Page 106 of Kawasaki Motorcycles by Kawasaki USA

MODEL FEATURES Engine The gutsy, 1470 cc, liquid-cooled V-twin engine is tuned for low and mid-range power to deliver gutsy acceleration at typical cruising speeds. Oversquare 102 x 90mm bore and stroke ensures punchy response and a broad spread of satisfying power. Like all Kawasaki V-twins, the VN1500 Classic uses a single crankpin for best strength and strong power feeling. Dual 36 mm bore fuel injection system gives easy starting, smooth running, high performance and reduced exhaust emissions. EFI settings give increased power feel. Free-breathing, SOHC, 4-valve, dual plug heads deliver impressive performance throughout the rev range. Use of dished piston crowns allows the 9:1 compression ratio for peak performance. Large-capacity radiator provides efficient cooling capacity even in the hottest climates. Ringtype cooling fan is quiet and efficient. Low-maintenance features like automatic valve lash adjusters, automatic cam chain tensioners and an electronic ignition keep the 1500 Classic out of the shop and on the road. ECU controlled electromagnetic solenoid valve of the Kawasaki Clean Air (KCA) system replaces old vacuum operated switch valve to further reduce emissions. Five-speed transmission with smooth shift action is geared for a comfortably low rpm at highway cruising speeds. Reliable shaft final drive is clean, quiet and requires minimal maintenance. Chassis Steel frame uses twin 40 x 40mm square cross section tubes to create a single backbone. Use of the single backbone accommodates the larger capacity fuel tank. Detachable right-side downtube allows engine to be removed more easily. The long wheelbase and extra long swingarm provide great stability when cruising and contribute to the Classic image. Steering lock is located at the bottom of the steering head for easy access. Unitized head pipe gussets mean less welding, which improves the bikes appearance. Large ball bearings are used in the steering head for high stability and high chassis rigidity. Stiff 41mm telescopic front fork provides excellent ride quality. Dual rear oil shocks deliver superb comfort and high stability. The shocks are mounted at a more upright angle for improved ride quality. Front and rear disc brakes deliver strong stopping power and look great. Bright spoke wheels accentuate the Classic look. Wide, 170/70-16 rear tire gives the VN1600 a tough look. Front tire size is 130/90-16. Flangeless fuel tank features a sleek stretched shape yet boasts a 20 litre capacity for a longer cruising range. Tank-mounted electric step-motor speedometer incorporates fuel gauge, odometer, tripmeter and clock. The dash also has warning lamps for low fuel, fuel injection, low oil pressure and water temperature. Auto-canceling turn signals are a nice convenience feature.

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