Positioned in Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic utilizes a 1470 cc (89.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 114.7 Nm (84.6 lb-ft) at 2,800 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches) with a 9.0:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the Vulcan 1500 Classic measures 298.9 kg (659 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 701 mm (27.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,666 mm (65.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 18.92-liter (5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2005 to 2009, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
701 mm (27.6 in)
Engine
Displacement1470.0 ccm (89.70 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Torque114.7 Nm (11.7 kgf-m or 84.6 ft.lbs) @ 2800 RPM
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI with dual 36mm Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionTCBI with Digital Advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Chassis
Rake32.0°
Trail165 mm (6.5 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in.
Rear SuspensionTwin Shocks, with five-way adjustable preload / 3.4 in.
Wheelbase1666 mm (65.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-16
Rear Tyre150/80-16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø270 mm (10.6 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight298.9 kg (659.0 pounds)
Seat Height701 mm (27.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1140 mm (44.9 inches)
Overall Length2504 mm (98.6 inches)
Overall Width996 mm (39.2 inches)
Fuel Capacity18.92 litres (5.00 US gallons)
Other
Color OptionsEbony, Two Tone: Candy Cardinal Red / Pearl Crystal White
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
