Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic

And was immediately seen as a shot across the bow of other big bore motorcycles of the time, notably the Honda Gold Wing (1200cc) and the Harley Davidson Electra Glide (1340cc). The 88 was a reference to the nominal displacement (in cubic inches) of the liquid-cooled V-twin engine, at 1,470 cc (89.7… Through 1999. It was immediately dubbed 'The King of the Cruisers' by at least one motorcycle magazine A four-speed transmission was blended with the "large for its time motor" and offered consumers a big-bore metric cruiser that was comfortable and relatively light-weight at just over 600 lb (270 k…

Had a 1,470 cc (90 cu in) liquid-cooled SOHC 50° V-twin engine with a single-pin crankshaft and a 5 speed transmission. Compared to the Vulcan 88 (which had been renamed to the Vulcan 1500 by that time), it had a lower 27.6-inch (700 mm) seat height, wide handlebar, and forward-mounted floorboards.

And ceased production

And lasted 2 years, before giving way to the 1600 Meanstreak. This performance version of the 1500 had the same basic engine as the 1500FI, but sported several upgrades including new camshafts, larger valves, larger fuel injection throttle bodies, new high compression pistons, and re-designed combus…

. It is notable for its large Indian-style fenders, wide solo seat, wide handlebars and fringe in several places.