Category:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians performing maintenance, repair, and customization.
Competitors:
Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star, Suzuki Boulevard
Bike Characteristics:
Classic cruiser styling, V-twin engine, belt drive, comfortable riding position.
Manual Utility:
Essential resource for maintaining optimal performance, diagnosing issues, and performing repairs.
Applicable Model Years:
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear)
Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, seats, fenders, fuel tank, controls, accessories
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, valve clearance adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, electrical component replacement
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with clear diagrams for dismantling and reassembling all major components.
Suspension Adjustment:
Instructions for adjusting rear shock preload and troubleshooting front fork issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagrams and schematics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes procedures for using basic tools and diagnostic techniques. While not covering advanced electronic scan tools like modern cars, it details methods for identifying electrical faults and mechanical issues.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement:
852 cc (52.0 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 x 69.2 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 57 hp @ 6,500 rpm (crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 52 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (crankshaft)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection with dual 34mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 Liters (5.3 US gal)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH with JASO MA certified
Oil Capacity With Filter:
3.0 Liters (3.2 US qt)
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Genuine Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water)
Length:
2,360 mm (92.9 in)
Height:
1,110 mm (43.7 in)
Wheelbase:
1,635 mm (64.4 in)
Curb Weight:
265 kg (584.2 lbs)
Front Tire Size:
80/90-21M/C 44S
Rear Tire Size:
180/70-15M/C 76S
Front Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum, spoke-style
Rear Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum, spoke-style
Front Suspension:
41mm telescopic fork with 5.9 in (150 mm) travel
Rear Suspension:
Swingarm with dual shocks, 5-way adjustable preload, 3.5 in (89 mm) travel
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are not typically standardized in the same way as automotive).
Braking System:
Front: 300mm disc, dual-piston caliper; Rear: 270mm disc, single-piston caliper
ABS:
Available as an option on some models/regions, not standard on all.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light.
Mirrors:
Handlebar-mounted mirrors.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, digital odometer, trip meter, clock, fuel gauge, indicator lights.
Audio System:
Not standard. Aftermarket audio systems are common modifications.
Traction Control:
Not equipped.
Cruise Control:
Not standard. Aftermarket cruise control systems are available.
Smart Phone Integration:
Not equipped.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km), replace as needed or at recommended intervals (refer to manual for specific mileage).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as per manual inspection.
Valve Clearance:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months.
Belt Tension:
Inspect every 3,700 miles (6,000 km).
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki Genuine Fork Oil G10 or equivalent (SAE 10W)
Fork Oil Capacity:
359 ml (12.1 US fl oz) per leg
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, belt drive components (depending on maintenance).
Potential Electrical Faults:
While generally reliable, wiring harness issues or regulator/rectifier failures can occur with age. The manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular cleaning of fuel injectors and throttle bodies can ensure smooth operation of the fuel injection system.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Division:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine division has a long history of innovation in motorcycle design and performance since its inception.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line has been a staple in Kawasaki's cruiser lineup, evolving from earlier models to offer a blend of classic styling and modern technology.
900 Custom Introduction:
The Vulcan 900 Custom was introduced to offer a more stripped-down, bobber-inspired aesthetic within the 900cc cruiser segment.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Years:
The VN900 Custom has been in continuous production since its introduction in 2006 for the 2007 model year, up to the present day (with updates). This manual covers the core 2007-2015 period.
