Production
The Kawasaki Vulcan Super Chief was eventually shipped to Japan where it would inspire the creation and launch of the 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter, whose blacked out handlebar, frame, forks, and shock absorbers, as well as gray engine base, served to emulate the classic look. While the Super Chief’s indicators had been located in the bike’s headlights, the Drifter came equipped with conventional indicators. Kawasaki offered driving lights as accessories which could be added to the bike to enhance its appearance, while also serving a functional purpose.
The Drifter’s retro look was achieved by using the Vulcan 1500 as a base from which to generate a streamlined design which would evoke a classic appearance while delivering the benefits of modern technology. Despite its 1940s appearance, the Drifter is powered by a fuel-injected liquid-cooled 1470 cc V-twin engine delivering power by a five-speed transmission featuring an automatic neutral finder. A drive shaft is used to transfer power from the engine and transmission to the rear wheel, and the motorcycle has single disc brakes both front and rear. The Drifter has a 1.66 metres (65 in) wheelbase, and weighed 322 kilograms (710 lb).
In the 2000 model Kawasaki repeated the blacked out look, then in 2001 introduced a new look which included chromed forks and accessories, a larger fuel tank, and a modified seat consisting of stock solo seating as opposed to the two-up seat which had previously been standard issue.
Read more about this topic: Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Drifter
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