In November 2003, Cruising Rider editors joined Kawasaki in beautiful Santa Barbara, Calif., for the media introduction of this new motorcycle, which included some long-distance back road cruising. They then took delivery of their own bike for some extensive testing. Here’s what editors had to say about the Vulcan 2000:

“On the road, the Vulcan 2K has tremendous presence, its massive dimensions overshadowing lesser machines and sending them scurrying. Its tire-melting torque makes quick work of passing maneuvers without so much as a downshift.”

“We have to say that the Vulcan 2000 packs a wonderful wallop, has great brakes and reasonable ergonomics, combines traffic-stopping good looks with a solid mechanical design, and gets more attention than Brand H. Yet with an MSRP of $14,499 it costs less than some big-inch custom motors that would produce similar performance.”

“In naming Kawasaki’s Vulcan 2000 Cruising Rider’s Bike of the Year, we offer a hearty round of applause for its brawny styling, its powerful engine, excellent fit and finish, and top-notch running gear. It’s civilized where it needs to be, but runs like the proverbial, uh, violated ape when you put the spurs to it. And for you posey-sniffers, we certify that no apes were actually violated or spurs used on any unwilling subjects during our testing. Good on ya, Kawasaki!”