The newest member of Kawasakis popular Vulcan line is the Vulcan 900, and its available in three versions: the Classic, the Classic LT, and the Custom. I reviewed the Classic, and Editor Genevieve Schmitt reviewed the Custom in a separate story. The Classic LT is a touring version of the Classic.
The Classic is an upgrade of the Vulcan 800, which was produced until 2004. Kawasaki took the 800 and made a host of improvements, including an increase in displacement from 805cc to 903cc, to match the bigger look of the 900. That “big bike” look is one of the first things you notice. While it may seem big and beefy with its longer 64.8-inch wheelbase and large front forks and fenders, the motorcycle is relatively lightweight at 557 pounds and easy to maneuver thanks to a low seat height of just 26.8 inches, a welcome feature for anyone, but most especially inseam-challenged riders.
That extremely low seat allows the majority of riders to place both feet flat on the ground. While the seat is the wide bucket type, it does narrow substantially as it reaches the tank so shorter riders can scoot up to gain an extra half inch when placing their feet on down. The handlebars are wide and low offering relaxed riding position. For me, the ergonomics of the bars made parking lot maneuvers and u-turns easy.
Using a fuel injection system developed for the Vulcan 2000, the 900 fires up easily at any temperature. Floorboards (rather than foot pegs) and a heel-toe shifter are standard. For some riders, a heel-toe shifter may take a little getting used to. Kicking down on the heel shifter increases the gears. Coming from a motorcycle with foot pegs and a toe shifter, I got a little confused at times if I should use my heel or toe. The heel shifter is really just a convenience for those who cannot get their boots under the toe shifter to go up in gears. In the end, I prefer floorboards as they make for a much more comfortable riding position and Ill just use my toe instead of my heel to change gears. Because the bike is so low, I did scrape the floorboards sometimes while pushing through some of the twisty roads, but overall the 900 handled solidly in these situations.
In fact, the Vulcan 900 handled great all the time, on the freeway at street legal speeds and then some. There was enough torque at both low and mid-ranges when I needed it, although at times I felt an urge to look for a sixth gear. An additional gear lowers rpms at highway cruising speeds by widening the power band, thereby reducing vibration and engine noise. Basically, the bike doesnt feel like its screaming to keep up at 70 mph and above.
Speaking of vibration, it is minimal on this bike because of counter balancers mounted to the engine. Counter balancers counter weight the engine in the frame so the engine vibration is not transferred to the rider through the frame.
Improvements to the V-twin single overhead cam engine include increasing the bore and stroke for greater power. New gear ratios in the transmission widen the powerband to work with that extra power. The motor is liquid cooled for maximum performance, however there is an automatic fan that kicks on to air-cool the engine when heating up during stop-and-go traffic. The big 180-series tire in the rear provides a planted feeling as it hugged the pavement while cornering at various speeds.
The Vulcans dashboard is mounted on the tank versus up on the handlebars. This means you must tilt your head down to read the analog speedometer, analog fuel gauge and digital trip meter. A green light below the speedo indicates neutral; there are indicator lights for the turn signals and the high beam.
The clutch lever was easy to pull in. Ive never had a problem with clutch effort on Kawasaki motorcycles. And finding neutral is always easy on Kawasaki bikes because of its “positive neutral finder.” This makes locating neutral effortless every time by preventing the transmission from shifting from first gear into second while at a standstill, enabling the transmission to shift into neutral easily. Its a feature unique to Kawasaki motorcycles.
Another attractive feature of the Vulcan 900 is the belt drive. Its lighter than a shaft drive and requires less maintenance than a chain. For stopping power the Vulcan wears a 272mm disc in the front and a 242mm disc in the rear with twin piston calipers squeezing them to a stop. For styling, the 900 has larger fenders than its Vulcan 800 predecessor that come down low on the tires. This gives the bike a retro look.
The Vulcan 900 Classic has a big touring bike feel for a bike thats under 1000cc. It has all of the ergonomic and comfort features of its bigger cousins but at an engine displacement intermediate riders can enjoy. Its reasonably priced at just $7,299. I think its a winner in style, performance and value in the middleweight cruiser category.
If you know you’re going to tour long distances, you may want the LT version, essentially the same as the Classic but with a studded seat, saddlebags, a passenger backrest and windshield. Its just $1,200 more at $8,499. Buying the accessories individually would cost more.
With a full line-up of Vulcans already available, we wondered why Kawasaki would introduce a new one. The new Vulcan 900 motorcycle platform is designed to appeal to a wider variety of riders because it has three different versions. Plus, having one platform is more cost effective for the company to produce and service than three different motorcycles the 900, 800 and 750 (2006 was last model year for the 750). Lastly, the 800 and 750 were outdated in performance and styling; instead of retooling those, Kawasaki decided to just combine the best of both bikes into one new platform.
So, the current Vulcan lineup includes: 500 LTD; 900 Classic, 900 Classic LT, and 900 Custom; 1500 Classic; 1600 Classic; 1600 Mean Streak; 1600 Nomad; and the 2000, 2000 Classic, and 2000 Classic LT. For more information, visit Kawasaki.com.
The Specs at a Glance
Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
Displacement: 903cc liquid-cooled V-twin
Seat Height: 26.8 inches
Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons
Dry Weight: 557.9 pounds
Colors: Ebony, Metallic Ocean Blue, Candy Fire Red, and Galaxy Silver
Price: $7,299
WRN Recommendation:
This bike is suitable for confident beginners who feel they can handle a bigger bike so long as they have both feet on the ground. Once you become comfortable on this motorcycle, youll find its a bike youll want to hold onto for a while as it straddles the middleweight and heavy-weight bike worlds. For that reason intermediate riders and expert riders will find this bike appealing, particularly because of its affordability $7,299 buys you a lot of motorcycle.
Teri Conrad is a freelance writer and motorcycle enthusiast who lives in Southern California. Some of her publishing credits include: Iron Horse, Ride Texas, Women Riders Now, Biker Ally, Friction Zone, Adventure Sports Outdoors, Portrait of Achievement, and Accelerate magazines. She can be reached at celebritywriter@cox.net.
I’m looking for a first bike. I have ridden dirt bikes most of my life. I’m almost certain I could handle the 900 after reading all of these reviews. I’m about 5- feet-6, 155 pounds. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
I am 5 feet 3 inches and 125 pounds. I have a Yamaha 250 because of the low seat, but it does not have too much “oomf.” Wondering if Vulcan 900 would be work for me?
The Vulcan 900 is a great motorcycle to step up to from that beginner 250cc motorcycle, assuming you have the confidence and skills needed to handle a bigger motorcycle.You can always find a lower seat if you can’t touch your feet flat foot on the ground. There are plenty of aftermarket seat makers; we recommend looking at Mustang Seats to start as they cater to women riders and have plenty of seats that bring riders lower to the ground.
I thought this to be an excellent write on the Vulcan 900. I believe this is a great machine for a beginner like me, having had my license for one year.
I’ve had mine for, well, this coming May, five years. I am 6 feet-2 and 300 pounds. I want to say that this bike is not just for smaller people. It’s for everyone. My fellow riders tell me that I do not look too big for this bike and though the bike is not real heavy, it has a nice solid, beefy feel to it. I am often asked if I wished that I had gotten a larger bike. No, and five years later, still no. It has 15,000 miles. Other than oil changes, a back tire, one battery replacement last year, I’ve done nothing to the bike. I am confident I will have it 15 to 20 years from now. I have the silver and red one. People rave over its good looks everywhere I go. This bike has been a joy. The wife loves riding with me as well. Plenty of room for the both of us.
Great info! I am the proud owner of an ’07 Vulcan 900 and learning to ride. So far, so good. After my training on a 250cc Virago, I was apprehensive about my “big bike,” but I’ve practised in our cul-de-sac and toured around our neighbourhood learning the feel and shifting, etc. Thank you for the review!
I bought my 900 Classic new the first year it came out (2006). Love the heck out of it. I am now 69 years old, 5 feet 7 inches. The bike is very easy to handle at any speed. Vibration is almost non-existent, partially due to the 55 degree angle of the cylinders. Yamaha uses 70 degree and they all vibrate.I did change the foam rubber handgrips for Kuryakyn grips. Way more comfortable and easy to install. Also found the stock seat has no lumbar support. Changed it for a aftermarket Kawasaki gel seat (the one with flame stitching), way more comfortable and has good lumbar support. Otherwise could not ask for a nicer bike (this one is my seventh over past 40 years).As advertised the bike starts well at all temperature. I still ride at 32 deg F. (0 deg C). Due to fuel injection this bike get better gas mileage than my old Yamaha 650.
Floorboards, rather than foot pegs, and a heel-toe shifter are standard. For some riders, a heel-toe shifter may take a little getting used to. Kicking down on the heel shifter increases the gears. Coming from a motorcycle with foot pegs and a toe shifter, I got a little confused at times if I should use my heel or toe. The heel shifter is really just a convenience for those who cannot get their boots under the toe shifter to go up in gears. In the end, I prefer floorboards as they make for a much more comfortable riding position — and I’ll just use my toe instead of my heel to change gears. Because the bike is so low, I did scrape the floorboards sometimes while pushing through some of the twisty roads" Where do you get heel/toe shifters and floorboards for a 2007 Vulcan 900 custom. I can’t find them anywhere. If anyone knows, please let me know here.
Great article. I have had my 07 Vulcan 900 Classic LT for about two months. Had 3K when I purchased and I have my first 500 miles onboard. I found a Mustang seat with pad and added a light bar I found on Craigslist. The only small detail is to find a way to get the lightbar to be connected to the same wire as the headlight. (I have forgotten to shut if off a couple of times). Very hard to start with at dead battery. My fault. Great bike. Great fun.
We own a 2008 LT 900 Cruiser Kawasaki.
Lovely bike, well balanced, we even tow a single wheeled covered trailer with ours. Great when you get to 60 years of age. Yes I suppose I'm an old fart but have a heart of a 20 year old. Thanks Kawasaki.
I'm currently looking at the Vulcan Classic 1600 series (used) but would consider the 900 especially after reading some of these reviews. I'm looking for a lot of comfort, for long-haul rides as well as day trips in the hill country. I don't like much vibration (buzz) at higher speeds so am concerned about a few comments regarding this.
I'd like to hear from some folks who've ridden their 900s for awhile and can comment on comfort of riding overall, the seat, vibration, holding up to wind gusts (thus my desire for a 1600) and comfort of it being belt-driven as opposed to shaft-driven. I'm also not interested in adding on a lot of after-market stuff, just to get it comfortable.
Please let me hear from you.
I own a Vulcan 900 custom (blue) and have added Scootworks front pulley (helpful), windshield, highway bars, Ventura carry rack, bags/panniers, bar risers, lights and added additional padding to the seat along with a sheep skin cover. I can carry everything I need for long distance touring and camping out in the bush. Australia is tops for this sort of riding.
I think the bike is great and very easy to ride. Power is good and it cruises really nice at 65 mph. I regularly get 60 mpg on trips and am about to embark on Central Australia trip (7,000 kms). Might still get the back pulley to lower revs and get better mileage.
There is some buzziness over 80 mph and the pulley should smooth this out further. I like the idea of a bigger bike but at 5-feet-7 and 59 years I reckon the 900 will do me.
Good article. I have a 2009LT, one of the first to arive at the dealership in my area. I had a 2003 Honda prior to trading for the Vulcan. I do a lot of long distance rides and found it necessary to replace the stock saddle with a Mustang touring saddle. That made a lot of difference when you ride 400 miles plus in a day. I just rolled the odometer over on 32,000 miles and the only maintenance I've performed is oil and filter changes and tire replacement. added Cobra highway bars with Kuryayakn pegs, a stereo, a GPS, Memphis shades lowers, and Phatt II pullback risers. Oh yeah. I was born in 1940 – you do the math. If you see a bike on the interstate with a sign on the back “Great Grandpa at play” it's probably me. Wave and ride safe .
I just bought an 07 Vulcan Classic last weekend. Had 1,400 miles on it. I've ridden it for nearly a week now and I totally love this bike — the first I've ever actually owned. I'm new to riding so it's great for a beginner. I'm 6-feet-2 and 210 pounds and the bike is still comfortable. A+ for sure.
Just read the article, it seems to mirror my own experiences being 5 feet 6 inches tall and 59 years old. I have had my VN900 Classic for just over a year and ride it regularly (I'm retired).
My only complaint is the saddle. After about an hour I get pains in my tailbone due to insufficient padding — Kawasaki please fix. I have overcome this by using an AIR Hawk seat cushion and can now use a tank of fuel without the need to get off to relive my aching tailbone.
At age 58 and with barely 300 miles of riding experience (on a 250cc ) under my belt, at the end of 2006 I bought a Classic Vulcan 900. I received my bike license at age 16 but did not ride for another 42 years. Basically I learned to ride on the Vulcan 900. Unaided.
I live in New Zealand where the roads are full of hills, sharp corners, single lanes and high traffic volume.
I found the bike to be easy to handle and forgiving in ways I had been assured “by those who know” that it would not be. It easily carries all I need for camping out, is comfortable and although I am only 5 feet 5 inches with shortish legs I can easily get both feet on the ground. It's great around cities and can effortlessly stretch out on open roads. I have no bother with the width of the bars or handling the clutch and brake levers.
Occasionally I scrape the floorboards when cornering, not often. Best of all it is reasonably light to lift off the side stand, even where the road is quite sharply cambered to the left – as often happens in this country.
In my mind this is a perfect bike for me and when the time comes I will replace it with another Vulcan 900.
They are all very helpful testimonials as I'm considering purchasing a used Vulcan Classic 900. I'm wondering if there are any differences at all between 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009? I understand 06 was first year? For my riding, the size sounds perfect. I'm a die hard Honda rider, all my life. Have had at least 10 to 12 different bikes from the 90 to the 1100 Gold Wing. I'm wondering how the 900 compares with Yamaha's 950 and Suzuki's C50? and Honda's Shadow Sabre 1100. I was looking at the VTX 1300, but it's really more bike than I need. Any thoughts out there?
Since I've never ridden a Vulcan, I'll be relying on reviews like I've read here to make an offer on CraigsList when the right one comes up and hope it's in northwest! Judging from thoughts here, pretty sure I'll go with a gel or custom seat. What's the best?
Bought my 07 900 Classic as a leftover in the summer of 08. Love the bike especially the retro look. Having owned several metric bikes over the years I was very impressed with the big bike feel of it. Keep up the great work. Enjoyed the article immensely.
After owning more than 20 sport and touring bikes in the past 35 years and a vocal critic of cruiser type motorcycles, I needed to understand why so many of them are out there; why are they so popular, what's the appeal?
So I traded my 1250S Suzuki Bandit for a 2008 Vulcan 900 Classic this fall. The Vulcan 900 Classic is indeed a different type of animal. The seating position is somewhat friendly, however, not for very long. The floorboards are a tad too far for my 5-foot 10-inch frame and the seat leaves little to be desirable — not sure if it is too soft or too hard. I know for sure that the riding position gives me muscle cramps on my lower body parts. But that's me getting used to a new bike, maybe. The style suits my taste when compared with other brands.
I like the craftsmanship of the Vulcan 900 very much. The selected materials are of good to excellent quality; the engine design far exceeded my expectations for its performance, fuel economy, roll-on acceleration, vibration and sound. The Vulcan 900 Classic and its siblings' overall design is very good for what you are getting for less than $7500. It is one heck of a good value.
I read concerns from other owners about how low the bike is and that the floorboards hit the pavement if you are not careful. So far, I had no such a problem and I did push the bike over the corners hard and low. The seat is not quite there for me since I do like riding on the upright position. Some complained about lower back pain after 30 minutes or less, same here. The extra wide handlebar was difficult for me to get used to, however it did not take me too long to get used to it. I like it very much for its robustness and beauty. Very nice indeed. I never owned a bike with a belt drive and so far I like its quietness and low maintenance. Overall, I am impressed with the Vulcan 900 Classic.
I bought a 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT in July 07 after riding a Honda Shadow 600 for about a year. What a difference! The guy at the dealership had me scared that the Vulcan was “too big a bike for me” as a woman who is 5-feet-7 and weighs 135 pounds. From the minute I pulled out of the lot, I was in heaven. Great balance, awesome sexy looking bike, and very comfortable.
The Classic LT is definitely worth the extra money, as I couldn't have accessorized the Classic or Custom for what it cost me for the LT. It has everything I want in a bike. Love it!
Bought a 2006 VN900 Classic LT near Sacramento three weeks ago off CraigsList. Had 1802 miles on it. Been about 35 years since I rode steady (59 1/2 yrs old) but when I got on this bike it all came back to me. Getting about 56 mpg by myself (6 feet 1 inch, 235 pounds).
Went to Lassen Nat. Park last weekend with my wife (135 pounds), drove at 75 mph for some length of time (with power to spare) and went up 5000 feet in elevation (3500 to 8500) and still got just over 50 mpg. Seat for her was very comfortable. Mine caused significant ache in the tailbone. Am going to a local upholsterer to improve the padding to protect my tailbone and increase the distance I can travel without having to get off to ease the pain. He told me that riders come in all the time (even with aftermarket seats like Corbin) to get more padding. Seat cover is only stapled on and will be easy to increase padding. He says we can work on it until it's the way I want it to feel. Will be a lot cheaper than buying a new Corbin or Mustang seat. Would also like to figure out how to adjust the rear shock, add a tachometer (needed as standard equipment), adjust the handlebars higher (hit my knees at extreme of turn because of my long legs) and decrease wind from below windshield (set it higher because of my height). Like the EFI (had to learn not to rev the engine to warm it up) and liquid cooling. Very comfortable for a guy my size with exception of thin seat padding.
Nice thing happened on the way home. Stopped in Greenville to walk around a bit. Parked next to a large Harley. Rider came out as we were getting ready to leave. Asked me if it was a 72 incher? Told him “only” 900cc. He complimented me on a great looking bike. Made my day. Enjoyed the article greatly. One of the best I've read.
I just started riding July 2008 and bought a 2008 Kawasaki VN 900 Classic LT for my very first bike. I am 5-feet-4 and I can plant both feet flat on the ground. This bike has everything going for it: classic looks, balance, big bike look and feel and value for the money. I highly recommend this bike. The only thing I've added so far is engine guards – everything else I wanted came with the bike standard, which is why it is such a good value.
Just bought a 900 Kawasaki Vulcan classic after owning Hondas and a Harley Sportster for years. This is the best and the easiest bike to control and yet have the power when you need it. Nice ride and good price. It's a 2008.
I bought a 2008 Vulcan Classic about two months ago. This is great bike at a great price! Lots of power, low center of gravity and it looks great. I think the bike could use a sixth gear for the highway. The seat is a little hard. The glutes are fine for 45 minutes or so then it is definitely adjustment time. I will likely change the seat to something more comfortable in the furture. Apart from those two “mild” concerns this is a great bike. I love it!
2007 Honda Shadow Sabre vs. 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic — any opinions? I am 6 feet 1 inch and weigh 190 pounds. The Vulcan is about $300 dollars more.
What a helpful article. I'm 56, have held a full license since 16, but have not ridden for years. I have been debating going back onto two wheels. I have found a VN 900 Classic with extras. It felt right. This assessment from various people is convincing me to go for it after my refresher course on Monday. I'll have to see how my glutes cope and then make a decision about the saddle, but the immediate feeling was positive. Thank you for you help, folks!
Well it was that time again. Last week I bought my fifteenth bike (in my life). This time I picked the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic. I fell in love with the looks as soon as I saw it. I have been riding it every day. A few small issues: the seat sucks after about 20 minutes. It feels like sitting on a rock. And the bike needs a sixth gear for the highway.
Other than that, it's a sweet ride. I am getting a new gel seat, pipes and having the Scootworks VN900 Overdrive Pulley Sets put on it that will bring down the RPMs by 11.5 percent. With these changes the bike will be perfect in every way. This will be my last bike, and the best.
Bought my 2007 900 Classic LT in October 07. Previously owned 400cc Yamaha and 125cc Kawasaki Eliminator. As of today, my LT has just passed the 4000-mile mark. Have thoroughly enjoyed it; easy to handle; nice “big bike” look; Love the powerful engine; can keep up with the big boys without any problems. Nice 5.3 gallon gas tank.
I agree that the LT appears to want a sixth gear on the highway. Only mods I've done is installed a lower windshield and engine guard (no more wind in the face from below). Have taken it on several 400 mile+ rides and haven't had any problems.
My mpg in town is around 45 and as much as 58 highway (with the wind at my back). Get many positive comments about it everywhere I go. Just the right size for me — not too small and not too big for my 5-feet 6-inch height; able to place my feet flat on the ground. Will consider replacing the stock seat with a “softer” one; the glutes do get sore after riding for about 30 minutes. I like this Web site.
I just bought the '08 Kawi 900 Classic LT last week, and I am loving it. I've moved up from a sport bike, a Suzuki SV650, which was my first bike, bought at age 51. The Kawi is so easy to ride. I love the low center of gravity and being able to put both feel flat on the pavement!
Yesterday I took it out for a putt on some country roads, having to make a couple of U-turns, and getting it up to 90 mph on a straight flat stretch for a minute(!) – both of which it handled beautifully. I love the smooth throttle action, especially compared to the somewhat twitchy Suzuki.
I read your reviews before making my final decision, and want to thank you for the info. I know this bike is one I am going to feel comfortable on for long rides.
Wonderful article. I was convinced I would live and die a Harley-only fan! My father was always insisting Harley was outdated as far as technology was concerned and Kawasaki more advanced. Then my mother found my 2007 Vulcan Classic, Caribbean Blue, that I bought in April 2008.
When I first sat on it I was scared–it seemed huge! But it's one of the best decisions I ever made, as I am only 5 feet 3 inches, it's lighter and easier to manipulate than my 2003 Harley Sportster. And the clutch is not as tight.
I agree the floorboards are a little forward, and the heel-toe shifter takes a little getting used to. I love the fuel injection and not having to use the choke.
I have had five Harley-Davidsons over my riding career. Since I have developed lower back problems, I needed a bike that rides smoothly but has enough size and power to give me a sense of security on the road along with comfort. Most smaller Harley's have the power but have much less stretch for smooth riding.
The Yamaha 1100 Classic offered the power and ride, but again, the weight factor was a consideration for me to move around when not in motion. My 900 Classic gives me comfort, power and looks. My Harley buddies actually respect me for actually doing something to help keep me riding.
I strongly recommend this bike to anyone not caught up in the Harley shuffle and to someone who can ride for the fun of it. The bike will keep up with the 1450s on the road – that is if you obey the laws. Buy one.
Too bad you didn't leave a name. Would have been nice to know if you are a man or a woman. I suspect a man. Thanks for your thoughts.
Bought the 2007 900 Classic LT. Good riding bike. It sits and feels just like the 1975 Harley Dresser FL I used to have. Rides better, more comfortable, better mileage, and just as much power. The only thing I don't like is on long trips you feel like you need one more higher gear for cruising.
I have only been riding for nine months now. I'm 51. I bought a 1998 Kawasaki Vulcan 800. I took the riding course before I ever got on my bike. I'm absolutely loving the experience of riding. I have to say, other then my four kids, it's been the best thing I have ever done. I have already put more than 11,000 miles so far on my bike. I rode to Daytona Bike Week a few weeks ago. It was wonderful. I have been looking to buy a 900 Vulcan. I was imtimidated by its size, but after all these articles, I'm going to give it a shot. Thanks!
After passing my restricted bike test( at the age of nearly 60) I purchased a 2007 VN900 classic off eBay with only 2000 miles on the clock. I had the restriction kit fitted, because it was never my intention at the time of my test to ride a larger bike.
And to be honest, it was was one of the best things I've done. The bike still has a top speed of well over 70 with more than enough power to overtake slow moving sightseers on the steepest of hills. And being as I live in the far west of Cornwall we have no shortage of those.
Overall I'm more than pleased with the bike, but have just one very justifiable grumble in how can Kawasaki charge more than £5000 for a VN900 in the UK when you can buy the same bike in the US for a fraction of the price.
I love this bike. Tthe only reason I haven't bought this bike yet is that the price tag here in Malaysia is a whooping $55K in our currency called Ringgit. It's somewhere around $16,000+ USD. You can actually buy two in the US with the money. Very sad indeed.
I bought my 2007 Vulcan 900 Classic in April 2007. I haven't put many miles on it as of yet, but it is a nice bike. Sounds and looks great with good power for me — and even enough when my wife is on the back.
The tranny is a bit noisy and I feel the brakes could be a little stronger, but they may get better as the bike breaks in.
FYI: Kawasaki just issued a recall on a fuel line so anyone owning this bike should get it back to the dealer. If you want a good mid-sized bike with lots of neat goodies such as fuel injection, 180mm rear tire, bags, passenger back rest, windshield, etc., then this bike is the bike for you.
I bought the Vulcan 900 Classic LT on April 7, 2007. At this time (mid-March '08), I have more than 5,800 miles on it and REALLY enjoy riding it. I have added a gel seat and engine guard, which greatly increases the bike's comfort and safety.
The trottle response is all that a rider would hope for it to be. At 60 mph in top gear all the rider has to do is roll on the throttle and passing is a “breeze.” I look forward to many more happy miles on this more-than-able cruiser.
Well the purchase has been made. Bought the 900 Classic Kawasaki. Lovely bike to ride. No more sore bums, excellent on long rides. Very stable machine. Have had the pegs changed on the rear for pillion. Now have footplates — the same size as the rider's. No more sore ankles and knees from the bride on the rear. Getting about 300kms before tank refill, two-up.
Thank you, Kawasaki.
I haven't purchased this motorcycle but it is a contender at the moment as I am looking to buy a new bike this spring. However, I did go and see one recently at a shop in Dublin and I have to say that I was surprised at how big it looks in reality. For a 900cc bike, it is roughly the same size if not a tad longer than H-D's Fatboy.
I immediately liked the feel of the bike once I received permission to sit on it. At 6 feet tall, there was never any concern about my feet touching the ground, but having owned a few bikes in the past the seating position was surprisingly comfortable. It has a big bike presence and I don't mind admitting that I am intimidated by its size. My previous bike(s) was a 650 Maxim, 700cc Virago and a 750cc Guzzi – all much slimmer in size compared to the bikes today.
Another nice aspect to this bike is that it also comes learner legal if desired, meaning you don't have to pray each time you take it out on your provisional license that the Irish cops don't pull you over. My biggest complaint thus far though is less to do with the bike itself, but rather the cost of the bike here in Ireland. It retails for $7,299 in America yet goes for $9,500 Euros here (roughly 13 thousand American dollars!!). As a Canadian living and working in the Republic of Ireland it is frustrating to say the least as the Irish have a knack of over inflating prices.
Finally the weather here being truly pitiful and wet most of every day of every year, the spoked wheels on the classic is a recipe for rust and muck! Anyone looking for a bike for something more than a Sunday ride would be better off getting the custom, or at the very least, making your kids clean your bike's wheels as part of their weekly chores.
Great article.
This Vulcan 900 has a lot to offer riders of varying size and ability. I purchased a 900 Classic and found it is a whole lot of bike for the money. The strong points easily outnumber the weak ones. It is incredibly easy to maneuver at slow speeds. It's comfortable for rider and passenger, sounds great, and the power is strong up to highway speeds. It's obviously a beautiful machine as the photos here show. Additional useful information can be found at Vulcan900info.com, including performance numbers and used values.
I just read the comments and information on this site and I am most impressed. Today, 19 Nov 07, I am taking the 900 Vulcan Classic for a ride with the view of purchase. The seating greatly appeals to me as does the colour and general appearance of this motorcycle. Thank you Kawasaki. You have done yourselves and many riders to come very proud.
Will comment further when I get home after the long ride and, more than not, purchase of this machine.
I have only been riding for about four months and have put more than 7,000 miles on my little Kawasaki Vulcan 500. I have been looking at the 900 Classic LTD. This article was good to read as now I have some feedback on that bike. I like the Kawasaki bikes and feel they handle really well. As a new rider, I am confident on my 500 but looking forward to getting the 900. Thanks for the good reading and comments.
I have just purchased on 28 Sept the Kawasaki VN 900 Classic and after reading almost every Web site to see what riders and business were saying about it, I couldn't believe that everything that was written about the bike was true!
I particulary liked WomenRidersNow.com and their assessment of the bike. I am itching to get out this weekend and put some more kilometers on it. It is a beautiful bike to ride and it really isn't heavy or difficult to maneuver. I love it and it certainly gets the looks when I am out and about. Thanks for the great site. I love it.