Cruisers

1999Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad

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The 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad is a cruiser-touring machine designed for riders seeking comfortable long-distance travel with classic styling. Its 1470cc V-twin engine delivers moderate power ideal for highway cruising, while extensive touring features like saddlebags and windscreen make it well-suited for extended journeys.

Capacity: 1470.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 351.5 kg
Seat height: 719 mm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.5 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding35%

Daily riding55%

Touring90%

Two-up80%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed long-distance highway cruising and two-up touring rather than sport riding or commuting agility.
Built for: A laid-back, torque-driven shaft-drive cruiser with classic V-twin-style character delivered through a smooth liquid-cooled parallel-configured big-bore engine and long-haul comfort features.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or outright acceleration.

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 719mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad, 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: 1470.0 ccm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.5 kW)
Engine type: Parallel Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.1451 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 102.0 x 90.0 mm
Compression: 8.6:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Wet Sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet plate, multiple

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1666 mm
Overall length: 2510 mm
Overall width: 826 mm
Seat height: 719 mm
Wet weight: 351.5 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.90 litres
Oil capacity: 3.50 litres
Reserve fuel capacity: 4.20 litres
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Steel
Front suspension: 41mm stanchions
Rear suspension: dual dampers, adjustable for air-pressure, rebound damping
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 99 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 188 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Single-action, twin-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter: 279 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single-action
Rear brakes diameter: 318 mm
Front tyre: 150/80-19 71H
Rear tyre: 150/80-19 71H

Other

Color options: Red/red, green/green

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGSDec 1999 · 99V338000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. THE FUEL HOSE FROM THE FUEL FILTER TO THE THROTTLE ASSEMBLY CAN RUB AGAINST THE BOTTOM OF THE FUEL PUMP PLATE AND DEVELOP A LEAK.

Risk: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE WITH A MOLDED HOSE THAT CURVES AWAY FROM THE FUEL PUMP PLATE. ALSO, A NEW BRACKET AND GROMMET WILL BE ADDED TO HOLD THE NEW HOSE IN POSITION. THE FUEL RETURN HOSE WILL ALSO BE REPLACED.

These recalls cover some 1999 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

4.3

★★★★☆

Rider rating

MotorcycleDB

The 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad is a powerful and reliable cruiser motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable riding experience. Its 1470cc V-twin engine provides ample power for highway cruising, and the bike's comfortable seat and spacious saddlebags make it well-suited for long-distance travel. The Nomad also features a classic and stylish design, with standout chrome accents and a sleek, flowing silhouette. Overall, the 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad is a great choice for riders looking for a dependable and stylish cruiser motorcycle.

With its powerful engine and comfortable design, the 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad is a top choice for riders who prioritize performance and comfort. The bike's classic styling and ample storage options make it well-suited for long rides, while its reliable build quality ensures that it will continue to provide enjoyable rides for years to come. Whether cruising on the open highway or navigating city streets, the Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad is a versatile and capable cruiser that delivers a fantastic riding experience.

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