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Kawasaki EN 500 Vulcan LTD / VN 500

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Make Model

Kawasaki VN 500 Vulcan LTD / VN 500

Year

1996 - 99

Engine

Four stroke, parallel twin cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.

Capacity

498 cc / 30.4 cy-in
Bore x Stroke 74 х 58 mm
Cooling System Liquid cooled
Compression Ratio 10.2:1

Induction

2x 32mm Keihin carburetors

Ignition 

Digital TCBI

Max Power

50 hp / 36.5 kW @ 8500 rpm 

Max Power Rear Tyre

44.8 hp @ 8500 rpm

Max Torque

4.8 kgf-m / 32.6 lb-ft @ 7300 rpm
Clutch Wet Plate

Transmission 

6 Speed
Final Drive Chain

Front Suspension

36mm Telescopic forks

Rear Suspension

Dual shocks preload adjustable,

Front Brakes

Single 300mm disc

Rear Brakes

180mm drum

Front Tyre

100/90-19

Rear Tyre

140/90-15
Rake 33.0°
Wheelbase 1595 mm / 62.8 in
Seat Height 714 mm / 28.1 in

Dry Weight

199.1 kg / 439 lbs

Fuel Capacity 

15 Litres / 4.0 US gal

Braking 60 - 0 / 100 - 0

13.6 m / 36.9 m

Standing ¼ Mile  

14.8 sec / 137.7 km/h

Top Speed

160.8 km/h
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Kawasaki’s Vulcan 500 LTD is an excellent motorcycle for first-time buyers seeking entry to the cruiser lifestyle. With a low seat height, friendly power delivery and affordable purchase price, the Vulcan 500 LTD makes it easy to develop those all-important riding skills. 

Though it is compact and easy to ride, the Vulcan 500 LTD’s ample power and comfortable accommodations mean more experienced riders will still enjoy its practicality, efficiency and reliability as a transportation tool.

Based on the same engine that powers the Ninja® 500R sportbike, the Vulcan 500 LTD’s engine helps this cruiser outmuscle its competition. Its twin cylinder powerplant provides predictable torque delivery for boulevard cruising, while still offering plenty of extra muscle for highway trips.

It takes more than an excellent engine to make a great motorcycle, so the 500 LTD’s chassis is equally user-friendly. A long and low steel frame contributes to its classic cruiser looks, and with a saddle that’s just 28 inches from the ground, it puts just about any size rider at ease.

As for style, the Vulcan 500 LTD’s nod to the custom crowd includes a stepped seat, bobbed rear fender, tank-mounted speedometer and chrome-plated wire-spoke wheels. Admire it as is, or select additional enhancements from Kawasaki’s accessory line.

Twin-cylinder 498cc Engine
Compact parallel-twin design based on the NINJA® 500R sportbike engine
Special cam profiles and ample flywheel weight boost low-end torque

Liquid-Cooling
Keeps operating temperatures consistent, resulting in longer engine life
Allows tighter engine clearances for quieter running
Radiator hides between the frame downtubes

Four Valves per Cylinder
Better breathing for more power at high rpm
Compact combustion chamber for less detonation with today’s gasoline
Boosts low-end torque

Automatic Cam Chain Tensioner
Maintains precise timing without maintenance
Cam chain runs quietly, reliably

Gear-Driven Balancer
Reduces engine vibration for a super-smooth ride

Six-Speed Transmission
Allows engine’s full potential to be utilized
 

Tank-Mounted Speedometer with Turn Signal Indicators and Caution Lamps
Gives needed information at a glance
Compact design complements the bike’s clean look

Positive Neutral Finder
When stopped, just lift the shift pedal from first gear to easily find neutral

32mm CVK Semi-Flat Slide Carburetors
Quick throttle response
Precise fuel metering provides uniform power delivery at all engine speeds

Straight-Flow Exhaust
Designed to boost low and mid-range power
Tuned pipes enhance low-speed pulling power

Single Disc Front Brake
Single piston pin-slide caliper produces quick, sure stops

Stepped Seating
Laid-back riding comfort for two

Chrome-Plated Wire Spoke Wheels
Narrow 100/90-19 front tire with a beefy 140/90-15 rear tire complement the LTD’s traditional cruiser styling