2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Review

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800

Traditional styling, modern technology and affordable price…

The motorcycle enthusiast interested in the cruiser lifestyle faces the daunting task of selecting a brand and model—which isn’t an easy decision with so many to choose from. Fortunately, the 2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 makes the decision simple with its traditional styling, modern technology and affordable price. With standard features that include a stepped seat, raked-out front end, wire wheels and torquey V-twin engine, the Vulcan 800 can also be customized to suit any rider’s personality with Kawasaki’s extensive line of Fire & Steel accessories.

The heart of the 2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 is a powerful 805cc V-twin engine, which benefits from years of Kawasaki technology. The motor incorporates liquid cooling for exceptional temperature control and engine longevity, but its radiator is hidden between the downtubes of the double-cradle frame, giving the bike a stylish air-cooled look. The overall result is an attractive, high-torque motor that makes loads of power and emits the distinctive exhaust note associated with a V-twin.

Like the engine, the Vulcan 800’s chassis is the beneficiary of high-tech design and is clothed in nostalgic cruiser garb. Kawasaki’s own UNI-TRAK rear suspension system is hidden away to give the triangulated steel swingarm a clean, hardtail appearance. But in actuality, the linkage system applies progressive damping and spring forces as the single shock is compressed to provide a smooth ride.

Power reaches the chain-driven rear wheel through a five-speed transmission. The transmission, which features Kawasaki’s exclusive Positive Neutral Finder, allows the rider to easily shift from first gear to neutral when stopped. While stationary, the lever can’t be raised into second gear, but as the motorcycle begins moving again the transmission resumes normal shifting. Fender to fender, this machine is the picture of fluidity.

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Key Features

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 – Specifications/Technical Details
USA MSRP Price: $5,999 USD
Canadian MSRP Price: See dealer for pricing in CDN

DIMENSIONS
Length 92.9 in.

Height 46.1 in.

Width 32.5 in.

Weight 496 lbs.

Ground Clearance 6.3 in.

Wheelbase 64.0 in.

Seat Height 28.0 in.

ENGINE
Engine Four-stroke, SOHC, 8-valve V-twin, Liquid Cooled

Displacement 805cc

Bore x Stroke 88 x 66.2mm

Compression Ratio 9.5:1

Carburetion Keihin CVK36

Fuel Capacity 4.0 gal.

Ignition Digital

DRIVETRAIN
Transmission Five-speed

Final Drive O-ring chain

BRAKES/WHEELS/TIRES
Brakes Front: Hydraulic discs
Rear: Mechanical drum

Tires Front: 80/90 x 21 tubeless
Rear: 140/90 x 16 tubeless

OPERATIONAL
Frame Double-cradle, high-tensile steel

Suspension Front: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork; 5.9 in. travel Rear: UNI-TRAK® single-shock system; 7-way preload adjustments; 3.9 in. travel

OTHER
Colors Metallic Ruby Red

Suggested Starting Price shown does not include tax, title, or destination charge. Dealer prices may vary.