14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic is a traditional cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic V-twin character and relaxed riding dynamics. Its 1470cc air-cooled engine delivers strong low-end torque, making it ideal for casual highway cruising and leisurely rides. Known for reliable performance and classic styling, this middleweight cruiser appeals to experienced riders valuing comfort and straightforward mechanical simplicity.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | TCBI with Digital Advance |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Injection. 32 degrees / 6.5 in. |
| Bore x stroke | 102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches) |
| Compression | 9.0:1 |
| Torque | 114.71 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1470.00 ccm (89.70 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,666 mm (65.6 inches) |
| Overall width | 996 mm (39.2 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,504 mm (98.6 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,140 mm (44.9 inches) |
| Seat height | 701 mm (27.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 298.9 kg (659.0 pounds) |
| | |
Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 270 mm (10.6 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/80-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 130/90-16 |
| Rear suspension | Twin Shocks, with five-way adjustable preload / 3.4 in. |
| Front suspension | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in. |
| Trail | 165 mm (6.5 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 32.0° |
| Frame type | High-tensile steel, double cradle |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Color options | Ebony, Two Tone: Candy Cardinal Red / Pearl Crystal White |
| Fuel capacity | 18.92 litres (5.00 gallons) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
5.8s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City45%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding65%
Touring72%
Passenger70%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders who already have some experience with big, heavy cruisers and are comfortable managing low-speed weight and long wheelbases. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed highway cruising and boulevard riding rather than sport performance or commuting agility. |
| Rider Fit | Its low seat height is friendly to shorter riders, but the substantial dry weight demands confident balance and upper body strength at parking-lot speeds. |
| Character | A classic torque-rich V-twin cruiser that rewards a laid-back throttle hand with smooth, low-rev pulling power and shaft-drive reliability. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering response, off-road capability, or outright top-end speed. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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