Why this forgotten Kawasaki touring machine still screams cross-country capability

Forgotten due to technological progress; that’s what happened, with everything getting bigger, better, faster and smaller by the week, it seemed. Contemporary motorcycles were generally well positioned compared to the models that had come before them, but things didn’t necessarily stop working simply because something newer had come onto the market. Here we found the Kawasaki Voyager XII.

This was a model that started production in 1986 and was released in 2003, giving it a nice long life before being replaced by the current Voyager series. It was equipped with numerous features that are now considered basic equipment. The engine was ready for two-person travel and was reasonably powerful for its time, while retaining a smaller overall size than its predecessors.

To give you the most current and accurate information, the data used to compile this article comes from Kawasaki. The information provided is current at the time of writing.

The Voyager had a smooth drivetrain that kept the miles rolling

Power for Voyager XII came from a smooth-running inline-four transversely mounted engine of 1,196 ccyet it was a good fit for Voyager’s relatively narrow build. It was a carbureted engine, so a whole row of Keihin tomato cans metered the mixture, which admittedly complicated matters when it came time to synchronize the carbs. Still, it was a reliable system, even if it got a bit dirty in terms of emissions in the end. This contributed to the demise of many models around the early 2000s.

The five-speed gearbox was not equipped with an overdrive gear. Still, it could reach a speed of about 80 mph before the vibrations became pronounced, although it generally had a reputation for being a smooth drivetrain. A shaft-type final drive provided quiet operation, although it could suffer from wear if not properly maintained. In any case, the Voyager XII had no tendency to jack, so it handled well, especially in the corners.

Voyager XII engine and performance specifications

The Voyager XII combines luxury with a light chassis and adjustable suspension

This was not Kawasaki’s first Travelerbut this particular year’s range had a narrow construction starting with the framework. It was an attempt to distance himself from the big and heavy touring bike crowd while you remain one luxury touring machine. It was intended as a more agile alternative to the big Harley-Davidsons and Gold Wings, and in that respect it was a success. The steering geometry was designed for good tracking at high speed, and good road manners were something that never became obsolete.

A set of air-adjustable forks led the way, while the air-adjustable rear shocks also featured a four-way rebound damping adjustment to fine-tune the rear end. This also gave Voyager XII the flexibility to handle varying cargo and passenger loads. General, the ride was quite nice and the handling was lightgiven its status as one fully dressed touring bike. Dual front brakes took care of everything discontinuation However, it was necessary to handle the wet weight of approximately 750 pounds ABS was not available on this model range.

Vintage style with functional touring on the Voyager

If there was one place where the Voyager XII showed its age, it was its appearance. It was a look decided upon in the mid-1980s and which persisted until replaced by the next generation. It remained a form-follows-function machine, offering decent rider protection, wide seats and a combination backrest and armrest for the passenger.

The flat seat cushions were also typical of that time and look a bit dated to modern eyes, just like the rest of the bike. However, the seats were adjustable so riders could dial them in to their preference. As for infotainment, it had everything for the time: an AM/FM receiver with a tape deck and front and rear speakers in an early surround sound setup.

Top cases and saddle boxes never went out of style either, although they were somewhat compact compared to some of the larger and much heavier American-style touring options available at the time. The useful thing about the Voyager XII was that you could tell the year by the color, as each year had its own color scheme that was not repeated within the model range.

Dimensions and capabilities of Voyager XII

It is the forgotten Kawasaki that rules the public road

The Kawasaki Voyager XII may have been overlooked in its day, but it quietly proved itself as a top-level touring machine. It was offered from 1986 to 2003 a rare blend of agile handling, comfortable two-seater seating and a smooth, shaft-driven inline-four who could overcome long highway kilometers without complaints.

Fully equipped with luggage, early surround-sound infotainment and adjustable front and rear suspension, it delivered features that many modern drivers still appreciate. The mid-eighties style may look dated now, but that of the Voyager XII balance, reliability and confidence in corners made it a practical companion for long distances.

Often overshadowed by heavier American cruisers or more high-profile Japanese tourers, it quietly earned a loyal following. Today it’s a forgotten Kawasaki classic that still screams cross-country ability. It’s a machine that proves you don’t need the latest technology to enjoy the open road.