2008Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic

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The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic is a traditional cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic V-twin character and relaxed riding dynamics. Its 1470cc air-cooled engine delivers strong low-end torque, making it ideal for casual highway cruising and leisurely rides. Known for reliable performance and classic styling, this middleweight cruiser appeals to experienced riders valuing comfort and straightforward mechanical simplicity.

Capacity: 1470.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 298.9 kg
Seat height: 701 mm
Power: 88.8 HP (65.3 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

Other years 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding65%

Touring72%

Two-up70%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed highway cruising and boulevard riding rather than sport performance or commuting agility.
Built for: A classic torque-rich V-twin cruiser that rewards a laid-back throttle hand with smooth, low-rev pulling power and shaft-drive reliability.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering response, off-road capability, or outright top-end speed.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 701mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1470.0 ccm
Power: 88.8 HP (65.3 kW)
EPA Certificate No.: 8KAXC1.47AAD-006-R01
EPA CO Emissions: 6.0 CO g/km
Torque: 114.7 Nm (11.7 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2971 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 102.0 x 90.0 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1666 mm
Overall length: 2504 mm
Overall width: 996 mm
Overall height: 1140 mm
Seat height: 701 mm
Dry weight: 298.9 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.90 litres
Ground clearance: 124 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: High-tensile steel, double cradle
Front suspension: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in.
Rear suspension: Twin Shocks, with five-way adjustable preload / 3.4 in.
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 86 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 165 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 270 mm
Front tyre: 130/90-16
Rear tyre: 150/80-16

Other

Color options: Ebony, Two Tone: Candy Cardinal Red / Pearl Crystal White

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	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Capacity	1470 cc	1470 cc	1470 cc	1470 cc	1470 cc
Dry weight	292 kg	292 kg	299 kg	299 kg	299 kg
Seat height	701 mm	701 mm	701 mm	701 mm	701 mm
Fuel capacity	15.9 L	15.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L	18.9 L