Cruisers
2009Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD
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The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD is an entry-level cruiser perfectly suited for new and smaller-framed riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its liquid-cooled 498cc parallel-twin engine delivers approachable power while the six-speed transmission ensures comfortable highway capability. Known for its affordable price point and manageable weight, it remains a popular choice for riders transitioning to cruiser-style motorcycles.
- Capacity
- 498.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 214.1 kg
- Seat height
- 714 mm
- Power
- 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)
What’s new for the 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD
vs the 2008| Spec | 2008 | 2009 |
|---|---|---|
| Dry weight | 199.1 kg (438.9 pounds) | not listed |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising and easy commuting rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A classic small-displacement cruiser with laid-back styling and gentle, predictable manners.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking high-speed thrills, aggressive cornering, or serious off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 498.0 ccm
- Power
- 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)
- EPA Certificate No.
- 9KAXC.498AAA-002
- EPA CO Emissions
- 8.0 CO g/km
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1653 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 74.0 x 58.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.2:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Digital TCBI
- Aspiration
- Naturally aspirated
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1595 mm
- Overall length
- 2319 mm
- Overall width
- 831 mm
- Overall height
- 1125 mm
- Seat height
- 714 mm
- Wet weight
- 214.1 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 15.10 litres
- Ground clearance
- 119 mm
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Double-cradle, steel
- Front suspension
- 41mm hydraulic fork / 5.9 in.
- Rear suspension
- Dual hydraulic shocks with five-way adjustable spring preload / 3.9 in.
- Rake (fork angle)
- 33.0°
- Trail
- 150 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 140/90-15
Other
- Color options
- Metallic Imperial Red
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 498 cc | 498 cc | 498 cc | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Dry weight | 199 kg | 199 kg | 199 kg | — | — |
| Seat height | 714 mm | 714 mm | 714 mm | 714 mm | 714 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 15.1 L | 15.1 L | 15.1 L | 15.1 L | 15.1 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 1 recall may applySERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGESOct 2010 · 10V507000
KAWASAKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 VULCAN MOTORCYCLES. THE ENGINE MAY STALL IF THE RIDER IS COASTING WITH THE CLUTCH PULLED IN DUE TO AN IMPROPER SETTING OF THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT (ECU).
Risk: ENGINE STALLING COULD CREATE A POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ECU WITH ONE CONTAINING REVISED SETTINGS TO ADDRESS THE ENGINE STALLING. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KAWASAKI CONSUMER SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT 1-866-802-9381.
These recalls cover some 2009 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.
Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD?
The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD has a Capacity of 498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD have?
The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD has a Power of 35.4 HP (26.0 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD have?
The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD weigh?
The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD has a Wet weight of 214.1 kg (472.0 pounds).
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