Primary Model Years Covered:
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Manual Product Code:
N/A (Derived from product name)
Segment:
Mid-size cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, customizable, and accessible cruiser experience
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard S40/S50
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive 'custom' styling, reliable V-twin engine, accessible price point, robust aftermarket support
Styling:
Low-slung profile, sculpted fuel tank, drag-style handlebars, teardrop mirrors, extensive chrome accents
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin
Primary Focus:
Workshop Service and Repair
Regional Applicability:
Global (Technical specifications generally consistent, but regional variations in emissions and parts may exist)
Estimated Pages:
Likely 500-800+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (internal components, cooling, lubrication), Fuel System (injection, carburetion if applicable to specific market variants), Transmission, Clutch, Final Drive (belt drive system)
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), Steering, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (front and rear systems, hydraulic components)
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting System, Charging System (stator, regulator/rectifier, battery), Starting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, ECU/ECM diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Bodywork, Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Accessories mounting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacement, lubrication, chain/belt adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, electrical resistance values, diagnostic codes
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Diagnostic Coverage:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and explanations for common issues
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 52-degree V-twin
Displacement:
892 cc (54.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 x 68.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuation
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
~50-55 HP (at crank, estimates vary)
Torque Estimated:
~50-55 lb-ft (at crank, estimates vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual 34mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15.1 Liters)
Crash Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not subject to automotive crash test ratings like NHTSA or Euro NCAP)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
ABS Availability:
Standard ABS on some later models/regions, optional on others (check VIN or specific market documentation)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, standard turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel double-cradle frame for stability
Tires:
Tubeless tires: Front 80/90-21 M/C 48H, Rear 180/70-15 M/C 76H (specific brands/models may vary)
Mirrors:
Large, adjustable mirrors for improved rearward visibility
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, digital display for odometer, trip meter, clock, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. Handlebar-mounted tachometer on some variants or aftermarket additions.
ABS:
Available on certain models/years, providing enhanced braking control.
Diagnostic Ports:
Access to diagnostic codes via a proprietary connector, requiring specific tools or methods detailed in the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,700 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Tune Up Interval:
Refer to manual; typically includes spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, and valve clearance checks at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 7,500-15,000 miles)
Belt Tension Check:
Regular checks are crucial for the belt drive system, typically every oil change or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH or SF or SE, JASO MA or MA2
Engine Oil Capacity:
~3.2 US qt (3.0 L) without filter change, ~3.4 US qt (3.2 L) with filter change (check manual for precise capacity)
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Motorcycle Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with distilled water)
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt, brake pads, tires, clutch plates (depending on riding style)
Potential Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on connectors, stator/regulator failure (though generally reliable for this generation)
Fuel System Maintenance:
Occasional injector cleaning or fuel filter replacement may be recommended.
Kawasaki Heritage:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1950s, known for performance, innovation, and reliability across various motorcycle segments.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan line has been a staple of Kawasaki's cruiser offerings since the late 1980s, evolving through various displacements and styles. The 900 Custom model was introduced to offer a more stylized, 'ready-to-customize' platform within the popular mid-size cruiser segment.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in Japan or in assembly plants in other regions.
Production Period:
2007-2015 for this specific manual's coverage, with updates and variations in subsequent years.
Industry Awards:
Not typically awarded specific industry awards as a model, but highly regarded within its segment for value and customization potential.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction for its class due to reliability and riding comfort.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years and regions.
