2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter Review

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter

Timeless 1940’s styling with modern features.

The 2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter motorcycle captures the essence of the 1940s, an era when Route 66 was the scenic route of choice for many and the most desirable motorcycles were powered by big V-twin engines.

A big, 90 cubic-inch, liquid-cooled V-twin engine provides the Drifter with modern cruiser performance. High compression and aggressive cam timing provide the healthy power output, while each cylinder features a single overhead cam actuating four valves. Hydraulic valve lash adjusters reduce maintenance.

The Drifter hearkens to yesteryear with a low, slung chassis, sculpted fenders and a fishtail muffler, but underneath its retro styling and abundance of chrome is the advanced engineering and electronics of a modern motorcycle.

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter Key Features

2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter – Specifications/Technical Details
USA MSRP Price: $10,999 USD
Canadian MSRP Price: See dealer for pricing in CDN

DIMENSIONS
Length 100.2 in.

Height 43.9 in.

Width 38.6 in.

Weight 670 lbs.

Ground Clearance 4.9 in.

Wheelbase 65.2 in.

Seat Height 28.7 in.

ENGINE
Engine Four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin, 8 valves, Electric Start, Liquid Cooled

Displacement 1,470cc

Bore x Stroke 102.0 x 90.0mm

Compression Ratio 9.0:1

Fuel System Digital fuel injection with dual 36mm throttle bodies

Fuel Capacity 5.0 gal.

Ignition Digital

DRIVETRAIN
Transmission Five-speed

Final Drive n/a

BRAKES/WHEELS/TIRES
Brakes Front: Hydraulic disc
Rear: Disc

Tires Front: 130/90 x 16
Rear: 150/80 x 16

OPERATIONAL
Frame High-tensile steel, double cradle

Suspension Front: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork; 5.9 in. travel
Rear: Dual air-assisted shocks; Air adjustable, four-way rebound damping; 3.9 in. travel

OTHER
Colors Black/Galaxy Silver

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