🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kawasaki

Model:

Vulcan VN750 Twin

Year:

1987

Generation Designation:

First Generation VN750

Vin Code Digit 7:

G

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Kawasaki Vulcan VN750 was positioned as a cruiser motorcycle offering a blend of V-twin character, reliable shaft drive, and accessible performance, often competing with other mid-sized cruisers from Japanese manufacturers.

Competitors 1987:

Honda Shadow VT700/VT750, Yamaha Virago XV700/XV750, Suzuki Intruder VS700/VS750

Vehicle Features:

Liquid-cooled V-twin engine, 5-speed transmission, shaft final drive, hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, comfortable riding position, classic cruiser styling.

Value Proposition:

This factory service manual provides the authoritative, detailed information required to maintain and repair the 1987 Kawasaki Vulcan VN750, ensuring optimal performance, longevity, and safety. It is an indispensable resource for owners and technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Systems:

Engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive)

Chassis Suspension:

Frame, front fork, rear suspension, shock absorbers, steering

Braking System:

Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic, disc)

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, starter system, wiring diagrams

Body Frame:

Bodywork components, fuel tank, seat, fenders, handlebars, controls

Special Tools:

Listing and usage of required special tools

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 300-400 (typical for factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed manual (implying high-quality paper, detailed diagrams)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and connecting rod service, valve adjustment, timing chain inspection and replacement.

Fuel System:

Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, synchronization (Mikuni VM series), fuel pump operation, fuel filter replacement.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing adjustment, spark plug specifications, coil resistance checks, CDI unit diagnosis, pickup coil testing.

Cooling System:

Radiator service, coolant type and capacity, thermostat operation, fan system checks.

Transmission:

Gearbox oil change, clutch plate inspection and replacement, shifting mechanism adjustment.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive lubrication and inspection, universal joint checks.

Suspension Forks:

Front fork oil level and replacement, seal replacement, spring inspection.

Rear Suspension:

Shock absorber adjustment, linkage lubrication and inspection.

Brakes:

Brake fluid type and bleeding procedures, pad and caliper inspection/replacement, rotor measurement.

Electrical Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics with component identification for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Instrumentation:

Speedometer, tachometer, indicator lights, and their electrical connections.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, chain lubrication (if applicable, though this is shaft drive), general inspection procedures.

Repair:

Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, bodywork repair.

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling all major components and sub-assemblies.

Diagnostics:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common problems, including electrical and mechanical issues.

Adjustments:

Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever free play adjustment, brake lever free play adjustment.

Safety Checks:

Inspection points for critical safety components like brakes, steering, and suspension.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Printed, bound document with durable cover and high-quality paper for longevity in a workshop environment.

Quality:

High-resolution printing with clear, legible text and detailed, crisp diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Professional binding (likely saddle-stitched or perfect bound) ensuring pages lay relatively flat for ease of use during repairs.

Paper:

Durable, matte-finish paper resistant to smudging and workshop grime.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC, V-twin

Displacement:

749 cc (45.7 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

82.0 x 72.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valve Train:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Cooling Method:

Liquid-cooled with fan assist

Horsepower Est Peak:

Approx. 60-65 HP @ 6700 RPM (manufacturer data may vary slightly)

Torque Est Peak:

Approx. 47-50 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (manufacturer data may vary slightly)

Carburetor Type:

Dual Mikuni VM34SS, constant velocity (CV) carburetors

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum

Fuel Tank Capacity:

3.5 US gallons (13.0 liters)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition (CDI)

Oil Capacity W Filter:

2.6 US quarts (2.5 liters)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

10W-40 API SG or higher (check manual for specific recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-disc

Final Drive:

Shaft drive

Gear Ratios:

Manual will contain specific gear ratios for each speed.

Final Drive Ratio:

Manual will contain specific final drive ratio.

Transmission Oil Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, typically 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length Overall:

Approx. 90.6 inches (2300 mm)

Width Overall:

Approx. 31.1 inches (790 mm)

Height Overall:

Approx. 46.1 inches (1170 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 454 lbs (206 kg)

Wet Weight Est:

Approx. 485 lbs (220 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Meets all applicable federal safety standards for motorcycles of its model year. Manual provides guidance on maintaining safety systems.

Braking System:

Dual hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear) for effective stopping power.

Suspension Stability:

Well-balanced chassis and suspension design for stable handling.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake lights, turn signals for visibility.

Instrumentation Warnings:

Indicator lights for oil pressure, neutral, high beam, turn signals, and engine temperature.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic; primarily focused on rider information display with analog speedometer, tachometer, and indicator lights. No advanced infotainment systems were standard.

Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense. Focus is on reliable mechanical operation. ABS was not available on this model.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Service:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, clean or replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 6,000 - 7,500 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap).

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 12,000 miles or 24 months.

Coolant Change:

Every 12,000 miles or 24 months.

Final Drive Oil Change:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher motorcycle specific oil.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Final Drive Oil Spec:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 recommended.

Fork Oil Type:

Kawasaki KHL15-10 (or equivalent 10W fork oil).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates (due to cruiser riding style), fork seals, brake pads, cooling system hoses (aging rubber), potential carburetor tuning issues (stale fuel, wear).

Electrical Concerns:

Aging wiring harness can lead to intermittent electrical faults; rectifier/regulator issues can occur with age.

Engine Management:

Carburetor synchronization is crucial for smooth running; intake manifold cracks can cause vacuum leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Kawasaki Legacy:

Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable, performance-oriented motorcycles, often pioneering new technologies and engine designs in various segments.

Vn750 Introduction:

The VN750 Vulcan was introduced in 1985 as Kawasaki's entry into the burgeoning cruiser market, featuring a unique 749cc V-twin engine and shaft drive, setting it apart from its chain-driven competitors.

Vn750 Updates 1987:

The 1987 model saw refinements based on earlier production years, focusing on reliability and rider comfort. Visual updates might have included minor styling changes.

Vn750 Production Run:

The VN750 Vulcan was produced for an extended period, roughly from 1985 to 2006, undergoing several minor updates and styling variations throughout its lifecycle.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1987 model are not widely publicized, the VN750 Vulcan series was generally well-regarded for its styling, reliability, and value within the cruiser segment during its production run.