This scooter is worth a look - (27,000 mile update at bottom)
Written: Apr 17 '05 (Updated Apr 19 '05)
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Pros: Good looks, smooth on highway, easy maintenance, very comfortable. (Update 4-18-05) - reliable
Cons: Engine could use a few more horses. Vibrates a little at lower speeds around town.
The Bottom Line: Check the bike out. It's a very good bike in many ways. The moderate vibration at lower RPM's may not be an issue for you. Some even like it.
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| gjkarle's Full Review: 2000 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Nomad Fi |
I've owned this 2001, Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad FI now for about 1 week. That's not a long time, but long enough to get a general idea about the good and the bad. What I've learned is that the bike has more good points than bad. The worst thing about the bike is a slight vibration at certain low RPM's around town. I'd be happier if it had a little more horsepower, too.
Now for the good stuff. At 6'-2"/220#, there isn't a bike that fits me better. I consider the bike to be very comfortable and recommend any big rider to look closely at this bike just for that reason alone. The bike weighs 739 lbs (dry), so I'm not sure I would recommend it for smaller riders. They show pictures of women riding them, but I think that's just marketing. There are smaller bikes out there that are just as nice, perform just as well, and will be easier to maneuver.
The looks of the bike are really second to none. I have received several compliments on the bike. Sometimes I just go in the garage to look at it. The ride and feel on the highway is exemplary. This is where the bike really shines. This bike is a touring cruiser, and that is what it does best. There is virtually no vibration at speeds above 40 MPH and the ride is extremely smooth. It's an absolute pleasure on the highway. It's no racing bike, but there is generally sufficient power and speed in all situations. The pipes are not very loud at all, but you can still hear and feel the throaty rumble of the big pistons pumping.
The Nomad has a shaft drive, adjustable heal/toe shifter, self adjusting valves, windshield, hydraulic brakes and clutch, floor boards for rider and passenger, hinged gas cap, cushy thick seats, solid front end, adjustable rear air shocks, easy maintenance features, gas gauge, clock, stainless steal pipes, and hard side bags. A nice array of features and yet still looks and rides like a motorcycle, unlike some decked out tourers on the market.
Sure, I have a complaint or two, but I would with any bike. No bike is perfect in every way, but the Nomad seems to come closest to meeting my priorities. I think the bike is worth a look.
(Update: 4-18-05) I first wrote this review in June of 2001, and after 4 years and 27,000 miles I'm still a satisfied owner. I've had very few, minor problems, all repaired under warranty. The bike could use a few more horses under the wheels - a bit doggy riding 2-up. I mentioned above that it vibrated at lower speeds - seems I've gotten used to that for the most part. Shifting through the gears is smooth, but from 1st to 2nd, it takes a little getting used to. The rear stock Bridgestone tire was noisy after a few thousand miles. I was glad replace it with another brand at around 12K miles. I've kept the engine, air intake, drive, and exhaust - stock. Overall, it's been a good bike.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 11,285
Condition: New
Model Year: 2001
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Epinions.com ID:
gjkarle
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Reviews written: 2
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