The engine feels somewhat restrained by ECU, toned down like other cruiser save the M109R. I missed the characteristic Kawa kick a little as this is a big mutha. On the debit side, the engine generated too much intake noise for me at any speed. This is a conscious choice for Kawasaki, as they wish to please buyers who like to hear their bike, i.e. make noise, while making the exhaust system quiet enough to pass environmental testing criteria. I would certainly opt for some insulation in the airbox to cut it down to size.

This was my first long trek using a Shark Evoline 2 modular helmet. I could run about town in open face mode, with the long visor providing plenty of protection, and lowered the jaw while moving for highway riding, to create a world of enjoyable peace and quiet. The helmet did prove to be little heavy, features a built in shaded shield, but ventilation was a little marginal in town. Let’s have a carbon fibre model please.

Lots and lots of style! (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

Conclusion
The Vulcan 1700 Nomad gives you a lot of bike and standard features for the money: a modern high performance sound drive train, great suspension, cruise control, throttle by wire, a little more power, superior drivability at low rpm, large and well shaped bags, and record-low turbulence.

I loved the Nomad, much as I did the Victory Cross State aimed at the same market, as both are better touring bikes than the H-D Road King equivalent for the same money, but without the almighty image that makes H-D so strong all over the world.

Plus
Comfortable for heavier riders
NO turbulence or air noise at highway speeds
Low vibration level from engine

Less
No ABS and Traction Control
Stentorian boom-boom from the air box