Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 vs. Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

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Overview - Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 vs Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

The Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 and the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 are both chopper/cruiser motorcycles that offer unique features and performance.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 has a bore of 102 mm and a stroke of 104 mm, while the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 has a slightly larger bore of 107.1 mm and a shorter stroke of 94.3 mm. In terms of engine power, the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 takes the lead with 94 HP compared to the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011's 73 HP. The torque is also higher in the Thunderbird LT, with 151 Nm compared to the Voyager Custom's 136 Nm. Both motorcycles have a belt transmission and liquid cooling system. The displacement is 1700 ccm for the Kawasaki and 1699 ccm for the Triumph.

Moving on to the chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame, but the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 has a double cradle frame type, while the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 has a twin tube frame type. This difference in frame design may result in variations in handling and stability.

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a similar wheelbase of 1665 mm. The Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 has a slightly higher seat height of 730 mm compared to the Thunderbird LT's 700 mm. The fuel tank capacity is also slightly larger in the Thunderbird LT, with 22 liters compared to the Voyager Custom's 20 liters. The tire widths and diameters are different, with the Thunderbird LT having wider front and rear tires (150 mm and 180 mm) compared to the Voyager Custom (130 mm and 170 mm).

Now let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 has a classic design that appeals to traditional motorcycle enthusiasts. It also boasts integrated electronics and ABS, which enhance safety and convenience. The Voyager Custom can reach relatively high speeds and offers spacious cases for storage.

On the other hand, the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 stands out for its solid and quality workmanship. It provides a comfortable and relaxed seating position, making long rides more enjoyable.

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

However, the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 does have some weaknesses. It is a heavyweight road cruiser, which may make it more challenging to handle for some riders. The brakes could also be stronger, affecting the overall stopping power of the motorcycle. Additionally, some riders may find the sound of the Voyager Custom disappointing, lacking the deep rumble commonly associated with cruisers.

As for the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014, one potential weakness is the windshield. Depending on personal preference, some riders may find it annoying or obstructive.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 and the Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014 offer unique features and performance in the chopper/cruiser category. While the Voyager Custom has a classic design and integrated electronics, the Thunderbird LT stands out for its solid workmanship and comfortable seating position. However, it is important for potential buyers to consider the specific strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle to determine which one best suits their preferences and riding style.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 compared to Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011
Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore102 mmBore107.1 mm
StrokeStroke104 mmStroke94.3 mm
Engine powerEngine power73 HPEngine power94 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power5,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power5,400 rpm
TorqueTorque136 NmTorque151 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque2,750 rpmRpm at Torque3,550 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio9.5 Compression Ratio9.7
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionBeltTransmissionBelt
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,700 ccmDisplacement1,699 ccm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeDouble cradleFrame typeTwin Tube

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons

Brakes Rear

PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width130 mmFront tyre width150 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height90 %Front tyre height80 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter16 inchFront tyre diameter16 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width170 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height70 %Rear tyre height70 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter16 inchRear tyre diameter16 inch
LengthLength2,510 mmLength2,546 mm
WidthWidth970 mmWidth956 mm
HeightHeight1,290 mmHeight1,225 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,665 mmWheelbase1,665 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height730 mmSeat Height700 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity20 lFuel Tank Capacity22 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011

Real men need to take action here and make themselves heard more. But the sound is the only weakness of the Voyager Custom, otherwise you can assume that it is tougher than most of us.

Classic design

integrated electronics

ABS

can reach relatively high speeds

spacious cases

Heavyweight road cruiser

brakes could be stronger

disappointing sound

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014

It was to be expected that the LT would not disappoint after the convincing performance of the Commander. What's more, the blue and white paintwork is already convincing at the car park; something for the history books. And once the windshield, the sissy bar, the pillion and the panniers have been removed, you're done for. Fuck big enduros!

Solid, quality workmanship

comfortable, relaxed seating position.

Windshield could easily be perceived as annoying, depending on how you feel.

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom vs Triumph Thunderbird LT

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom 2011 and a Triumph Thunderbird LT 2014. It takes less time to sell a Triumph Thunderbird LT with 37 days compared to 107 days for the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom. Since model year 2011 1000PS.de editors have written 2 reviews for the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom and 5 reviews for the Triumph Thunderbird LT since model year 2014. The first review for the Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom was published on 10/5/2010 and now has more than 20,400 views. This compares to more than 14,300 views for the first review on Triumph Thunderbird LT published on 11/3/2013.

Price Kawasaki VN 1700 Voyager Custom

Unfortunately, the data available to us is not sufficient to provide meaningful price information for this model.

Price Triumph Thunderbird LT

Model year
Current average market prices

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