Segment:
Mid-size cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability and performance, suitable for cruising and touring.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard series.
Styling:
Classic cruiser aesthetics with generous chrome accents, spoked wheels, and a teardrop fuel tank.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, V-twin, SOHC, 4-valve per cylinder.
Drivetrain:
Belt drive for low maintenance and smooth power delivery.
Ergonomics:
Comfortable riding position for long distances.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the engine and its components.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (if applicable, though VN900 is FI), fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel tank servicing.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit, and timing.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch operation, final drive (belt drive system), and lubrication.
Suspension System:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, seal replacement, oil levels, rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brake service, caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid flush and bleeding, master cylinder inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator/stator), starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, and diagnostic connectors.
Cooling System:
Engine coolant, radiator, fan operation, and water pump.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame integrity checks, body panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, and fuel tank mounting.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure, tire wear, and wheel balancing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustments, brake checks, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting flowcharts.
Engine Repair:
Detailed steps for cylinder head removal, piston inspection, valve adjustment, crankshaft and connecting rod checks.
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel injector cleaning and testing, throttle body inspection, fuel pressure checks.
Transmission Overhaul:
Gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift drum and fork inspection.
Suspension Rebuild:
Front fork seal and oil replacement, rear shock absorber servicing.
Brake System Service:
Bleeding procedures, caliper piston retraction, brake line inspection.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Fault code retrieval (if applicable), multimeter usage for circuit testing, component testing.
Belt Drive Maintenance:
Belt tension adjustment and inspection, pulley alignment checks.
Specifications And Torques:
Tightening torques for all critical fasteners, critical component clearances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repair.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
892 cc (54.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 x 68.0 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approximately 57 hp @ 6,500 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approximately 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 3,500 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection, Dual 34mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 liters (5.3 US gal)
Oil Type:
API SG, SF or SH with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 recommended (e.g., SAE 10W-40)
Oil Capacity With Filter Change:
3.1 L (3.3 US qt)
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki All-Season Motorcycle Coolant or equivalent (50/50 ethylene glycol and deionized water mix)
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles). Replacement as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Belt Tension Check And Adjustment:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24 months (regardless of mileage).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 24 months (regardless of mileage).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki KHL15-10W (or equivalent 10W fork oil)
Fork Oil Capacity Per Leg:
368 ml (12.4 US fl oz)
Common Concerns:
Some owners report a slightly firm initial engagement of the clutch. Occasional reports of front brake lever 'pump-up' at high mileage which can be addressed by a caliper service and fluid flush.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect the belt for wear and proper tension. Ensure cooling system is flushed and refilled at recommended intervals to prevent overheating.
Kawasaki Cruiser Lineage:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing iconic cruiser motorcycles, dating back to models like the KZ series and the early Vulcan line.
Vn900 Introduction:
The VN900 platform was introduced in 2006 as a successor and enhancement to the popular VN800 series, offering a larger displacement and updated features.
Model Variants:
The VN900 Classic is part of a family that includes the VN900 Custom (with different wheels, handlebars, and styling) and the VN900LT (Light Tourer, with windshield and saddlebags).
Production Period:
2006-present (with updates and variants)
