2023 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero 1700 Full Test and Review - Best Value Bagger

[@marsoelflaco5722]

Absolutely nothing wrong with an affordable, reliable, motorcycle with all the features you need and nothing you don't. Screw all those motorcycle snobs out there!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, I started riding at a time when fuel injection and ABS on motorcycles was considered high tech. Only for the BMWs back then. I don't need the amenities. A good motor and chassis are the most important things.

[@robertparisi8016]

I went that route and bought one, comfortable, balanced, stupid windshield, crappy radio, nice plush ride, ECU is horrendous!!!! Backfires down long hill decent, dead spots galore, ivan remap is a must! Accessories are high priced like passenger floorboards, rider and passenger backrest, if you remap u lose your warranty, bike cost me 18000 plus, key necessary to open bags, can't believe you didn't notice this, Kawasaki will not fix this lean problem, they claim, government and epa standards are forcing this,, terrible, sold it for a song!!!

[@stratolestele7611]

​@@robertparisi8016well, it IS true. All the manufacturers talk about the problems the EPA emissions regulations that require a one size fits all, lean EFI mapping. And, every single vehicle manufacturer will not honor the warranty should you make a mod that causes a condition directly connected to said mod.

[@robertparisi8016]

@@stratolestele7611 I agree, all for saving the planet but the bike has to run right! I'm afraid we're leaning towards locked or tamper proof ecu`s, manufacturers claim its epa, for off road use only, so if you ride off road it's OK to modify the ecu, lol. I don't even want super performance, I just want linear throttle response, no dead spots, no backfiring on hill decents , and no govenors, not to much to ask for, I think that can still save the planet,

[@me-xz2xn]

@@robertparisi8016well a friend of mine paid over 30 grand for a street Glide with the M8 …. What a heat sink that thing was, ran extremely lean and terribly hot , cook you at a light …. Had to buy a tuner for it too richen it up ….. Harley only offered him the stage one lol Of course , more money lololol Street glide had better infotainment ( if your into that) … But not worth the extra 10 grand thats forsure

[@jonlynn1864]

I am an Indian guy myself, have owned and like Kawasaki. 99.5% of your comments are spot on . I don't know much about the economy in Canada, but where I like in Oklahoma, a new Chieftain would only be about 3K more. I actually discovered the hard way that service cost are cheaper (here in the lower 48) on my Indian than my Vulcan was. And I also discovered aftermarket for any motorcycle is expensive, even the Japanese bikes, I put waaaay too muck money in to a Honda Shadow and the Vulcan I mentioned before. And lastly, I am NOT a Harley fan at all! If I had to chose between a Kawasaki and a Harley, I would pick the Kawasaki all day long

[@whiskeyshots]

I've got a 2020 Voyager and agree completely with your assessment. I test rode a comparable Harley back to back with the Voyager. The Harley was nicer, but not $8k nicer, which was the price difference. Haven't regretted buying the Voyager for a second and wouldn't hesitate recommending the Vaquero if you want a bagger.

[@SergioAponteTatito]

I just purchased the Voyager due to all the points you make in this video. I just took a 1200 miles trip and it was a great ride.

[@WindTherapy-rb1zs]

Owned a vaquero for 8 years. Performance was great no issues. Like the video says they are dated. If it was as popular as HD aftermarket parts would be excellent. I got a corbin seat and new exhaust. Thats about all thats made. Stereo stunk. Good video spot on.

[@TheMarky26]

I have a 2021 vaquero and I love it for the price. Ive never had a bike get so many looks and start so many conversations.

[@BossCopeland91]

I have had my 2020 Vaquero, and it has been one of my most favorite bikes Iv owned.

[@freeman436]

The Suzuki Intruder 1400 was my first bike. Bought it in my early 30s. Rode it exclusively (no 4W vehicle) for five years. The Vulcan was definitely on my radar even then.

[@xplaur]

I started my journey 3 years ago on a 2009 Yamaha VStar 1300 and I still have it and love it.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

That's a pretty big bike to start on but I was the same. Starter on a 1400 and learned fast. It's a great hobby.

[@sprezzatura8755]

You can always get a better seat to accommodate a passenger. Probably a backrest as well. Great bike and incredible value for money.

[@petropete3122]

I’m a huge Japanese bike fan myself. It’s all about RELIABILITY. Not all the fancy do dad crap that has their issues as you said. Beauty bike. Tks for sharing and ride safe.

[@brettcreech3490]

I ride a 2005 Vulcan nomad with a batwing fairing. It’s a 1600 it’s a great bike. Thanks for the video.

[@simonlangmead7]

You can’t go wrong with this bike, for big V-twin cruiser / touring bikes, practically nothing beats this bike. Good price, the best reliability and longest service life (Assuming it’s well maintained) forget about the badge, it doesn’t do anything for you when stuck on the side of the road. You know who I’m referring to. But better to get the Voyager, as much as I love the look of the Vaquero. Extra wind protection, better seat, and far better luggage capacity.

[@Clearsyde]

I bought a 2023 last year and I really enjoy the bike. Main deciding factor of buying one was the Harley dealership lowballed me on my sportster 48 trade and they still wanted 26,500 for a street glide special. The bike was listed at 26,500 before my trade-in so I knew how the deal was going to go. They never even ran my credit. They just came out with the four square System and I got up and walked away. My local Kawasaki dealer gave me more money on trade and I got the bike for 11,000 out the door. I know it doesn’t have all the gizmo and gadgets as the street glide but it does everything I needed to do and I have my phone mounted on my handlebars for anything else. Have the freedom Performance 2into1 exhaust, Ivan tune, Klockworks windshield, LED lighting, Kawasaki gel seat and air cleaner. Also another shock I don’t think a lot of people think about but the insurance if I would’ve got the street glide would’ve been over $250 a month for full coverage I pay $60 for the vaquero.

[@anthonysilvestri4946]

So you saved $15K and got a better and much more reliable bike? LOL But what about the T-Shirts? What will you wear while your riding 😞

[@mbarr1029]

My 2016 Is the best bike I ever owned. Throttle was very jerky till I got the ECU flash from Ivan. Now it is a keeper. And you can use 6th gear at 70 mph after the Flash. Big bonus.

[@zachredner8]

Ivan flashed mine about 2 weeks ago, and it improved the way it runs and I'm getting about 4 MPG better than it was and it runs a lot Cooler which is better for the engine.

[@douglashawkins4402]

I love my Voyager and with the ECU flashed it's even better. It's more basic then other $$ brands but getting one used can save you thousands more.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, there are some good deals on the used market.

[@patrickdavis7815]

Flash from Ivan ...night and day...

[@zachredner8]

@@patrickdavis7815 Ivan flashed mine about 2 weeks ago, and it improved the way it runs and I'm getting about 4 MPG better than it was and it runs a lot Cooler which is better for the engine.

[@HercMechCC130]

It’s one of the best handling baggers I’ve ever test rode, It’s actually fun to toss around in corners!

[@samueljeppsen9785]

The Kaw's are very-very good machines. They are trouble free too.

[@wingandhog]

My bro-in-law has a 2016 Voyager. It’s a nice bike for a decent price. Much better performance when the Ivan’s tune was done on it. I myself ride a Harley Electra Glide and a GoldWing GL-1800. Love those machines as well.

[@mbarr1029]

Ivans flash was game changing for me.

[@zachredner8]

Ivan flashed mine about 2 weeks ago, and it improved the way it runs and I'm getting about 4 MPG better than it was and it runs a lot Cooler which is better for the engine.

[@guyfuller1369]

I’ve come to expect fair-minded, intelligent assessments from your channel, and this review does not disappoint. Though I’m not much for fairings, the Vaquero’s, being frame-mounted, is sensible. And it’s not the ugliest lump o’ plastic I’ve seen on the front of a big motorcycle. Can’t stand the MoFoCo’s bat wing look, by contrast. I like that you put a thousand miles on a bike before you rate it. Great content.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thank you! I do believe that the Road Glide might be the ugliest motorcycle on the road today. The Vaquero looks waaay better.

[@lotuscorpse]

If you like the Vaquero but don't want the fairing, Nomad. Same bike but it's the Roadking competition.

[@guyfuller1369]

@@lotuscorpse And a very attractive motorcycle. I opted for the Indian Springfield.

[@deanblanton-fh3gq]

Nice bagger if it wasn’t one ugly color of flat black. No class there. Whats up? Nobody at Kawasaki like beautiful colors with a little chrome or polished metal. No! We are forced to be stuck with this ugly murdered look. Sounds violent. Come on folks at Kawasaki get your heads out of the sand and return to the wonderful world of colors on a great bike. Might help your sales.

[@KevinAbyss]

Best review of that bike, thanks a lot!

[@indiorider8539]

Nice bike! I remember seeing this bike hit the market some years ago. Do like the look! For the money it's a great buy! Yeah, it doesn't have all the new technology, but it makes it a rider's bike for sure. And one thing for sure that you said, metric bikes will make it home. Totally agree with that statement. Great, informative video as always! Hasta luego!

[@quacker998]

The vaquero is a great bike (I’m falling in love with mine) but the voyager is the better complete touring bike especially if you can get a deal (low ish mileage used ones particularly good value and stone axe reliable with basic maintenance) thanks for the review

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

No problem. Yes, these bikes have been around long enough that you can find plenty of used ones on the market.

[@sirdirtydog705]

I bought a ‘14 Voyager in ‘22 with ~9200 miles, besides a vented 12” (summers in AZ) and 14” windscreen from Clear View, I had it Ivanized. Night/day difference overall. No flat spots in the throttle, no more backfiring, fan kicks in earlier than stock and a slew of other areas you won’t notice if you don’t know your bike. It is stock less the items listed. I like my big 900# girl, she holds her weight low, rides very nice on curving roads. I was eyeing the vaquero but the wife liked the backseat better on the Voyager. Plenty of luggage space for my multi-state rides. No regrets.

[@eb1941]

I am riding a 20 yr old road king. Bought it new and only put 20k miles. No issues at all, it is just getting long in the tooth. I will check out the voyager. Great review.

[@jvidrio31]

I have a 2022. And love it. It definitely looks bigger next to any H.D. I've road all around California on it and never seen one other than mine. That alone made me love it more. It's not a bad bike . Especially for the price. You can't go wrong with one.👍

[@DJGENOTYPE]

An air intake and slip on exhaust with a Loyds tune will give you the extra power that you need. And your right. I had a 2011 and put almost 40,000 miles. Only issue I had was rear wheel bearing needing to be replaced.

[@michaelroman2606]

I have the 1700 vaquero. It truly is a good riding motorcycle. Everything mentioned in this video is true. I just completed a 2300 mise ride from So. Calif. to Oregon & Washington & back. Rode 8-10 hours a day and never was sore or stiff at the end of the day. Handled great when riding through the Redwoods. I have owned Harley baggers since 1995 and this Vulcan is just as comfortable and rides a little more smother, when riding long distances. As far as the sound system definitely below average. This obviously was not important to Kawasaki. Its all true a good, reliable, comfortable bike thousands of dollars cheaper than the Harley.

[@OldMotorcycleAdventures]

I've always loved the looks of the vaquero, since before I bought my bike. I've owned a '79 Kawasaki KZ750 for a decade now. I can't justify buying anything newer because this old Kawasaki just runs perfect still! Great review, maybe in a decade or two I will own a Vaquero 😂

[@mikewillette6383]

This my first time watching one of your videos, and it kept my interest. I watch reviews of multiple brands and styles of bikes for fun. I did find humor in your comment about how metric bikes get you home. Unfortunately for me I had three bad experiences with a Honda VT1100 that had me on a trailer or flatbed to get home. Since I have owned three Harleys and put a total of 100k miles on them and was never stranded. Of course I know everyone’s experience can vary. My current ride is an Indian Pursuit. I will check out more of your videos in the future.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Awesome, thanks! Yep, when you generalize about bikes you will always find the exception. I never had a problem with my Sportster Roadster but I can't say the same for my old Moto Guzzi.

[@GearHeadMoto]

My first bike was a 1998 Vulcan Classic 1500. Great bike and I put a lot of miles on it without any issues. I've since put 90,000 miles on my Harley but it is needing a full rebuild. I love the Indian Challenger but not the price. I also like the Victory motorcycles but they are hard to get parts for them. I am strongly considering purchasing a new or slightly used Vaquero 1700 since most of my miles are highway miles.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

There almost 50% of the price of a new Harley. These motors last forever they are a complete bargain one you put the right windshield on it. I owned a 1600 version of the Vulcan with a batwing fairing installed and lowers on it. Someone spent a lot of money on it. I enjoyed cruising around on it kind of reminded me of the cruiser version of a v-storm 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, there's nothing quite like a big V-Twin. Not fast but it feels like being pushed by a tidal wave.

[@manchildglass5471]

Love your videos. So glad someone gave this bike attention! Been thinking about getting one for a while but I’ll likely end up with a used Harley

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, the Harley sound is hard to pass up.

[@TerenceKaplan]

I bought a 1500 Vulcan in 2008. The next year the 1700 came out with a 6th gear and cruise control. Dammit.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, this engine rocks. People complain that it's not as fast as the Harley 117 or the Challenger, but it's close enough considering the price.

[@anthonysilvestri4946]

@@DifferentSpokesTV So people are taking their Baggers to the track to challenge R6s and Gixxers??? LOL 🙂

[@danvesa1182]

I am seriously considering this for my next bike. I currently run the 07 kawasaki Vulcan 2000! So for me I'd be going down in power and torque, but it's very well tunable. Great reliable bike!

[@AyaWetts]

Love my Voyager for long cruises even if its gigantic and harder to ride than a smaller bike.

[@toddrobinson8876]

Really enjoyed seeing a review on this bike. I have a 2017 and love it. Admittedly the aftermarket isn’t huge but there is some. Intake, exhaust and tune and your good to go. The Voyager is definitely the pick for 2 up touring.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

These have been around forever so the aftermarket stepped in with the pipes. I liked the stock sound but just a tad lighter would have been nice.

[@shep68]

Pretty much agree with ur assessment. It’s a good lower budget option. Dated styling and they say it needs a special tune (Ivan tune maybe???) to smooth out some stock issues. Which voids the warranty of course. Not a fan of the fairing or dash but that’s subjective. I prefer my HD Limited but agree this isn’t a bad option.

[@positivelynegative9149]

👍 I can't imagine getting that instead of the Voyager for just a few dollars more.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I tend to agree. It's not the cool thing to do but the windshield alone would sell me on the Voyager. nYou could listen to the stereo at speed and even listen to podcasts on your headset when you're going long.

[@Judaspriestfan86]

I looked at both a couple weeks ago. Ended up taking home the Voyager. The amount of extra things you get for $700 more.

[@anthonysilvestri4946]

The Vaquero looks super cool and the Voyager looks like a "Grandpa Bike" LOL - It's really as simple as that...

[@bradmartin3666]

If i ever parted ways with my current HD CVO Road Glide then id pick one of these up. Highly impressed with this bike.

[@theeaselrider4032]

My test ride on one was a few years ago, on road course at Cayuga. While I was trying to not drag stuff, I was surprised how hard I could push it before it did. It was stable in fast corners, and managed the low speed stuff without any struggles. The next bike I buy will likely be my last - this one is on the list of candidates.

[@Axr24have]

Great review man! Yes, I do see myself on a bagger…. Or, a big adv bike. I will closer at the Kawasaki. 😊

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Glad I could help.

[@kml86]

I have a 2009 Voyager 1700. Fantastic bike. Mine has V&H pipes and an Ivan performance flash. Great sound and throttle response. The unfortunate thing I would say about these bikes and the voyager is the audio. They are still running same audio as my 2009 (Honestly, pretty much everything is the same) and there is no bluetooth capabilities. You can find adapters to bluetooth but it leaves the handlebar controls not useable except for the volume buttons. If they upgraded the audio and added gps it would really be up there in the running against HD and Indians. For the price its an excellent Motocycle but within the community of riders it seems that the primary change anyone can point out over the last 14 or so years is nothing but the color options.

[@craigbonell4459]

Great review I have a 2019 classic this bike sounds good and I do like Kawasaki my bike I have now has been great but I do like this one

[@exothermal.sprocket]

In Wisconsin, probably 90% or more of the bikes are HD/baggers. And because something is so popular, I tend to look the other way. Hahaha The only cruiser I enjoyed a little time on was the late Yamaha Raider with that big beautiful smooth 113 monster. It was SO smooth, and good sounding.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the Raider was a Hot Rod. We don't get them here in Canada but there are still quite a few on the used market.

[@MoxieMike66]

I bought a 21' Vaquero last year new. I'm 5'7", I added a taller windshield and the factory backrest as well as passenger footboards. Been riding a 79' 1000 ST for most of the 18yrs I've been riding. It was at least $10k less than a comparable Indian or HD when I compared prices online. I don't care about "fitting in" or having what's "trendy". I live in NH and it handled great even riding on pavement they were redoing for weeks riding back & forth to work (cheese grater).

[@robertparisi8016]

Did you do the ivan reflash?

[@MoxieMike66]

@@robertparisi8016 Not yet. I'm seriously tempted, if only for the MPG & smoother throttle response.

[@johntramburg3278]

I’ve been riding street motorcycles since 1981 and Harleys exclusively since 1995. The Vaquero is the only metric bagger that’s ever been appealing to me. Kawasaki knocked it out of the park on this one.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, it does have that big twin feel and look.

[@MontysMotos]

If you're going to lay down some interstate miles, the Vulcan 1700 (preferably Voyager) is the way to do it. Most comfortable bike I've ridden. It's a little awkward at low speeds and not what I would call "sporty". Also, getting that rear wheel off is hell.

[@williamheckler3818]

I really wanted to try the vaquero but couldn't find one in stock within 500 miles of me...either they don't sell well here in PA or the sell very fast...I don't see many out riding...I ended up buying a well maintained lightly used street glide for around same price point...I definitely like the looks of the vaquero though. Thanks for the vid. Ride safe!

[@philliplegault3392]

I ordered a 2024 excited to get it... were did you ride in this video? They look like nice riding

[@DaJoost075]

Ill be test riding a 2023 model tomorrow and im kinda excited about it. I have a 2000 Vulcan 800 classic that i got for a first bike and after a year of it i do love it buttttt being 6'4 I need something a little bigger

[@harryhowell5644]

This was a bike i was looking at. The voyager. But none were available in my area. Then i fell in love with Harley Davidson and been riding them ever since 😮

[@chrisdeimler5031]

I have run Harley and Kawasaki for 30 years I currently have only a 92flh but the kaw is the only current model bagger I would consider Thay are simple reliable and the only good looking current model and at a decent price

[@soko1962]

Great review, thank you. My first bike was a Kawasaki 440 LTD and my latest bike was a 2005 Honda VTX 1800n. Looks like my last bike may be a Kawasaki again?

[@cbrippee]

I think in a modern market of lower total sales of bagger/crusier/tourer motorcycles, and thus higher prices from Harley and Indian and Honda Goldwing now being 30k and much more, the Vaquero and Voyager are great bargains. Yes outdated audio which can be bluetooth corrected, and windshield manufacturers like Clearview can take care of the poor excuse of the windshield. Ivans performance can take care of the inherent way that Kawasaki dealt with emissions, and you have still saved a lot of thousands of dollars. And Kawasakis are very reliable. I myself really like the fairing being different from the rest. Very nice and accurate review IMO.

[@ons-psi-gs]

Couldn’t beat that with the triumph

[@LesterSuarezGonzalez-dz9ns]

Absolutely Stunning, Spectacular and Beautiful bike!!, Truly love this Amazing Machine!!, Great video And Thanks for The information!!

[@dxhamshack7905]

Nice review. Does it have quickshifter?

[@wireup4321]

I own a 2017...Only con with the VV1700 is it doesn't come in all the bells and whistle, and each years model only comes in one color... other than that, the bike is perfect....8.5 outta 10

[@BrokeDownBob]

I have 2018 Voyager 1700 ABS. Bought it new and have put 50K miles on it trouble free. Does it have all the latest gadgets? No, and I don't need them. It's a fine touring motorcycle and cost me $17,500 USD. A pretty sweet deal if you ask me!

[@halinabiegalski9509]

Great review, interesting bike and beautiful video as usual 👍

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thank you as usual :)

[@artstar5994]

Great review!

[@theodoremorgan5826]

Just bought a 2023 kawasaki vulcan vaquero abs. I have 1,500 on it. The dealership made some mods before i bought. Different handle bars. Freedom slip on exhaust. Led front and rear turn signals. No lolly pop. Only problem, i had the dealership retune it and it still pops on the deceleration. And runs extremely hot. Other than that a great bike. Thinking on Ivan tune. Not sure yet cause it will void the warranty. I also put on a K&N air filter. So, any thoughts on the popping? Retune same place or Ivan tune? Thanks for the video. Much appreciated

[@cecilhunter5228]

I have a 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan Classic that has never left me broken down beside the road.

[@lauroandres8324]

I own one and very satisfied with it. My gripe is that the DRL and headlight are both turned on when starting the engine and don't come off until I switch off the engine.

[@wills5482]

It's a BS security regulation in some countries

[@johnanderson9735]

Great review. I’m spoiled by my Goldwing which I bought at $ 22,500 back in 2019. But I love the space and luggage capacity. It would be tough to give up my Wing, but the Vulcan scratches the V-Twin itch at a much better price than HD.

[@gigi9467]

After a bunch of baggers harleys my next bike will definitely be a Ge its smaller ans light now something i was hoping for

[@Ritalie]

Not many people can afford to buy a new Goldwing. That's a hell of a bike.

[@WayRoo34]

​@@Ritalie agree!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I reviewed the Wing with the full trunk last summer and that was a great bike. The saddle bags were small but the 61 litre top case took both of our helmets with GoPros on them plus our riding pants, gloves etc. The location of the fuel tank and engine made it feel quite light. I'd like a larger tank but other than that I had no complaints. Great bike!

[@rosarioroberto5823]

Greetings, As always another fantastic detailed video 🇺🇸🎉🍾🇺🇸 Would you share with us about engine vibrations, noise and heat. Thank you so much for assisting us.

[@danielcampana4561]

Can you compare this bike against the Indian challenger and the Indian pursuit? I believe that this will very helpful to those interested in everything except a Harley-Davidson. Thanks

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I'll try to get a hold of those Indians this summer. No promises as Indian doesn't really bring a press fleet to Canada and I don't feel like a half hour test ride is enough to get a proper feel for the bike.

[@devanwise494]

I ride a 103 Street glide with a tune and 2 in to 1. I got murdered to 80mph by an elderly man on a vaquero yesterday, saw the price and now I’m down the KZbin rabbit hole and looking to buy a vaquero

[@llano19fly]

I have never seen a Harley as good as my KZ-1000 !

[@jav9888]

Whats with the outdated displays? om 2023 that should have the latest super sport Display or a version of it. nice video thanks !

[@jonesfactor9]

This is the bike I hoped to end my riding days on. Great machine. Wish they would switch the bags to top loading

[@bradpierce7605]

Get a voyager, lower the rear and delete the trunk.

[@Scootir185]

Nice review. I live in Mexico where at least 30% of my riding is off pavement so no baggers for me. Still looks like a good bike for the $$.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, in Mexico it's adventure bikes and dual sports all the way.

[@jag1963]

I bought one brand new a year ago. sold it and bought a goldwing within 3 months.I absolutley hated it. Worse clunky gearbox no power at all so flashed the ECU at ivans and it made it worse. It was comfy though and handled pretty well too. If you are on a budget its very good value for money. That gearbox though. Like a tractor.

[@robertsands5837]

It’s time Kawi updated this design as it about a decade and half since this design first came out.

[@my.motorrad]

There’s a guy up by you that had a 2009 Voyager for 6 years. He put 700K km on it. Went by GV550, Garry. The Kawasakis let’s the good times roll I guess.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, Japanese bikes. They don't give you an excuse to upgrade by breaking down.

[@omnivore2220]

I like my Vulcan 1600 Classic, especially now that it has a Mustang saddle on it!

[@vincentdorsey8545]

Kawasaki Drifter 1500, Shaft drive love!

[@WayRoo34]

Excellent review, I'm loving my 2012. I'm in Ontario also, what route is that you are riding with the water on you right side?

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Most of the footage with the lakes was taken on Old Barry's Bay Road and on Letterkenny Road in the Madawasaka Valley. It's definitely worth taking a day to explore the area. Rockingham Road and Quadeville Road are also worth checking out in the area.

[@WayRoo34]

@Different Spokes TV thanks, its about 4 hour ride from west GTA, maybe one day I will get up there and check out the scenery

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Definitely. You could make a day of it or stay in the area overnight.

[@felipedourado5721]

Due to the (it's a shame to admit it) the narrowness of Brazilian market, those Vaqueros and Voyagers are not available here. For instance, few years ago Triumph brought here their amazing Thunderbird Storm and Thunderbird Commando and almost nobody bought them. Around 2016, if I'm not mistaken, Indian tried to establish their brand here and their "adventure" in our market did not last more than 2 and half years. A real pitty. Meanwhile, Harley kept its leadership in the large cruisers and baggers segment in our market that is somewhat "obsessed" for the Milwaukee brand. Due to our tax policies zero mileage Harleys were always very expensive here. Now the mix of our tax policies and the price policies Mr. Jochen Zeitz has determined to the Motor. Co. put zero mileage Harleys on the healm of absurd. That being said, I would be more than pleased, if I was looking for a brand new bagger, to give a try to one of those Vaqueros if Kawasaki sell them here, but it aint gonna happen I guess because of the "Harley fetish" that dominates the cruiser/bagger mindset in our already cited narrow market. People prefer to "sell their souls and one their kidneys" to buy a Harley than be seen on a good cruiser/bagger with other brand writen on the gas tank. Crazy and sad prejudice but true... In the context described above, I'm glad I can keep my Softail Deuce running perfectly. She may be old but she has being a faithful road companion. Thanks for "bringing out from the shadows" the mighty, well buit and reasonable priced Kawasaki Vaquero, I bike people should show some consideration. All the best from Brazil. ✌

[@robertparisi8016]

I bought a 21 vaquero and did not have the ivan reflash, i got discouraged at the ecu performance, deadspots, poor linear acceleration , popping and backfiring, i sold it, now im looking at a 2023, this time i am not even going to drive it until the reflash is done! $850 is well worth it im told, hope so, here we go again!!!

[@ericlou3405]

It’s 850 now😮😮😮😮😮, I got mine done for 350. But that was 4 years ago.

[@scottiecarroll5656]

I owned a2003 Yamaha venture for 5yrs loved that bike hated to sale it but my dream bike came up for sale victory magnum

[@garyrhode3755]

Is the Vaquero ever sale priced? nice looking touring bike.

[@SweetLou0523]

I think its a smarter buy to get the voyager and do the quick detach trunk mod. You get all the perks of the voyager, with a easy wardrobe chage you have all the looks of the vaquero. Kind of a no braihser choice really.

[@philliplegault3392]

I'm really considering this bike but can't find anywhere to test ride

[@gwynnromano5881]

A friend of mine put over 100K miles on his with just routine maintenance.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

That's why I ride Japanese bikes.

[@gordonwallin2368]

No, my Z1000 with a back bag abd tank bag. And fun. Cheers from the Pacific West Coast of Canada.

[@gordonwallin2368]

And, of course, a fullface helmet.

[@zthang]

Beautiful bike. A guy I know had one when I had my 2016 Road King and 17 Ultra Limited. He could go to Pigeon Forge, TN and sit in traffic and not worry about his bike blowing up. Back on one of the Super Chevy weekends traffic was so bad there were people pushing Harleys down the sidewalk and an Iron Horse caught on fire in the middle of the road. No idea why Harley can't stick a radiator on theirs plenty of room for it and when I rode mine on the interstate I'd have to hang my right leg off in the wind to keep it from melting. Not to mention my 17 Limited spent the whole summer of 17 in the shop with the monkeys at Harley trying to figure out what was wrong with the 107. Indians are even worse, too much heat. Give me liquid cooling and auto trans any day, hello Goldwing.

[@easyglider1307]

I have a 2014 Vaquero Special Edition (candy burnt orange paint makes it special I guess). My only gripe with the Vaquero, well 2 gripes, there is literally no aftermarket support for the bike and 2nd Kawasaki literally has made no changes to the Vaquero since it was born on 2011, with the exception of paint colors and standard ABS after 2012. Myself and many others had to rely on the ingenuity of other Vaquero owners that came up with solutions to do some upgrades. I added a 21 HD Road Glide to the stable and have to say, she definitely handles, brakes and delivers power better than the Vaquero. But don't get me wrong I still love the Vaquero.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks for the insight. It's surprising that a bike that has been around for so long has so little aftermarket support.

[@kelvinknaff9903]

Recently Road my RG to the PCH and back home.. Outside Knoxville TN. Round trip baby! Note: I-40 in Arizona and California suck, butt..

[@uberDoward]

I think all of the metric cruisers suffer from the same thing - the aftermarket is tiny compared to Harley. While people might make fun of HD for not changing for so long, but the silver lining there is that there are HUGE generations that share parts, and means the aftermarket for those HD segments are equally large. If you buy a metric cruiser, you had better be IN LOVE with it as it is, because you won't be able to alter much beyond the bars and seat. Indian's been doing a great job, imho, of helping seed their aftermarket. Let's face it - motorcycles are incredibly personal rides, and generally speaking most people want to individualize them. Open a Drag Specialties catalog, and you can build a full HD clone. Can't do that with any other manufacturer today.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, the Japanese cruisers definitely have less support because there aren't that many of them. The Vaquero has been around for well over a decade now so there may be a decent aftermarket for it, but nothing like HD.

[@wingandhog]

Not much really to do on a metric cruiser. No engine performance work required for my GoldWing GL-1800. One can add a bit of bling but really, a stock bike is all you need. My Harley on the other hand was a blank slate which I did all the mods I wanted to do, including the performance improvements of Stage 1 and 2.

[@robertlindstrom540]

The Voyager would be my pick, perhaps I again could persuade the wife to come with me. She says she is a bit cramped on my Vulcan so she stays at home these days. Well, that is not entirely a bad thing as I get to see her a lot now that we are both retired...

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

If you want to keep your wife happy on a bike, dressers are the answer. I had a Goldwing Tour last year and Brooke loved going on long rides on that thing. Like sitting on a throne.

[@odinsfire1409]

As a long time Kawasaki rider I would choose this over an Indian or Harley. It looks great in the flesh and personally I prefer it to the Indian equivalent and I like Indians. I don't like the look of the new Harley engines but this bike is freaking stylish imo.

[@browngreen933]

Nice bike. Good review.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks!

[@ronny-drz]

Great bike, but needs a tune to make it right. Great torque, smooth ride, but hard not to pay a little more and get the Kawi Voyageur with 2 more front lights, rear top case and taller windshield, passenger boards, etc, as you mentioned. I guess it depends what you want, bagger streamlined looks of the Vaquero or practicality and capacity of the Voyageur.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the baggers are cool right now but I'd go for the full dresser myself for not much more.

[@AlexS-gn9tq]

I own a Vulcan 900, which is probably the best entry-level cruiser on the market, IMO. It's a cheap, liquid cooled, super reliable full-size awesome sounding (with aftermarket pipes of course) cruiser. HD is simply out of reality with their prices. Yes, HD makes good motorcycles...until you see the price tag of a motorcycle with all essential options. I pray that Kawasaki doesn't kill their V-Twin cruisers. Otherwise, we'll be forced to pull a f*cking mortgage to buy 30-50k Harleys.

[@acourierofourhopesandaamer8303]

Idk about the new ones but 06/07 ish ones, my vulcan vn1600 nomad motor water pump seal went, is more expensive to repair the mixing coolant/oil issue than the books are worth. It's a engineering flaw.

[@davidpasquale8498]

From a Harley guy, nice machine n 1700 cc way plenty of motor. I have a old EVO 1991 flhs n for me that's plenty of motor n bike period. I'm 64 n retired I'm looking to go smaller in the near future, of what brand I don't know, but I'll probably look at all. My flhs is getting heavier by the year but I'll hang as long as I can, before moving on n I'll miss her when I do😢😅

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Next month I'll be reviewing the Rebel 1100T with the fairing and bags. It's a big step down in storage capacity but much, much lighter.

[@davidpasquale8498]

@@DifferentSpokesTV I will be looking forward to your next video as always, thank you, Dave P.

[@specb650]

I was considering a HD or Indian and I never knew this existed! 😮

[@joshuahazzard]

I agree mostly with what you said. But aesthetically, the Indian and Harley are way nicer. The bags are too round and the front fairing is weird with the two round side lights or air vents. I’m glad they’ve also stuck to a single colour. Some of the older bikes with pin striping are ugly, especially the green pin stripes.

[@cancelchannel3394]

I prefer kawasaki over Harley all day everyday, I own both 😊