The 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 is the second model year of the Vulcan 2000, which Japanese heavy equipment manufacturer Kawasaki introduced in 2004 as the most powerful version of the Vulcan cruiser. At the time, two variants existed: the regular Vulcan 2000 (Vulcan 2000 Base) and a limited-edition model (Vulcan 2000 LE). The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 are $14,499 for the Base model and $15,999 for the LE.
Each 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 is powered by a fuel-injected, four-stroke V-twin pushrod engine, which displaces at 2,053 cubic centimeters (thus the ""2000"" suffix), generates 141 pound-feet of torque, and is liquid- or air-cooled for prevention of overheating and consequent malfunction. It has a bore and stroke of 88.9 x 79.4 millimeters (3.5 x 3.13 inches) and a 9.2-to-1 compression ratio. An electric starter is included on each bike for the engine’s ignition. The engine on the 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 is linked with a five-speed manual transmission, and each cruiser gets a 5.5-gallon (20.8-liter) gas tank.
The 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 uses an all-wheel disc brake system. It consists of dual 11.8-inch (300-mm) disc brakes with four-piston calipers; and bigger, 12.6-inch (320-mm) rear disc brakes. The suspension consists of a 1.9-inch (49-mm) telescopic fork and twin-sided steel swing arm with a rear shock absorber. Each cruiser has 16-inch wheels wrapped in tubeless tires. The tires on the Base model are made of aluminum, while the LE has chrome wheels.
Kawasaki made each 2005 Vulcan 2000 out of a steel double-cradle frame, and painted it black, blue, or green. A kick stand provides parking ability, and a two-piece vinyl seat provides enough space for the driver and a passenger. Standard digital instrumentation on the cruiser consists of a clock, tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, temperature warning light, and fuel level warning gauge. A pair of rearview mirrors and a halogen headlight with visor provides enhanced visibility for driving.
Each 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 has a wheelbase of 68.3 inches (1,734.8 mm), with its seat set at a height of 26.8 inches (680.7 mm). Its dry weight is estimated at 750 lbs. (340.2 kilograms).
Solidly built and supremely powerful, the 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan was one of the best cruiser entries of the 2005 model year. It still holds up very well, even years after its debut.