King-size Vulcan gets upgrade

Here's what the factory has to say about it: The standard accessories available with this new, stylish cruiser are saddlebags, passenger floorboards, passenger backrest, and a windshield.

Power comes from a massive V-twin engine featuring a bore and stroke of 103 x 123.2mm, forged pistons, alloy-steel connecting rods, huge 220mm flywheels, dual cams located within the one-piece crankcase and right-side pushrods actuating four valves per cylinder. Notably, Kawasaki engineers chose to utilise a push rod design in order to reduce engine height, which directly contributes to the Vulcan 2000 Classic LT's low centre of gravity and relatively low seat height. Plus, hydraulic valve lash adjusters automatically maintain zero valve clearance for smoother, quieter operation.

To provide sharp throttle response at any rpm, the Vulcan 2000's electronic engine control unit manages electronic fuel injection with its dual 46mm throttle bodies and sub throttle valves, as well as the iridium spark plug ignition system. The sub throttle valves provide the Vulcan 2000 Classic LT with smooth throttle response, while the highly sophisticated fuel injection system's fine atomizing injectors deliver an ultra-fine mist of fuel/air mixture to the cylinders for greater combustion efficiency, increased power and optimum fuel economy.

The top quarter of the V-twin engine is liquid cooled, while temperatures for the bottom three-quarters of the engine are managed by stylish and highly functional cooling fins. Plus, the engine and transmission feature built-in oil and water pumps, with the transmission also serving as the oil tank.

A primary drive chain transfers torque from the big V-twin engine to the five-speed transmission case, which houses a multi-plate wet clutch. To fully benefit from the Vulcan 2000 Classic LT's advanced electronics, a gear position sensor in the transmission sends signals to the ECU, further enhancing fuel injection volume and ignition timing, all improving performance. Final drive to the rear wheel is provided by smooth, quiet and low maintenance belt drive.

This Vulcan motorcycle rides on bright, cast aluminium 16-inch wheels with a 150/80 front radial tyre and a huge, 200/60 rear radial tyre - the biggest stock rear tyre on a production V-twin cruiser. Dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston callipers and a single rear disc brake with two-piston callipers bring this big cruiser to smooth, powerful stops.

As mentioned earlier, the standard accessories available with this new, stylish cruiser are saddlebags, passenger floorboards, passenger backrest, and a windshield.

The bags are constructed of reinforced top grain cowhide (selected with minimal flaws and deep dyed so the finish won't scrape off), and are highlighted by chrome plated brass stud accents on the bag lids, a slant top opening on the lid which is fastened with two 1.5-inch wide leather straps featuring chrome buckles and quick release stealth fasteners. To protect the contents from moisture, the rolled and riveted top lid minimises water entry. A metal-reinforced upper edge retains the bag's shape, even when filled with gear.

The adjustable height windshield is made of thick, optically correct acrylic plastic and is shaped for smooth airflow and classic cruiser style.

Price is $23,990 plus ORC.