Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Problems And Their Solutions

Kawasaki Vulcan came into the market in 1995 with the VN800A, the classic version. Later, Kawasaki introduced the Vn800B in 1996 and both bikes with their cruising and retro style look impressive. 

The bikes were in the market till 2006 when Kawasaki Vulcan 900 series replaced them. During their 12 years of journey, Vulcan 800 motorcycles were popular for their powerful engine, iconic appearance, and state-of-the-art design. Yet, riders complained about Kawasaki Vulcan 800 problems that aren’t ignorable. 

Common problems of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 include overheating engine, sudden power loss, oil leaks and unreliable brakes. We will today look deep into these problems of Vulcan 800, their reasons, and troubleshooting. If you ever want to get this iconic Vulcan 800 as collectible, you will learn about its details. 

Features of Kawasaki Vulcan 800

Let’s talk about the general and specific features of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800. It will help you to determine if it’s the right bike for you.

Feature	Description
Engine	Engine 4-stroke, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-valve liquid-cooled
Transmission	Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) shaft drive
Suspension	Double-wishbone suspension is used both front and rear
4WD System	Selectable 2WD/4WD, shaft. Dual mode rear differential with differential lock
Chassis	High-strength steel double cradle frame and reinforced protective cage for enhanced safety
Ground Clearance	Impressive 135mm/5.2 in of ground clearance to tackle rough and uneven terrain
Tires	120/70/18 front tire and 160/60/17 rear tires for excellent traction and durability
Cockpit	Spacious and comfortable cabin with adjustable bucket seats and ample legroom
Infotainment System	High-quality yet affordable audio gear, sound systems, and stereo kits for the Kawasaki Mule lineup of off-road
Cargo Space	Large cargo bed with a capacity of 699 lb (600 lb California models) to carry all essential gear
LED Lighting	LED Light Bar12 inch light bar 4 flood light reflectors and 6 spot beam reflectors for a total of 10 LED lights ·
Brakes	Front brake-Dual Disc, 2 piston caliper and rear brake- Dual Disc, 1 piston caliper
EPS	Speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Skid Plates	Constructed of 6.35mm (1/4”) thick HMW these skid plates help provide additional protection

What Are the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Problems and Their Solutions?

Do you know what are the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 problems? Kawasaki Vulcan 800 with its retro-cruising style looked impressive. However, its engine often got overheated, the engine lost sudden power and also had inconsistent brakes. 

We will now look into these problems of Vulcan 800 and ways to fix it. 

Problem 1: Overheating issues 

One common issue that Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic riders may experience is overheating. It is a very serious problem for the bike. It may cause serious damage to the bike as often the engine temperature went above 200-degree, specially with longer rides. It was way more than the expected temperature from a motorcycle engine. 

Causes of overheating:

There are various causes of overheating. The causes include insufficient coolant levels, clogged radiators, or faulty water pumps.

If the coolant levels in the bike’s radiator are low, the engine may overheat. Coolant leaks may damage the radiator. It is also the cause of the malfunctioning of the water pump. 

Clogged radiators can also cause overheating. Debris or dirt can accumulate in the radiator. It may block the flow of coolant and cause the engine to overheat. 

The water pump is another component that can cause overheating in the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic. If the water pump is not functioning properly, it may not circulate coolant effectively. It will lead to overheating. 

In some cases, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause overheating. The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. A damaged head gasket can cause coolant to leak into the engine.

Signs of overheating Vulcan 800

• The engine may show a higher temperature than normal reading
• You will notice that steam or smoke will come from the engine compartment
• The vehicle will lose power and performance,
• A burnt odor of the engine and the engine oil may also indicate overheating.

Solution of overheating:

Riders should regularly inspect the water pump and replace it if it is not functioning correctly. To prevent overheating, Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic riders should regularly inspect. They should maintain their bike’s cooling system. 

You need to regularly change the oil on the bike. They should clean the radiator and check the coolant level. Thus, all of these can help prevent issues from arising. Also, you can install thigh protectors to save yourself from overheating. 

Problem 2: Oil leaks

The oil leak is another common problem of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800. They can cause several problems in the Kawasaki Mule Pro Mx. It may damage the engine and decrease performance.

Causes of oil leaks:

Oil leaks can occur for several reasons, including a damaged gasket or seal, worn-out engine parts, or overfilling the oil tank. The common causes of oil and fuel leaks are faulty gaskets and cracked hoses. Loose connections between parts can also cause this problem. 

Signs of oil leaks

• You will see noticeable puddles or spots of oil under the vehicle
• You may smell of burning oil, which can occur when oil drips
• If you find traces of oil on the engine block, it is a sign of oil leaks.

Solution of oil leaks:

If an oil leak is detected, it is important to fix the issue as soon as possible. You should do it to prevent further damage to the engine. 

Riders will first locate the source of the leak by inspecting the engine and oil tank. If the leak is coming from the oil filter, a damaged gasket or seal may be the main problem. You can solve the problem by replacing the damaged gasket or seal.

Sometimes the leaks may come from the engine’s crankcase or cylinder head. It may wear out engine parts and you should replace it. It is one of the more extensive repairs of the bike. 

Regular maintenance can also help to prevent oil leaks from occurring. Riders should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes. You must use the recommended oil type and viscosity. 

Problem 3: Power loss

Sometimes power loss may occur in the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic. Therefore, the engine may start stalling. Therefore, you will need more time to start it. 

Causes of Power loss:

A faulty ignition system can also cause power loss. If the ignition system is not functioning correctly, power loss can occur.

Another potential cause of power loss is a clogged fuel system. Over time, the fuel system can become clogged with debris. It causes a decrease in power.

Signs of power loss

• You may notice that the engine might stall frequently.
• If you notice the engine is surging or hesitating, it is a sign of power loss.
• The engine’s RPM may fluctuate significantly before power loss.

Solution of power loss:

One of the first steps in diagnosing power loss is to inspect the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine. It may cause a decrease in power. If the air filter is dirty, you should replace it with a new one.

Riders should check the fuel filter and fuel lines for any signs of blockage. If a blockage is detected, you should replace it. 

Riders should check the spark plugs and ignition coils for any signs of damage or wear. They will replace the ignition components as needed.

Problem 4: Braking Issues

The Kawasaki Vulcan 800 is a versatile and powerful bike. But this versatile vehicle has issues with its brakes. It can create dangerous situations for the vehicles and the rides. 

Causes of Braking issues:

There are a few possible causes for this braking issue. The most common causes are almost too many. 

There may be dust on the rotors of the brakes. The dust can cause problems with the brakes. You may find a leak in the hydraulic system. It is another reason for the breaking problem. The braking pads may become worn out.

Signs of braking issue:

You may feel the brake pedal soft, spongy, or go too far down.

• The brake warning light on the dashboard might illuminate. It indicates an issue with the braking system.
• When you apply the brakes, it may vibrate or shudder. 
• There may be found high-pitched squealing or grinding noises.

Solution of braking issues:

It would help if you cleaned the brake rotors. It is an easy way to fix the break. You can use a degreaser or sandpaper to clean brake rotors. It will remove any build-up of brake dust. Besides, it allows the pads to make full contact with the rotors. 

Then, you will check the hydraulic system for leaks. If you find any leaks, you will replace them. Tusk Brake Pad is one of the best hydraulic systems for Kawasaki, and you can buy it.

Problem 5: Fuel pump problems 

The fuel pump is an important component in the fuel system of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic. It is responsible for delivering the fuel from the tank to the engine. However, like any other part of the fuel system, it can develop problems over time.

Causes of Fuel pump problem:

Sometimes the issue with the fuel pump is a loss of pressure. It can cause a variety of symptoms. The symptoms include difficulty starting, stalling, or poor performance. In some cases, the fuel pump may fail completely. It causes the engine to stop running altogether.

Solution of fuel pump problem:

First, you need to check the fuel filter for clogs or debris. A clogged filter can reduce fuel flow and cause problems. So you should clean it or replace the fuel filter when necessary.

Sometimes the fuel pump may become totally damaged. In this case, you need to replace it with a new one. However, you should regularly maintain the bike to prevent the problem of the fuel pump of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800.

Pros of Kawasaki Vulcan 800:

• Timeless Styling: The Kawasaki Vulcan 800 features a classic cruiser design that has a timeless appeal. So, it is a favorite among riders who appreciate retro aesthetics. 
• Comfortable Ride: The bike’s ergonomics are designed for comfortable long-distance riding. The low saddle height and relaxed riding position make it ideal for extended trips. 
• Reliable Engine: The Vulcan 800 is powered by a dependable 805cc V-twin engine. So, it is known for its durability and low-maintenance requirements. 
• Affordability: In the used market, the Vulcan 800 often comes at an affordable price point. Thus, it is accessible to budget-conscious riders. 
• Easy Handling: Vulcan 800 comes with a manageable weight and responsive handling. Hence, the Vulcan 800 is suitable for riders of varying skill levels, including beginners.

Cons of Kawasaki Vulcan 800:

• Limited Features: Compared to modern cruisers, the Vulcan 800 lacks advanced features. It includes ABS, traction control, and ride modes, which may disappoint some riders. 
• Vibration at High Speeds: Some riders have reported increased vibration at higher speeds. It can affect long-distance comfort.
• Limited Passenger Comfort: The rear seat and passenger accommodations are somewhat cramped. Thus, Vulcan 800 is less ideal for two-up riding. 

Conclusion:

We have mentioned above some of the most common problems of the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 problems. It is very easy to solve Kawasaki Vulcan 800 problems. You can repair the damaged part of the bike. Therefore, you shouldn’t hesitate to buy the Kawasaki Vulcan 800. 

You should also inspect the signs of the problems properly. Finally, just follow the tips to fix all of the problems and enjoy smooth driving with your Kawasaki Vulcan 800.