Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Hobbyists, independent repair shops, professional mechanics, owners seeking in-depth maintenance knowledge
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard series
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair guidance for a popular cruiser model, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs effectively.
Covered Years:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Geographic Coverage:
Global (primarily North America and Europe)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 600+
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, top end, bottom end, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetion/injection), ignition system, starting system, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (belt drive system), internal transmission components
Chassis Suspension:
Frame, front suspension (forks), rear suspension (shock absorbers), wheels, tires, steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic, caliper, rotor, master cylinder), brake fluid specifications
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, ignition switches, starter motor, fuses, relays, instrumentation
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors (if applicable), fuel lines, fuel filter, carburetor specifications and tuning (for relevant models)
Bodywork Fittings:
Body panels, fenders, seat, handlebars, footpegs, mirrors, luggage (if applicable to LT model)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable, though VN900 uses belt drive), spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake inspection, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable to EFI models), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Major Repairs:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension fork servicing, brake caliper rebuild, fuel system component replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed step-by-step diagnostics, electrical testing procedures, component testing specifications
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and component rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances
Specification Data:
All critical technical specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, tolerances, and measurements
Engine Type:
V-twin, four-stroke
Displacement:
805 cc (49.1 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 x 66.0 mm (3.46 x 2.60 in)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-52 HP (at crankshaft, depending on specific model variant and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 50-53 lb-ft (at crankshaft, depending on specific model variant and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) on most models, some earlier models may have carburetor; check specific VIN.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA
Oil Capacity:
3.4 US qt (3.2 L) with filter change
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 3,700 miles (6,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Belt Drive Inspection:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) for tension and condition
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Common Wear Items:
Belt drive wear, clutch plates, brake pads, tires, fork seals.
Potential Complaints:
Occasional throttle response issues (related to fuel delivery tuning), starter motor solenoid issues (rare).
Kawasaki Motorcycle Division:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries' motorcycle division boasts a long history of innovation and performance, from early Z models to modern Ninja and cruisers.
Vulcan Lineage:
The Vulcan 900 builds upon Kawasaki's cruiser heritage, offering a balance of classic styling and modern engineering.
Production Period:
2006-Present (with minor updates)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan and various international assembly plants.