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02-09-2012, 08:42 PM | #1 |
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1600 vs. 1700 nomad
I'm looking at buying a nomad, but need a little input on the 1600 and 1700 models.
Does the 1700 get better mpg due to 6 speed tranny? Can you tell much difference in power between the two? I noticed they changed the rake, good or bad? Why belt instead of shaft drive on the newer models? Disclaimer: not trying to start a war over whose is better, just the facts,ma'am,just the facts. Login or Register to Remove Ads |
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02-09-2012, 09:10 PM | #2 |
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I went from a 1600 Classic to the 1700 Nomad. Have not ridden the 1600 Nomad. I debated buying a used older Nomad but went with the 1700 for the six speed, electronic cruise and the top opening bags.
On my 1600 I frequently found myself wishing for the sixth gear, and you'll absolutely love the cruise. A lot of folks don't like the tip opening bags, but I'm just the opposite, and prefer them. It's my understanding that the riding position is significantly different on the two bikes. Spend some time on each before you make your decision. Have fun!
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Old Crow (Bob) Lexington, KY 2010 1700 Nomad KawaNOW #01691 VRA National Vice President 2012 Kentucky Chapter Treasurer |
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02-09-2012, 09:55 PM | #3 |
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I've only test rode the 1600 Nomad, but I do own a 1600 Mean Streak and the 1700 Nomad. You really need to ride both to make your decisioin. Different ergonomics between the 1600 and 1700. So far I am averaging 40 MPG on the Nomad but it only has 1800 miles on it so I am hoping it will improve. I feel like the 1700 is more nimble than the 1600s I test rode. Love the cruise control and the top loading bags. The 6 speed is a plus if you like to lug along at 60 MPH or buzz down the interstate at 80.
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02-09-2012, 10:00 PM | #4 |
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I don't care for belt drive.
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Bill (usranger74) Blake 2016 Goldwing VBA # 1505 |
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02-10-2012, 09:01 AM | #5 |
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What issues have you had with belt drive?
I know folks who have had issues with drive shaft splines not being properly lubricated from the factory. My '01 Voyager XII developed a vibration due to the U-joint starting to where out. Changing the wheel I found to be just as easy with the belt drive as the drive shaft.
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Last edited by twowheeladdict; 02-10-2012 at 09:04 AM.
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02-10-2012, 10:05 AM | #6 |
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I don't think belt drive or shaft drive would make a difference to me either way. The manufacturers switched to belt because it a lot cheaper to produce.
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02-10-2012, 10:17 AM | #7 |
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I had a 1600 Nomad and now have a 1700 Vaquero (Nomad-like but with the old bags and the Voyager fairing).
There is a BIG difference in ergos between the 1600 frame and the 1700 frame. The 1600 is way more "stretched out" and can accommodate a taller rider than the 1700 can. I am 6'0" and felt that the 1600 was very roomy - to the point where I bought risers to offset some of the roominess - and the 1700 feels more crowded but (so far; it's very new to me) not uncomfortably so. I haven't noticed much more power in the 1700 but, like Old Crow, I do like being able to hit that sixth gear on the slab. And like twowheeladdict I find the more compact 1700 is more nimble and maneuverable at low speeds. But really, both the 1600 and 1700 are can't-lose machines. Try to ride both and see which fits you better. |
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02-10-2012, 10:44 AM | #8 | |
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02-10-2012, 10:54 AM | #9 |
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I own a 1600 Nomad, bought it new 7 years ago next month, and still loving it. I've ridden the Voyager and Vaquero (Nomad 1700 has the same frame) and found them to be very cramped. I'm 6'2" and my wife is 5"9", and the 1600 has way more room. But, the 1700s do handle a lot more nimble than the 1600. I have no preference when it comes to shaft-vs-belt. The side load bags look better to me, but the top load bags seem more practical. Like others have said you need to sit on each of them, and if possible test ride them before you make a decision.
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Cliff "VulcanE" Evans 2005 Blue & Silver 1600 Nomad VBA # 320 VROC # 20381 |
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02-10-2012, 11:38 AM | #10 |
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Having owned a 1600 Nomad and ridden a 1700 Nomad on more than one occasion, the 1700 feels (ergonomically) like a Harley. If you are shorter in stature - say, under 6'0", the 1700 is probably more comfy than a 1600. The reach to the bars is much greater on a 1600.
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02-10-2012, 12:19 PM | #11 | |
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Old Crow (Bob) Lexington, KY 2010 1700 Nomad KawaNOW #01691 VRA National Vice President 2012 Kentucky Chapter Treasurer |
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02-10-2012, 02:14 PM | #12 |
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Before buying my 1600 I looked at the 1700 at least 2 dozon times. I wanted the 'new' bike with warrenty. I am 6'5 and the 1600 felt great and as much as I wanted the newer, bigger engine, better etc...
I could not be happier with my desicion. There are also more aftermarket items for the 1600 and more/better resolutions for any mechanical issues.
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Richard Honzo Henderson, NV VBA #01951 2008 Diablo Black Nomad |
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02-10-2012, 02:37 PM | #13 | |
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I can't tell you why other than I just don't like them. I feel the same way about a chain drive.
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Bill (usranger74) Blake 2016 Goldwing VBA # 1505 |
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02-10-2012, 06:16 PM | #14 | |
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I understand not liking the chain drive. Having to oil it every 500 miles and after every rain. Wearing out sprockets and chains every 15,000 miles or so. The 1700s are my first belt drive bikes and I have no issues with them
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02-12-2012, 09:58 PM | #15 |
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I'm sure glad you all are discussing this. I've got an 06 nomad with 82 k on it, and have been thinking about a new 1700 nomad. And all the questions and answers I'm hearing, I have been wondering about. Just listing to you, I'm thinking the new nomad is sounding a lot better to me all the time.
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