2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT
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- Опубліковано 5 жов 2024
- *In June 2011 I took her up to Deadhorse,AK on the Arctic Ocean. Here's a link to the ride report I created: advrider.com/fo... * A brief overview of my '07 Kawasaki VN900 over 37,000 miles (bought the motorcycle new) and the accessories I added. In the video I forgot to mention the Run-Brake-Turn controller, K&N air filter, and the Cobra Power Commander that I added. Sorry for the low volume but if you have any questions regarding the mounting/installing of any components or my opinion of them, ask and I will be glad to help you out. IMPORTANT: I am not a motorcycle mechanic, so I can only tell you how I mounted/installed the accessories and what problems I encountered and how I fixed them.
I have the exact same year and model. It's a great all round bike. Great for running errands around town and great for trips. Went from Phoenix Az to Fort Worth Tx and back. Several trips to Northern Az. Prescott, Flagstaff, Sedona, Grand Canyon. It has 35,000 miles on it and only had to replace seals in the front forks, belt adjustment, new brake pads. Just got it back from the shop this week and it has a clean bill of health with a clutch lever adjustment, new oil and filter and brand new set of Michelin Commander II's. Still rides like a dream and ready to go another 35,000 .
This is not a starter bike and would never recommend anybody to buy this as their first bike. It weighs 654l lbs and has enough power to throw you off. If you want to get started riding a cruiser get a Honda 750 Shadow. It weighs less and not as big and intimidating for the beginning cruiser rider.
Thanks for your comment. I think right now I have 45k on it but I've been neglecting her a bit these past two years. When I bought her new, the radiator leaked, but other than that, I've had zero issues with her. After I got back from the Arctic Ocean, I did have to replace the belt (there was a hole in it) and the steering column bearings but that's because I went on roads that weren't meant for a cruiser.
I would agree that it is a very heavy bike but I am fairly tall and shortly after buying her, I did the MSF Basic Rider course with my new bike, so that definitely helped. I would probably also not recommend your first bike being a new one...but it worked out for me :-)
Anywho, thanks for sharing and I'm glad I'm not the only out there that loves this bike :-)
Robert Brumley I agree with you 100% it's definitely not a starter bike and I've had more powerful bikes than this one, the size of this bike and the weight plus the long wheelbase turning makes this no beginner bike,the shadow 600 VLX or the Yamaha 650 make great beginner bikers especially the VLX, I just bought this bike a little while ago and loving the Hell out of it!
holdrich same color as my bike , was the installation of the pipes difficult or straightforward
Installation was pretty straightforward and easy. The only thing that was a bit tricky was when I went to install the power commander. But that was because I didn't feel like taking the tank off. But that was more of a "tight spot" issue than a "where does this thingy go again?"
It's the only affordable cruiser that can fit a 6,5 ft guy like myself. As a beginner I have almost no issues with it. The only complaint being that it scrapes easy when I need to take the middle lane on a roundabout or sharp turns in general.
Tapisseria: Thank you very much. I do appreciate it. Unfortunately I don't have the money/time to add more accessories but eventually I'll upgrade to some white-walls and hopefully some tubeless rims...
It's not a throttle lock. It's simply a throttle boss. The way it works is that, while cruising, you simply place your palm on it (your palm should already be in contact with it) and then you can stop gripping the throttle with your fingers. This allows you to relax your fingers and hand a bit. You still have to keep your hand there but again, don't have to actually "hold on" to the grip. Let me know if you have further questions/need more clarification...
Thanks for this video. A Vulcan 900 LT is on my short list of a new (replacement) bike! This video is swaying me more towards the Vulcan! Thanks!
Mark Lemon What did you end up getting? Thank you for the compliment. As I've stated before, the size of the engine is the only thing I would change if I were to get a new bike.
I was planning on getting a bigger bike a few years ago but then I realized how much money I had already put into it so I just stuck with my baby :-)
When I put the Cobra pipes on, I also attached a power-commander from Cobra. I got an automatic one (i.e. I don't have to change the mapping) since I would be changing elevation quite a bit and didn't want the hassle of constantly changing them. Well, have fun with your new bike.
Keep the rubber touching the road...
Now did you notice any increase in power when you did the exhaust and power commander? Thanks in advance
@@Perkens Nothing too noticeable. This power-commander should automatically adjust its maps based off of the readings it gets. I never had a power-commander with pre-loaded dedicated maps so I don't know if that would have changed anything.
As far as the pipes go, when I went on my Alaska trip, i put the stock pipes back on (figured the louder pipes might get annoying and care away more wildlife) and put the cobras back on once I returned. Didn't really notice a difference then, either.
Hope this helps
Thank you. Much appreciated.
1) It's been a while since I bought it but I think it was around 120. I'm pretty sure it is an actual Kawasaki product but once again, I'm not sure (I got it through the dealer where I bought my bike). It was quite simple to install. Simply remove tho four bolts on the side of the back rest, slide the rack in between, and place the bolts back.
I just purchased one of these bikes.....same color and everything. I am thinking about changing out the grips that is for sure. I love the bike so far. I want to change the stock pipes off as soon as I can afford to do so. I think it will be a great first bike for me seeing as I am a big boy haha.
Sorry for the very late response! That's awesome! I do love her. Just pissed that I have been so busy these past few years that I've been neglecting her.
If you have the factory grips...definitely switch them out! I'm at about 44k miles and they make a huge difference. I believe the grips were one of the first things I changed.
Ride on
White Wall tires would be the cherry on top! Beautiful Bike man! enjoy her be safe!
@bbake38 Thanks. Will be heading up to Deadhorse, AK in a few weeks. Hope she won't get banged up too bad :-) . They are Kuryakyn Kickback Handlebar Risers which provide approximately 1-1/2" of pull back & 1-3/4" to the rise of stock handlebars. Not sure what the overall hight is but I can check if you want me to...
Thank you! That is actually the plan. Once I need new tires I will be switching to White Walls. I'm thinking about getting tubeless rims but they might be a bit too pricey. Guess I'll just have to wait an see...
Awesome. Thank you for your advice. I'll have to reroute the cables once I get the chance to. Again, I appreciate the advice...
#STORMBRINGER the 900 is a great bike for a starter but I highly recommend you take the beginning rider course before you get out there on the road I have a 2012 and have been riding for years it's just not much of a highway bike but great for back roads good luck
2) I'm not quiet sure what you're referring to in regards to the seat. I just went to the mustang website and put in the information for my bike.
Regarding the heat and duration...I really don't know. I think it shouldn't damage the seat. I'd try giving Mustang a call and see what they have to say about it. I've been through all kinds of weather and temperatures and it still looks like new. Ride on...
I bought everything at a dealership since they always give me a discount. Most of my accessories are from reputable brands, like Cobra, Mustang, etc., so you could visit their websites and purchase the products there, but I don't have a specific website where I purchase bike parts. I would recommend buying "vital" parts (anything that could cause an accident if it doesn't work properly) from a dealer. But everything else should be fine from online sources...
Yes, you need a relay but it comes with the "kit". Google Candle Power Electric Dual Horn Kit and you'll find the right ones. Not quite sure how savvy you are when it comes to electrical stuff but the following items are included in the kit: Two horns, one relay, and two 'mounting' things. I found the "instructions" to be more confusing than anything else. Luckily a friend was able to help. Let me know if you run into any difficulties...
I'll have to do a video of my bike. I have the same bike. Some accessories are the same. I have it chromed out. I did it over a period of years. Nice video.
Tary Croskey Sorry for the late reply. Thanks, Tary. Please send me a link to your video. It sounds awesome...
if you want less vibes at highway speed get the 34 tooth front pulley and the 62 tooth rear power pulley .and a 200 back tire .i have the back tire and front pulley 'it's already like night and day .next is the rear pulley .i bet it would really smooth off the vibes through the grip for you .they say it gives you 10% over stock plus the taller tire.the bike has lots of power it's just wasted in the gearing .if you do this you will love it even more i bet
+dale carpenter Thank you. I'll definitely look into that! Ride on
holdrich keep the rubber side down.
Thanks. Your bike sounds pretty bad ass. As I mentioned in a different reply, I'm hoping to get white walls myself but alas, I have to put some more miles on my tires until they'll need to be replaced. I can highly recommend the ISO grips that I have. They take some getting used to, but they're really comfortable. Any questions, let me know...
@holdrich Cool. Thanks for the feedback. It has been very helpful!
I forgot one thing. I just hit 40k miles and so far I've only had the valves adjusted twice (I know...it should be ever 10k) and the mechanic told me that my engine is still in superb condition.
Amazingly beautiful bike.
OrKhan Thank you.
Hey, Most definitely. I'm 188 cm and it's a little bit too small for me. I easily put both feet down. When I sit I'm a bit lower than I would like to be but it has certainly worked out for me. Therefore, it should "fit" you a lot better. Ride one...
@mesohornieoma I did :-) and thank you. I don't put too many miles on it each day. I only use it to commute to school so I put about 15 miles on it per day. However, I've taken my bike on some long road trips. This summer I went up to Deadhorse, AK by the Arctic Ocean. As of right now I have about 37k miles on it. If you're interested, I could give you the link to the Ride Report I created for that Canada/Alaska trip...
vn Vulcan classic 900 good motorcycle ✌️🏍️👍
It really is. We've been through a lot and she continues to pull through!
Keep the rubber on the road
I enjoyed your video, and wish I could ride to Alaska. But NY to RI or VT will suffice....I have a Vulcan 750 and I have decided to upgrade to a 900 instead of investing in accessories and add-ons on the 750. Question: Did you do any adjustment to the fuel injection when you replaced the stock pipes? I know it's supposed to be done on carburetors but few people actually do. It's supposed to hurt engine life.
Thanks for the help. Much appreciated.
Don't know how kind this blog has been on but I really like those horns what kind are they I would like to put them on my Vulcan ...??? Thanks...
I have the 2008 model. I love the bike but I agree not enough power seems like mines happy @ 65mph & that's about it. Also seems lil a 6 speed would have helped with the low end torque? Idk how you've been able 2 get that many miles outta your tires! I've pushed mine 2 10,000& I had slicks by that point! Good review!
jeffrey carr Thank you. Not quite sure how I got so many miles out of my tires. The original Dunlop tires only lasted me about 8k but ever since I've swapped them out with the Metzler Marathon's, I've been getting a lot more miles on them. I keep the tire pressure at about 38 psi (2.6 bar). Wish I could be of more help.
Well done on the video, I was wondering 2 things. 1) The luggage rack, what brand, how much did it cost, and was it a simple install. 2) The mustang seat w/backrest, what model seat. and how much was it? Also on the Mustang seat, I live in Las Vegas and while my bike is stored in a garage, will the 100 degree temps for 100 days effect the material they use to make the seat ? Thank you my friend. Enjoy the open road. Peace.
Did you have to adjust anything with the EFI once you swapped to the Cobra exhaust? Nice Bike!!!
Awesome looking bike!!!!
Hi, just wondering if you needed a relay for the horns or if they came with one. What brand are they? Got a 900 too and that is one thing I need to change. The stock horn is the pits.
Really nice work on your bike. It looks and sounds awesome. Quick question.. Is the Vulcan 900 a good choice for a beginner rider? I'm 53 years old and just getting started.
+ST0RMBRINGR Thank you very much! Truly appreciate it.
That's a difficult question. I guess it depends on what you're looking for and how you're built. I apologize in advance if my answer is a bit too long-winded.
This was my first bike. Prior to buying her, I had never been on a bike, so I was brand new to the whole riding. When I was talking to friends about getting a bike, they convinced me to not get a big bike (I was eye-balling the Mean-Streak) since it was my first bike. So I ended up listening to them. I'm 6'2" (188) and about 210 lbs (95) with my gear on. When stopped, I feel like I have complete control over the bike when my legs are on the ground. However, when my feet are on the foot-boards, I feel like my knees come up a bit too high. Yes, I could get risers but I'm not a fan of those. So there's that...sit on one and see if it feels comfortable and easy to maneuver to you.
Secondly...I feel like I could have gone with a bigger engine. Don't get me wrong...I got a cruiser for a reason - I love to cruise along and I'm never in a hurry. But I do feel like the torque could be a bit more. Plus, when I'm going over 60 mph (96), I feel like there should be a 6th gear to shift up to.
Overall: It really depends on what you're looking for and what your stature is. Would I have gotten a bigger bike? Yes. Do I regret buying the one I have? Not really. Again, I enjoy cruising and, if you've read my ride report listed in the description section, I have had some fun times with her.
Take a 900 for a test ride...then see how you like a 1600.
Before I forget...you might want to consider the weight increase that comes with a bigger engine. If my bike is empty (without a T-bag or anything in the saddle bags) I can just about stand her back up if she does happen to lie down. So any larger engine would weigh more.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Keep the rubber touching the road!
+ST0RMBRINGR I completely agree with #George Amaral . Since I was in the military, I had to take the Beginner and Advanced Riders course and I highly recommend it! However, I would highly suggest you do it with your own bike since you'll learn how YOUR bike handles...what it's capable of...what it's limits are, etc. Doing it with your own bike (yes, you might drop it a few times) will help you get to know your bike and not some small and light random bike.
Keep the rubber touching the road!
Did you get your aftermarket parts through someone locally, or would you recommend any online resource....from a cost/reliability perspective? Thanks in advance for any info!
So your throttle lock or whatever? How does it work? In pretty sure it's alot cheaper than installing cruise control right?
How does it do on twisty canyon roads?
Awesome video. I have seen many places online that this is a great starter cruiser bike. Some of the comments say this is "not a beginners' bike". I have taken the motorcycle basics course, and have some riding experience (a 125cc scooter for a couple years as my primary vehicle). I'm good at driving a manual transmission, but I'm not a huge dude. Is this bike "too much" for me? I want a nice bike to grow into, and I want a cruiser. I fell in love with the Vulcan by watching review/demo videos like this one. I'm probably going to get it anyways, but what recommendations would you give to a new rider on a Vulcan? Love the bike & thanks for the great video!
Thank you very much. I would probably listen to the other people. The only reason I said it was okay as a beginner bike is because it was my first bike and I had no prior exposure to riding. I would have to say that one of the only reasons I didn't crash during the first few years (I still haven't...) is that I took both the Basic and Advanced riders course on this bike. That way I really got to know the bike and how it handles in various situations. I would have to say the two main reason it's not really a beginners bike is the weight (I can barely muscle her back upright...and only without any luggage attached) and the "poor" maneuverability. These past few years I've done some riding on 125cc dirt bike and it is always a change to get back on my bike.
Main reason I'm writing so much is because I don't want you to get the wrong bike.
If you are hell-bent on getting one, I would recommend a used vulcan and, if at all possible, redo the basic rider course or at least to the advanced riders course with your new bike. Yes, you get the idea of the course if you use a different bike but you really should do it on the one you'll be riding on a regular basis. If redoing the course isn't and option, find an empty parking lot and do those figure eights on your own. practice stopping on a dime and just really take the time to get to know your bike.
If you have any other questions, please let me know.
Keep the rubber on the road
Awesome, thank you and great recommendations. I definitely think I should practice with the bike, and/or take the course with the new bike for sure. We did the course with 250s lol, I'm sure it's a bit different. Riding comes really naturally for me, and I pick up on new stuff pretty quick, but I will have to get used to the weight difference for sure. I am definitely getting a used bike, nothing new. I'm looking at a 08 vulcan, 1800 miles for $3500. It's a great deal and has some aftermarket parts too, so I'll probably grab it. I want a cruiser, and really, the only other type of cruisers that are lighter would be like a honda shadow or rebel and I don't like those as much. But it's for sure something to consider.
Thanks for taking the time to type out a thoughtful reply. I appreciate your input/suggestions! Keep making great vids!
You're most welcome. Let me know if you have any other questions
hey holdrich! i've had my 08 vulcan classic 900 for a few months. I love it! seriously the perfect bike for me and glad I had this video to help me make my decision. I'm wondering on the brand/product for the horns. do you have the brand name/link available so I can get the same ones? I'm nervous about buying some random ones online. I love how loud & full these sound. Sorry for the hassle, but thanks again for the video! love your modifications! Planning on doing a couple similar ones.
Sounds like you found your bike! That's awesome, and I'm more than happy that I was able to help you.
www.motorcycle-superstore.com/17145/i/Candle-Power-Electric-Dual-Horn-Kit.aspx
Here's the link to the horn. Again...I don't endorse anything or any website...it's just where I bought it.
If you have any questions...don't hesitate to let me know. Please note...I'm not a mechanic or a specialist. I can only tell you what I did and how I did it
No, I just don't like how it looks with the windshield on. Whenever I go on long trips I do put it back on simply because it makes it easier/more enjoyable to ride...
Thank you...much appreciated!
Amazing motorcycle. I like it
I will like to know, where did you got those nice additional headlight?
Thank you!
+ramoncollado1967 Those small bad boys are PIAA 1100x headlamps. I got them at a dealer (because I got a good discount) but you can order them online and you should be able to get them at pretty much any motorcycle shop. I love them. They're pretty bright and they don't take up much space. Let me know if you have any other questions.
How has the reliability of the bike been have you had any problems his for being reliable? I really like the look of the bike and all the Chrome
Randy Brown She's very reliable! By now I have over 45k miles / 72k km on her and the only problem was a leaky radiator when I bought her (new). Obviously, they just replaced it and ever since I've only had to do routine maintenance - oil change, coolant change, and valve adjustment (three times so far). As I mentioned in the description, I took her on a trip from Southern California to the Arctic Ocean in Alaska a few years ago. The roads were far from ideal and certainly not intended for a cruiser. When I got back, I noticed that a rock had punctured my drive belt and the mechanic had to tighten a few bolts on the frame but other than that, there was no lasting damage from the trip. Oh, and I did have to replace the ball bearings in the fork after the trip as well. But, other than the initial leaky radiator, I link the other "issues" to my trip to Alaska. So I have to say that she's a very reliable bike and only requires the routine maintenance (oil change and the occasional valve adjustment).
Sorry for the long reply. Let me know if you have any further questions.
+Randy Brown I have an 06 VN900 Classic LT. Aside from oil changes, tire changes, batteries and a stator, very reliable. One accident though. Back of an SUV on the highway, cosmetic damage to chrome, had to replace the headlight, signal light bar, and the chrome on the front forks. However, she is still rock solid. I too have those same ISO grips, and I also replaced the Clutch\brake handles. As a 900, I agree, it does have it's power issues, but, honestly, if you are just cruising....it's not really a big deal, you will still drop a gear and get by cars to pass very easily.
Where did you get your seat? I have a 09 Vulcan 900 custom and id love to get a seat that's suitable for 2 up longer rides for my girl.
CoryBeRiding Sorry for the late reply! I bought it through a dealer but I'm sure you can buy it directly from Mustang. It is quite expensive ($600) but for my long trips, it was completely worth it.
well done video top to bottom. beautiful bike too! Looking to get another bike this fall. Will def consider a vulcan now
Gregory shaylor Sorry for the very late comment. Did you end of buying one? If not, I would definitely look into getting a bigger engine. Then again, it all depends on your physique and needs.
actually got an old Harley iron head on trade. needed too much work so swapped it for a customized shadow
Gregory shaylor Awesome. Congrats.
Thank you very much...
Hi! Would this bike comfortable for me if I am 184 cm (6,037 ft) tall?
Sorry would like to know what make of horn system you have put on..???
I do really like them. They do get people's attention. Just google "Candle Power Electric Dual Horn Kit" and they'll pop up.
My title says mines red. I really want to know what the other color is. One of my highway pegs fell off. Had to leave it behind. So...check those pegs from time to time.
I can't remember where I read it but it's "red/titanium."
Thanks for the tip on the pegs! Much appreciated
@@holdrich Knew it was a metallic color. For some reason titanium wasn't coming to mind. Thanks.
The floor boards hard to install.... And what kind are they?
Nope, not hard to install. They are Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic 2006-Present Chrome Flamed Floorboard Covers by Kuryakyn. Hope this helps.
That horn made me jump
doorkicker911 Hahaha...that's why I got it :-) Haven't really used it since my initial reaction to a hazardous situation is to get the hell out of the way before I use my horn. However, I've used it plenty of times while stopped at intersections.
wouldn’t it be funny if he uploaded a new video
I think that ship has sailed. Who knows, I might do something if I ever do major changes to the bike. She's still running fine, though
nice bike bro!
hello my frend that is a nice Kawasaki Vulcan 900cc is it for Sale,if yes how much is the price
Thank you very much
Cane Gagly Thanks. Unfortunately, she's not for sale. Plus, she already has 44k miles on it.
Would you give me the name of your horns I have the same bike and like your horn mod thank you
Hey Michelle. thank you for your interest. They are the "Candle Power Electric Duel Horn Kit." Here's a link to them on Amazon but you can get them at pretty much any motorcycle parts store.
www.amazon.com/CandlePower-COMPLETE-ELECTRIC-Electrical-KitCHROME/dp/B000WJJB4K
Keep the rubber touching the road!
What are the make of your risers?
I'm sorry to disappoint, but I don't remember. I wasn't looking for something too big, so I just thumbed through a catalog and selected them. Sorry
after riding a Suzuki VL800 for 15 years and 38000 miles I'm looking at this model bike 2013 and newer. Are there any inherent problems with this engine?
As of right now, I have over 44k miles on it but I've only put on a few miles over the past 4 years. That being said, I never ran into any issues on my trips across the US or up to Alaska (I've put her through a lot). I did occasionally have the valves adjusted (not religiously - I think about two or three times) but, other than that, I never had to have anything done with it.
I'm sorry I can't help you more. Let me know if you have any other questions.
thanks for reply. On the valves did you wait til they made noise or just say one day I think I will adjust valves today? Any issue with cam chain adjustment?
This was my first bike, and I was a bit naive. The first valve adjustment I did because the dealer recommended I do it at the required interval. The second one I did after I got back from the Arctic Ocean because I went on roads I wasn't supposed to on that kind of bike. The third time I did it because I was having issues with the "engine" - come to find out it was just a broken spark plug but the mechanic went ahead and adjusted the valves. Each time they adjusted the valves they did say it was necessary (I only truly trusted the mechanic I used the second time).
So, very long story short - I've adjusted the valves but not because of noise. And I have no idea about the cam chain - though they never mentioned it whenever they told me what they did.
thank you very much for your time and helpful information. Sounds like it could be my next bike. Really like the styling of the new Vulcan 900s.
You're most welcome. As I've mentioned before, it really is a good bike! The only issues I had were a leaky radiator which was replaced under warranty without an issue and getting the steering head bearings and drive belt replaced - though I attribute the latter two to my trip to Alaska.
Keep the rubber on the road
What kind of freeway bar?
I'm really sorry to disappoint, but I don't remember. They were from a large manufacturer but I don't remember. Sorry
Where did you get the gribs from?
Hey Alex,
They're Kuryakyn ISO grips, and I got them at a motorcycle dealer. But you can get them online or wherever you want. I really like them! noticed a huge decrease in vibrations
Ha! My father as the same model year bike, same color, and and same exahaust, saddle bags etc:D
Nice motorcycle
try putting your cables BEHIND the triple tree clamps, I did on the wife's bike, problem solved.
Thanks...
im ur 100th suscriber holdrich
Congratulations! Unfortunately, I'm not planning on uploading anything anytime soon
@vancamp4566 Hahaha...I guess you're father's just as awesome as I am :-)
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