Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad - 2009 Specifications and Reviews
The 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad is a cruiser-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort without sacrificing classic styling. Its 1552cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers reliable touring power with modern fuel injection, while the shaft drive and five-speed transmission provide smooth, low-maintenance operation. Best known for its spacious seating, extensive chrome detailing, and touring-focused features, it suits experienced cruiser enthusiasts prioritizing comfort on extended rides.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2009 |
| Model | Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Nomad |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Ignition | TCBI dual plug with digital advance |
| Fuel control | SOHC |
| 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 | Single cylinder |
| Capacity: | 1552.00 ccm (94.70 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,689 mm (66.5 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,515 mm (99.0 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 | 170/70-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 150/80-16 |
| 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
Best For
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.
⚠ Safety Recalls (1)
KAWASAKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 VULCAN MOTORCYCLES. THE ENGINE MAY STALL IF THE RIDER IS COASTING WITH THE CLUTCH PULLED IN DUE TO AN IMPROPER SETTING OF THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT (ECU).
Risk: ENGINE STALLING COULD CREATE A POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ECU WITH ONE CONTAINING REVISED SETTINGS TO ADDRESS THE ENGINE STALLING. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KAWASAKI CONSUMER SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT 1-866-802-9381.
Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →
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