KAWASAKI VN900 Custom (2008-2009) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Kawasaki VN900 Classic, also known as the Vulcan 900 Classic, was a mid-sized cruiser motorcycle that debuted in 2006. It followed the same formula as Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha on their cruiser series by using a smaller engine in a slightly larger chassis.

In 2008, alongside the Classic model, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Kawasaki VN900 Custom. The Custom model was similar to the Classic version, with the same engine, frame, suspension, and brakes, but with several modifications.

Compared to the Classic version, the Custom model featured cast alloy aluminum wheels, with a solid unit on the rear and a 21-inch nine-spoke wheel on the front, restyled fenders, forward-mounted footpegs instead of floorboards, a smaller headlight, and a drag-styled handlebar.

In the visual department, the 2008 Custom model had standard features, such as a wide drag-styled handlebar, a smaller round headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a one-piece dual seat, and a dual chromed slash-cut exhaust system.

The 2008 Kawasaki VN900 Custom had its heartbeat set by a 903cc four-stroke V-twin engine managed by an Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system. As for the power figures, the engine boasted 50 hp at 5,700 rpm and 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) torque at 3,700 rpm.

The engine worked in tandem with a five-speed manual transmission fitted with a wet multi-disc clutch that spun the rear wheel through a final belt drive.