Kawasaki Vulcan Classic

[inditx]

Anybody ever own a 1500 or 1600 Classic Vulcan?
Thoughts?
Asking for a friend.....
inditx

[Ncdan]

I had one about a decade ago.
Short version, bullet proof great bike. I used mine for touring as well as around town. I only had it 20k but had 0 issues.
You will need a mustang, or other aftermarket saddle, if used for long distances touring.

[twowheeladdict]

I had a 2007 Vulcan Meanstreak from 2009 to 2016. There are several Vulcan specific forums, and rider groups that have regional and national events. They also have a source for information and manuals like the Guzzi source.

[vintagehoarder]

Highly reliable, good bikes.

[inditx]

Thanks fellas
How would they compare to other big cruisers?

[Ncdan]

Thanks fellas
How would they compare to other big cruisers?

Most all metrics will be very similar in dependability and fit and finish, as well as price.
HD is in a class if it’s own, whether one thinks it’s negative or positive.

[twowheeladdict]

Thanks fellas
How would they compare to other big cruisers?

I remember seeing Vulcans sitting beside Hondas, Suzukis, and Yamahas of the same time period and the Vulcans definitely had the best passenger accommodations if that means anything to your friend.  If they are looking for support in the future for a particular year range I would recommend looking up forums and see how active and helpful they are. 

Personally I like the shaft drive over chain or belt.

[inditx]

Thanks, apparently that matters to her I mean uh him or well anyways...... good to know.

I like the 1500 or 1600 with cast wheels/tubeless and of course fuel injection.
Not sure there’s enough difference between the 2. More about finding the one.
The forums seem to dig em!

inditx

[bigbikerrick]

Ive had 2. I regular vulcan 1500, then a Vulcan 1500 Nomad bagger. Great bikes, very comfortable mile eater. The only issue with the early ones is they came with a plastic oil pump drive gear that was known to strip out. The aftermarket makes a steel gear to replace it. Thats about the only issue I can think of.
Rick.

[nwguy]

I had a 1500 classic. Mechanically excellent and a beautiful bike, but after a 3 day trip on it I sold it. My back was killing me by the end of that trip. Maybe a backrest would have helped.

[farrider2]

Had a 2000 1500 Vulcan and it was rock solid - mile after mile (over 75K). The comment about the seat is correct - a Mustang or Corbin is a good choice if it works for you. 

There are lots of after market parts so you can upgrade it to suit your needs.  For example, if you put saddle bags and a rear trunk on it; it becomes a great long-distance cruiser (or buy a Nomad).   One caution, just don't expect it to travel at 85+ mph for extended periods because the steering geometry is not designed for that. It is a cruiser - not a rocket.

A wonderful machine in all.

[inditx]

Thanks fellas, as always helpful comments.
inditx

[rocker59]

Almost bought a Vulcan Vaquero this summer.

I balked and picked up the 2004 EV Touring.

[twowheeladdict]

Almost bought a Vulcan Vaquero this summer.

I balked and picked up the 2004 EV Touring.

That Vaquero has a sexy rear end! I had a Voyager for 60,000 miles.