Overview & Heritage
• The Vulcan 1600 belongs to Kawasaki’s big-bore cruiser lineup introduced in 2002–2008, succeeding the VN1500 series.
• The “Classic” is the base model, offering a timeless cruiser aesthetic with modern touches for its era .
Engine & Drivetrain
• Displacement: 1,552?cc V-twin, liquid-cooled, four-stroke SOHC with 8 valves.
• Bore x Stroke: 102.0×?95.0mm
• Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
• Power Output: Approximately 49kW (67?PS) at ~4,700?rpm
• Torque: Around 127?Nm at 2,700?rpm—plenty of low-end grunt
• Fueling: Digital Fuel Injection (DFI), a big improvement over older carbureted models
• Transmission: 5-speed gearbox.
• Final Drive: Shaft drive—low maintenance and smooth power delivery
Chassis & Styling
• Frame: Steel double-cradle design; narrower by about 100?mm compared to older models
• Wheelbase: Approximately 1,680mm .
• Forks: Telescopic front forks; models like the Mean Streak utilize inverted forks, but the Classic sticks with conventional ones .
• Styling: Slashed exhaust, chrome accents, reshaped floorboards, slim fuel tank (5.3-gallon) — all part of a more refined package.
Brakes & Wheels
• Front Brakes: Dual 300?mm discs with dual-piston calipers .
• Rear Brake: Single disc (varies by variant, but standard for the Classic).
• Wheels/Tires: Cast wheels with tubeless tires, enhancing both style and performance .
Dimensions / Ergonomics
• Dry Weight: About 307?kg (approx. 676?lb)—a hefty machine .
• Seat Height: Low and approachable—around 680?mm (26.8).
• Tank Capacity: 20 liters (~5.3 gallons)
• Dimensions: Length ~2,505?mm; width ~1,040?mm; height ~1,130?mm.
Performance & Ride
• Ride Character: Known for its smooth and torquey delivery—makes overtakes effortless and cruising serene .
• Power Feel: Massive torque low in the rev range—smoothly pulls from city speeds to highway cruising .
• Low-speed Handling: Heavy, but manageable with practice. A balanced chassis helps the weight feel less intimidating .
• Long-Distance Comfort: Highly praised for comfort—wide, cushioned seat with built-in lower lumbar support, relaxed ergonomics for both rider and passenger .
• Road Presence: A luxurious yet accessible cruiser—often ranked highly for overall comfort and functionality among large V-twins .
Improvements Over VN1500
• Engine displacement increased by adding 5?mm to the stroke (additional ~82?cc) ?.
• Transition to dual front discs (from single on VN1500), cast wheels, slimmer tank, and improved frame and styling ?.
• Added convenience features like side-stand safety switch, lockable tool storage under side cover, and tank-mounted ignition allowing key removal in ON position
Condition: Great – well-maintained, runs and shifts smoothly
Title: Clean, in hand.
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2003 Vulcan 1600 Classic
Kawasaki | 11,200 miles
Private Seller
Rockville, MD
| Item #: | 1345137 |
|---|---|
| Condition: | Used |
| Year: | 2003 |
| Color: | Red |
| Listed: | 9/4/2025 |
| Price: | $3,500 OBO |
| Mileage: | 11,200 |
| Location: | Rockville, MD |
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