Model:
Vulcan 900 Classic / Custom / LT
Vin Code Digit:
10th digit represents model year
Generation:
First Generation (VN900)
Generation Years:
2006-Present (with various sub-model updates)
Engine Code:
VN900A, VN900B, VN900C, VN900D (depending on sub-model and year)
Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, comfortable, and reliable cruiser with a classic aesthetic
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard series
Segment Differentiation:
Known for its authentic cruiser styling, liquid-cooled V-twin engine, and comfortable ride, offering a strong value proposition
Styling:
Classic cruiser lines, spoked wheels (on Classic models), teardrop fuel tank, low seat height
Engine Type:
V-twin, SOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled
Drivetrain:
Belt final drive for low maintenance and smooth power delivery
Ergonomics:
Comfortable riding position, accessible controls
Covered Years:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Covered Models:
All variants of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 (Classic, Custom, LT)
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Purpose:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting guide
Engine:
Engine removal/installation, disassembly, inspection, assembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (belt drive)
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic), brake fluid service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, instrumentation, switches
Fuel System:
Carburetor (VN900 utilizes a carburetor, not fuel injection for these years), fuel tank, fuel lines
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, covers, accessories
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tension adjustment, brake fluid flush, fork oil change, coolant checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Adjustments:
Carburetor adjustment, clutch adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, major repairs, engine rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and component overhaul
Diagnostic Charts:
Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Torque Specifications:
Provides precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Clearances:
Lists all necessary component clearances and tolerances
Engine Type:
V-twin, 4-stroke, SOHC, 8-valve
Displacement:
892 cc (54.5 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 x 74.2 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-52 HP @ 5,500 RPM (approximate, subject to variations)
Torque:
Approx. 58-60 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM (approximate, subject to variations)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Keihin CVK-44 x 2)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 Liters (5.3 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (or higher)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH motorcycle oil (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Oil Capacity:
3.9 L (4.1 US qt) with filter change
Ignition System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plugs:
NGK DPR7EA-9 or equivalent
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,405 mm (94.7 in) (varies slightly by model)
Overall Width:
Approx. 925 mm (36.4 in) (varies slightly by model)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,135 mm (44.7 in) (varies slightly by model)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,635 mm (64.4 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 685 mm (27.0 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 243 kg (535.7 lbs) (varies by model)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 266 kg (586.4 lbs) (varies by model)
Front Tire Size:
80/90-21 M/C 54H
Rear Tire Size:
180/70-15 M/C 76H
Wheel Type:
Spoked (Classic/LT), Cast (Custom)
Wheelbase Type:
Steel frame, double cradle
Safety Certifications:
DOT approved tires, CE compliant lighting (if applicable to region)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc front, hydraulic disc rear
Suspension Front:
41mm telescopic fork, 150mm travel
Suspension Rear:
Uni-Trak, swingarm, 5-way adjustable preload, 102mm travel
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light (on some models/years)
Mirrors:
Large, adjustable handlebar-mounted mirrors
Display:
Analog speedometer with digital odometer, trip meter, clock, and indicator lights
Audio System:
N/A (standard models do not feature an integrated audio system)
ABS:
Not typically standard on 2006-2013 models, but may be available as an option on specific later year LT models or aftermarket.
Charging Port:
N/A (standard models do not include a charging port, aftermarket installation is common)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months
Oil Filter Change:
Every oil change
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), replace as needed
Belt Tension Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years
Coolant Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH (motorcycle specific)
Coolant:
Kawasaki specific coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Final Drive Lubricant:
Belt drive requires no internal lubrication; external belt dressing is not recommended.
Common Wear Items:
Tires, brake pads, clutch plates (depending on riding style)
Potential Issues:
Carburetor synchronization may require periodic adjustment; belt drive maintenance is crucial.
Electrical Notes:
Check wiring harness connections for corrosion, especially in humid environments.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for building robust and reliable motorcycles across various segments, including cruisers.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan nameplate has been synonymous with Kawasaki cruisers since the late 1980s, evolving through various displacements and styles.
Vn900 Introduction:
The VN900 platform was introduced in 2006 as a mid-displacement cruiser, slotting between the smaller Vulcan 500 and the larger Vulcan 1500/1600 models.
Sub Model Development:
The Classic (spoked wheels, classic styling), Custom (cast wheels, drag bars, different front fork rake), and LT (touring features like windshield, saddlebags) variants were introduced to cater to different rider preferences.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
Production Period Covered:
2006-2013 (as per manual coverage)
