Kawasaki Vulcan 750 (VN 750 Twin): Specs, Features, Background, Performance & More

Motorcycling has become a lifestyle for many bike enthusiasts. A little planning, a few add-ons, and a full tank are all you need to explore the endless roads of adventure. This is especially true for beginners who complete their motorcycle training course, only to go motorcycle backpacking and feel the rush of adrenaline in their veins.

It is true that with passion, one can tour on any bike. However, not all bikes are beginner-friendly. Therefore, if you want to celebrate the completion of your MSF training course in the wilderness, then choosing the right motorcycle is very important.

There are many entry-level cruisers on the market, but the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 might be just what you need as the bike offers adequate power, torque, stability, and comfort. Plus, it is economical, fuel-efficient, and low-maintenance.

Read on to find out why the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 is the best cruiser for beginners. For your convenience, this bike profile covers the Kawasaki Vulcan’s history, features, and technical specifications in detail.

Kawasaki presented its first-ever retro-style V-twin cruiser in 1984. The bike was initially called the Vulcan VN 750, but over the years it adopted the more convenient name, Vulcan 750 by the time it graced showrooms worldwide in 1985.

Due to 1985 import tariff sanctions on Japanese motorcycle companies, Kawasaki had to decrease the displacement from 749 to 699 cc for American models. Therefore, the Vulcan 750 lineup was designated as the Vulcan 700. In 1986, the sanctions were lifted and the motorcycle company continued the 749 cc displacement bracket. The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 lineup had a 22-year-long production run and was discontinued after 2006.

Since its launch, the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 bikes have remained unchanged. The aesthetics and paint job evolved a bit, but the retro looks, classic handlebars, impressive big-bore engine, comfortable seat, and technical specifications continued to meet the needs of American bike enthusiasts year after year. Recently, the Vulcan 750 cruisers have developed the “best beginner bike” reputation due to its effortless handling and high-end performance. The cruisers feature a low-maintenance shaft drive, liquid-cooled DOHC configuration, 34mm constant velocity carburetor, 746 cc displacement, and a 66 hp horsepower at a competitive price. No wonder American youths are unable to resist this beauty.

The Vulcan 750 debuted at less than $5,000 and featured two distinct paint schemes. The 1985 American models were introduced as 699 cc cruisers.

In 1986, the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 bikes for America featured 749 cc displacement. As a result, the price was increased by $300. The bikes retained the color schemes of the previous year.

With the 1987 Vulcan 750 models came two-tone paint schemes. The bike featured two unique paint jobs.

The 1988 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 motorcycles were available in only one paint scheme.

In 1989, the motorcycle company switched to the monotone paint scheme again.

The 1990 Vulcan 750 models featured a striking red paint job.

No styling differences were seen in the 1991 Vulcan 750 motorcycles.

In 1992, Kawasaki upgraded the style by introducing two distinct two-tone paint schemes for its cruisers.

Due to surging demand, the 1993 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 cruisers were available in the previous year’s paint scheme.

The 1994 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 models charmed their potential owners with their stunning new paints.

The 1995 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 cruisers retained the color scheme of the previous year.

In 1996, the color palette was revised. The 1996 Vulcan 750 motorcycles looked stunning with fresh two-tone paint schemes.

In 1997, Kawasaki kept the red/gray color combination from the previous year but also introduced the ebony/silver theme to spice up the look of the cruisers.

The year 1998 saw a new metallic paint for the Vulcan 750 motorcycles. With this new paint job, the motorcycles gained a brand new identity.

In 1999, the classic black/gray scheme came into play. The 750 Vulcan motorcycles with their retro styling looked chic and contemporary with this paint job.

Loved by cruiser enthusiasts, the black/gray paint was repeated for the 2000 Vulcan 750 models.

In 2001, striking metallic two-tone paint schemes were added to the Kawasaki Vulcan 750. The 2001 Vulcan 750 motorcycle gained many admirers due to this paint job.

In 2002, Kawasaki introduced a silver/green color combination for its 2002 Vulcan 750 models. The paint scheme gave a cool look to the bike.

The 2003 Vulcan 750 motorcycles were available in a distinct paint scheme. The shiny new paint signified luxury, style, and mechanical power.

The ebony/silver paint of the 2004 Vulcan 750 bikes won countless hearts. This popular paint job made an appearance the next year as well due to its high demand and popularity.

No new technical or styling changes were observed in the 2005 Vulcan 750 models. The buyers were content with the ebony/silver from the previous year.

The final model of the Vulcan 750 featured an ebony/red paint scheme. The touch of red paint augmented the cruiser look of the bike.

Launched in 1985, the Vulcan 750 motorcycles have a profound 80’s look. The low-lying, sleek, tubular steel frame is heavily chromed. The teardrop fuel tank is decorated with luscious paint. The deeply valanced front and rear fenders contribute to the classic retro-styling. Shiny tall handlebars, comfortable wide handgrips, side mirrors, and an easy-to-read speedometer sum up the stylish profile of the Vulcan 750 cruisers.

At the heart of this powerful machine lies an even more powerful engine. The Vulcan 750 engine is a four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin motor with a DOHC configuration. Thanks to its engine, the Vulcan 750 bike displaces 749 ccs and produces a maximum horsepower of 66 hp at 7500 rpm and a peak torque of 64.7 Nm at 6000 rpm. The Kawasaki engine utilizes two 34 mm carburetors that supply the air/fuel mixture with great precision for improved combustion efficiency and engine performance.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 cruiser feature a compact multi-plate clutch and a five-speed transmission. The clutch allows smooth gear shifts for an excellent riding experience. The clean shaft drive is an important component of larger cruisers that connects to the rear wheel. The drive chain and powerful suspensions ensure good handling of the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 cruisers.

The Vulcan 750 motorcycles come with typical cast wheels and tubeless tires that augment the retro look. The front tire is 100 mm wide, while the rear tire is 150 mm wide. The wheels easily support the weight of two riders even on long hauls.

The 226 mm double disc at the front has a twin-piston caliper, while for the rear, a drum brake is used. The Vulcan 750 brakes provide ample stopping power and bring the bike to a halt without delay.

The 28.9-inch high Vulcan 750 seat is low-slung and well-padded. The handlebars are lightweight and positioned at just the right distance from the seat for a relaxed riding position. Riders have no trouble reaching the ground. Due to its riding comfort, the Vulcan 750 is considered an excellent beginner cruiser.

Kawasaki has perfected the power-to-weight ratio in its lightweight Vulcan 750 cruisers. The engine generates plenty of low-end torque for long cruising range.

The relaxed styling, comfortable seat, and strong front and rear suspensions result in an easy-to-handle bike. The low base price of the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 motorcycle makes it all the more suitable for young bikers. Hence, it can be concluded that even in 2022, the Vulcan 750 is one of the best beginner bikes on the market.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 engine has two cylinders. Due to its DOHC configuration, each cylinder features four valves for optimal airflow, specifically at high speeds.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 bike has a dry weight of 483 lbs and is considered lightweight. On a full tank, the weight of the bike increases by 37 lbs. Therefore, the curb weight of the bike is approximately 520 lbs.

Powered by the 749 cc V-twin motor, the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 is reasonably fast and can achieve a top speed of 110 mph.

The Kawasaki Vulcan is carbureted and offers an estimated mileage of 49 mpg.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 is an excellent cruiser. It is especially popular among the younger generation who love to modify bikes and upgrade them into tourers with the help of a few aftermarket parts.

Powerful and reliable, this bike has many qualities and performs equally well on city streets and interstates. To help you prepare your Kawasaki Vulcan 750 for a memorable camping trip, the motorcycle luggage expert, VikingBags, brings forth the following modification options.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 750 comes with a plush seat and a factory-installed sissy bar for improved comfort. To further increase riding comfort. you could install backrests.

On your way to the destination, you are bound to face the harsh natural elements. Unfortunately, the Kawasaki Vulcan 750 motorcycles lack a windshield. Therefore, you should consider adding fairings to your motorcycle for wind protection.

Not to forget, motorcycle backpacking without saddlebags is an incomplete experience. Worrying about the safety of your motorcycle luggage is the last thing you want to do on your camping trip. Invest in a pair of high-quality saddlebags for ultimate convenience. These saddlebags will be your luggage partner once you are back in the city. You can carry your laptop, charger, motorcycle tools, important documents, and even your lunch in these saddlebags. A wide selection of stylish Kawasaki-specific saddlebags is available on the market. You can easily find one that will improve your bike’s look, your touring experience, and your lifestyle.