VLOG: Vulcan 900 Classic LT Review - Taking the Vulcan for a spin
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- Опубліковано 22 сер 2024
- Sorry for the abrupt ending! I hadn't really planned out this video; so I was really just sort of rambling. I don't think you folks would want to watch this for the whole hour and a half of riding, so I cut it down.
Future vlogs will be more planned out and structured. But; I really wanted to test out the camera!
Stay tuned (and subscribe!) for future videos, and a review of the VN900 I was riding!
Music used in intro and exit, "Breakway" (15 second) by;
Larry Buksbaum, BMI, Scott P. Schreer, BMI. Published by freeplaymusic, BMI. www.FreePlayMusic.com
Is it just me, or, does every reviewer think that the Vulcan 900 is a step up bike, a rider's next bike- after learning how to ride? I disagree very strongly. I think it's an excellent all arounder, a bike that does almost everything well, but- nothing really well. Sort of like a Versys, or, a V-Strom, or, a Tiger 800. You can do almost anything, but, not forever. With tweaks, you can make this 900 a highway cruiser (change F & R sprockets), or, you can increase air through the bike- intake, exhaust & FI programming- and, have yourself a sweet stoplight muscle bike. I'm going to add a touch more power AND make 5th gear easier on the motor for the highway, and, I'll be very happy for a long time. Great looks, awesome stock sound, correct cruiser attitude- what a great bike to start with and personalize! I see no need for 1,000+ cc's in my future.
hey dave, great point! where can i get more on reducing 900 classic 5th gear vibrations. You mentioned F&R sprokets upgrades, anywebsite or youtube videos on cost, labor and DIY???? I think your rite!thank you sir.
@@mml1224, info is all over the net. Baron.
This thing tops out at 180. I don't think any mods are necessary for a highway cruiser....
It was my first bike and i still have almost 2 years later, but i also bought a street glide a year ago and when that breaks down or in the shop i ride my vulcan lol
I have a Vulcan 900, Its big enough for 90% of riders and all their needs. I travel with guys that ride 500's and guys that ride 1700's. We all get to the destination in basically the same condition, A 6th gear would be nice, But not needed. I travel at 80mph without vibration or issues at all. I dont do multi day 8-10 hour trips on it but I think I could, I do 4 hour tours max and it does the job without a hiccup. A 900 used to be considered a monster of a machine, It is comical now that we look at them as beginner bikes or middle weight bikes with the enormous bikes we have out there now that are mostly overkill for the typical rider.
Had a Vulcan 900 Classic for about 10 years. Have had a few others since then and I’m thinking about getting another one. Great bike.
I bought my 2010 Vulcan classic LT 1 month ago. I put new tires on it cause they had never been replaced and the rear was worn. I've put 3,500 miles on it in western MT in 4 weeks. I love this bike!! It's my first "real" bike. the last time I rode (18 years ago), I owned a Kawasaki 450cc and I killed it trying to highway commute in Montana. I think this is the perfect bike/size for a returning rider stepping up. Something easy to learn on yet grow into. It cruses easily at 75 with power to pass. Tops out just shy of 100 unless you're on a downhill roll. I can't say enough about this bike. Don't worry it's not a HD. Buy what you like and what you can afford, that's what I did. My first ride/poker run was 90% HD and nobody gave a crap I was riding "My" ride. Make it yours, enjoy the ride, get there safe!!
My 06 will go 110mph. With a few add on's it'll go.. cobra FI2000 fuel commander and hard Krome pipes and K&N air box this is a sleeper bike.
Took one out for a test ride last Saturday. I'm buying one at the end of the month.
I've been watching you're videos and they are so helpful!
I inherited a vulcan classic 1500 when my dad passed.
I took the MSF class but don't have any experience on a bike. I know it's crazy to start off on a big bike like this but I plan on finding lots of empty parking lots and some good back roads and take my time and learn this beast !
Good luck John! Take it easy and you'll do fine. The 1500 Vulcan might be big in displacement, but it's pretty light and with a low seat height, I think you'll do great!
I just got an 05 Vulcan 800 a couple days ago,I love it, its a far cry from the suzuki dr100 I grew up on,my friend recommended the Vulcan,and between that and your videos I was sold on it,God bless,summers almost upon us,looking forward to some new vlogs chief
Awesome man! Enjoy! I'm actually thinking I may get to shoot a video next week!
ill be on the lookout bro,lookin forward to it.
Yeah Robert Brumley, I get that! Where an inline 4 makes horsepower from spinning up, V-Twins make low end torque. Often, V-Twins make almost all of their torque right from idle and keep it all the way through the rev range. While a ZX6R might have an astounding 130hp at a blistering 13,500 RPM's, it has a paltry 50 lbs of torque (about 40lbs at the wheel) most dyne runs showing very little torque early in the rev range, then it slowly building to around 30lbs, and finally peaking at the very end of the power band at a disappointing 40lbs. While it's definitely fast (way faster than my bike), it's a different kind of fast. The Vulcan 900 has about 60lbs of torque; which isn't MUCH more. BUT, it produces all of that torque by 3000 rpm's (and almost all of that torque much earlier, pretty much right off the line) and holds that torque almost all the way through it's 7k redline. That's seat of your pants power. The kind that lets you power out of a corner at a low RPM and makes you really feel like you need to hang on. My new bike, a Vulcan 1700 Vaquero, has triple digit torque that peaks at about 3000 RPM's (and holds). But here's the kicker, at just 1500 RPM's, it's producing 90% of it's peak torque (even all the way 7-8k RPM's the ZX6r is still at around half of it's peak torque, before finally peaking way up at 11k). That's off the line power. Won't win any races, but it's a lot of fun.
Inline engines are way smoother, for sure. And build far more horsepower. But the "craze" is, well, some of it is looks, sound and styling; but a lot of it is that low-end tractor-pulling grunt. For some of us, that's a lot more fun than high-rev horsepower and speed that there isn't always enough road to use (or use legally); and you really have to be up in the power band to enjoy.
I just acquired a 2009 Vulcan 900 Lt with just over 2000 miles on it. Looks a lot like the one you're riding. I haven't rode in a good while but have enjoyed the time I've spent on the bike! Glad I saw your video!!!
Romans thank you for a very insightful video! I also own a '07 Vulcan Classic LT that I bought 4 years ago when I started riding. I have to add my two-cents to the conversation. First, at 220lbs and a 30 inch Irish pant length, this bike was a perfect fit for me. Its weight was not a problem for me and I found it to be very easy to take corners right up until you scrape to floor boards. I have always wondered why there are no replaceable pegs on the boards. Next, the seat! The only major problem that I have with the bike is its bare bones seat. Very hard on my rear! Turned me into an old man after 20 minutes. I replaced the seat with a factory gel seat from Kawasaki. The fact that they have this as an option, tells me they knew of the problem. The gel seat has a deeper dish with a little more back support. It fixed the problem and gave my wife a larger seat area. Finally, as I saw in the comments below, I also had to replace the stator at 21,000 miles. I found it to be very easy to replace. No problem. All in all I love this bike. It does do everything ok! I would recommend it over the 900 custom because of the bags and windshield. PS You have electronic cruse on this bike? Point me in the right direction. Last year I replaced the grips and removed my throttle lock.
Troy Johnston No electronic cruise on this bike, I do have electronic cruise on my Vaquero.
I passed my test on an intruder 125 ,then bought my Vulcan 900 classic on eBay ,had it the brought to Cornwall and had the restricter fitted to reduce the bhp to 32 brake horse and after 2 years had it removed to return her to fifty bhp. So all the money lve spent on extras has not been waisted . After riding it for the last 10 years I can't really fault her,yes there are much better bikes out there and I've often looked at the latest this bike or that bike but to be honest I all round I can't find anything to beat her.
This is definitely the most gorgeous bike I have seen in its price range. Thanks a lot, great review.
Piercen Hudson Thanks man! It's definitely a lot of bike for the money, and great looking, too! I have an overview video as well that shows off what I've done to the bike. I actually traded it in last week though; I know own a Vulcan Vaquero 1700 ABS SE!
Good honest review. We had a 900 Vulcan for a couple of years, purchased used covering abour 20 000km. Coming off a K100RS took a while to get used to lower power and less cornering clearance. Sweet to ride @80-90km/hr. Very reliable. In 2012 I left my wife at home to ride solo to our CMA National Run, riding from Brisbane to Tasmania and back over 3 weeks. Drawbacks no cruise control on long highway hauls = sore wrist. Limited rear suspension, numb bum (even with an airhawk). This was compounded riding 2 up which we do mostly. Going together to the 2013 Nation Run in Victoria I knew the bike was not suitable for 3 weeks away 2 up so we said farewell and welcomed an Ultra Classic Electraglidewhich have had for about 18 months and covered 20 000km or so which suits us very well.
That depends entirely upon your size. If you have a decent grasp on a manual transmission, have a fair amount of lower body strength, and are tall; then sure. If you are smaller, or may have trouble putting a lot of weight on one leg or another (stopping incorrectly and putting a lot of the bikes weight on one leg is a common noobie mistake), or have never driven ANYTHING with a clutch; you may struggle with the VN900. Go hop on one and see how it fits!
Very nice and thorough video. You got me sold on the Vulcan 900. I currently have a V star 650 Classic. I want a Vulcan 900 Classic. SOLD on the Vulcan certainly !!
I'm looking at both the V Star 650 and Vulcan 900. Since you've driven both, which do you like best?
I'll be picking up my 2006 900 Vulcan this morning. It only has about 7800 miles on it. My neighbor has a 2007 which he bought new. His son has the Custom model. I've read and heard nothing but good things about these bikes. I really enjoyed watching this video. I've owned a lot of different bikes. As far as RPM goes, an engine's RPM limits are set by bore and stroke. I've owned Japanese Fours and Harley Big Twins. I had a Honda CX500 which was a high RPM V-Twin. Push rods no less ! 48 hp at 8,000 RPM. So it's not unusual to have a higher rev V-Twin when it's smaller. But smaller doesn't mean low power. My 1972 1200cc Harley Super Glide was rated at 54 HP. So as you see, a big bike isn't always as powerful as you might think it is. The torque is what's there on the bigger bikes. So if you ride two up alot or load the bike down for long trips, it is a consideration. Anyway, this is my first modern bike in a long time.
i had one for 10 years, loved it very much, but with luggage and a passenger, the Vulcan 900 is missing horse power. I now have a Vstart 1100.
one of the most natural, revealing motorcycle videos I've watched on UA-cam. Too often we get a lot of information that has nothing to do with the subject matter. I found this to be real world information. I'm looking at a few cruisers and this seems like a good choice particularly for the price. Much less than the Yamaha 1300 and it may do most of what that bike does.
Tom.
Thanks man!
The insurance on the Vulcan will be a little cheaper too as there's this insurance 'cut-off' of 1000cc's. The Yamaha 1300, if I'm not mistaken, is still a carbed bike. And the Vulcan 900's fuel injection will give it better throttle response and more consistent power even though it's smaller.
Romans Five|Eight the Yamaha 1300 is a fuel injection belt drive bike.I Enjoyed your video.Ride Safe
You're right! The V-4 variant is still carbed, and I had that confused with the V-Twin variants which is fuel injected.
Thanks again for the vid, and for your reply, very helpful info, I think I'll go for the900, or at least I'll take it for a test ride. Thank looking forward to see more of your videos.
+Philip Alhuroub Awesome!
Great review, I am getting back into riding after being out for 12 years and looking at 09 Vulcan 900 Classic LT and this really looks like the bike to get, not too small and not too big either. Look forward to watching your other ones. A dealer has one of these, and the only thing I don't like is the first owner took off the stock pipes and put on louder Cobra pipes and I am not a loud bike person so have to weigh out changing that or looking at other 900s. Thanks again for sharing your experience with the bike!
+ncmcgoverns Chances are, it'll cost you more to change out your pipes than the price of a different 900. 900's are EVERYWHERE, they are one of the most popular motorcycles on the market today. So you will be able to find the one you want at the price you want.
If you settle on that one, it won't be hard to find stock pipes. In fact, you could probably make someones day by offering to trade them even-up your Cobra pipes for their unmodified stock pipes. If you're on Facebook, a great way to find those folks is to find a local Vulcan Riders Association chapter on Facebook, and post there that you'd like to swap them. Chances are, you'll find someone who will just meet up with you and swap them! When I traded in my 900 (I now own a 1700 Vaquero, also a Kawasaki) I sold all of the accessories that way.
+Romans Five|Eight Thanks!, Actually the shop I bought the bike from agreed to change them out with another Vulcan they had with stock pipes. They originally wanted another $180 to do it and I said no there are plenty of 900s out there, I will just find another and they agreed to do it at no additional cost. I think in the scheme of things it actually increased the value of the other bike if even slightly. They should be changing them out today if they have the gaskets or in a few days if they have to order the gaskets. If I could post a picture of the bike here I would. I think I got a pretty good deal, especially since the bike only has 3883 miles on it.
I am upgrading from a 2014 ninja 300 to a 900 custom, and my ninja sits up in the 7500 RPM range at 70 mph in 6th gear. So 4000 RPM is going to feel real nice I think.
NIce video and very informative. I am second owner of two bikes myself and I ride them both. A 1996 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic with a 4 speed transmission and a 1980 Honda CB900 Custom. Both bikes have around 38000 miles. I find I prefer the Honda simply because of the smoother ride and half the weight. But enjoy both.
Honda makes a great bike. My wife has a Honda Shadow 750 Aero and it is a fantastic bike for the size. I'd seriously consider a Honda in the future. Problem is, they don't really make a big cruiser. They have the chopper-esque models, small cruisers, and standard/sport-tour bikes like the F6B and Goldwing; but not a big cruiser.
Romans Five|Eight first, I really appreciate and enjoy your videos. my comment here is; the 1300 interstate is big in my mind, only limited storage from what I've read and seen. I'm thinking its the 1300 line which you called choppe-resque
and I agree. 80 cubes used to be very big.
Really like your video showing the good and bad compared to the larger bikes.
Thanks
Great and accurate review!! I have the exact same bike, the “fuel gauge” has bright Orange idiot light. The Classic LT has two color choices for each year. Some years the color choices are less than desirable. Exactly same style bike has been made since 2006. 903cc motor, water cooled with fuel injection. The 2021 models are now available. The price of the bike has been nearly the same for years. About $9,000 half of what a new HD would cost. I have 58,000 miles on mine. The only significant repair cost was replacing the Stator... something I’m told is an issue with the 2006-10 models. Hope the engineers have corrected the issue. I thoroughly enjoy the bike. The only thing it can’t due in my opinion is long interstate cruises. Its great for trips within a 1,000 mile radius. It’s not that you can’t do it, I’d rather do it on a lower rpm bike with a 1700cc motor, a 6th gear, and more weight. A Great all around motorcycle in the light weight cruiser category. I give it a 4 out of 5 star rating.
Thanks for the video, looking to get a '13 model for just under $4000 with about 5,500 miles. This will also be my first bike, and can't imagine going with anything smaller just to "learn" how to ride on like so many do. Always wanted a Fat Boy since the first time I watched T2 almost 25 years ago, but even the high mileage older ones are going for over $7500, which is hard to justify when you can get a similar looking, well rounded bike like the Vulcan for less than that new.
+Charles Jones Yep, it's hard to beat the value for the money for most metrics.
I certainly enjoyed your VLOG. Bravo to you, Sir, for a real nice vlog. I'm excited to listen and view in that I just bought a 2016 Vulcan 900 Classic LT. Fuel enjected and it feels real nice on the backroads and hwy. Thank you again for a very nice video.
The fuel warning light is accurate. I just use that. Lots of bikes don't even HAVE fuel gauges, so it's not a big deal to me! The stock seat is a little rough for long rides but I've since replaced that.
I've got some scuffs on my floorboards, too!
hey great vid, surprised how relevant it still is , even tho 5 yrs ago, 122k hits and going! Keep up the good work, lots of good points. Ques. I haven't seen the vids on , valve adjustments at 15k????you said you were going to do. Also, on the Front & Rear sprockets to reduce 5th gear vibration DIY vids? Its funny some other vulcan 900 reviews, other riders dont complain about it at 85mph, so i don tknow what gives, maybe different year or state manufactured? Lastly, what website, do you use to buy vulcan after market stuff?I am looking for a Rear wrap around extended arm chair backrest, w luggage cargo compartment....please let me know Roman and god bless...
Yes, the valves need adjusting. It isn't hard, but it's time consuming and you need a service manual and a few special tools. I never did the pulleys, but a lot of people did to reduce RPM's on the highway.
@@RomansFiveDotEight so when u had the 900 b4 1700, u had valves done by dealer?never saw ur video d.i y on adjusting valves.
@@RomansFiveDotEight but heard you lose that terrific low end torque when doing either front or rear pulley, correct? also Romans, looking for a 900 classic freeway engine guard, any where to find a good one besides ebay&amazon and regular parts store........so exp.
J Marciano No I did the valves myself, but I never ended up doing a video. Sorry!
J Marciano Not sure where to find one cheaper. I got mine on eBay I think.
You don’t lose any torque. You will lose a little acceleration off the line (which may make it “feel” a little less torquey).
Awesome! That C90 is a great machine. Romans 5:8 is my favorite verse; definitely an important message in that one line from Paul!
but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
If they’d put electronic cruise control and ABS on this bike they’d sell like crazy! I’d buy one in a heartbeat
I have a 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 900, I have punched the baffles, dyno jet power-commander remapped with a velocity stack open intake, and I agree she screams at 65mph. great bike for the size. I am selling mine cause I bought a1500, but highly suggest it for a beginner bike or city rider.
I have owned this bike and first I would like to say this a good review of it. However, I disagree with the one rear shock bad, two rear shocks good idea. It is the quality of the shock not how many there are. Two bad shocks still provides a bad ride. I too feel that the shock was one of the weaker points of the bike, the other being the lower gearing / high RPM on the highway. The only other issue I had with it was that you are forced to used tube type tires because of the spoked wheels. Ultimately, I liked the bike and would buy it again if the circumstances were right.
hey carl, great point on tires. I am looking to buy one and don't like the tube tires, if i get stuck somewhere, how am i gng pull the tube out and replace it? Its not a bicycle. Tubless tire, you can just plug and patch with tool kit. any ideas or suggestions to help me on this? Or i can i just replace the spoke wire rims with reg. rims and put tubless tires on them, but I miss out on the classic look...aaargh.! thakns
I bought a 2013 recently ago after some research and watching videos like this one. I agree with everything you are saying about the bike. Two additional things....the front brake is very large (+) but it should have come standard with passenger floorboards (-) which OEM ones are expensive. I ordered a Speedohealer to take care of the speed/odometer issue. I'm well over 6ft tall and it fits me well.. really a nice first cruiser brand new for $7k and now some dealers offering lifetime oil change and maintenance.
Awesome! Glad you like it. The thing is, certain models DO come standard with floorboards. Both the Classic and the Classic LT. The Custom, however, comes with pegs 'on purpose' as that's what some people prefer in that more slammed look. I would assume you bought the Custom, right?
Romans Five|Eight No, I bought a 2013 Classic LT. It had the passenger pegs. For the price and the maint plans, I figured I could spring for floorboards.
Oh, I mis-read your wording, you're referring to the PASSENGER pegs. And yeah, I'd like to have seen them come from the factory as well! My wife rides her own 99% of the time though so we never did upgrade the stock pegs.
I dumped my wife the first day. LOL I was used to riding dirt bikes and also 2up on them...the 900 was a bit heavier and I 90'd the steering wheel in gravel driveway on the way to the road and laid it down. To her credit, shed jumped back on and away we went. GL and thanks for the video.
This is my first bike at 16 and I love it
Who told you??
Thanks for the video. I just agreed on a price for a Vulcan 900, get to pick it up tomorrow! Super excited:)
Jeremiah Creed Awesome Jeremiah! Let me know how it turns out!
+Romans Five|Eight awesome so far. rode around on some mellow local roads and residential neighborhoods today & yesterday to get a feel for the bike. way different than how I remember the dirt bikes I rode when I was a kid but I'm getting used to it fast.
Tomorrow I'm planning on a ride up 197, which is a little highway that follows the Smith River. I really like the bike and am glad I got it. Never thought I'd get a cruiser, always wanted a sport bike.
I got myself a Vulcan 900 2 month ago. Still wondering why the left mirror is shorter-lower than the right mirror. The bike is a beauty and runs great but I find this feature annoying.
Hmm, that's weird. I don't think mine is like that.
Thank you for a speedy reply. I like the 900 and everything I've heard about it and yes I have ridden my friends bike. I have put on about 25 hundred accessory; driving lights, am not sure if it call wind guard for your legs, which my friend said that maybe one reason u have vibration in the handle bars.. Put on new mirrors, matching boards, Kawasaki seat, plus front n rear pulley. Which the sales man said it would help cut down on the vibration better fuel mileage and more speed, if I wanted even more to add a power kit to her.. I only have 4 thousand kilometers on it. My main worry is like you said is getting into trouble on the highway but it's mainly to keep up with the flow of traffic.. My friends bike at a 120 kilometres = 75 mph and no vibration at all and he's done nothing to it. mine at a 105 kilometers = 65 mph wow it's hard to enjoy your ride. Been thinking of selling it this winter but you think it could be do to low mileage?? Do you plan on or is it out and I haven't found it a remake of this video do to the weather??
+Marvin Moore I don't own my 900 anymore. But yes, above 65 or 70mph I did get a lot of vibration on it. That's part of why I got the 1700. In a cruiser, the only way to get smooth is to get the larger, lower-revving V-Twins.
Awesome video buddy. Very honest review of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT.
The valve adjustment. Killed it for me. Every 15000 miles you pay about $400 to someone who short cuts an you won't know it till it tears up
you tube videos are cheaper
Keep in mind, noise cancellation on the audio setup is making the bike sound slower and quieter than it is. I have pretty loud pipes on my bike! But it sounds almost stock with this mic and my noise cancellation setup.
did the buzzy engine get old after a while? I am thinking of getting one but just dont want to have buyers remorse afterwards?
+Fat Harold Everyone is a little different. Some people it bothers a lot. Me, personally? It didn't really bother me, but I definitely like the smoothness of my 1700 better, if that makes sense. I rode it all day long day after day on multi-day trips.
I got one of these in '07 as a first bike. It is the perfect first Bike and I have met a few people that swapped to them from larger other brands as a fill-in. My only complaint is a lack of a 6th gear. Most people that have met that has gotten onto a Kawi, stay with a Kawi. I am currently looking for a Green '12 Vaquero just because of the paint job but they are few and far between. The local PowerSports shop will only have them a couple of days before they are sold and they can't keep new ones. They have to order them when someone wants one.
SGTJDerek Yeah the green is popular. Kawasaki and Green actually go hand in hand. Back in the day, when Kawasaki first started developing the concept of a sportbike (instead of just adding horsepower to a 'standard', they adjusted suspension, added fairing components, etc.); 'Green' was considered a very unlucky color in the racing world. If for no other reason that to stick their nose up at tradition and superstition, they painted their race bikes green.
It's hard not to stay with Kawasaki. They build very good bikes that always seem a step ahead of the competition.
Hey ! just came across your vids and watched a couple now. like's. Wrote my m1 couple weeks ago and was looking at some adventure bikes like vStrom 650 and bmw700 but an 09 vulcan 900 custom came in on trade at the car dealership I work at and being fall in Ontario the prices for bikes are good so I grabbed it.
Gotta say I think I really lucked out. For a beginner it is a great bike, not scared of the power but there is enough there to be scary if you want to push. At 6' tall I find it really comfortable and just took my longest and fastest ride a couple days ago. Got up to 105kph and went about 210kms. No windscreen or bags but I love it.
Awesome! I bet eventually you'll want that windshield. It wears ya out without one.
There's nothing like it is there? Enjoy that machine brother! Keep the shiny side up.
I like this video, good Pros/Cons of the bike. I am looking to switch from my CBR 600 and this was very helpful, thanks
Hi John , just got my self a new 900 classic lt and had to make a change in the set to get me closer to the floor boards , but I like the bike , like you said it's a good mid size bike . I added white wall tires and some chrome to it .
You got it!
Depending on what you want to spend, and how tall you are, I'd look at a Vulcan 1600 or 1700. Fuel injection is very nice and the additional weight and stability helps. Look into the Nomad models for touring features. MPG when conservatively ridden should be around 45-50. Keep in mind NO big bike is going to get the MPG's you were getting on the VN500, but will be far more comfortable.
DEFINITELY sit on them, and see what you think. Fit is imperative. How it fits you matters!
Thanks dude absolutely great vid very helpful I've just bought a 2009 one can't wait just sold a r1 so I'm changing over to cruising and this was a great help
+utterlycutterly1 What a difference! And thanks for the comment!
I'm thinking on buying an 08 Kawasaki 900 special yes/no??
+brucekirk89 Go for it!
Thxs
Yes
Does it run? Does it have two wheels? If the answer is yes always buy.
im glad im not the only one that forget to turn off their blinker
The vulcan bikes are great bikes i rode the 800 for 7 years and then gave it to my oldest son a few years ago and he still has it and is passing it on to my youngest boy this summer. My wife started riding with me a lot more so i upgraded to a harley touring bike. I really liked the vaquero but was disappointed after seeing it and just sitting on it
+Josh Calbert I love my Vaquero!
Love your videos looking at getting my first cruiser
Is there any way to improve the rev. Limit/ top cruising speed for the highway?
You can swap pulleys to reduce the RPM's on the highway some.
strix2035 , Baron front and rear pulley reduce your rpm's with 12,5%.
Good video, thank you for posting. When you were talking about the RPMs being a little high, bear in mind the engine on the Vulcan is very similar to Kawasaki's sports bikes, therefore being designed to run at a few thousand higher RPMs is natural for how that particular bike was built.
Right, it won't hurt the bike. But higher RPM's means more vibration and a little less comfort.
2009 Vulcan900LT here. I have found that the 900's sweet spot is 50-55mph. Yeah you can go 85mph all day but it won't be comfortable! For me the windshield is a must on the highway.
Nice bike nice scenery. The roads look similar to our Ohio roads. especially S/E Ohio.
May i ask what size memphis shades windshield you have? and is it a fats or slim? Thanks in advance!!
+Michael Brewer Neither, that's the factory windshield on the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT.
well you get good sound for one, its not buffered horribly by wind, you can hear the bike really well, as well as you can see the handlebars and tank combined with seeing far ahead on the road. you get the actual experience.
Hi John. I'm 53 years and a total newbie to motorcycling. I thoroughly enjoy your vlogs and need your opinion. I'm 5-10 / 235 and small 250cc bikes just don't cut it for my size. I've never ridden before and I plan to take a Motorcycle safety course in the spring. I really like the look and feel of the Vulcan 900, V-star 950, and the Boulevard M50. Would either of these make a good starter bike? Mind you I have no intention of trading up..and will use the bike to commute to work and going for longer rides on the weekends. Looking forward to hearing your opinion.. Thanks
+ST0RMBRINGR Hey there! I owned the Vulcan 900 so I'm tempted to suggest that, but I'd sit on all three and see what you think. I think any of them will be great. I thoroughly enjoyed my Vulcan 900 for the years I had it.
Well said Roman in reply to Godlikehenry, I ride a Honda Phantom and it rides great at 65mph I personally think, Bigger cruisers might be smoother higher speeds than that, but our bikes are light and nimble to have fun on in town and on twisty stuff. An all round great bike your Fulcan like the Phantom.
You bet! Also, cc's is NOT the only measure of a bike. The VN900 actually is a pretty big bike. It's as heavy as some of the bigger full-dressers out there and has huge tires, a long wheelbase and a wide stance. Even if it's displacement is only 900cc's (but it makes as much or more horsepower than 1500cc bikes from 10 years ago!)
I may well try and test ride a VN900 one day, sounds a great bike, thanks a lot for all your speedy comments back to me Roman, will watch more of your vid's when I get time now am new to your channel. Take care mate, Paul.
nice bike i had ACE deluxe 750 shadow, and now the kawasaki is getting my attention more as im seeing u guys riding and the way it sounds looks and over all everything anyways nice video.
Where are your videos about oil change and valve adjustment??? Would really like to see them? Thanks in advance
I have never drove a motorcycle much less owned one before. So I am doing a lot of asking, researching. I have been looking at the Boulevard C50 (800cc), Suzuki SV650, and the Vulcan 900. The only issue with the SV is I haven't sat on one to see if my feet touch the ground. The other problem, I don't know which one handles best. Even though I am mechanically inclined, I have been working on small engines since I was 12 (I am 24), I am not excited about doing valve adjustments.
The Valve adjustments are time consuming but not difficult. And they only need done every 15,000 miles on the 900.
The 900 is a good middle ground bike. J&P sells an air shock kit that will soften the ride a good bit. Even with that said I dont think I will be parting with my Streetglide.
A street glide is in a whole different world than the 900. Enjoy it! I wouldn't mind a bigger touring bike; but I have been enjoying this bike.
The Baggers are nice, but bikes like your 900 are a ton of fun as well ! Take care !
My suzuki dr650 has a single shock rear suspension and has 11 inches of travel.. It floats over railroad crossings and bumps with a smooth ride. It's a light weight bike with a very smooth ride.
dan myers Yep, that's an entirely different style of bike! On cruisers, the biggest disadvantage of a monoshock is that because of the low styling and chassis design, there's not much travel. Dual shocks, mounted outside of the fender, can have much more travel than a single shop buried inside the bike. All touring cruisers have dual shock suspensions; but they hide it behind hard saddlebags. This gives them more travel.
I'm almost 60 years old and I find that the older I get the lighter I like my bikes to be and the more compliant I like the suspension..
Someone get this man some water, damn!
Listening to this man clear his throat every other sentence made this video so painful to watch
Agreed. It was painful and distracting.
I've never used the onboard mic or mic jack on the Drift. Just my bluetooth setup!
And yes, I am the Chaplain of the local CMA Chapter!
you get the best on bike riding view, better than most on youtube.
Thanks for the review
For a third of a harley, its a great buy!
I just traded in my first bike '07 Suzuki Boulevard C50 for a 2012 Vulcan 900 from a dealer. Loved both bikes! Thanks for the video but I'm in KC and I'm struggling with the temp you said for your area! We often get sub 20's and even sub 0'si
49 hp for 657 lbs + rider + passenger. Is that okay for 2-up?
Yep. I do two-up riding with this machine all the time; even for hundreds of miles on the interstate. There are bikes that do it better (less vibrations, etc.) but it keeps up just fine.
Can this bike handle 80 miles per hour on highway for long period of time?
Yeah, it can. I did it plenty. Although it's a lot more comfortable down around 65 where it doesn't rev as high.
This bike is at home on twisty 55mph roads. But if you need to get it out on the interstate for long jaunts, it'll do it. It's just going to rev fairly high and have some vibration that other larger bikes won't have.
I got this as my first motorcycle, only worry is keeping up with my father and his friends in their big harleys with kits. It feels better than the harley street 500
Hey man, been loving the vids, I had a question for you, I'm looking to get a bike and have narrowed it down to two contenders, one of which is the vn900 and I was wondering what kind of range you get out of your bike.
About 200 miles; as much as 250.
Romans it's time for some videos. Keep em coming and God bless!!
The weather is getting warmer! So I hope to soon.
I sold my VTX 1800 which was fantastic !!! Want to downsize to something like a Vulcan 900. Am I too big though ? 6'2 and 250.
+dks13827 Not at all. Don't let the "900" fool you. It's a good sized bike.
+Romans Five|Eight What about a guy around 5'10 340+...
How rude of me I forgot to even comment about the video lol. I enjoyed your review. I'm not looking for a bike but if I were this would be very helpful. I have to say you done a better review than any journalist I ever watched. The high rev thing is interesting. I suppose it being a short stroke 900 that's really where it needs to run to be in its power range for the highway. My 883 sportster was the same way, sounded like it was screaming at 70mph. I suppose it's only a issue if you let it be. Anyway I enjoyed and I will def check out your other stuff
Journalists review a ton of bikes, are pressed to get reviews out before the other publications and generally just ride the bikes for a bit. It's a little different when you own the bike, have researched, and have plopped down your own hard-earned cash for it.
You're exactly right on the high RPM thing. It's never bothered me. It doesn't hurt the bike, it doesn't hurt me. It's just there. But I wanted to mention it, because it matters to some. Owners of the 900 often say they are "searching for a 6th gear".
Great review Thanks for your candor.
hi John I've watched a couple of your reviews and find them very informative, I am an old biker from the sixties and I still have my first motor bike which is a Norton dominator, 2 months ago I bought a Kawasaki Vn 900 classic, so I went on line to find about tips and to ride it, witch is totally different to a sixties café racer, I would like to thank you for your info, it has helped me a lot and I am sure many more cruisers
The Vulcan 900 seems like a (almost) perfect commuter. It is in dire need of the convenience and safety of an outside temperature display and TMPS in order to round-out the commuting package. I also wish that Kawasaki would put a real front tire and dual disks (and maybe even ABS) on the 900 Custom. Cruise Control is always a great idea for anything over 500cc. I think a Vulcan 900 Custom is in my future, as (expense wise) commuting on a Harley just doesn't make sense. I would dump the Fat Bob if it didn't perform it's only intended purpose so superbly; The sunny, two-up day trips with my wife ire incredible. However, whether a bike has one shock or two in-no-way determines how effective the suspension is; it's just difficult to design much travel into a form-over-function design like the "soft-tail" (or this obvious imitation). All GP racers ride on one rear shock. BMW's have one rear chock. Geeze... Even Gold Wings have one rear shock. Dual shocks bikes, in general, are an antiquated design.
I bought a 2019 with 1 mile on it I have a xlh 1200 with 120,000 miles on it. But being retired and 70 on fixed income this was a really good deal at 5999.00 it fit my budget. but after breaking in the engine, I can not stand it over 55 or 60 miles a hour, at 75 the engine rpm are so annoying i can't stand riding it. I just took a 1800 mile test trip and spent most of my time at 55 helping trucks get past me it looks nice it rides nice but me and 4500 rpm at 80 don't get along. so looks like my 4000 trip is going to be a slow one this summer. It is a nice riding bike and nice looking bike. I'm hoping a 34 tooth front sprocket will fix it. I've just had it 4 weeks and have 3000 miles on it. this is a final drive ratio off 4.33 my 1200 has a final drive of 3.36 and a 883 has a ratio of 3.62 both good. I found at 52 i get 55 miles a gallon at 55 to 60 it drops to 49 at 65 to 70 it drops to 45. it is nice and rides comfy. I doing a 1600 mile trip up the coast from fort Bragg to Astoria Oregon and back home so I'll see if i get use to the noise but most likey it will be getting a 34 tooth front to start with before the big trip. Fingers crossed it helps. bye the way good video
I agree about the lack of a big cruiser from Honda. I have been considering the Valkery not sure of the spelling. it uses Goldwing motor but sits higher and has a more sport suspension. But I haven't ridden one. does your Vulcan 900 make you rear numb on a long trip. My 1500 after about 300 miles numbs mine, but I don't know if the bikes ride or the v-twin. With the 4 speed tranny it cruises at a fairly high rpm at 60 mph.
Problem with the Valk is I have really long legs. So the engine gets in the way and that "standard" riding position is a little tough for me.
After an hour at 65-70, your butt and your hands will be numb! I rarely ride mine more than 60mph for this reason unless I need to keep up with faster traffic on the highway.
Like your vlogs. Informative and intelligent.
Can't wait for oil change video!! Keep it up!
Hey awesome video answered alot I was wandering about but can ya do a video of how it dose going like 75 80+ I really like the bike but im worryed that if me and my wife take a trip it wont be able to handle it and I dont want to mess up the bike or anything if I get one thanks:)
Beginning at 8:50 in the video you'll see plenty of 75-80+!
It'll do that, but the vibration will get to you within an hour, right after your hands go numb!
Great review, I'm 5'10" 170 lbs. Currently riding a ninja 650. Do you find yourself scraping pegs around corners? I've never ridden a cruiser, but being as I live in the prairies in Alberta, Canada I have LONG and STRAIGHT roads and my sport bike is uncomfortable, typically the longest trips I will make are around 6-800 kilometers in a day and I have to take frequent breaks to keep my butt from getting numb. How long did you find you could stay on that bike before needing a break?
Hey Steven! I scrape the floorboards now and then; but I'm not a very aggressive rider.
Even on the VN900 with the stock seat, I'd get numb. WIth an aftermarket seat it's better. 600-800km a day is actually pretty typical for me on the long end; though it's not too uncomfortable to do so. Honestly, after 800km in the saddle, I'm ready to just get off and stretch for a while anyway. The litmus test for me is that a motorcycle is comfortable enough to go through an entire tank of fuel without needing to get off; and then I take long fuel breaks (15 minutes or so), and do it again. The 900 with an aftermarket seat definitely did that. Currently, I ride a Kawasaki 1700 Vaquero; which does it even better.
What do you think is the better bike? A Vulcan 900? Or a Honda Shadow 750? A lot of people like the 750 compared to it, but I also heard the 750 is a tiny bike and I'm 6' and will probably grow 1 or 2 more inches.
Near 50,000 ! Nothing has broken that I didn't break ! Oh yeah a deer tried to kill me for killing and eating many of his cuisines ( at around 30,000 ) !
Great info. I've been looking at one for some time and have been on the fence as to get a 900, a 1500 or larger Vulcan. Sounds like the 900 will work so I'll test drive one. I'd be riding 65 miles one way to work each day. Nice review.
900 is perfect buddy trust me
Whose hatin? On what? Lol!
And yeah, I'm shifting around 3-4k. It's not a race track. It's also not a fast revving inline 4. I never lug it, but these V-Twins like to be in the middle of the powerband, not the top like the inline motors.
Do a vid about your gear. Always nice to get an honest opinion.
thinking on 2015 900 vulcan
How's two up riding on the bike? Also do you have links to a follow up review for this video? Thanks mate.
+w00tplayaw00t The two up riding isn't bad at all; my current bike (1700 Vaquero) is a little better; but the 900 is very capable.
Where have you been man? And thanks for telling us about the Drift HD cameras. I bought one and started motor vlogging. Check out HarleyDayRider. Thanks for the videos and bring on some more.
Nice video. I've always wanted to know what the craze is on vertical twin engine bikes are and I just can't see myself with one. Not that they aren't bad, but just not my style. I'm used to high reeving inline 4.s for thier power and smothness and great handling. After getting off one and jumping onto a V twin would (for me anyway) very boring.
Great reviews I bought a Vulcan 900 classic lt. Because of your reviews and insight. Please tell more about the Harley touring package. What model is it for and did it bolt right on?
Chris Lane It did not bolt right on, it required a custom bracket. There's a company called "Wompus" who makes a "Wompus Rack" (Google it). A Harley Tour Pak, or almost any other trunk, will bolt right to that and then that will bolt right to a Vulcan 900.
I have a 2006, owned it since 2010 bought it used. Its been an awesome bike so far but this past month I've got some problems to sort out. I'm not a mechanic, but I am doing some research online for possible diagnostics. I hope and pray its not gonna cost me big bucks to get her back on the road :(
MsPinkpeppermint Let me guess, charging system? The battery won't stay charged?
Yes, had a battery die on me at the end of May and replaced it right away. So I'm thinking its stator/rectifier problems. It starts, but doesn't idle right...will completely stop when going down my street before I even get to the stop sign. I start again and it will be fine after that. But something evil is brewing..lol.
Stator failure is common. If you want to save money; then it's time to diagnose, diagnose, diagnose. All too often, folks will have a problem and will replace a part, automatically, because someone else had a similar problem and that was the part they needed to replace. It's imperative that we diagnose any problem before replacing a part.
I would suggest you sign up at www(dot)vulcanforums(dot)com and post all of your details there, and there we (I'll be there too!) can help walk you through the diagnostic steps to determine the actual failures and get it on the road as cheaply as possible!
Good luck!
Thanks so much for your help. I'll check it out. Ride safe :)
You mentioned you had speakers mounted on the bike. What brand were they? Also, is there a way to make your suspension more comfortable?
Kristopher Moe There's only so much you can do with a mono-shock suspension bike. It is adjustable, which helps. I believe there is an aftermarket solution; but I never messed with it. I had Shark brand speakers.
Cool! Well that's what I was going for! Hope to get some more videos up soon.
Good review!
I have a 2008 Vulcan Classic 900, the rear suspension nearly breaks my back when I hit a hole in the road, my question is: what should the preload be set at for a solo rider? I weigh 92Kg (202lbs)
I'm using a Drift HD camera with a Shark bluetooth audio system, recorded with my iPhone (with some post processing done to both audio and video). And yeah, I've been through West Plains!