Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad - 2006 Specifications and Reviews

The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad is a heavyweight cruiser designed for riders seeking comfort and commanding presence on long-distance rides. Its 1552cc V-twin engine delivers substantial low-end torque for relaxed cruising, while the classic styling and spacious seating appeal to touring-focused enthusiasts. Known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, the Nomad represents traditional American cruiser character with Japanese engineering.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2006
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
IgnitionTCBI Dual Plug Digital Advance
Fuel controlSOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemCarburettor. DFI with Keihin 46mm Throttle Bodies (2)
Bore x stroke102.0 x 95.0 mm (4.0 x 3.7 inches)
Compression9.0:1
Torque127.46
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1552.00 ccm (94.70 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,689 mm (66.5 inches)
Seat height719 mm (28.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight350.2 kg (772.0 pounds)

Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/70-16
Front tyre dimensions150/80-16
Rear suspensionTwin Air Adjustable Shocks, 4-Way Rebound Damping
Front suspension43mm Fork
Rake (fork angle)32.0°

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsMetallic Dark Green/Metallic Phantom Silver, Ebony
Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)

Other specs

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

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City40%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring92%
Passenger90%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with some prior experience on heavy cruisers, since the substantial weight and long wheelbase demand confident low-speed handling.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed long-distance touring with a passenger and luggage rather than spirited sport riding.
Rider FitA low seat height makes it approachable for shorter riders, but the near 350kg mass means good upper-body strength and balance are needed at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterA 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 ForNot a good match for riders wanting agile cornering, off-road capability, or a light, flickable city commuter.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 719mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 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.

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