Kawasaki VN 1600 Vulcan Nomad

Its 95ci V-twin engine not only smoothes out backroads and highways, but produces enough torque to gain a new appreciation for a well-outfitted cruiser.

The engine features a single overhead cam and four valves per cylinder. Hydraulic valve lash adjusters automatically maintain valve clearance for smooth engine performance, reduced noise and reduced maintenance, while automatic cam chain tensioners keep cam timing accurate with virtually no maintenance.

The digital fuel injection system feeds each cylinder the appropriate fuel mixture through dual 36mm throttle bodies. A separate intake tract for each throttle body provides smooth engine operation, and the top of each injector contains four small nozzles, with two aimed at each intake valve.

A 16-bit electronic engine control unit (ECU) features programming tailored specifically for the Nomad’s fuel injection system. Using readings from various sensors, it monitors engine coolant temperature, intake air temperature, atmospheric pressure, intake air pressure and throttle position to adjust the amount of fuel injected.

Attention to these engineering details provides the 1600 Nomad with the best balance of power and performance, so the rider has an abundance of torque for any riding condition.

Large engine mounts and a gear-driven engine counter balancer reduce handlebar and floorboard vibration, yet these features do not interfere with the engine’s distinctive V-twin rumble or power-pulse feeling from its single-pin crankshaft.

The 1600 Nomad’s steering geometry is designed so that the motorcycle feels more neutral at low speeds, as when maneuvering in parking lots.

The 1600 Nomad is endowed with chrome and comfort features: Chrome engine guards are standard and a thick passenger seat includes a backrest and aluminum grab bars. Floorboards for the passenger combine to make long-distance rides more comfortable and pleasurable.

Self-canceling turn signals, 5.3-gallon fuel tank, topped by an elegant electronic speedometer and LED odometer/tripmeter display let Nomad owners fully enjoy their ride. Streamlined hard saddlebags provide generous storage for those hard-to-resist overnight rides. Plus, standard features such as an adjustable windshield, plush air-assisted rear suspension and adjustable levers tailor the Nomad to its rider.

V-Twin Engine

• Engine displacement of 1,552cc/95ci for more torque
• Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) with dual 36mm throttle bodies
• Dual mufflers allow more clearance for saddlebags

Liquid Cooling

• Maintains consistent engine temperatures for long engine life and sustained power
• Auxiliary fan keeps things cool during all operating conditions

Four Valves per Cylinder

• Boosts low-end torque
• Provides maximum valve area for optimum flow
• Hydraulic valve lash adjusters require low maintenance

Gear-driven Engine Balancer

• Counter-rotates at engine speed to cancel vibration
• Allows use of single-pin crankshaft for the desirable power-pulse feeling

Rubber-mounted Engine

• All but eliminates engine vibration at all speeds

Five-speed Transmission

• Great around-town acceleration with relaxed highway cruising

Positive Neutral Finder

• Just lift the shift pedal from first at a stop to find neutral easily
• 5.3-gallon Fuel Tank
• Rounded-edge finish for clean, upscale look
• Large capacity for extended touring range

Large, Adjustable Windshield

• Large windshield gives excellent rider and passenger weather protection
• Windshield is adjustable up and down two inches
• Heavy-duty chromed support hardware holds the windshield rock steady

Hard Saddlebags

• Designed for easy packing, these saddlebags carry an amazing amount of gear
• Lockable, side-open design for smooth looks and quick access
• Soft, removable inner bags available as an optional accessory
• Color-matched for integrated style

Passenger Comfort

• Floorboards, standard backrest and thick seat provide maximum passenger comfort on long rides

Triple Disc Brakes

• Dual discs up front for maximum stopping power
• Large, single rear disc because touring bikes carry so much of the load on the rear wheel

Shaft Drive

• Reliable, clean and quiet low-maintenance system

Hydraulic Clutch Release

• Easy to operate, requires virtually no adjustment

Adjustable Control Levers

• Fits variety of rider sizes and styles

Electronic Speedometer

• Eliminates conventional cable-drive system

Tubeless Tires

• Lower operating temperature extends tire life

Air-Adjustable Rear Shocks

• Rebound damping is 4-way adjustable to tailor fit the ride