XM on Nomad

[chmorro]

Does anyone know if the XM radio option on the new '08 has speakers on the bike? Also, that would be nice if they offer that unit as an aftermarket device that we Nomad owners of older bikes could purchase and install... Anyone have any info. on that? I'm looking for a sleek, clean unit that is not too bulky to add some tunes to the bike. I wear a half helmet, so I'll probably have to buy at least a three quarter helmet to install speakers in it.

[Idaho]

You can bet that if Kawi puts an XM radio on the new models that some one will figure out how to adapt them to older bikes. Probably by next spring, just my SWAG, there will be new tunes on old Nomads.

[Scoot]

Does anyone know if the XM radio option on the new '08 has speakers on the bike? Also, that would be nice if they offer that unit as an aftermarket device that we Nomad owners of older bikes could purchase and install... Anyone have any info. on that? I'm looking for a sleek, clean unit that is not too bulky to add some tunes to the bike. I wear a half helmet, so I'll probably have to buy at least a three quarter helmet to install speakers in it.

Kawasaki will offer an all-new, state-of-the-art Premium Audio System with XM Radio® as a dealer installed option on its Vulcan™ 1600 Nomad touring model. Customers will be able to tune-in to more than 170 XM channels of music, sports, talk, news, and entertainment. Kawasaki motorcycles sold with XM radios installed will offer three-months of complimentary XM radio service.

"Kawasaki buyers will now be able to enjoy XM, the greatest variety of entertainment on the radio, on the road," said Joe Verbrugge, XM senior vice president, automotive accounts and international operations. "Kawasaki customers can now hear commercial-free music, live sports, breaking news, or traffic and weather reports for major cities on XM, wherever they travel from coast to coast."

Jim Williams, senior manager of accessories at Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. added "This Premium Audio System is a high-quality accessory built to Kawasaki's specifications designed to greatly enhance our customers' ownership experience. As the pioneer in satellite radio, XM represents a terrific value-added feature to the system."

For more insight on this exciting new option, we talked to Paul Golde, Kawasaki’s senior product specialist in charge of Vulcan cruiser accessories. According to Golde, when Kawasaki was seeking to add a rider entertainment system to its popular long distance touring model, the Vulcan 1600 Nomad, they discovered it was a perfect match to the XM radio concept – non-stop radio for adventurers traversing the country. And thus the collaboration was born.

Paul, what are the advantages of having this system factory designed?
The system is Kawasaki factory approved, which means it underwent extensive development and months of testing to help ensure its reliability. The second advantage is full integration with the motorcycle’s design, electrical system and controls. Aftermarket products may or may not provide that seamless blend with the machine.

What does the system include/involve?
It is a modular system that includes the Premium Audio System radio with a remote handlebar-mounted controller, antenna and rider entertainment system, (headset) that allows the rider to listen to the AM, FM and weather bands the basic system receives. This is the base upon which the customer can add the XM Radio Kit, which includes a XM radio module and antenna, to receive the XM signal. A CB radio option is also available as well as an adaptor that will allow riders to plug their iPod into the system, which will also charge the iPod while they listen to their favorite tunes, and control their iPod from the handlebar.

Is the entire system is dealer installed?
That’s correct, although if a customer is sufficiently mechanically inclined, he could probably do it himself, as the kit comes with detailed instructions.

How much will it cost?
The MSRP of the Premium Audio System is $710.95 and the XM Radio Kit is $442.95, which does not include installation.

Will it be possible for existing Vulcan 1600 Nomad owners to retrofit it to their machines?
Absolutely, this kit fits Vulcan 1600 Nomads from 2005-2008!

And most importantly, when will it be available?
It should be ready to ship to dealers by the end of November.


for a few pic's go to web site

http://www.kawasaki.com/NewsEvents/N...il.aspx?id=659

[flightdoc]

I don't think external speakers will be made available with the kit but you may be able to wire in a pair.

[dogdoc]

Us older Nomads can buy a portable XM receiver with earbuds and throw it in a pocket or windshield bag and ride with tunes for $200. For example the Pioneer Inno with buds from Crutchfields.