rd bike doesn't accommodate the.....tribute $$ that dealerships want. So you snap up something metric that may not have the snob appeal of the bar and shield crowd, but here;s a news flash: THE ROAD DOESN'T KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.. Well produced video with excellent quality and intelligent discourse. THANK YOU for posting. (And yes, I have owned a vstar 1100 that I loved, and also an HD sportster (meeh). Nowadays I am a BMW / Triumph/ Ducati guy, but I also own a KLR650, so I wave to everyone).
Yep Jerry, I do like the look of the Vulcan Vaquero bagger 😎🏍️👍
Yes, that Valkyrie is a great value bike. A pity yes alot more dont ride them. But close price is a factor and to be the odd one out is hard for some.
I’m definitely passing on the $30,000 HD. Planning to upgrade my Vulcan cruiser to a Vaquero bagger. I will save THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of dollars by doing this and will enjoy my rides.
I've got a Vulcan 900 and test rode the bigger 1600. . For day to day rides and general cruiser duties the 900 is great. The weight is reasonable, it looks the part, and is fun to ride. The only thing it can't do is hard core touring. The middleweight cruiser is hard to beat for 95% of daily cruiser motorcycling.
I bought a beautiful 2009 Kawasaki voyager and only paid $6500 no taxes no dealer prep no markup had 30,000 miles on it beautiful blue and I love it there is a Lotta nice used motorcycles out there
Love my Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT.