Cruisers

2008Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad

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The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad is a cruiser-based touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking comfort and style on long-distance journeys. Powered by a liquid-cooled 1552cc V-twin engine, it delivers reliable performance with classic cruiser character. Known for its spacious seating, integrated touring features, and stable handling, the Nomad suits experienced riders prioritizing comfort and practicality.

Capacity: 1552.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 350.2 kg
Seat height: 719 mm
Power: 93.4 HP (68.7 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 riding40%

Daily riding60%

Touring92%

Two-up90%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed long-distance touring with a passenger and luggage rather than spirited sport riding.
Built for: A big-hearted V-twin-style cruiser (note: spec sheet lists a single-cylinder engine, which is unusual for this model and likely a data error since the Vulcan 1600 Nomad is factory-equipped with a 1552cc V-twin) that prioritizes smooth shaft-driven torque
Not ideal for: Not a good match for riders wanting agile cornering, off-road capability, or a light, flickable city commuter.

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 719mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 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: 1552.0 ccm
Power: 93.4 HP (68.7 kW)
EPA Certificate No.: 8KAXC1.55AAC-005-R01
EPA CO Emissions: 5.0 CO g/km
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2667 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 102.0 x 95.0 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCBI dual plug with digital advance
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1689 mm
Overall length: 2515 mm
Overall width: 1039 mm
Overall height: 1506 mm
Seat height: 719 mm
Dry weight: 350.2 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.10 litres
Ground clearance: 135 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: High-tensile steel, double cradle
Front suspension: 41mm hydraulic fork / 5.9 in.
Rear suspension: Dual air-assisted shocks with four-way rebound damping / 3.9 in.
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
Front tyre: 150/80-x16
Rear tyre: 170/70-x16

Other

Color options: Metallic Diablo Black, Two-Tone: Metallic Ocean Blue / Neutron Silver, Two-Tone: Candy Fire Red / Metallic Diablo Black

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	350 kg	350 kg	350 kg	350 kg	350 kg
Seat height	706 mm	719 mm	719 mm	719 mm	719 mm
Fuel capacity	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L