The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser With Modern Touches

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser with Modern Touches

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom has been a staple in the cruiser market for over two decades, consistently offering a blend of classic styling, comfortable riding, and a manageable powerplant. For 2019, the Vulcan 900 Custom received a refresh, incorporating modern touches while retaining its timeless appeal.

This article delves into the 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determining whether it’s the right cruiser for you.

Design and Styling:

The Vulcan 900 Custom embodies classic cruiser aesthetics, with its low-slung profile, raked forks, and generous use of chrome. The 2019 model introduces a few subtle design updates, including a new headlight design with a more modern, angular look. The chrome-plated handlebars, mirrors, and engine covers contribute to the bike’s classic appeal, while the sleek fuel tank and sculpted fenders accentuate its sleek lines.

The overall design is both timeless and contemporary, striking a balance between traditional cruiser aesthetics and modern touches. The Vulcan 900 Custom is available in a variety of colors, including Pearl White, Candy Burnt Orange, and Metallic Spark Black, allowing riders to choose a scheme that reflects their personal style.

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1 The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser with Modern Touches

Engine and Performance:

The heart of the Vulcan 900 Custom is its 903cc, liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin engine. This engine provides a smooth and predictable power delivery, making it ideal for both leisurely cruising and spirited riding. It generates a healthy 75 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for overtaking and hill climbing.

The engine’s smooth and linear power delivery makes it a joy to ride, especially in urban environments. The engine is also remarkably fuel-efficient, delivering around 50 miles per gallon, making it a practical choice for long-distance touring.

Handling and Ride:

The Vulcan 900 Custom is built on a robust steel frame, providing a stable platform for both city riding and long-distance touring. The suspension, consisting of telescopic forks up front and dual shock absorbers in the rear, is well-tuned for comfort and handling. The bike’s low center of gravity and wide handlebars contribute to its maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through tight corners and traffic.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser with Modern Touches

The Vulcan 900 Custom boasts a comfortable riding position, thanks to its low seat height and forward-set footpegs. The rider’s triangle is relaxed and comfortable, allowing for long rides without fatigue. The seat is adequately padded and provides sufficient support for both rider and passenger.

Features and Technology:

While the Vulcan 900 Custom focuses on classic cruiser aesthetics, it doesn’t entirely shy away from modern features. The 2019 model features a digital instrument panel that provides essential information like speed, RPM, fuel gauge, and clock. The panel is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

The bike also comes standard with a 12-volt power outlet, making it convenient to charge electronic devices while on the road. Other standard features include a comfortable rider backrest, a passenger grab rail, and a luggage rack, making the Vulcan 900 Custom a suitable choice for touring.

Pros and Cons:

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser with Modern Touches

Pros:

Classic cruiser styling: The Vulcan 900 Custom exudes timeless appeal with its classic design and generous use of chrome.
Comfortable riding experience: The relaxed riding position, comfortable seat, and well-tuned suspension make the Vulcan 900 Custom ideal for long rides.
Smooth and reliable engine: The 903cc V-twin engine delivers smooth power and impressive fuel efficiency.
Maneuverable handling: The bike’s low center of gravity and wide handlebars make it easy to navigate tight spaces and traffic.
Practical features: The Vulcan 900 Custom comes standard with features like a luggage rack, passenger grab rail, and a power outlet, making it suitable for touring.
Affordable price: The Vulcan 900 Custom is priced competitively within the cruiser segment, making it accessible to a wider range of riders.

Cons:

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Limited power: While the engine provides adequate power for cruising, it may feel a bit underpowered for aggressive riding.
Basic suspension: The suspension, while comfortable for cruising, could benefit from a more refined setup for sportier riding.

Lack of modern technology: The Vulcan 900 Custom lacks some of the modern technology features found on competing models, such as traction control or ABS.

Target Audience:

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is ideally suited for riders seeking a classic cruiser experience with a touch of modern convenience. It’s a perfect choice for:

Beginners: The Vulcan 900 Custom’s manageable power and forgiving handling make it an excellent choice for new riders.
Cruisers: Those who enjoy leisurely rides with a relaxed riding position will find the Vulcan 900 Custom a comfortable and enjoyable choice.
Touring enthusiasts: The bike’s comfortable ergonomics, practical features, and fuel efficiency make it suitable for long-distance touring.

Competition:

The Vulcan 900 Custom faces stiff competition from other popular cruisers in its segment, including:

Honda Rebel 1100: Offers a more modern and sporty approach with a larger engine and a more aggressive riding position.
Yamaha Star Bolt: Provides a classic cruiser experience with a comfortable riding position and a stylish design.
Suzuki Boulevard S40: Offers a similar classic cruiser experience with a comfortable ride and a manageable engine.

Conclusion:

The 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is a solid cruiser that delivers on its promise of classic styling, comfortable riding, and a manageable powerplant. While it may lack some of the modern features found on competing models, it still offers a compelling package for riders seeking a timeless cruiser experience.

The Vulcan 900 Custom is a great choice for beginners, cruisers, and touring enthusiasts who appreciate a classic design and a comfortable ride. Its affordable price point and reliable performance make it a strong contender in the competitive cruiser market.

Detailed Breakdown of the Vulcan 900 Custom’s Features:

Engine:

Type: 903cc, liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin
Power: 75 horsepower
Torque: 60 lb-ft
Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 50 miles per gallon
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Final Drive: Shaft drive

Chassis:

Frame: Steel double cradle
Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Dual shock absorbers
Front Brakes: Single disc
Rear Brakes: Single disc
Tires: 130/90-16 front, 180/65-16 rear

Dimensions:

Length: 95.7 inches
Width: 35.4 inches
Height: 46.5 inches
Seat Height: 27.2 inches
Wheelbase: 64.8 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gallons

Features:

Digital instrument panel: Displays speed, RPM, fuel gauge, and clock.
12-volt power outlet: Convenient for charging electronic devices.
Rider backrest: Provides added comfort on long rides.
Passenger grab rail: Ensures passenger security.
Luggage rack: Offers cargo carrying capacity.
Chrome accents: Enhance the bike’s classic appeal.

Safety:

Standard safety features: Includes a front and rear disc brake system for reliable stopping power.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance: Requires routine servicing such as oil changes, tire pressure checks, and brake inspections.
Parts availability: Kawasaki offers a wide range of genuine parts and accessories.

Overall:

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is a well-rounded cruiser that offers a balance of classic styling, comfortable riding, and a manageable powerplant. While it may lack some of the modern technology features found on competing models, it still provides a compelling package for riders seeking a timeless cruiser experience.

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Thus, we hope this article has provided valuable insights into The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Classic Cruiser with Modern Touches. We thank you for taking the time to read this article. See you in our next article!