Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad is a cruiser-based touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking comfort and style on long-distance journeys. Powered by a liquid-cooled 1552cc V-twin engine, it delivers reliable performance with classic cruiser character. Known for its spacious seating, integrated touring features, and stable handling, the Nomad suits experienced riders prioritizing comfort and practicality.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | TCBI dual plug with digital advance |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Injection |
| Bore x stroke | 102.0 x 95.0 mm (4.0 x 3.7 inches) |
| Compression | 9.0:1 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1552.00 ccm (94.70 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,689 mm (66.5 inches) |
| Overall width | 1,039 mm (40.9 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,515 mm (99.0 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,506 mm (59.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 719 mm (28.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 350.2 kg (772.0 pounds) |
| | |
Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Double disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 170/70-x16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 150/80-x16 |
| Rear suspension | Dual air-assisted shocks with four-way rebound damping / 3.9 in. |
| Front suspension | 41mm hydraulic fork / 5.9 in. |
| Rake (fork angle) | 32.0° |
| Frame type | High-tensile steel, double cradle |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Color options | Metallic Diablo Black, Two-Tone: Metallic Ocean Blue / Neutron Silver, Two-Tone: Candy Fire Red / Metallic Diablo Black |
| Fuel capacity | 20.06 litres (5.30 gallons) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find 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 For | Best suited to riders with some prior experience on heavy cruisers, since the substantial weight and long wheelbase demand confident low-speed handling. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed long-distance touring with a passenger and luggage rather than spirited sport riding. |
| Rider Fit | A 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. |
| Character | A 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 For | Not 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 Reviews
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