Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak is a heavyweight cruiser built for riders seeking aggressive styling and commanding presence. Its 1552cc V-twin engine delivers substantial low-end torque ideal for relaxed highway cruising, while the low-slung profile and shaft drive define its cruiser character. Best known for its menacing design and reliable performance in the custom cruiser segment.

5 stars Average rating: 5 from 1 votes
.

General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2008
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox2-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Fuel controlOHV
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x stroke102.0 x 95.0 mm (4.0 x 3.7 inches)
Compression9.0:1
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1552.00 ccm (94.70 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,704 mm (67.1 inches)
Overall width851 mm (33.5 inches)
Overall length2,410 mm (94.9 inches)
Overall height1,100 mm (43.3 inches)
Seat height701 mm (27.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight290.3 kg (640.0 pounds)
 
 

Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/60-17
Front tyre dimensions130/90-17
Rear suspensionDual air-assisted shocks with four-way rebound damping / 3.4 in.
Front suspension43mm inverted cartridge fork / 5.9 in.
Trail145 mm (5.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)32.0°
Frame typeHigh-tensile steel, double cradle

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsCandy Fire Red, Metallic Diablo Black
Fuel capacity17.03 litres (4.50 gallons)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

4.8s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City50%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding55%
Touring55%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis power cruiser suits riders who already have some experience handling a heavy, torque-laden V-twin at low speeds.
PurposeBuilt as a muscular performance cruiser, it favors bold, straight-line power delivery and street presence over outright cornering agility or long-haul comfort.
Rider FitAt roughly 290 kg dry with a low 701 mm seat height, it's manageable at rest for most body sizes but demands confident upper-body strength when maneuvering at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterThe Mean Streak has an aggressive, blacked-out streetfighter-cruiser attitude, pairing big-twin torque with a shaft drive for low-maintenance, muscular cruising.
Not Ideal ForIt's not a good fit for riders seeking a nimble commuter, an off-road capable machine, or a plush, wind-protected long-distance tourer.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 701mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Mean Streak, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.