Positioned in Kawasaki's touring motorcycle lineup, the 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad utilizes a 1470 cc (89.7 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 51 HP (37.2 kW) at 4,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 34.7 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Vulcan 1500 Nomad measures 351.5 kg (775 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.15 HP/kg (6.89 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 719 mm (28.3 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 15.89-liter (4.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 6.75 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 235 km (146 miles) between fill-ups.
Specific Output
34.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.15 HP/kg (6.89 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~235 km (146 mi)
Engine
Displacement1470.0 ccm (89.70 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power51.0 HP (37.2 kW)) @ 4500 RPM
Compression8.6:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionElectric
LubricationWet Sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
ClutchWet plate, multiple
Performance
0-400m15.33 seconds
Fuel Consumption6.75 litres/100 km (14.8 km/l or 34.85 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases156.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustDouble chrome pipes
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel
Rake32.0°
Trail188 mm (7.4 inches)
Front Suspension41mm stanchions
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear Suspensiondual dampers, adjustable for air-pressure, rebound damping
Rear Travel99 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase1666 mm (65.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre150/80-19 71H
Rear Tyre150/80-19 71H
Front BrakesDouble disc. Single-action, twin-piston calipers
Front Brake Ø279 mm (11.0 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-action
Rear Brake Ø318 mm (12.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.351.5 kg (775.0 pounds)
Seat Height719 mm (28.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
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.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
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.
