Built around Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic relies on a 1552 cc (94.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 102.0 x 95.0 mm (4.0 x 3.7 inches) with a 9.0:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the Vulcan 1600 Classic measures 306.2 kg (675 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 688 mm (27.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,679 mm (66.1 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20.06-liter (5.3 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
688 mm (27.1 in)
Engine
Displacement1552.0 ccm (94.70 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 95.0 mm (4.0 x 3.7 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox2-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeHigh-tensile steel, double cradle
Rake32.0°
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic fork / 5.9 in.
Rear SuspensionDual air-assisted shocks / 3.7 in.
Wheelbase1679 mm (66.1 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-x16
Rear Tyre170/70-x16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight306.2 kg (675.0 pounds)
Seat Height688 mm (27.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1130 mm (44.5 inches)
Overall Length2504 mm (98.6 inches)
Overall Width1039 mm (40.9 inches)
Fuel Capacity20.06 litres (5.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsMetallic Diablo Black, Metallic Diablo Black/Luminous Polaris Blue
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.
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.
