Bought a 99 Vulcan 800 Classic last April with 10K miles on it. In 6 months it now reads nearly 18K, mostly freeway miles. No issues, but I feel the need for more power and comfort, so the Yammy Vstar 1100 Classic may be next. I'm old as dirt, but still vertical, praise God.
I own 3 Vulcans. '92 Classic, '98 Sport, and my favorite, a 2002 Drifter Indian. My '92 Classic has custom(home built) drag pipes that DO NOT sound like a normal Vulcan, 16"Apes, Engine Guard and nothing extra. I put close to 150 pounds of gear/luggage etc on it and then haul my 6' 4', 245 lb body on it and very regularly take trips in excess of 1500 miles. I don't get in a hurry,,but she will do 110 mph very a long ways with no problems. Yeah, an 800 Vulcan can and will, without complaints, carry a big man with extreme grace. As a side note, I'm 70 years old now,a 100% disabled Viet Nam Navy (HA(L)-3 Seawolf Helicopter Gunship Doorgunner/Maintainer and have been riding since 1958, and there is no stopping me.
I just bought mine first big boy bike in rough shape I couldn't get it started but still rode it home cause the seller got it started. Once I got her home I rebuilt the carb using a cheap Amazon rebuild kit and now she runs,idles, and starts like a champ. Best 600 bucks I ever spent now I have a 96 Vulcan 800. Thank God I started on a little 125 and learned to work on it otherwise I never would have tempted fate. If it wasn't for this channel I never would have attempted working on my own machines let alone ride a questionable bike across town I was inspired by your miss adventures of buying something questionable and riding it back to the shop.
6'2", 230 owner of an 800 here. Added 2.5" handlebar risers, floorboards and a Mustang seat. Super comfortable now. Love how manageable and tossable this bike is compared to a 7-800lbs touring chassis. One of the best values out there.
One thing you should know about the Vulcan engine on the 800 is that it is a very high revving engine, it may sound like it’s screaming on the highway but it actually still has a lot engine speed left in it. I’m getting 80 mph in third gear and still not hitting the rev limiter.
I have had my 98 800 classic for a year now. He is right, the sweet spot is 70, 75mph. What happens beyond that, is the vibration from frame mounted engine. To eliminate this, you tooth up lowering your gear ratio. I'm 6'2" 260 and have had zero issues with this bike at all. It's been a great, easy first bike. I do want something larger and more comfy for longer trips and I will only sell this one if I have too. It's absolutely great for trips for me, 1 hour or less.
VN800s are beasts. Comfortable as can be but all the looks of a hardtail and plenty of power. I love my bobbed 97 and Im about to buy a 2012. I got my pipes open right after the headers and it sounds amazing. Doesn't sound like other bikes.
I'm 6ft and I've customized my VN800 classic. Lowering the seat also pushed it back which gave me more leg room. I put some 12 in. Z bars on it and I'm very comfortable on it. All this made it feel like a larger bike. Yes I have the Vance Hines Cobra pipes. Most people think it's a Harley until they see the radiator.
Thinking about buying one on the weekend. It's a 2004 model as well, has 21000km on the clock. What do you like and dislike about yours? Any advice would help me a lot. Thanks.
For women who are looking for a bike that's not too heavy, I weigh 150, so this 550 lb (wet) bike is easy to handle, will get you from coast to coast and back np. It's #7 for me after 37 years of riding. Stock seat sucks- your butt goes numb after 45 mins of riding. Mustang seat will cost you 450 plus on ebay. Passengers dislike a hot foot above exhaust on hot days. 48 mpg if u keep it under 65 with high oct. 36 mpg cheap grade. Reserve will give u 30 miles. Cobra exhaust on mine, loud enough to remind 4 wheelers there's a bike next to them when they're texting. Lots of chrome. I picked mine up for 2500. Women who won't let their husbands own a bike will give u the stink eye...men whose mommies who won't let them own a bike will give u the stink eye... So it's pretty, reliable, powerful and economic.
I owned a 2001 800 and rode it for 8 years as my only transportation in San Diego. Rode everyday on Highway 8, 15, 94 and 5 put 60k miles on it with zero repairs. It was my favorite bike without question. These are just fantastic bikes.
Bought one of these as my first big bike last week. Coincidentally it was the very first bike I rode on as a pillion with my uncle when I was a kid. Can't wait to have it delivered 💪💪💪💪
Sean I have an 01' 800 classic and think you should make another Vulcan classic 800 video. I love my bike and could watch videos about it all day! Thanks.
Bought a VN800A (the one with the skinny front-tire) in 1996 or so and did my best to make it more unrideable. Dealer swapped the stock sofa for a much flatter and slimmer seat and installed a way-too-wide handle-bar plus a steel-braided line for the front brake (among some other stuff), but I still didn't manage to make it a bad ride. I'm of average built (~5'10'', 170 lbs) with slightly shorter arms, apparently, but I had no problem taking this thing for day-long rides through the city or up into the mountains. Not only did I like the seating position, but the bike in general felt much more nimble and capable than what its looks would suggest. Buddies of mine were riding (stock) mid 90s Fat Boys back then and in comparisons to those, the Kawa almost felt like a little sports-bike. Other than looks/branding and sound, the Japanese bike did everything much better than the H-Ds... better braking, better handling and better acceleration. Getting off the Kawa and onto the Fat Boy for comparison felt like I had just robbed myself of most of my confidence in my own riding abilities. The H-Ds never made me feel like I was completely in control of them - they were too heavy, too cumbersome, too underpowered and the brakes were downright scary. What the VN800 did really well, IMO, was to ape the look of the Softail, while not being as heavy, large and cumbersome as the original, while also retaining that classic look. They did a very nice job of hiding away the radiator and coolant-hoses for example. It also was quite a bit more affordable than big-twin H-Ds at the time, even with my dealer installed upgrades/parts. What I didn't like was the weird stock exhausts' looks with that tiny little pipe sticking out of the muffler, the look of the rear fender and the somewhat baroque-looking brake-/tail-light and the fact that it only had a drum brake in the rear. Also pretty sure there was quite bit more "hidden" plastic installed on my bike than on the Harleys. The engine, while way more lively, revvy and powerful feeling than the H-D Evo also completely lacked the character of the Harleys - the engine ran "too smoothly", the transmission didn't give you that characteristic "clunk!" when you put it in gear and the exhausts sounded pretty lame. Didn't sound *anything* like the aftermarket ones on this example.. :) Still: I do remember the VN800 very fondly and while I'm not sure I would buy another one all those years later, I'd say it was the best medium-sized metric cruiser out of the era. One thing I will say is that there are currently no cruisers on offer that I'm aware of that come close to the VN800's looks. They're all either too bling-y and fat or too blacked-out and modern looking for my taste. The VN800 (A!!) really hit the sweet-spot for me, design-wise.
Just brought a 2001 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 home today. I have an extra 100 pounds on you, but I think it will do just fine. Thanks for the video. Gives me an idea what to expect.
I have a 95 Vulcan and I absolutely love it. Over square bore with an overhead cam it just revs for days. Getting 80 mph out of third gear and I’m actually not even hitting the rev limiter. I’ve actually never hit the rev limiter I’m too afraid to lol it just screams. Extremely high revving engine
just traded my 1992 s10 blazer for a 05 or 06 Vulcan 800(title is still in the mail so don't remember the year). Less than 11,000 miles and I rode it through the Smoky Mountains with no power issues at all. It's a smaller bike and it really depends what you are looking for but nothing wrong with this bike though. I'm 5'10" 185 lbs if that matters.
2:18 that's exactly why every manufacturer should sell optional sport exhausts from factory, without charging for, and shipping, the stock pipes. that way we could save A LOT of resources and working hours, as most people throw the stock ones out anyways.
I've always had sport bikes, but at 62yrs old I just bought a Virago 1100. It's comfortable, has lots of power for two-up on the highway, but I do miss that instant rush when you crack the throttle. I'm also looking for stock pipes to replace the loud exhaust. I must be getting old.
I had one for twenty years went all over I’m 240 pounds my wife 160 we have done 1500 mike round trips to the Adirondacks with out trouble just recently gave it to my son for his first bike I now have nomad the 800 not one ever gave me a day of trouble
I was just thinking of going to thr Adirondacks from Miami on my 97 Vulcan 800. But I can't bring myself to do it. I can't properly cruise past 60mph on it. When I go more than 60, it sputters a bit as if in retaliation to asking for more speed. I've had it checked thrice by 3 different mechanics. Each one has told me it should be fine now. That's not the case. If 3 could not fix it, I'm going to assume either all 3 were inadequate ( highly unlikely. All 3 were very intelligent, very experienced, and knew their way around a motorcycle.) or the issue could be due to the mistreatment by the previous owner whom let it sit out in the weather for 7 whole months without protection or service. It hadn't been serviced in a year and a half before I had gotten it.
@@wolfeyes9357 no he doesn’t I never had trouble cruising at 70 rpms were a little so I kept her. At 65 most of the time but when I needed 80 or 90 it would go
I bought a brand new Shadow vt 750 in 1998 and after owning one year i swapped it even up for a 1997 year older Vulcan 800 with less miles the Vulcan was better handling and more power .
It’s funny because I’m literally deciding between the shadow and a Vulcan , just chose the Vulcan too cuz it’s larger engine wise , sounds like made the right choice
My dad bought one new back in 2002 he took the stock pipes off and cut the baffles out of them and it sounded about the same as this bike does. didn't even have to re jet the carb.
I just bought one last Friday and i love it, im 6'1 and 185 pounds and it feels really quick, sounds awesome, this motor is an rpm motor so rev it out for performance.
I like my Suzuki C50 better. I have ridden both. BTW, I live in Pa too. I'm 65 with a complaining left hip, I've stepped down in size but the C50 is great once I took all the crap off (bags, highway bars etc.). All the add on's make it unstable at low speed.
I bought mine brand new broke it in from mo to stockton california 100 hundred mph for every100 miles so far no problem in 65000 miles havent found any thing that wil keep up under 1300 cc
My son who is still riding a LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme in Australia) has a 650 Vulcan. It has a 6 speed and that seems to be best for the highway. While visiting him recently I rode a Hyosung 650 that had only 5 gears and it was clear that another gear would have made the bike better. Cruisers are great for the open road. They won't set the land speed record or get from 0-60mph or 0-100km/h in a blistering time but they will have plenty of torque for the steep hills. The layout/ergonomics make them good bikes for long days of riding. I've made this observation elsewhere; the instruments on the tank whilst they might look stylish are a safety hazard because they require you to take your eyes off the road to monitor fuel and speed and other things. When it is all said and done ride the bike you like and can afford. It is the ride not the destination. it is the time on the bike with mates or enjoying the scenery not how fast you get there. The Vulcan has a nice sound. I'm not sure the mirrors are serving any purpose other than decoration - they are not set up properly.
Yes that is a good point but as a leaner you want to keep within the speed limit or risk losing your licence so you have to keep checking the speed. That as I said means taking your eyes off the road - not good for new riders.
I bought mine with 25k its a 95 vn800a, if you baught it or are going too, go through the top end check the valves, aslong as maintenance was done you should be golden
I've had my 800 for the past 2 years now. I'm 6'1 and about 36,000 pounds. The 800 is a good starter bike for someone like me. Having said that, I immediately noticed that were it Not my started bike, I could certainly go for something a bit longer ( or get forward controls. ) And as far as the 800 goes, as you mention it's good to about 70, 75 mph. It's not so much that it's struggling or anything, but it's clear something larger would probably be at a lower RPM at that speed. Again, perfect Starter bike for guys that simply won't fit on a 250.
@@MBUOffical Again as a starter bike for a bigger dude it’s perfect. The easiest answer as an upgrade is Vulcan 1500, 1600 or even 2000. And they’re not much more expensive than the 800.
I had one of this. bought it for my sister. It was great very nimbal. I am 6'1 and over 200. Still loved the bike although I would always want a 1500. but that's just me. I like the biggest I can afford. but this bike was hot and so nimbal. I felt like i could have taken it off road. and i actually did take it on a gentle off dirt road. I don't think a big guy would ever want it for a road crusier. But for running around town. and best for the ladies. It's the HD sporter of the Kawasaki's. I know this is pretty late but still.
Yes it's an 800, but it's a lot different than an 800 sport bike. It shouldn't be too much power for a first bike, really. Cruisers shifting and braking and power are all forgiving.
I ride the Kawasaki Vulcan S on the interstate and I over take traffic at 80 to 85 mph with more power to spare. I weigh 230 pounds and even a 649cc engine is enough to get you out of danger.
Nice bike. Looks just like my '05 800 classic. I'm 6'4 so I put 4in forward controls, which helped a lot as well as 10 in mini-apes. Its very easy to change the gear ratios being a chain drive. I swapped out my front and rear sprockets last time I changed the chain. It lowered the cruising RPM at highway speeds quite a bit, and I cant notice any change in performance at lower speed and gears. Its an awesome bike and cheap to customize the way you like it.
www.ebay.com/itm/Kawasaki-Vulcan-800-VN-800-4-Forward-controls-extensions-/252967511003?vxp=mtr&hash=item3ae609e3db There's the ones I got. They're pretty easy to install. Its just a plate on each side that moves your controls forward. I did have to buy a couple of bolts because the stock ones that the kit says to reuse were a little too short.
I have a V Star 650 and I find that it mist a bit of power and at 100 / 110kmh or 65 / 70mph it vibrate, I like a lot the vulcan 800, but is there will be a good difference in fact of power? so why not switching for a 1000cc or more right a way and have plenty of power? it's because I don't want a bike too heavy, sorry for my poor english, i'm a french guy!
Because of these test drive vid's I bought an "04 Vulcan 800 . Great power and light weight compared to my Vulcan 1500. It's a fun well balanced bike with lot's of style.
Thanks for that comment, I was riding New Year’s Day, and was getting on it wondering if I was pushing it. I doubt I got close to 8200. Time for a tach.
Great bikes i own 3, I suggest to change sprokets for a bigger top end best I belive is 18"Front 36" Rear and chain obviously my fastest is doing 230 kph with no lag in lower speeds
Loud pipes save lives .. fact ! remember once upon a time a 500 was a superbike and biggest you could go .. so .. if someone thinks this Vulcan 800 aint big enough for a man .. then they suffer from penile envy .. or drive a harley :-p wich ofc could be the same thing :D
Loud pipes on motorcycles save lives, how about on cars airplanes, boats, chainsaws, lawnmowers? Why not wire your horn to your ignition that way when your ignition is on the horn will blow constantly and you will be perfectly safe. Problem solved. I almost forgot race cars are safe because of their loud pipes, I got it now. veeerrrrrmmmm...... Meep...meep...
more than enough for a man, I wonder if they know how silly they look when they trying to back up and leave a spot on a really heavy one with no control and weak legs :D
@@travelingbrother3576 good luck buddy ;) going to step up the game a little myself from Honda Monkey 125 and a Honda Rebel 500, and I know I look silly all the time on the Monkey, but it is just so funny to ride so I don't care :D
I had the 2000 model 800 Classic and rode it for about 6 years. I loved the bike, had the Cobra pipes. I sold it and bought a 2009 900 Custom. Put the Cobra pipes, intake and power commander on it and a Mustang seat. That was a nice bike. It was heavier than the 800 and was harder to throw around in traffic but it ran good. I thought I would miss my 800 but no way, the 900 was a much better bike. The 900 was smoother, had more power, got better gas mileage, just better all around and I rode it for about 6 years. Then my brother totaled it. I ride a 2009 Road King now
this bike seems fairly similar to the Suzuki Boulevard C50 as far as the gearing goes. I've had my Boulevard (which is also an 800cc) for a good 6 years now, and honestly i've been wanting to get a bigger more powerful bike for quite some time now, and just recently I found the perfect deal. Someone in town just happened to be selling their Honda VTX 1800 and as soon as I test rode that sucker and took it on the freeway, I immediately fell in love with that beast. My thoughts of my C50 being all the power I ever needed went out the window just like that. Don't get me wrong, the C50 has some decent power, and you could still cruise pretty comfortably on the freeway at about 70-75mph, but anything faster than that just feels like you're revving the piss out of it in 5th gear. the VTX 1800 is also a 5 speed but it's definitely geared differently. I got on the on-ramp and started grabbing gears, and by the end of 3rd gear I was already doing 60-70! I still had 2 more gears to go and I was already cruising! To this day I am still kinda surprised I kept my C50 for so long, but all in all, it really isn't a bad bike, It just really could have used a 6th gear in my opinion. Otherwise I don't have anything else to complain about on the Boulevard. Needless to say, I'm definitely upgrading to a real power cruiser. LOL
I had the kawasaki vn 800 for 12 years. I'm 6 4 Feet. To be honest it was always a little to small for my body height. My feet tops were tilted up quite a lot. You feel that after a short while. I'm wondering if a VN900 would be more suitable for my height.
I know you said you liked the kaw better than the shadow, but it seems like the kaw is screaming at highway speeds compared to the shadow. The pipes roaring could be deciving me though
I'm looking at a 01 Suzuki intruder Volusia 800. Do you think this would be a good starter bike for my wife and I to get started riding I'm about 6ft 220
Enough for a man? Yes. Enough for interstate riding? It leaves some to be desired. It needs another gear and bigger fuel tank. It's buzzy at interstate speeds and is absolutely not a 90mph cruiser. It will overheat if you try to keep it at 90(real 90, not indicated 90 which is actually about 80). I like my VN800. It's the perfect around-town bike that's comfy and feels substantial. I've taken it on one 200 mile interstate road trip and won't do that again. Dyna's are not known to be good road trip bikes but my Street Bob is a hundred times better on the interstate than the VN800. It's that 6th gear and lower revs. It's also heavier with more fuel capacity. The VN800 is more comfortable around town. I'm looking at Rocket 3's right now for a touring bike.
I'm in the market for a bigger bike for road trips. I can get my hands on a Vulcan 800 for around the 2-2.5k area locally but I can also get a used 900 for around 4-6k mark depending on year and mileage. Would it be better to hold out for a few more months of saving for the fuel injection? Or would it be better to get an 800 and turn that money into bags, gear, and aftermarket parts? I can work with carbs, so I'm my perspective is more geared toward a technological, reliability, power, etc. standpoint.
You must have it modified, going downhill, with the wind to your back. Unless your just full of shit. Ive had mine full throttle in 5th on open road and didnt break 100
I bought one of these for my ex wife back in 2012. I always thought it the sprockets had been swapped out, the rpms seemed very high. I'm looking for a 900 now.
First time rider i been watching alot of your videos i have not been on highways i have a 1998 susuki 800 is it ok for the bike to be at a high rpm for a long period of time when on highway
bcanderson100 I notice my 96 intruder screams when its on the highway but that's usually carrying me and my wife are looking about 70-75 mph and I alone am 290. The longest ride I ever took mine on was about a 45 minute ride from Allen, TX to Mesquite, TX. On a closed course I have hit 100 riding double.
Depends on what you mean by high rpm, if you’re in top gear going under 80 there’s no way it’s going to do any more wear and tear then going 55, if you’re flat out hauling redlining the engine then yea you’ll probably start to vibrate stuff loose. Engines actually like to be revved up a bit, it clears carbon, people even drive in a lower gear revving the engine down the highway and call it an “Italian tuneup” because it clears carbon deposits out of your engine and potentially gets your compression ratio back into whack which could solve some problems. You’ll be hurting your wallet in gas mileage but if it’s a bike that’s usually not even an issue.
Don't it seem like when you are in 5th gear there should be another gear? ;) I took my 2000 Vulcan VN800A from N. Florida to S. Florida and back. No problems. Comfortable ride. I weigh 170 pounds. Great enjoyable ride.
My vulcan 800 is the same bike. Im lucky to get it over 80. Im a big guy 6'2 265 and it struggles with my weight. On a straight away it will go 90 if I push it but hills the poor thing is screaming.
I know this is an older video but love that jacket you're wearing. If you, or anyone else, know(s) what brand it is... I'd appreciate the info. 👌🏾thanks
Bought a 99 Vulcan 800 Classic last April with 10K miles on it. In 6 months it now reads nearly 18K, mostly freeway miles. No issues, but I feel the need for more power and comfort, so the Yammy Vstar 1100 Classic may be next. I'm old as dirt, but still vertical, praise God.
age is a number, vitality is a feeling
Hell yeah old dude hope you got it and you're still vertical
Sweet Ride AND Great INFO.
I been looking and can't find it anywhere. Is the Vn800 Single carp or dual?
I'm looking to buy Vn800 classic myself
@@Khemore i just bought one ill check tmr after work if you remind me
I own 3 Vulcans. '92 Classic, '98 Sport, and my favorite, a 2002 Drifter Indian. My '92 Classic has custom(home built) drag pipes that DO NOT sound like a normal Vulcan, 16"Apes, Engine Guard and nothing extra. I put close to 150 pounds of gear/luggage etc on it and then haul my 6' 4', 245 lb body on it and very regularly take trips in excess of 1500 miles. I don't get in a hurry,,but she will do 110 mph very a long ways with no problems. Yeah, an 800 Vulcan can and will, without complaints, carry a big man with extreme grace. As a side note, I'm 70 years old now,a 100% disabled Viet Nam Navy (HA(L)-3 Seawolf Helicopter Gunship Doorgunner/Maintainer and have been riding since 1958, and there is no stopping me.
get some
I have factory headers and that's it. That alone sounds sick and not too obnoxious.
Thank you for your service ! Legend !!!
I just bought mine first big boy bike in rough shape I couldn't get it started but still rode it home cause the seller got it started. Once I got her home I rebuilt the carb using a cheap Amazon rebuild kit and now she runs,idles, and starts like a champ. Best 600 bucks I ever spent now I have a 96 Vulcan 800. Thank God I started on a little 125 and learned to work on it otherwise I never would have tempted fate. If it wasn't for this channel I never would have attempted working on my own machines let alone ride a questionable bike across town I was inspired by your miss adventures of buying something questionable and riding it back to the shop.
6'2", 230 owner of an 800 here. Added 2.5" handlebar risers, floorboards and a Mustang seat. Super comfortable now. Love how manageable and tossable this bike is compared to a 7-800lbs touring chassis. One of the best values out there.
Did you need new cables for the 2"
RcaperO Bonk Good question!
@@rcaperobonk9392no you don't
Thank the heavens for you my boy I'm 6'3 245 and this is exactly what I needed to know, cause my 88 Honda vt800 shadow was way too small for me
One thing you should know about the Vulcan engine on the 800 is that it is a very high revving engine, it may sound like it’s screaming on the highway but it actually still has a lot engine speed left in it. I’m getting 80 mph in third gear and still not hitting the rev limiter.
I’ve read it’s a wide ratio 5 speed
Yeah rev limiter is 8200 so 3500 at 70mph is unstressed and if you care that much you can go up two teeth on the front sprocket
I just bought one and it'll do about 85 in third if I remember correctly
The first couple of years of production they were geared lower. I have a 98 I think it’s geared higher.
6:02 that engine sound is beautiful!!!
I have had my 98 800 classic for a year now. He is right, the sweet spot is 70, 75mph. What happens beyond that, is the vibration from frame mounted engine. To eliminate this, you tooth up lowering your gear ratio. I'm 6'2" 260 and have had zero issues with this bike at all. It's been a great, easy first bike. I do want something larger and more comfy for longer trips and I will only sell this one if I have too. It's absolutely great for trips for me, 1 hour or less.
'One hour or less' doesnt sound like a trip to me. More like a ride to a grocery store...respect for the bike tho
Bigger sprocket??
VN800s are beasts. Comfortable as can be but all the looks of a hardtail and plenty of power. I love my bobbed 97 and Im about to buy a 2012. I got my pipes open right after the headers and it sounds amazing. Doesn't sound like other bikes.
I love the sound of my Vulcan 800. loud, beefy but not ridiculous like many harleys
I'm 6ft and I've customized my VN800 classic. Lowering the seat also pushed it back which gave me more leg room. I put some 12 in. Z bars on it and I'm very comfortable on it. All this made it feel like a larger bike. Yes I have the Vance Hines Cobra pipes. Most people think it's a Harley until they see the radiator.
The lowered pushed back seat is a custom made seat? Thinking to get one built for my 800 Classic and thought the same thing to do.
6:05..that moment where he expects the 6. gear xD
Yes all the way. For the money these are great bikes for city and highway, you go to a 19 tooth sprocket if you need more reach on the highway
I have a Vulcan 500, same colors and deco...love it. Gets 50+ mpg. Looks like a Harley.
just got an 04 800 of market place. one owner 11k miles. garage kept. beautiful bike no issues so far can’t wait for the rides
just bought this the other day (2004 model) cant wait for the next season to come around. Will ride with my father in law this weekend.
Thinking about buying one on the weekend. It's a 2004 model as well, has 21000km on the clock. What do you like and dislike about yours? Any advice would help me a lot. Thanks.
For women who are looking for a bike that's not too heavy, I weigh 150, so this 550 lb (wet) bike is easy to handle, will get you from coast to coast and back np. It's #7 for me after 37 years of riding. Stock seat sucks- your butt goes numb after 45 mins of riding. Mustang seat will cost you 450 plus on ebay. Passengers dislike a hot foot above exhaust on hot days. 48 mpg if u keep it under 65 with high oct. 36 mpg cheap grade. Reserve will give u 30 miles. Cobra exhaust on mine, loud enough to remind 4 wheelers there's a bike next to them when they're texting. Lots of chrome. I picked mine up for 2500. Women who won't let their husbands own a bike will give u the stink eye...men whose mommies who won't let them own a bike will give u the stink eye... So it's pretty, reliable, powerful and economic.
Dang, that exhaust drones like hell on the highway.
I owned a 2001 800 and rode it for 8 years as my only transportation in San Diego. Rode everyday on Highway 8, 15, 94 and 5 put 60k miles on it with zero repairs. It was my favorite bike without question. These are just fantastic bikes.
Bought one of these as my first big bike last week. Coincidentally it was the very first bike I rode on as a pillion with my uncle when I was a kid.
Can't wait to have it delivered 💪💪💪💪
Sean I have an 01' 800 classic and think you should make another Vulcan classic 800 video. I love my bike and could watch videos about it all day! Thanks.
Bought a VN800A (the one with the skinny front-tire) in 1996 or so and did my best to make it more unrideable. Dealer swapped the stock sofa for a much flatter and slimmer seat and installed a way-too-wide handle-bar plus a steel-braided line for the front brake (among some other stuff), but I still didn't manage to make it a bad ride. I'm of average built (~5'10'', 170 lbs) with slightly shorter arms, apparently, but I had no problem taking this thing for day-long rides through the city or up into the mountains. Not only did I like the seating position, but the bike in general felt much more nimble and capable than what its looks would suggest. Buddies of mine were riding (stock) mid 90s Fat Boys back then and in comparisons to those, the Kawa almost felt like a little sports-bike. Other than looks/branding and sound, the Japanese bike did everything much better than the H-Ds... better braking, better handling and better acceleration. Getting off the Kawa and onto the Fat Boy for comparison felt like I had just robbed myself of most of my confidence in my own riding abilities. The H-Ds never made me feel like I was completely in control of them - they were too heavy, too cumbersome, too underpowered and the brakes were downright scary.
What the VN800 did really well, IMO, was to ape the look of the Softail, while not being as heavy, large and cumbersome as the original, while also retaining that classic look. They did a very nice job of hiding away the radiator and coolant-hoses for example. It also was quite a bit more affordable than big-twin H-Ds at the time, even with my dealer installed upgrades/parts. What I didn't like was the weird stock exhausts' looks with that tiny little pipe sticking out of the muffler, the look of the rear fender and the somewhat baroque-looking brake-/tail-light and the fact that it only had a drum brake in the rear. Also pretty sure there was quite bit more "hidden" plastic installed on my bike than on the Harleys. The engine, while way more lively, revvy and powerful feeling than the H-D Evo also completely lacked the character of the Harleys - the engine ran "too smoothly", the transmission didn't give you that characteristic "clunk!" when you put it in gear and the exhausts sounded pretty lame. Didn't sound *anything* like the aftermarket ones on this example.. :)
Still: I do remember the VN800 very fondly and while I'm not sure I would buy another one all those years later, I'd say it was the best medium-sized metric cruiser out of the era. One thing I will say is that there are currently no cruisers on offer that I'm aware of that come close to the VN800's looks. They're all either too bling-y and fat or too blacked-out and modern looking for my taste. The VN800 (A!!) really hit the sweet-spot for me, design-wise.
Just brought a 2001 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 home today. I have an extra 100 pounds on you, but I think it will do just fine. Thanks for the video. Gives me an idea what to expect.
Just bought one last night. Love it with the cobra pipes with the baffles in them. Great bike for my first.
i have one too 95’, and i’m 5’6 135lbs… i’m a new rider and i’m having a hard time learning on my bike. ): any tips?
I just got me a 98 Vulcan and so far I'm definitely in love with it
Just got an 02
@@TylerDurden948 just got a 01 def a project bike tho atleast it runs tho
I have a 95 Vulcan and I absolutely love it. Over square bore with an overhead cam it just revs for days. Getting 80 mph out of third gear and I’m actually not even hitting the rev limiter. I’ve actually never hit the rev limiter I’m too afraid to lol it just screams. Extremely high revving engine
Does this bike really lasts that long?
I have a 98 also, love it
just traded my 1992 s10 blazer for a 05 or 06 Vulcan 800(title is still in the mail so don't remember the year). Less than 11,000 miles and I rode it through the Smoky Mountains with no power issues at all. It's a smaller bike and it really depends what you are looking for but nothing wrong with this bike though. I'm 5'10" 185 lbs if that matters.
the pipes sound GREAT
2:18 that's exactly why every manufacturer should sell optional sport exhausts from factory, without charging for, and shipping, the stock pipes.
that way we could save A LOT of resources and working hours, as most people throw the stock ones out anyways.
I've always had sport bikes, but at 62yrs old I just bought a Virago 1100. It's comfortable, has lots of power for two-up on the highway, but I do miss that instant rush when you crack the throttle. I'm also looking for stock pipes to replace the loud exhaust. I must be getting old.
Awesome review. Well done and loved the sweet toon.
I had one for twenty years went all over I’m 240 pounds my wife 160 we have done 1500 mike round trips to the Adirondacks with out trouble just recently gave it to my son for his first bike I now have nomad the 800 not one ever gave me a day of trouble
I was just thinking of going to thr Adirondacks from Miami on my 97 Vulcan 800. But I can't bring myself to do it. I can't properly cruise past 60mph on it. When I go more than 60, it sputters a bit as if in retaliation to asking for more speed. I've had it checked thrice by 3 different mechanics. Each one has told me it should be fine now. That's not the case. If 3 could not fix it, I'm going to assume either all 3 were inadequate ( highly unlikely. All 3 were very intelligent, very experienced, and knew their way around a motorcycle.) or the issue could be due to the mistreatment by the previous owner whom let it sit out in the weather for 7 whole months without protection or service. It hadn't been serviced in a year and a half before I had gotten it.
Does your son want to sell it?
@@wolfeyes9357 no he doesn’t I never had trouble cruising at 70 rpms were a little so I kept her. At 65 most of the time but when I needed 80 or 90 it would go
Just a sec, the vulcan 800 will support 2 passengers totalling 400 pounds?
I bought a brand new Shadow vt 750 in 1998 and after owning one year i swapped it even up for a 1997 year older Vulcan 800 with less miles the Vulcan was better handling and more power .
For a 6’3 guy, which one of those would you recommend?
It’s funny because I’m literally deciding between the shadow and a Vulcan , just chose the Vulcan too cuz it’s larger engine wise , sounds like made the right choice
My dad bought one new back in 2002 he took the stock pipes off and cut the baffles out of them and it sounded about the same as this bike does. didn't even have to re jet the carb.
I love it when you're at highway speed and looking for that 6th gear. I miss my baker. 6:05 haha
I just bought one last Friday and i love it, im 6'1 and 185 pounds and it feels really quick, sounds awesome, this motor is an rpm motor so rev it out for performance.
Seen a lot of this for a good price lately. Would you say it’s a good starter bike ?
We have to hear he's 6'2" over n over again in every video. 😂
Just bought a 97' great bike good prices
Got a 98 Vulcan 1500 Classic. Very comfortable and reliable. Good for two-up cruising.
I have an 01 with gutted stock pipes. It sounds great without being too loud.
I like my Suzuki C50 better. I have ridden both. BTW, I live in Pa too. I'm 65 with a complaining left hip, I've stepped down in size but the C50 is great once I took all the crap off (bags, highway bars etc.). All the add on's make it unstable at low speed.
My 95 Suzuki Intruder VS800 has plenty of power. It will easily do 90 cruising down the highway all day long.
I bought mine brand new broke it in from mo to stockton california 100 hundred mph for every100 miles so far no problem in 65000 miles havent found any thing that wil keep up under 1300 cc
When the limit is 55 and youre doing almost 80... 😂
Oof
My son who is still riding a LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme in Australia) has a 650 Vulcan. It has a 6 speed and that seems to be best for the highway. While visiting him recently I rode a Hyosung 650 that had only 5 gears and it was clear that another gear would have made the bike better. Cruisers are great for the open road. They won't set the land speed record or get from 0-60mph or 0-100km/h in a blistering time but they will have plenty of torque for the steep hills. The layout/ergonomics make them good bikes for long days of riding. I've made this observation elsewhere; the instruments on the tank whilst they might look stylish are a safety hazard because they require you to take your eyes off the road to monitor fuel and speed and other things. When it is all said and done ride the bike you like and can afford. It is the ride not the destination. it is the time on the bike with mates or enjoying the scenery not how fast you get there. The Vulcan has a nice sound. I'm not sure the mirrors are serving any purpose other than decoration - they are not set up properly.
Good news for you the vulcan has no gauges to watch only a Speedo and warning lights. You ride till it runs out of gas the switch to reserve.
Yes that is a good point but as a leaner you want to keep within the speed limit or risk losing your licence so you have to keep checking the speed. That as I said means taking your eyes off the road - not good for new riders.
Hello Would you buy Vulcan with 26000miles on it? what checks would you do? Thank you.
I bought mine with 25k its a 95 vn800a, if you baught it or are going too, go through the top end check the valves, aslong as maintenance was done you should be golden
I've had my 800 for the past 2 years now. I'm 6'1 and about 36,000 pounds. The 800 is a good starter bike for someone like me. Having said that, I immediately noticed that were it Not my started bike, I could certainly go for something a bit longer ( or get forward controls. ) And as far as the 800 goes, as you mention it's good to about 70, 75 mph. It's not so much that it's struggling or anything, but it's clear something larger would probably be at a lower RPM at that speed. Again, perfect Starter bike for guys that simply won't fit on a 250.
Kraven Holy shit, I am impressed that your bike can get you up to highway speed at all, since you weigh 36,000 pounds. Damn, son, what do you eat?
@@butkusfan23 Sorry I meant 36 Million lbs lol. It's all that iron in my diet.
What would you recommend other than this
@@MBUOffical Again as a starter bike for a bigger dude it’s perfect. The easiest answer as an upgrade is Vulcan 1500, 1600 or even 2000. And they’re not much more expensive than the 800.
@@MBUOffical I also like the Suzuki Boulevards. With a 1500 or 1800. Never owned one but it’s something I’m considering for next bike.
The stock pipes are actually pretty nice, quiet yet throaty
My 96 Vulcan Classic 900 is plenty Big enough for hyway use. Usually have my Old Sea bag strapped on the back. Ride's very well on road's.
LOVE the sound!
I had one of this. bought it for my sister. It was great very nimbal. I am 6'1 and over 200. Still loved the bike although I would always want a 1500. but that's just me. I like the biggest I can afford. but this bike was hot and so nimbal. I felt like i could have taken it off road. and i actually did take it on a gentle off dirt road. I don't think a big guy would ever want it for a road crusier. But for running around town. and best for the ladies. It's the HD sporter of the Kawasaki's. I know this is pretty late but still.
Gene s Hackett ever compare this bike to a sportster. That’s blasphemy
Would you recomend this for a forst timer? I know everyone says 250 but I found one of these super cheap, and it is too good a deal to pass up.
Buy it. It is great
Yes it's an 800, but it's a lot different than an 800 sport bike. It shouldn't be too much power for a first bike, really. Cruisers shifting and braking and power are all forgiving.
I bought a 2002 for my first first bike in ‘04. Still ride and still love it. a LOT.
Thank you for the video young man very lovely bike
I ride the Kawasaki Vulcan S on the interstate and I over take traffic at 80 to 85 mph with more power to spare. I weigh 230 pounds and even a 649cc engine is enough to get you out of danger.
Nice bike. Looks just like my '05 800 classic.
I'm 6'4 so I put 4in forward controls, which helped a lot as well as 10 in mini-apes.
Its very easy to change the gear ratios being a chain drive. I swapped out my front and rear sprockets last time I changed the chain. It lowered the cruising RPM at highway speeds quite a bit, and I cant notice any change in performance at lower speed and gears. Its an awesome bike and cheap to customize the way you like it.
where did you get your forward controls? looking to put them on my 2003 800 classic as I am 6'3''
www.ebay.com/itm/Kawasaki-Vulcan-800-VN-800-4-Forward-controls-extensions-/252967511003?vxp=mtr&hash=item3ae609e3db
There's the ones I got. They're pretty easy to install. Its just a plate on each side that moves your controls forward. I did have to buy a couple of bolts because the stock ones that the kit says to reuse were a little too short.
I have a V Star 650 and I find that it mist a bit of power and at 100 / 110kmh or 65 / 70mph it vibrate, I like a lot the vulcan 800, but is there will be a good difference in fact of power? so why not switching for a 1000cc or more right a way and have plenty of power? it's because I don't want a bike too heavy, sorry for my poor english, i'm a french guy!
The 800 Vulcans are light and well balanced. These bikes were designed to run with much larger bikes and they do.
Thanks for the answer, I'm almost convinced, I just have to do a road test now before going any further.
Because of these test drive vid's I bought an "04 Vulcan 800 . Great power and light weight compared to my Vulcan 1500. It's a fun well balanced bike with lot's of style.
Redline is 8200!! Open her up more!!! Love it
Thanks for that comment, I was riding New Year’s Day, and was getting on it wondering if I was pushing it. I doubt I got close to 8200. Time for a tach.
I have one and it loves to rev out, he was shifting to early
Great bikes i own 3, I suggest to change sprokets for a bigger top end best I belive is 18"Front 36" Rear and chain obviously my fastest is doing 230 kph with no lag in lower speeds
I like this because I love the 900, but I need a narrower ride for my bad left knee and this looks perfect.
ive got a 2005 in australia also loud! its got a belt drive which is nice. Good motorcycle.
Have a ‘98 800 Vulcan. Love stock pipes, 27,000 miles with plenty of power.
Loud pipes save lives .. fact ! remember once upon a time a 500 was a superbike and biggest you could go .. so .. if someone thinks this Vulcan 800 aint big enough for a man .. then they suffer from penile envy .. or drive a harley :-p wich ofc could be the same thing :D
Loud pipes don't save lives
@@cameronhines4562yes they do. Its a fact!... Obviously you aren't much for getting down, and putting in enough time to know this mannnnnn
@@cameronhines4562were you born stupid or is that a recent development?
Loud pipes on motorcycles save lives, how about on cars airplanes, boats, chainsaws, lawnmowers?
Why not wire your horn to your ignition that way when your ignition is on the horn will blow constantly and you will be perfectly safe. Problem solved.
I almost forgot race cars are safe because of their loud pipes, I got it now. veeerrrrrmmmm......
Meep...meep...
more than enough for a man, I wonder if they know how silly they look when they trying to back up and leave a spot on a really heavy one with no control and weak legs :D
My legs will get stronger 😂 my VTX 1300 was a big step up from my shadow aero 750
@@travelingbrother3576 good luck buddy ;) going to step up the game a little myself from Honda Monkey 125 and a Honda Rebel 500, and I know I look silly all the time on the Monkey, but it is just so funny to ride so I don't care :D
I rode this bike years ago. It was an awesome ride.
Sounds amazing !
I have an 800 cc only problem is I'm always looking for that non existent 6th gear cobra pipes are the better for it. Shakes a little at 110
I had the 2000 model 800 Classic and rode it for about 6 years. I loved the bike, had the Cobra pipes. I sold it and bought a 2009 900 Custom. Put the Cobra pipes, intake and power commander on it and a Mustang seat. That was a nice bike. It was heavier than the 800 and was harder to throw around in traffic but it ran good. I thought I would miss my 800 but no way, the 900 was a much better bike. The 900 was smoother, had more power, got better gas mileage, just better all around and I rode it for about 6 years. Then my brother totaled it. I ride a 2009 Road King now
this bike seems fairly similar to the Suzuki Boulevard C50 as far as the gearing goes. I've had my Boulevard (which is also an 800cc) for a good 6 years now, and honestly i've been wanting to get a bigger more powerful bike for quite some time now, and just recently I found the perfect deal. Someone in town just happened to be selling their Honda VTX 1800 and as soon as I test rode that sucker and took it on the freeway, I immediately fell in love with that beast. My thoughts of my C50 being all the power I ever needed went out the window just like that. Don't get me wrong, the C50 has some decent power, and you could still cruise pretty comfortably on the freeway at about 70-75mph, but anything faster than that just feels like you're revving the piss out of it in 5th gear. the VTX 1800 is also a 5 speed but it's definitely geared differently. I got on the on-ramp and started grabbing gears, and by the end of 3rd gear I was already doing 60-70! I still had 2 more gears to go and I was already cruising! To this day I am still kinda surprised I kept my C50 for so long, but all in all, it really isn't a bad bike, It just really could have used a 6th gear in my opinion. Otherwise I don't have anything else to complain about on the Boulevard. Needless to say, I'm definitely upgrading to a real power cruiser. LOL
Hey bro you prefer this kawasaki or the yamaha drag star 650????
just bought a 96 with 1200km on it. excited take ownership next week.
I have 98 Shadow 1100c, do you know where is the N light switch located? I don't have N light when you put the gear in neutral. Thanks.
You dont have one on your bike. Sorry pardner.
How do these do on mpg? What pipes were on that one?
I love the sound of that machine beautiful bike
I had the kawasaki vn 800 for 12 years. I'm 6 4 Feet. To be honest it was always a little to small for my body height. My feet tops were tilted up quite a lot. You feel that after a short while. I'm wondering if a VN900 would be more suitable for my height.
Ramon Schalleck same height. Have you found anything better?
Yep-I have an 800 and want a 900 or 1100 next, for the comfort.
Love this bike, really want one!
I know you said you liked the kaw better than the shadow, but it seems like the kaw is screaming at highway speeds compared to the shadow. The pipes roaring could be deciving me though
The link is for the stuff they sell, wondering if they are an actual dealer of motorcycles or merchandise
I'm looking at a 01 Suzuki intruder Volusia 800. Do you think this would be a good starter bike for my wife and I to get started riding I'm about 6ft 220
Enough for a man? Yes. Enough for interstate riding? It leaves some to be desired. It needs another gear and bigger fuel tank. It's buzzy at interstate speeds and is absolutely not a 90mph cruiser. It will overheat if you try to keep it at 90(real 90, not indicated 90 which is actually about 80). I like my VN800. It's the perfect around-town bike that's comfy and feels substantial. I've taken it on one 200 mile interstate road trip and won't do that again. Dyna's are not known to be good road trip bikes but my Street Bob is a hundred times better on the interstate than the VN800. It's that 6th gear and lower revs. It's also heavier with more fuel capacity. The VN800 is more comfortable around town. I'm looking at Rocket 3's right now for a touring bike.
I'm in the market for a bigger bike for road trips. I can get my hands on a Vulcan 800 for around the 2-2.5k area locally but I can also get a used 900 for around 4-6k mark depending on year and mileage. Would it be better to hold out for a few more months of saving for the fuel injection? Or would it be better to get an 800 and turn that money into bags, gear, and aftermarket parts? I can work with carbs, so I'm my perspective is more geared toward a technological, reliability, power, etc. standpoint.
They are all great options. Look into Suzuki as well.. Suzuki uses shaft drive, hydraulic lifters, fuel injected. Less maintenance than Vulcans.
I own a 800 classic and let me tell u I've gone 110 and more to go
Wait, mine can go just 93 mph. How can you reach 110! Tell me the secret plz.
You must have it modified, going downhill, with the wind to your back. Unless your just full of shit. Ive had mine full throttle in 5th on open road and didnt break 100
Matt Williams top speed is 103 mph or 167kmh. I have a 96 vn800a that i done 110mph but my 97 vn800b I'm luck to do 90mph
edeco, Mine must need to be tuned then. Or the gearing is different.
Matt Williams that it could be the front sprocket and rear are deferent on the 96 vn800a thin 97 vn800b classic
man i consider to buy this one or a vs750.
what would you recommend to built a bobber from ?
greets from the netherlands !
I gotta love Vulcans I have a 93 750 and my dad has a 93 1500
do you have a statute for that riding on the shoulder thing? I can't find it anywhere and I want to have my ducks in a row before I try it.
Would you give me a honest view on weather the 800 or 900 is a better bike. Stock
I bought one of these for my ex wife back in 2012. I always thought it the sprockets had been swapped out, the rpms seemed very high. I'm looking for a 900 now.
I want that sound on my new ‘19 bolt r spec
First time rider i been watching alot of your videos i have not been on highways i have a 1998 susuki 800 is it ok for the bike to be at a high rpm for a long period of time when on highway
bcanderson100 I notice my 96 intruder screams when its on the highway but that's usually carrying me and my wife are looking about 70-75 mph and I alone am 290. The longest ride I ever took mine on was about a 45 minute ride from Allen, TX to Mesquite, TX. On a closed course I have hit 100 riding double.
Depends on what you mean by high rpm, if you’re in top gear going under 80 there’s no way it’s going to do any more wear and tear then going 55, if you’re flat out hauling redlining the engine then yea you’ll probably start to vibrate stuff loose. Engines actually like to be revved up a bit, it clears carbon, people even drive in a lower gear revving the engine down the highway and call it an “Italian tuneup” because it clears carbon deposits out of your engine and potentially gets your compression ratio back into whack which could solve some problems. You’ll be hurting your wallet in gas mileage but if it’s a bike that’s usually not even an issue.
So an 02 Intruder 800 would be very comparable to this bike correct?
i got an kawasaki VN 800 as a first bike :D
monsterr444 Same man
I want one or il take a 900 bit i want a vulcan to me by first
Same bought one 3 days ago :)
@@arjan4263 I bought one around the same time! 2005 VN800A with just over 17k miles for $2000. In great shape and I'm loving this bike!
Lmao all the best protection up top and then i see your ankles. Dat funny tbh. Puttin on a show for the camera view
My wife had a VN 800 and i had a Honda Shadow 750. I always rode her bike more aggressively. It was more of a hot rod than mine. Lovely bike tho.
Awesome video, thanks.
I am planning on getting my first motorcycle what do you think I should get for my first motorcycle nothing too big nothing too fancy
Don't it seem like when you are in 5th gear there should be another gear? ;) I took my 2000 Vulcan VN800A from N. Florida to S. Florida and back. No problems. Comfortable ride. I weigh 170 pounds. Great enjoyable ride.
Bill Vin Ord completely agree 5th gear does not feel like an overdrive on this bike
Would this be a good beginner bike? Have someone trying to sell me one.
All of these midsized cruisers seem to need a 6th gear, I love the great looks and torque ..
My vulcan 800 is the same bike. Im lucky to get it over 80. Im a big guy 6'2 265 and it struggles with my weight. On a straight away it will go 90 if I push it but hills the poor thing is screaming.
i got 98 classic, i’ve been all over with it, definitely worth it
I just bought an 2005 with only 1,284 miles . I have to clean the tank, carb is new, and I'm ready to ride
I know this is an older video but love that jacket you're wearing. If you, or anyone else, know(s) what brand it is... I'd appreciate the info. 👌🏾thanks
Would you take it over a dragstar 650 ?
What year is this bike ??
This sounds better than my 05 Honda Shadow Sabre 1100!