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Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 3/5/2007 10:44:31 AM
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| I just purchased a 2003 kawasaki vulcan
800 classic with only 600 mi.What is the reliability record on these bikes?
Why do manufacturer's still make chain driven bikes like this one or is it not a big deal, with timely maintenance?
william |
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Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 3/5/2007 10:44:31 AM
Posts: -1,167, Visits: 2 |
| "What is the reliability record on these bikes?"
The 800 vulcans have many cases of 100,000 miles machines that have yet to need serious repairs. Just be sure to keep up with maintenance, and it'll be bullet-proof.
"Why do manufacturer's still make chain driven bikes like this one or is it not a big deal, with timely maintenance?"
Chain drives are cheaper, more durable, and more energy efficient than kevlar belts or shaft-drives. Some people have been able to get 50,000+ miles from their original chain/sproket set (sprokets should be changed at the same time as the chain), and unless you have a lead wrist, you'll probably won't need to adjust the chain for 10,000 miles.
The only "maintenance" you need to do to a modern sealed-ring is to clean it with either kerosene or a specific 'chain lube' when it gets dirty. |
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Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 3/5/2007 10:44:31 AM
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| | I HAD A 1995 VULCAN 800. IT DEVELOPED AN OIL LEAK INTO THE AIR FILTER AND WOULD DIE ON ME AT 70 MILES AN HOUR. I SOLD AND GOT A 2000 883 SPORTSTER. EVEN THOUGH I HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE VULCAN, I KINDA OF REGRET SELLING. |
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Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 3/5/2007 10:44:31 AM
Posts: -1,167, Visits: 2 |
| These are some of the most reliable motors out there. With regular maintenance you can expect easily 100,000 miles. They also have nice power and a great sound, thanks to the single pin crank. KISS (Keep It Simple). There is nothing wrong with a chain on a bike. The benefits include, better fuel economy, more power to the wheel, less stuff to go wrong and less weight than shaft drive. The only real disadvantage is that you have to maintain it. It's not difficult but can be a messy chore sometimes. Use a good solvent to remove old grease and dirt, then spray on a quality chain lube for o-ring chains.
Ralf Paxton |
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