2006Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic

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The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic is a heavyweight cruiser powered by a massive 1552cc V-twin engine, delivering commanding low-end torque ideal for relaxed highway cruising. Built for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability, it excels as a comfortable, easy-handling platform for long-distance touring and weekend rides.

Capacity: 1552.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 306.2 kg
Seat height: 696 mm
Power: 93.4 HP (68.7 kW)

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What’s new for the 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic

vs the 2005

Spec	2005	2006
Front suspension	43mm hydraulic fork	41mm hydraulic fork
Rear suspension	Dual shocks	Dual air assisted shocks

Other years 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding40%

Daily riding55%

Touring65%

Two-up70%

Track5%

Best for: Built for relaxed, torque-driven cruising and boulevard riding rather than outright speed or sport handling.
Built for: A classic V-twin cruiser with a laid-back stance, shaft drive smoothness, and a heritage custom look.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

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 us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 696mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 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: 1552.0 ccm
Power: 93.4 HP (68.7 kW)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.3050 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 102.0 x 95.0 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Valves per cylinder: 2
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Hydraulic release

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1679 mm
Overall length: 2504 mm
Overall width: 1039 mm
Overall height: 1130 mm
Seat height: 696 mm
Dry weight: 306.2 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.10 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: High-tensile steel, double cradle
Front suspension: 41mm hydraulic fork
Rear suspension: Dual air assisted shocks
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 94 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 168 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
Front tyre: 130/90-x16
Rear tyre: 170/70-x16

Other

Color options: Metallic Ocean Blue/Metallic Phantom Silver, Ebony/Candy Fire 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	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Capacity	1550 cc	1552 cc	1552 cc	1552 cc	1552 cc
Dry weight	306 kg	306 kg	306 kg	306 kg	306 kg
Seat height	696 mm	696 mm	696 mm	688 mm	688 mm
Fuel capacity	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L