2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 Engine View
Maximum Twin-Cylinder Motorcycles: Honda VTX 1800N vs. Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 vs. Yamaha Road Star 1700
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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
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