2003 Kawasaki Vulcan

This is a generic review for the Vulcan 800 Classic, since they didn't change very much at all from the time they were introduced in 1996 until they were discontinued in favor of the 900cc version in 2006.

First, let me start off by proclaiming this to be a really good bike. I own 6 motorcycles currently, and this is the one I jump on the most for trips up to a few hundred miles in a day. Once the junk factory seat is replaced by a Corbin (or in my case, a Mustang) it is very comfortable. being over six feet tall, I also installed forward controls on it. Most people won't need to change the controls, but I like to stretch out a bit because of a bad knee.

The power is more than adequate for most purposes, and the bike will cruise on the freeway at speeds that can get your license revoked. It also handles really well when putting around at parking lot speeds. Being only a bit over 500 pounds dry, it handles much better than one would think, and it feels more nimble than the weight would indicate because it is well balanced. Riders above about 5 feet three inches will have no problems controlling it because of the low 27 inch seat height. The rear suspension is adjustable, though it is a bit of a chore to do this. The bike handles freeways and twisty mountain roads with equal aplomb, as long as one realizes this is no Ninja or GSXR, and uses a bit of sanity.

Fuel mileage is surprisingly good. I am averaging about 50mpg, even though most of my riding is done at above 7000 feet here in the SOuthern Rockies. With almost a five gallon tank, I generally run up to about 160 miles between fill-ups without switching to the reserve tank. At 160 miles I generally need to get off and have a "stretch" anyway!

These bikes are chain driven, unlike many in this class. I don't consider this to be a liability, since it has less unsprung weight than a drive shaft, improving the ride and handling. Chains are also more efficient at transferring horsepower and torque to the rear wheel than a drive shaft. And if you don't want to lube and adjust a chain every few weeks, belt drive conversions are currently available for a bit over $500. Remember though: chains are used on all racing bikes for a reason!

Since the VN800B has been around for a long time, there is always a veritable (a-hem) cornucopia of aftermarket accessories available for it on eBay. With the right choice of accessories, it will be mistaken by many for a Harley Soft Tail. I have seen even some Harley riders who have been embarrassed by making this presumption! If you are considering this bike, looks are probably important to you. It has "the look", especially after de-badging it, and adding some chrome and maybe a set of drag pipes.

For the price of the chrome accessories on many Harleys, if you buy a Vulcan 800 you'll get all the speed and performance of a typical Hog, with the reliability and inexpensive parts & maintenance of a Kawasaki.

If you like to ride long distances at all, plan on buying a decent seat for this bike, and you are basically good to go. The rest of the "stuff" you buy for it is not really necessary, but with the right choices of aftermarket and factory options here on eBay, you'll find that owning one is a pleasant experience.

Good riding, and keep the rubber side down!

Doby

I got this for a around town bike. I have a Kawa Nomad 1600 with cruise control for long trips wanted something smaller/lighter to run around locally on. This bike runs very smoothly and handles very well. It has lots of features for a smaller cc bike I was surprised would have...center stand, fuel gauge, hazard lights, small lockable storage compartment in back of seat perfect for wallet, cell phone etc, 2 helmet locks (one on each side of bike).

I was looking for a bigger bike.and I already own a "94" Kawasaki Vulcan 750.It has a shaft drive,Liquid cooled and a very big engine.It is a very comfortable riding bike

The bike is great. Faster than I need or will rarely use: power to spare. Very easy to ride, smooth, balanced and easy to handle. Being it is a "sport" cruiser it does ride a little stiff, so a long haul ride could be difficult without several stops to get out the cramps, bumps, and "Charlie Horses". As a bar hopper it's a perfect bike. If most of your rides are in town or just short jaunts n the country, this could be the bike for you. If you plan on long travels on a regular basis you might want to look at a more classic type of crusier. This bike will get more "Babes" however so what you want is what you get.

Really like this bike. Lots of accessories available for it. Had a few bugs to work out at first. Execellent bike for the price.

Excellent description of the bike. Prepared in advace and was riding a motorcycle which had been totaled 2 days after recieving it.

Thank You

excellent fuel economy with terrific performance . Can keep up with highway speeds and has great low end torque. charging system is little light for accessories.

the previous oner did a wonderful job on this bike it is beautiful. I have nick named her "The Beast"

Having owned a Goldwing, it is hard to come close to the comfort, quality or craftmanship in any other cruiser/touring bike. However, this Vulcan Nomad is a pretty sweet ride for a v-twin. The vibration takes getting used to, and I am not used to it yet, but I will. Good bike.

Three weeks ago I purchase a 2003 Vulcan Nomad. The performance was great. Just like I expected. The comfort is great. There is plenty of room for you and pessenger. It looks good.