2008Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD

★ 5.0

37 fields on record

The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD is an accessible cruiser perfectly suited for beginner and intermediate riders seeking classic styling on a manageable platform. Its liquid-cooled 498cc parallel-twin engine delivers reliable power with smooth handling, while the six-speed transmission provides versatile performance for both commuting and weekend cruising. Known for its affordable entry into cruiser culture, this model balances authentic design with user-friendly mechanics.

Capacity: 498.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 199.1 kg
Seat height: 714 mm
Power: 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)

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Other years 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding60%

Daily riding60%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track10%

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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 714mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 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: 498.0 ccm
Power: 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)
EPA Certificate No.: 8KAXC.498AAA-007-R01
EPA CO Emissions: 8.0 CO g/km
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1778 HP/kg (dry)
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
Dry weight: 199.1 kg
Wet weight: 214.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.10 litres
Ground clearance: 119 mm

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: Ebony

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