The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Timeless Classic, Refined For Modern Riders

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Timeless Classic, Refined for Modern Riders

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom has been a mainstay in the cruiser segment for over two decades, captivating riders with its blend of classic styling, comfortable ride, and approachable power. The 2020 model year saw subtle refinements, further enhancing its appeal for both seasoned riders and newcomers seeking an accessible and stylish cruiser experience.

A Timeless Design, Modernized:

The Vulcan 900 Custom embodies the essence of a classic cruiser, with its low-slung profile, swept-back handlebars, and generous use of chrome. The 2020 model retains this iconic aesthetic, but incorporates modern touches that elevate its visual appeal.

The most noticeable change is the adoption of LED lighting, replacing the older halogen units. The new LED headlight throws a brighter, whiter beam, improving visibility in low-light conditions while contributing to the bike’s modern look. The tail light and turn signals also feature LEDs, adding to the overall refinement and enhancing safety.

The fuel tank, a signature design element of the Vulcan 900 Custom, retains its classic teardrop shape. However, the 2020 model features a revised fuel cap with a more modern design, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic.

Table of Content

1 The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Timeless Classic, Refined for Modern Riders

A Comfortable Ride, Built for Long Hauls:

The Vulcan 900 Custom is renowned for its comfortable riding experience, and the 2020 model upholds this reputation. The low seat height, typically around 27.2 inches, makes it easy for riders of varying heights to confidently plant their feet on the ground. The wide, comfortable seat, coupled with the relaxed riding position, ensures that long rides remain enjoyable.

The suspension is well-tuned for comfort and stability, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The front forks offer 4.7 inches of travel, while the rear shock absorbers provide 3.9 inches of travel, striking a balance between a plush ride and handling responsiveness.

A Smooth and Reliable Powertrain:

The heart of the Vulcan 900 Custom is its 903cc, liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin engine. This powerplant delivers smooth and predictable power, making it ideal for both leisurely cruising and spirited rides. The engine produces a peak output of 60 horsepower and 58 ft-lb of torque, providing ample power for overtaking and merging onto highways.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Timeless Classic, Refined for Modern Riders

The engine’s smooth power delivery is complemented by a six-speed transmission, offering a wide range of gearing for different riding situations. The transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

Features and Functionality:

The 2020 Vulcan 900 Custom comes equipped with a range of features that enhance its practicality and appeal.

Fuel Gauge: The bike features a fuel gauge, allowing riders to monitor their fuel level and avoid running out of gas.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom: A Timeless Classic, Refined for Modern Riders

Convenient Instrument Panel: The instrument panel is easy to read and provides essential information such as speed, RPM, fuel level, and clock.
Passenger Accommodations: The bike is equipped with a comfortable passenger seat and footpegs, making it a viable option for two-up riding.
Storage: The Vulcan 900 Custom offers limited storage options, with a small compartment beneath the seat.

Handling and Performance:

While the Vulcan 900 Custom is primarily designed for comfort and cruising, it offers a surprisingly competent handling experience. The bike’s low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution contribute to its stability and ease of maneuverability. The wide handlebars provide excellent leverage for navigating tight corners and maneuvering in slow-speed situations.

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The bike’s handling characteristics make it suitable for a variety of riding scenarios, from leisurely backroad rides to urban commuting. The Vulcan 900 Custom is not a sports bike, but it can hold its own on winding roads, offering a pleasant and engaging ride.

Safety Features:

The 2020 Vulcan 900 Custom includes several safety features that contribute to a secure riding experience.

Disc Brakes: The bike features front and rear disc brakes, providing strong and consistent stopping power.
ABS (Optional): The Vulcan 900 Custom is available with an optional anti-lock braking system (ABS), which helps prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking situations.
LED Lighting: The upgraded LED lighting system enhances visibility and contributes to overall safety.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Comfortable Ride: The Vulcan 900 Custom offers a supremely comfortable ride, thanks to its relaxed riding position, plush suspension, and well-tuned engine.
Classic Styling: The bike’s timeless design appeals to a wide range of riders, offering a classic cruiser aesthetic with modern touches.
Accessible Power: The 903cc V-twin engine provides smooth and predictable power, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Good Fuel Economy: The Vulcan 900 Custom offers respectable fuel economy, making it a cost-effective option for long-distance rides.
Relatively Affordable: Compared to some other cruisers in its class, the Vulcan 900 Custom is a relatively affordable option, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Cons:

Limited Storage: The bike offers limited storage options, with only a small compartment beneath the seat.
Average Handling: While the handling is competent, the Vulcan 900 Custom is not as agile or sporty as some other cruisers in its class.
Basic Instrumentation: The instrument panel is functional but lacks some of the advanced features found on higher-end cruisers.
Not as Powerful as Some Competitors: The Vulcan 900 Custom’s engine is not as powerful as some of its competitors, which may be a drawback for riders seeking more spirited performance.

Conclusion:

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom continues to be a strong contender in the cruiser segment, offering a winning combination of classic styling, comfortable ride, and accessible power. The 2020 model year refinements, including the addition of LED lighting and a revised fuel cap, enhance its appeal and modernity. While the bike may not be the most powerful or feature-rich cruiser on the market, its combination of comfort, affordability, and timeless design makes it a compelling choice for riders seeking a classic cruiser experience.

Target Audience:

The Vulcan 900 Custom is well-suited for a wide range of riders, including:

New Riders: The bike’s low seat height, comfortable riding position, and accessible power make it an excellent choice for new riders.
Experienced Riders: Seasoned riders will appreciate the Vulcan 900 Custom’s comfortable ride, smooth engine, and classic styling.
Cruising Enthusiasts: The bike is ideal for leisurely rides, long-distance touring, and enjoying the open road.
Budget-Conscious Riders: The Vulcan 900 Custom offers a compelling value proposition, providing a satisfying cruiser experience at a relatively affordable price.

Alternatives:

If you’re considering the Vulcan 900 Custom, here are some alternative cruisers worth exploring:

Honda Rebel 1100: Offers a modern and stylish design, a powerful engine, and advanced features.
Yamaha Star Bolt: A sleek and affordable cruiser with a comfortable ride and a user-friendly engine.
Suzuki Boulevard S40: A classic cruiser with a comfortable ride, a smooth engine, and a relatively affordable price.
Harley-Davidson Street Bob: A stripped-down cruiser with a powerful engine and a classic Harley-Davidson look.

Overall, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom remains a solid choice for riders seeking a comfortable, stylish, and approachable cruiser experience. Its blend of classic design, modern features, and accessible power makes it a compelling option for a wide range of riders.

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