2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 Engine View.Jpeg
Maximum Twin-Cylinder Motorcycles: Honda VTX 1800N vs. Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 vs. Yamaha Road Star 1700
|
Kawasaki pulled out all the stops to make the biggest production V-twin going. With a 103mm bore and 123.2mm stroke, the Vulcan's engine the largest production V-twin and the most undersquare of this bunch, with a bore/stroke ratio of 0.83:1. (Honda's is 0.89:1; the Yamaha is 0.85:1. A typical sportbike's ratio is around 1.5:1.) Generally, a long-stroke engine builds torque strong and fast, as the Vulcan does with a vengeance, peaking at 121.4 foot-pounds, 16.8 foot-pound above the Honda. Its four valves per cylinder--chosen most likely as much to provide additional heat paths through the valves as for their breathing ability--are operated by four pushrods and two cams located in the right engine chest, as Harleys have done forever. Pushrods? On a brand-new design? It makes sense, actually, if you intend to keep the engine as short as possible, a task made tougher by the long stroke. Besides, the rev limit on this engine (actually 5000 rpm) is set by maximum piston speed, which in turn dictates a redline well within the capabilities of a modern pushrod valve train. Hydraulic lash adjusters make the valve train maintenance-free. and Kawasaki's usual excellent gear-driven counterbalancer helps flatten the considerable vibes inherent in this design. View Related Article
|
|