Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, mid-size cruiser with a focus on customization and comfortable riding
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard series
Model Distinction:
The 'Custom' variant typically features unique styling elements such as a smaller front wheel, different handlebars, and often a more minimalist aesthetic compared to the standard VN900 Classic.
Value Proposition:
Offers a strong combination of authentic cruiser styling, reliable performance, and a platform conducive to personalization.
Years Covered:
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Model Variants Covered:
VN900B Custom
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (belt drive system)
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads, fluid replacement
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear suspension (monoshock or twin shocks, depending on specific VN900 variant), spring rates, damping adjustments
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, battery), lighting system, instrumentation, sensors
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, swingarm
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender replacement, fuel tank removal/installation, seat, handlebar, control levers, mirrors
Wheels And Tires:
Tire inspection, replacement, wheel balancing, spoke tensioning (if applicable)
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common running issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
903 cc (55.1 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 x 74.2 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Valve Configuration:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated (SOHC)
Horsepower Approx:
50 HP (approximate, actual figures may vary slightly by model year and testing method)
Torque Approx:
79 Nm (58 ft-lbs) @ 3,500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (DFI) with dual 34mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20.0 liters (5.3 US gal)
Overall Length:
2405 mm (94.7 in)
Overall Width:
940 mm (37.0 in)
Overall Height:
1135 mm (44.7 in)
Wheelbase:
1685 mm (66.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
140 mm (5.5 in)
Seat Height:
705 mm (27.8 in)
Curb Weight:
272 kg (600 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in standard specifications, but implied by chassis design
Front Tire Size:
80/90-21M/C 48H
Rear Tire Size:
180/70-15M/C 76H
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum (typically for Custom variant)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Spoked or Cast wheels common on cruisers, not typically specified by bolt pattern like cars)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically assigned safety ratings (like NCAP) in the same way as cars. Safety is inherent in design and rider skill.
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc, Rear: Hydraulic disc
ABS:
Optional on some later model years or specific market variants. Not standard on all models covered.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, standard turn signals
Instrumentation:
Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation with analog tachometer and digital speedometer/odometer. No integrated infotainment system typical of modern touring bikes.
Driver Assistance Systems:
ABS was an optional feature on some later model years. No other advanced rider aids like traction control or riding modes.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth features.
Efi System:
Kawasaki's Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) system provides precise fuel delivery for improved throttle response, fuel economy, and emissions control.
Ignition System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic timing advance.
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Drive Belt Inspection Adjustment:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.4 L (3.6 US qt) without filter change, 3.7 L (3.9 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
High-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with antifreeze and anti-corrosion properties (e.g., Kawasaki's KLC).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
Kawasaki specifies the same oil as used in the engine for the transmission. (Refer to manual for specific quantities).
Common Wear Items:
Tires, brake pads, drive belt (due to typical cruiser riding styles).
Potential Quirks:
Some owners report a stiff clutch pull in early models, which can sometimes be improved with aftermarket upgrades or lubrication. Drive belt requires periodic tension checks and alignment.
Battery Care:
Regular battery maintenance and charging are crucial, especially if the motorcycle is stored for extended periods.
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1950s, known for a wide range of performance and cruiser motorcycles.
Vn Series Evolution:
The VN series (Vulcan) is Kawasaki's line of V-twin cruiser motorcycles, established in the late 1980s. The VN900 platform was introduced as a modern interpretation of classic cruiser styling, blending retro aesthetics with contemporary engineering.
Vn900 Introduction:
The VN900 Custom and Classic variants were launched for the 2006 model year, offering two distinct styling packages built around the same proven 903cc V-twin engine and chassis.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations depending on the model year and market.
Awards And Accolades:
While specific awards for the VN900 Custom are not widely publicized in the same way as automotive awards, it has consistently been praised in motorcycle reviews for its authentic cruiser styling, comfortable ride, and value for money within the mid-size cruiser segment.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction ratings, particularly for its aesthetics and reliability.
Emissions Certification:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the model years and markets for which it was produced (e.g., EPA, Euro).
