Leo Dixon I know you will love it, glad you’re getting one! I just took a trip to Flagstaff and rode 90mph the entire ride with ease, it could use a 6 gear but the engine is fine. Enjoy and safe travels.
Got same bike '09! This bike is literally in my opinion a very well put together bike. I've got Vance & Hines Slash Cut Staggard pipes on it, with Vance & Hines Fuel Pak for electronic air/fuel monitoring and the Cobra Power Flow air intake! What a combo when its tuned correctly! Enhanced sound and power at the twist of the throttle! $800 investment well worth the money. Miles and miles of roads travelled hard and not a single complaint about the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic!! Ride Hard! 👍😎
yep, these are great bikes, NO vibration, I had vibration once when I changed a rear tire, the guy tightened my belt too tight. easily solved. had a 07 classic lt, traded in for goldwing, sold goldwing year later and back to 08 classic LT. . Better suspension, less buffeting, less engine heat, easier to work on, my wife more comfy on LT believe it or not than wing, I can go on and on how much my 06 wing sucked compared to this bike. enjoy and do not move up.
I own a 2012 Classic LT 900 and it's probably the smoothest, best ridding bike of that size I've ever ridden. I've ridden interstate highways at 70-80 mph for hundreds of miles and it's a great ride with no buzzing to speak of.
had a 2008 vulcan 900 classic lt now for 3 years and loved every minute of it but have to agree it needs a sixth gear and comfier stock seat,a brilliant bike,best cruiser in the mid size range so far in my opinion.
I remember coming off inline 4 bikes and getting my first V-twin and was wondering were the vibrations normal, the answer is yes, it's part and parcel of owning a twin, absolutely fell in love with twins and now I own a Vulcan Classic 900 and an Aprilia RSV 1000r 😁
Good to hear....Th a is for the info'. I've owned a Vulcan 900 for a year and never felt vibration like this on other bike... It's going to be in the 70's this week....going to "crank it up"!
Synthetic oil helps the engine smooth out a lot! Mine is smooth after the oil change. I was worried AT first about the lack of power and rough motor, but all is well now. Good luck!
My 06 classic LT had some vibration at 70mph. I installed a Barron pulley on the engine and that brought the engine rpm down and helped with the vibration! I'm planning on replacing the wheel pulley before I start riding this spring! Love the video! Ride safe...
I've just traded in a sportster 1200 for the vn900, you ain't had vibrations until you've ridden a sportster at 80mph! I thought the vn was pretty smooth on the motorway.
@@TheNostorian I'm now riding a Evo 1340 softail custom, very impressed with overall ride..not so vibey as the Sportsters..not knocking the sportys, I still love em!
@@inthebreeze1973 ohw me neither man. I'm a harley guy. Had 04 sportster 02 dyna. Now working on buying a brand new softail. Or next to brand new. 21 or 22 model. Depends om what they are bringing out next year. Been eyeing that sportglide for some time now.
I've not long bought a Vulcan 900 Classic. I've also found myself reaching for a 6th gear, but it's just a matter of getting used to the higher revs of these engines. Mine does vibrate a bit at 75-80, mirrors aren't perfectly clear at that speed but it's smooth as silk compared to my 1100 Shadow, which wants to shake your eyeballs out at anything over 70! I also love that lovely twitter from the engine at lower speeds, apparent with the quiet standard pipes. Despite their weight they can also be chucked around the twisties like a bike half its size.
I had the same bike and I drove my Vulcan 900cc classic cruiser at 80+ miles an hour, no problems, my bike wanted to do more for me! I was just testing it. But I just go cruising between 65 to 75 Miles an hour and there is no vibrations just smooth cruising man all the way through.👌
I have a 2020 LT and it does vibrate some at over 65mph. It's not terrible but I do feel it. I came from 15 years on a Street Glide so maybe it's just the difference in the cid. A 6th gear would help. Having said that I wouldnt trade it for my old Harley. I ride mostly local and love the more nimble feeling of the 900 over the SG. Great bike.
Great video. I've been looking at the Vulcan compared to a Suzuki C50 and I'm liking all the things I hear about the Vulcan. I've been searching for a used one and can't wait for riding season to start again here in the northeast. Thanks and ride safe racerpeters.
1summerguy I love mine there are a few things I am looking to change on it but I think you will run into that with any bike so as I am able I will be making my changes to make this my bike
Yeah dadplus4 mine is a 2016 I now have 1600 miles on it and I absolutely love it still running a worry-free without any vibration to speak of and I would still recommend this place to anyone wanting a nice bike that's not very expensive
I own a 2008 VN900 Classic.... overall I can't fault it... other than, possibly, the need at times, for a sixth gear. Apparently this can be rectified, however, by swapping out the drive belt drive cogs...
I have owned many cruisers over the years, Hondas, Kawasakis, Suzukis, Yamahas, and yes ever Harleys. Even though I don't own one, I think the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT is by far the most comfortable cruiser made.
No problem with my 2006 Kawasaki Classic LT. Liquid cooled, fuel injected. I never run over 70 (needs a 6th gear) it’s a terrific lightweight Cruiser. Color scheme is Metallic Dark Blue on Metallic Silver. Like the bike so much I’ll never get rid of it. I’m at 58,000 and it’s well maintained.
I have a 2019 Classic and I love riding it. I used to feel like there needs to be a sixth gear but now I don’t even think about it. Five gears doesn’t diminish my riding experience one bit.
Got the Vulcan 900 custom 2010 and yup over 70 compared to vertical twins or multi potters it vibrates but as i dont like wind buffeting and plod at 60 for hours on end I dont have a problem. The best built Vtwin imo you can get for reliability . Proven design simple and under run like the good old v8s will last for years
I had a 2007 Custom. A great bike, except they had issues with Stator failures. Mine failed on me too. Replaced it myself, rode it for another year and traded it in on a new 2012 Nomad. I rode with some big Harley riders and that 900 kept right up with them at, or pushing past, highway speeds. They just rev high and that's why people say they need a sixth speed. The high revs doesn't hurt the engine, as they were designed to run that way. It's just hard to get used to. I love my Nomad, but it is a much bigger and a lot heavier machine. The Custom was nice, too. Great gas mileage. I could get over 50 MPG on it.
Vn 900 s are tuned down and geared high . I had to replace front and rear pulleys . That made clearance for a 200 rear tire ( the final drive ratio 10% over stock) more with the larger tire . larger pipes . Larger air cleaner and fuel management .that made it roadable for me . I was very disappointed with the stock gearing of this bike !!! Great bike after the upgrades !!! Over 30,000 and nothing has broken that I didn't break. 2011 vn900 classic LT Oh ya it also killed a deer that tried to kill me for killing his cuisines and eating them . I got a broken leg and a scratched up bike .the deer got dead .if I could have gotten up I would have got me them back straps !
Vulcan 900 vibrations at high speeds are due to the second set of restrictor plates on the air intake, act like a governor. I removed mine with no issues to fuel consumption or cold starts/riding. I increased power and acceleration when removed. I ride till -2 or -5 oCelcius.
I have a 2011 900 classic and I feel the vibrations at higher rpm when I'm going over 65mph. Though the vibrations aren't that bad, if it had a sixth gear it wouldn't be an issue.
Hum. You know, this is a great video. Thank you. I can hear the bike, thank you. How much vibration is coming through the handlebars? With 0 as absolutely nothing and 10 a paint shaker, what is it really like?
I ride the same freeways, just 4 years after you. I have a 2014 900 VN Classic, and I definitely have vibrations after 75 mph. My hands will go numb after 10 minutes of riding at 80. When riding 2 up, my kids complain that the back rest vibrates uncomfortably. Plans to remediate include Barons front pulley and Kuryakyn grips.
I see we live in the same city! Also haven't noticed it to be much different from my 98 shadow I used to ride. That said, I figure the pulley mod can't hurt. Good video!
I have a 2009 Custom 900. I agree that a 6th gear would be nice. That being said I think the vibration issue is not that big a deal. I really dont feel it till I hit 70, I put on some vibration dampening grips which helped and use synthetic oil for a smoother ride.
I had a Vulcan 900 Classic 2007, bought it brand new. Loved the bike except for two and half things 1) it was geared too low. I assume Kawy did it because it gave it more grunt on take off but it caused the RPM's to be too high on the highway. I never experienced excessive shaking but it did sound like it was being over worked at 80mph. BTW thanks for sharing your video, it seems somewhere between 2007 and 2016 Kawy took care of that issue by lowering the RPM a bit for the highway riding. 2) The suspension did not have enough dampening in it which caused it to bounce when it was over loaded. If my wife road with me we had about 400lbs between us with some gear in the saddlebags and I wasn't impressed with the suspension for that amount of weight. Don't know mayby Kawy did something about that too with the later models. The 1/2 item I didn't like were the spoke wheels with inner tubes, the look great but have you ever got a flat and tried to fix it having an inner tube? You ain't gonna fix it with a plug. You have to take the tire off to fix it. I would gladly give up the look for a set of non inner tube tires and wheels. After getting rid of the 900 I owned two Victory's a Vegas and a Kingpin and all these issues when away. I now ride a 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT and love it but my wife likes the cruiser type bike for riding double. If the VN900 has addressed at least the first two things I would look at it again.
Carl Shelton well yes it still has spoke wheels with inner tubes that are stock the rear shock however is adjustable with myself and my wife on there it seems fine but if I put my daughter on there who is a lot lighter she tends to bounce so I need to adjust the shock so it's a little softer
Christopher Huggins yes I do believe you're correct the tire sizes are different though pretty sure the customer has a real thin front tire compared to the classic LT
my 2014 900 custom is happy around 100km/h (around 60 mph) when I wanna pass someone at 120km/h (around 75mph) there's quite a bit of shake and I can tell she's not happy when I maintain that speed.
My 2012 Classic 900 LT vibrates a lot when traveling over 65 mph. And, the transmission whines loudly at speeds under that. I hope there are fixes out there!
COULD YOU HELP ME OUT WITH A QUICK ANSWER IF U READ THIS PLEASE? I BUILD BOBBERS AND THE VULCAN HAS A GREAT FRAME TOLOWER, HARDTAIL,SOLID MOUNT A BATES SOLO SPORT BOBBER SEAT TO THE FRAME.I DONT USE SPRINGS..IT ADDS TO MUCH HEIGHT TO THE PROFILE..ALSO ADD SOME CUSTOM PIE CUT BOOT BURNER EXHAUST,DRAG BARS,HAVE PARTS OF THE CASE AND VALVE COVERS BRASS COATED ALONG WITH MY CUSTOM BRASS LEVERS FOR BOTH THE BARS AND TRANS AND SHIFTER..BLACK 38 INCH DRAG BARS,REAR PEG DELETE,ADD 705 DUAL SPORT TIRES FOR THE AGGRESIVE STANCE AND RIDE..I OWN A SMALL EXOTIC AUTO DEALERSHIP WHICH INCLUDES OUR TOP RANKED CERTIFIED AUTO REPAIR AS WELL AS MY NATION WIDE RANK OF 3 AUTO BODY AND CUSTOM PAINT OF WHICH THE BIKES RECIEVE.25 HUGE FLAKE WITH A CANDY WHICH IS FITTING OF THE BUILD AND THEN 8 TO 12 COATS OF PEARLESCENT CLEAR AND A FULL STRIP DOWN SO THE FRAME CAN GET ITS BEAUTIFUL 6 COATS OF CADILLAC FIREMIST DIAMOND METALLIC BLACK PEARL WHICH AFTER ALL THE METAL TRIM AND REMOVAL OF SOME METAL AND FABRICATION OF OTHERS THE PAINT AND BODY WORK/FAB WOULD COST BETWEEN $5000 AND $6000..NOT COUNTING MY TIME AND EVERY OTHER PART I USED TO BUILD THE BIKE..ANYWAY..I LIKE THE OLDER 2003 TO 2006 VULCAN8 OR 900 WITH THE MONO SHOCK AND THE FRAME DOES NOT USE EXPOSED TWIN STRUTS..I TAKE THE MONO SHOCK FRAMES AND CUT AND REWELD THEM INTO TRUE LOWERED 7 INCH HARDTAILS.MY QUESTION TO YOU IS DO VULCANS HAVE ANY WEAK SPOTS? IS IT AS RELIABLE AS MY HONDA BUILDS?COULD ANYONE PLEASE SHARE ANYTHING YOU DO NOT LIKE..THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR ANY AND ALL INFO..THANKS
I own a 2008 classic Lt with 44000miles. Only issue I've ever had was the stator at (42000 miles) I put K&N air filter cobra FI2000r fuel camander and no vibration at all. I run at 80mph and I thought the rpm's were high but it's a short stroke motor. 80mph is about 3950/4000rpm. The Rev limiter is 7200. It's fine run the bike . I've went 105mph ONCE and that's when I felt the vibration
I have 2014 Classic LT. I've had it up to 90, regularly ride about 65-70 with only a minor buzz on the floor boards. Nothing on the hand grips but then I've replaced the stock grips with Isogrips, much more comfortable on long rides.
i would get a vicious death wobble on my 1500 when id hit a bump on the highway while also on a curve. it would happen in this same stretch of road every time i went across it. luckily i have fairly strong arms so i was able to keep it on two wheels each time. still scary as hell.
my 13 900 custom has a vibration in the exhaust or heat shields at 70, but stops at about 72 mph. other than that, i was up to 90 yesterday, and no issues at all on a bumpy road. I just wish I could figure out the exhaust vibration.
@@kinslow94 maybe there's a forum somewhere with the answer. Only thing you can do is check every inch of it. Bad weld or loose hanger. Maybe a loose baffle.
First of all, They don't vibrate! Most of the guys complaining about this bike DON"T even own a motor cycle. They just come on here and talk thru there ass. But if you were to ask them about a Harley they would tell you how great they are (because they are the trendy bike as of late), even though Harleys vibrate ALL the time. Bottom line! TALK IS CHEAP !!
my VN800 gets a little interesting at over 70 which is about the top end. I don't like it so I stay off interstates with it. Have never ridden a VN900 and I agree a 6th gear would do a world of good. The problem is they can't fit it in the transmission case.
I have a new 2022 Vulcan classic 900 and it handles terribly on the freeway. I’m blowing all over the place to the point where I don’t feeling comfortable going faster than 60-65. It vibrates and it takes all the wind.
I bought my 2016 brand new the head bearings were not adjusted to specs and also the Dunlop 404 tires that come oem we not the best After having the headbearings adjusted and replacing the tires with michelin Commander 2 It handles way better
@David Brunstein I am no mechanic, but it was not hard. I love the change. I mostly ride at 45 to 50 on back roads and 65 to 70 on highways. I love the extra top end. you lose. a little low end to pull out from curves. I am set up to travel.
I've got a 2014 Classic and haven't experienced any significant vibration at highway speeds. My only complaint is that the bike does shake a bit on the highway when crosswinds are active. My only complaint about this bike is that the engine drags a bit in low gears. Have you experienced this?
The bike is great but has a strange rattle like im dragging a tin can behind the bike if stops when teh bike has warmed up fully. noise seems to come from the belt drive area but eberything looks ok
I haven't ran mine on the highway since replacing the tires a few weeks ago but before that speeds at 70 or above had quite a bit of vibration, I typically look for back roads to take instead of the highway because of that. Do you have lowers on your Vulcan?
Great looking bike, I don't believe I saw lowers, they are installed on the forks and some say reduce buffeting at higher speeds. I don't have them on mine and I have heard everything from they are better than sliced bread to they really don't do much. So was just curious if you had them. I just feel like mine could really use a 6th gear once I am above 70 mph and it would be much better. Here is a link to OEM Lowers for the 900. www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/VN900DFF/K46001334
If you are Very serious about touring. I know this from Experience having owned 2 Kawasaki Vulcan 900's. Get a Bigger Big with a full faring. The standard windshield is fine if the wind is down, but when "and I mean When" you encounter a strong cross wind be prepared to have your brain rattled. It is NOT Enjoyable. Cruising around town, or shorts runs this bike is great. But for the long haul there are better options at similar price points. Look for a little older, well taken care of full dresser.
I would've pulled you over........... and ask "Well, does it vibrate?" Thinking about getting this bike. Thanks for the video, sir. Almost forgot, everything stock on the bike?
Thanks for the video 👍 I see what you mean seems smooth, I'm looking into the custom I'm just going to go for it and put on the scootworks pully kit to help with the rpm' at that speed .
My 09 900 vibrates at 65-70. Feels like it is not made to go faster. May be a fix for it though. tires, suspension, etc. I'm not going to chase it down. I bought a Nomad.
What ever it is seems to be in early years a lot of people who have ones made before 2016 have that vibration complaint mine is a 16 and I have not noticed any
I have Vulcan vn900 2008 and i drive my bike 90 miles per hour without winshield and normal to vibrate, Vulcan it's not have aerodynamic line for high speed.
So do you think it is revving to many RPM at 80. mine at 75 revs so high I can't stand to ride it. it is good about 52 to 55 even at 65 it is to high of RPM for me but at lease I can stand it for a couple miles. The bike is gear way to low final drive at 4.33. that is good red light to red light but it sucks on a long distances trip like 4000 miles or so. a 1200 sporty has a 3.36 final drive ratio and a 883 has a 3.62 final drive. both doable. I bought a 900 Vulcan because I'm 70 and the price and payments were right for my income. to do a 4000 trip, but looks like my 1200 with a 120,000 mile will be the one to ride. if I want to spend any time at 80 mph anyway. I just did a 4 day test run on the Vulcan 1800 miles, most of the way 55 or 60 getting over out of peoples way and helping trucks get pass me. at 80 your taching about 4800 rpm way to high to be good on a long trip. but I've just had the bike 3 weeks. it now has 3000 miles on it. it is a 2019 I got it for 5999.00 with 1 mile on it so it was a good deal. but suck that many rpm what was Kawasaki thinking. we in America spend a lot of time at 80 on long trips this bike sucks. It is pretty and comfy but screw 4800 rpm all day.
There is loads of vibration over 60mph through the floor boards and hand grips on my 2006 model. Otherwise a great bike that you want to ride all the time.
@@racerpeters coz I have an iron 1200 and boy it’s difficult to ride at 80mph without a windshield. The whole front end starts to wobble the moment I start. Seeking for a another machine to replace it.
If the front end starts to wobble I would suggest checking the neck bearings make sure that they're tightened and check your tires make sure tires are okay and balanced correctly no bike should do that with or without the windshield
@@racerpeters noted. But I just purchased it 3 weeks ago from a dealer ship. It’s a brand new bike. I was just very surprise that it had difficulties even going at 80mph. The wind blows the bike all over the place. I don’t see myself riding this for another 3 months. Lol
@@TheRicokilla well if it's brand new I think I take it back to the dealer and have their mechanics go over it with a fine tooth comb voice your concerns about what it's doing and see what they say it should have some sort of a warranty there might be something wrong
There's something wrong with the bike. Your bike may vibrate, but not all Vulcans are the same. Get it checked out. I have a Vulcan 1600. I get no vibration.
unfortunately no I don't have any idea why your ears won't go over 70 miles an hour top speed on the classic LT which is what I have is around 110 I have had it up to about 100 before
Ive always road old Harleys ,resently bought a 2010 vaucan custom. Yall dont know what " buzzy" is. Sure the bike is a underpowered slug but buzzy.... nah. I like it a lot and have described it like riding a big moped. Im with the guys that are going to change out the rear pully need to drop about 12 teeth
You own a "vaucan" and you gona drop the rear pulley by 12 teeth? This bike is belt driven ... good luck! I hope you can find a belt, or you have to extend your bridge. I have a easy sollution, but i like to read, watch and "learn" here.
It's hard to believe that ANY motorcycle manufacturer would design a cruiser that had vibrations at high speed. That should be an automatic death sentence. Who would buy such a bike?
Wade Rivers the complaint from people with earlier versions of this bike is that the RPMs were so high on the freeway that the bike would vibrate I have found no such thing with my bike I don't know if it was something that was done in earlier versions that was fixed in the later versions that's why this video was made
not sure exactly what you're talkin about if you're referring to the camera yeah that's the Sena 10c it doesn't have real Good vibration stabilization I'm using a GoPro hero 5 black now in my later videos It works way better
...vibrations? Everything is relative and subjective. Depends who's riding. Is it a snowflake or an old boy? You know how that works out. I've never heard more whimpering about discomforts than from the last couple of generations.
Tighten your head bearings...they come loose after riding a lot...and dump that goofy windshield and buy some mini 10 inch apes and you will enjoy your bike a lot more...I know I did
I just bought a 2019 Vulcan 900 and I haven't had any issues with vibration at all. I absolutely love this bike.
Leo Dixon I know you will love it, glad you’re getting one! I just took a trip to Flagstaff and rode 90mph the entire ride with ease, it could use a 6 gear but the engine is fine. Enjoy and safe travels.
I got mines too, perfect bike except for the wind buffeting.. i have an aftermarket wind shield thou
Got same bike '09! This bike is literally in my opinion a very well put together bike. I've got Vance & Hines Slash Cut Staggard pipes on it, with Vance & Hines Fuel Pak for electronic air/fuel monitoring and the Cobra Power Flow air intake! What a combo when its tuned correctly! Enhanced sound and power at the twist of the throttle! $800 investment well worth the money. Miles and miles of roads travelled hard and not a single complaint about the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic!! Ride Hard! 👍😎
Just got a 900 Custom first bike i Appreciate the ideas that sounds like a great investment
yep, these are great bikes, NO vibration, I had vibration once when I changed a rear tire, the guy tightened my belt too tight. easily solved. had a 07 classic lt, traded in for goldwing, sold goldwing year later and back to 08 classic LT. . Better suspension, less buffeting, less engine heat, easier to work on, my wife more comfy on LT believe it or not than wing, I can go on and on how much my 06 wing sucked compared to this bike. enjoy and do not move up.
TBear300 if they do I don't notice it nothing that I have felt
did she ever ride on a 1500? i hear those are better than the 1800's.
@Teddy300 I get some vibration also at the floor boards. Nothing too bad. On the vulcan forums they say this because of the stock tires.
Yup I love my 06 Vulcan Classic. Probably my last bike out of many other bike's I had. By far the best one.
I own a 2012 Classic LT 900 and it's probably the smoothest, best ridding bike of that size I've ever ridden. I've ridden interstate highways at 70-80 mph for hundreds of miles and it's a great ride with no buzzing to speak of.
had a 2008 vulcan 900 classic lt now for 3 years and loved every minute of it but have to agree it needs a sixth gear and comfier stock seat,a brilliant bike,best cruiser in the mid size range so far in my opinion.
I remember coming off inline 4 bikes and getting my first V-twin and was wondering were the vibrations normal, the answer is yes, it's part and parcel of owning a twin, absolutely fell in love with twins and now I own a Vulcan Classic 900 and an Aprilia RSV 1000r 😁
Good to hear....Th a is for the info'.
I've owned a Vulcan 900 for a year and never felt vibration like this on other bike... It's going to be in the 70's this week....going to "crank it up"!
Synthetic oil helps the engine smooth out a lot! Mine is smooth after the oil change. I was worried AT first about the lack of power and rough motor, but all is well now. Good luck!
My 06 classic LT had some vibration at 70mph.
I installed a Barron pulley on the engine and that brought the engine rpm down and helped with the vibration!
I'm planning on replacing the wheel pulley before I start riding this spring!
Love the video! Ride safe...
Kurt Cafini thanks I will and I'm also looking into the baron pulley
I have never had any vibration issues on my 2007 900LT at high speeds. I would agree though that a sixth gear would be nice. SRIII.
I've just traded in a sportster 1200 for the vn900, you ain't had vibrations until you've ridden a sportster at 80mph! I thought the vn was pretty smooth on the motorway.
I did the same thing and felt the Vulcan rides much nicer than the Sportster
Yeah pre 2004 sporties are known to be paint shakers.
@@TheNostorian I'm now riding a Evo 1340 softail custom, very impressed with overall ride..not so vibey as the Sportsters..not knocking the sportys, I still love em!
@@inthebreeze1973 ohw me neither man. I'm a harley guy. Had 04 sportster 02 dyna. Now working on buying a brand new softail. Or next to brand new. 21 or 22 model.
Depends om what they are bringing out next year. Been eyeing that sportglide for some time now.
@@TheNostorian cool! The sportsglide looks awesome..out of my price range though..haha!
This video convince me to get Vulcan 900 . Thanks nice ride looks very comfy .
I've not long bought a Vulcan 900 Classic. I've also found myself reaching for a 6th gear, but it's just a matter of getting used to the higher revs of these engines. Mine does vibrate a bit at 75-80, mirrors aren't perfectly clear at that speed but it's smooth as silk compared to my 1100 Shadow, which wants to shake your eyeballs out at anything over 70!
I also love that lovely twitter from the engine at lower speeds, apparent with the quiet standard pipes. Despite their weight they can also be chucked around the twisties like a bike half its size.
Go for the Baron front and rear pulley's. I changed mine 2 years ago ... perfect long gears
Cheers Den EV. I might give them a try.
I had the same bike and I drove my Vulcan 900cc classic cruiser at 80+ miles an hour, no problems, my bike wanted to do more for me! I was just testing it. But I just go cruising between 65 to 75 Miles an hour and there is no vibrations just smooth cruising man all the way through.👌
I have a 2020 LT and it does vibrate some at over 65mph. It's not terrible but I do feel it. I came from 15 years on a Street Glide so maybe it's just the difference in the cid. A 6th gear would help. Having said that I wouldnt trade it for my old Harley. I ride mostly local and love the more nimble feeling of the 900 over the SG. Great bike.
Great video. I've been looking at the Vulcan compared to a Suzuki C50 and I'm liking all the things I hear about the Vulcan. I've been searching for a used one and can't wait for riding season to start again here in the northeast. Thanks and ride safe racerpeters.
1summerguy I love mine there are a few things I am looking to change on it but I think you will run into that with any bike so as I am able I will be making my changes to make this my bike
you'l like the Vulcan much more than the C50.
You can get great deals on this bike used and in great condition,I did and was glad about it.
I’ve owned a Vulcan 800 and now I have my 900 classic. I’ve never had 1 vibration or wobble. Love my 900 and has never let me down.
Yeah dadplus4 mine is a 2016 I now have 1600 miles on it and I absolutely love it still running a worry-free without any vibration to speak of and I would still recommend this place to anyone wanting a nice bike that's not very expensive
Whenever I experience vibrations I check the tire pressure, and once adjusted vibrations are minimal, but yes it needs a 6th gear
I own a 2008 VN900 Classic.... overall I can't fault it... other than, possibly, the need at times, for a sixth gear.
Apparently this can be rectified, however, by swapping out the drive belt drive cogs...
I have owned many cruisers over the years, Hondas, Kawasakis, Suzukis, Yamahas, and yes ever Harleys. Even though I don't own one, I think the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT is by far the most comfortable cruiser made.
No problem with my 2006 Kawasaki Classic LT. Liquid cooled, fuel injected. I never run over 70 (needs a 6th gear) it’s a terrific lightweight Cruiser. Color scheme is Metallic Dark Blue on Metallic Silver. Like the bike so much I’ll never get rid of it. I’m at 58,000 and it’s well maintained.
I have a 2019 Classic and I love riding it. I used to feel like there needs to be a sixth gear but now I don’t even think about it. Five gears doesn’t diminish my riding experience one bit.
Got the Vulcan 900 custom 2010 and yup over 70 compared to vertical twins or multi potters it vibrates but as i dont like wind buffeting and plod at 60 for hours on end I dont have a problem.
The best built Vtwin imo you can get for reliability .
Proven design simple and under run like the good old v8s will last for years
I had a 2007 Custom. A great bike, except they had issues with Stator failures. Mine failed on me too. Replaced it myself, rode it for another year and traded it in on a new 2012 Nomad. I rode with some big Harley riders and that 900 kept right up with them at, or pushing past, highway speeds. They just rev high and that's why people say they need a sixth speed. The high revs doesn't hurt the engine, as they were designed to run that way. It's just hard to get used to. I love my Nomad, but it is a much bigger and a lot heavier machine. The Custom was nice, too. Great gas mileage. I could get over 50 MPG on it.
Oh, and I never experienced any high speed vibrations.
Vn 900 s are tuned down and geared high .
I had to replace front and rear pulleys . That made clearance for a 200 rear tire ( the final drive ratio 10% over stock) more with the larger tire . larger pipes . Larger air cleaner and fuel management .that made it roadable for me .
I was very disappointed with the stock gearing of this bike !!!
Great bike after the upgrades !!!
Over 30,000 and nothing has broken that I didn't break.
2011 vn900 classic LT
Oh ya it also killed a deer that tried to kill me for killing his cuisines and eating them . I got a broken leg and a scratched up bike .the deer got dead .if I could have gotten up I would have got me them back straps !
A 200mm rear tire fits without (pulley)mods.
Vulcan 900 vibrations at high speeds are due to the second set of restrictor plates on the air intake, act like a governor. I removed mine with no issues to fuel consumption or cold starts/riding. I increased power and acceleration when removed. I ride till -2 or -5 oCelcius.
I have a 2011 900 classic and I feel the vibrations at higher rpm when I'm going over 65mph. Though the vibrations aren't that bad, if it had a sixth gear it wouldn't be an issue.
I have had my Vulcan 900 upto 175kmph (109 mph) and it was smooth.
RPMs in a vtwin will cause vibrations for sure, especially running high speeds because more load.
Hum. You know, this is a great video. Thank you. I can hear the bike, thank you. How much vibration is coming through the handlebars? With 0 as absolutely nothing and 10 a paint shaker, what is it really like?
I ride the same freeways, just 4 years after you. I have a 2014 900 VN Classic, and I definitely have vibrations after 75 mph. My hands will go numb after 10 minutes of riding at 80. When riding 2 up, my kids complain that the back rest vibrates uncomfortably. Plans to remediate include Barons front pulley and Kuryakyn grips.
klwdesigns i saw some handle bar risers with vibration mounts. Might help.
I see we live in the same city! Also haven't noticed it to be much different from my 98 shadow I used to ride. That said, I figure the pulley mod can't hurt. Good video!
The title says High speed vibrations; I watched the video, and I'm wondering....what about the high speed vibrations?
That message never came.
Around 5:40 he states he “didn’t feel much vibration at all”
His title was asked as a question, not as a statement. Notice the ? at the end.
I have a 2009 Custom 900. I agree that a 6th gear would be nice. That being said I think the vibration issue is not that big a deal. I really dont feel it till I hit 70, I put on some vibration dampening grips which helped and use synthetic oil for a smoother ride.
I had a Vulcan 900 Classic 2007, bought it brand new. Loved the bike except for two and half things 1) it was geared too low. I assume Kawy did it because it gave it more grunt on take off but it caused the RPM's to be too high on the highway. I never experienced excessive shaking but it did sound like it was being over worked at 80mph. BTW thanks for sharing your video, it seems somewhere between 2007 and 2016 Kawy took care of that issue by lowering the RPM a bit for the highway riding. 2) The suspension did not have enough dampening in it which caused it to bounce when it was over loaded. If my wife road with me we had about 400lbs between us with some gear in the saddlebags and I wasn't impressed with the suspension for that amount of weight. Don't know mayby Kawy did something about that too with the later models. The 1/2 item I didn't like were the spoke wheels with inner tubes, the look great but have you ever got a flat and tried to fix it having an inner tube? You ain't gonna fix it with a plug. You have to take the tire off to fix it. I would gladly give up the look for a set of non inner tube tires and wheels. After getting rid of the 900 I owned two Victory's a Vegas and a Kingpin and all these issues when away. I now ride a 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT and love it but my wife likes the cruiser type bike for riding double. If the VN900 has addressed at least the first two things I would look at it again.
Carl Shelton well yes it still has spoke wheels with inner tubes that are stock the rear shock however is adjustable with myself and my wife on there it seems fine but if I put my daughter on there who is a lot lighter she tends to bounce so I need to adjust the shock so it's a little softer
I know this is probably way too late but the VN900 custom has mag wheels I believe
Christopher Huggins yes I do believe you're correct the tire sizes are different though pretty sure the customer has a real thin front tire compared to the classic LT
my 2014 900 custom is happy around 100km/h (around 60 mph) when I wanna pass someone at 120km/h (around 75mph) there's quite a bit of shake and I can tell she's not happy when I maintain that speed.
My 2012 Classic 900 LT vibrates a lot when traveling over 65 mph. And, the transmission whines loudly at speeds under that. I hope there are fixes out there!
A lot of people say Barons pulleys help
I have a VN900 and love teh bike but beyond 80 mph there is significant vibration but if below its ok, it prefers to cruise at about 75
tony hadden my cruising speed is usually between 75 to 85 miles per hour on the freeway
i have a custom, same problems. And yes, the bike need a 6th gear or diffent pulleys. 150km/h feels already uncomfortable.
COULD YOU HELP ME OUT WITH A QUICK ANSWER IF U READ THIS PLEASE? I BUILD BOBBERS AND THE VULCAN HAS A GREAT FRAME TOLOWER, HARDTAIL,SOLID MOUNT A BATES SOLO SPORT BOBBER SEAT TO THE FRAME.I DONT USE SPRINGS..IT ADDS TO MUCH HEIGHT TO THE PROFILE..ALSO ADD SOME CUSTOM PIE CUT BOOT BURNER EXHAUST,DRAG BARS,HAVE PARTS OF THE CASE AND VALVE COVERS BRASS COATED ALONG WITH MY CUSTOM BRASS LEVERS FOR BOTH THE BARS AND TRANS AND SHIFTER..BLACK 38 INCH DRAG BARS,REAR PEG DELETE,ADD 705 DUAL SPORT TIRES FOR THE AGGRESIVE STANCE AND RIDE..I OWN A SMALL EXOTIC AUTO DEALERSHIP WHICH INCLUDES OUR TOP RANKED CERTIFIED AUTO REPAIR AS WELL AS MY NATION WIDE RANK OF 3 AUTO BODY AND CUSTOM PAINT OF WHICH THE BIKES RECIEVE.25 HUGE FLAKE WITH A CANDY WHICH IS FITTING OF THE BUILD AND THEN 8 TO 12 COATS OF PEARLESCENT CLEAR AND A FULL STRIP DOWN SO THE FRAME CAN GET ITS BEAUTIFUL 6 COATS OF CADILLAC FIREMIST DIAMOND METALLIC BLACK PEARL WHICH AFTER ALL THE METAL TRIM AND REMOVAL OF SOME METAL AND FABRICATION OF OTHERS THE PAINT AND BODY WORK/FAB WOULD COST BETWEEN $5000 AND $6000..NOT COUNTING MY TIME AND EVERY OTHER PART I USED TO BUILD THE BIKE..ANYWAY..I LIKE THE OLDER 2003 TO 2006 VULCAN8 OR 900 WITH THE MONO SHOCK AND THE FRAME DOES NOT USE EXPOSED TWIN STRUTS..I TAKE THE MONO SHOCK FRAMES AND CUT AND REWELD THEM INTO TRUE LOWERED 7 INCH HARDTAILS.MY QUESTION TO YOU IS DO VULCANS HAVE ANY WEAK SPOTS? IS IT AS RELIABLE AS MY HONDA BUILDS?COULD ANYONE PLEASE SHARE ANYTHING YOU DO NOT LIKE..THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR ANY AND ALL INFO..THANKS
SO WHAT IS YOUR QUESTION AND WHY ARE YOU SCREAMING?
I own a 2008 classic Lt with 44000miles. Only issue I've ever had was the stator at (42000 miles) I put K&N air filter cobra FI2000r fuel camander and no vibration at all. I run at 80mph and I thought the rpm's were high but it's a short stroke motor. 80mph is about 3950/4000rpm. The Rev limiter is 7200. It's fine run the bike . I've went 105mph ONCE and that's when I felt the vibration
compare with my dragstar 650, that's nothing; over 75 I can't depend on mirrors anymore. So, you're still good with vulcan900
i have a vn 900 custom 2013 and i never go over 60 because of vibration and also it feels like the bikes need a 6th gear
I have 2014 Classic LT. I've had it up to 90, regularly ride about 65-70 with only a minor buzz on the floor boards. Nothing on the hand grips but then I've replaced the stock grips with Isogrips, much more comfortable on long rides.
Kung Cidro, go for the Barron pulleys, problem solved.
i would get a vicious death wobble on my 1500 when id hit a bump on the highway while also on a curve. it would happen in this same stretch of road every time i went across it. luckily i have fairly strong arms so i was able to keep it on two wheels each time. still scary as hell.
my 13 900 custom has a vibration in the exhaust or heat shields at 70, but stops at about 72 mph. other than that, i was up to 90 yesterday, and no issues at all on a bumpy road. I just wish I could figure out the exhaust vibration.
@@kinslow94 maybe there's a forum somewhere with the answer. Only thing you can do is check every inch of it. Bad weld or loose hanger. Maybe a loose baffle.
First of all, They don't vibrate! Most of the guys complaining about this bike DON"T even own a motor cycle. They just come on here and talk thru there ass. But if you were to ask them about a Harley they would tell you how great they are (because they are the trendy bike as of late), even though Harleys vibrate ALL the time. Bottom line! TALK IS CHEAP !!
joe carr, do you own and ride a VN?
my VN800 gets a little interesting at over 70 which is about the top end. I don't like it so I stay off interstates with it. Have never ridden a VN900 and I agree a 6th gear would do a world of good. The problem is they can't fit it in the transmission case.
it's the clutch. not designed for that load and rpm. if u upgrade springs , will not slip and vibrate at high speed.
I have a new 2022 Vulcan classic 900 and it handles terribly on the freeway. I’m blowing all over the place to the point where I don’t feeling comfortable going faster than 60-65. It vibrates and it takes all the wind.
I bought my 2016 brand new the head bearings were not adjusted to specs and also the Dunlop 404 tires that come oem we not the best After having the headbearings adjusted and replacing the tires with michelin Commander 2 It handles way better
I changed the belt pulleys, front and rear and picked ip about 10 % on high end.
@David Brunstein I am no mechanic, but it was not hard. I love the change. I mostly ride at 45 to 50 on back roads and 65 to 70 on highways. I love the extra top end. you lose. a little low end to pull out from curves. I am set up to travel.
installed by dealer
I've got a 2014 Classic and haven't experienced any significant vibration at highway speeds. My only complaint is that the bike does shake a bit on the highway when crosswinds are active. My only complaint about this bike is that the engine drags a bit in low gears. Have you experienced this?
ST0RMBRINGR yes mine does drag in just about all gears and I do feel cross winds a lot at freeway speeds
Same here (2013 classic LT)
The bike is great but has a strange rattle like im dragging a tin can behind the bike if stops when teh bike has warmed up fully. noise seems to come from the belt drive area but eberything looks ok
You down in the Phoenix Valley my man?
I have a 2015 and no vibration.If I did I think I would recheck the tire and wheel balance and alignment.
I haven't ran mine on the highway since replacing the tires a few weeks ago but before that speeds at 70 or above had quite a bit of vibration, I typically look for back roads to take instead of the highway because of that. Do you have lowers on your Vulcan?
not sure what you're talking about when you say lowers
you can see my whole bike in this video here though ua-cam.com/video/-Zjw2pIyp7o/v-deo.html
took a 200+ mile ride last weekend with some friends and had the wife on the back we were moving pretty quick at times didn't have any problems
+racerpeters ua-cam.com/video/ZiLxX6DBAbg/v-deo.html
Great looking bike, I don't believe I saw lowers, they are installed on the forks and some say reduce buffeting at higher speeds. I don't have them on mine and I have heard everything from they are better than sliced bread to they really don't do much. So was just curious if you had them. I just feel like mine could really use a 6th gear once I am above 70 mph and it would be much better. Here is a link to OEM Lowers for the 900. www.kawasaki.com/Accessories/Item/VN900DFF/K46001334
If you are Very serious about touring. I know this from Experience having owned 2 Kawasaki Vulcan 900's. Get a Bigger Big with a full faring. The standard windshield is fine if the wind is down, but when "and I mean When" you encounter a strong cross wind be prepared to have your brain rattled. It is NOT Enjoyable. Cruising around town, or shorts runs this bike is great. But for the long haul there are better options at similar price points. Look for a little older, well taken care of full dresser.
Do you still own this Vulcan 900 LT, despite this video goes back a bit?
I rubber mounted my Vulcans pegs ,and bars ,now vibrations are minimal.
I would've pulled you over........... and ask "Well, does it vibrate?" Thinking about getting this bike. Thanks for the video, sir. Almost forgot, everything stock on the bike?
Uber Goob at the time of this video it was all stock
They are geared to low ! You have to change the front and rear pulleys for higher gear ! Like one more top end gear !
I own a 2014 Vulcan 900 custom an it dose vibrate some above 75 mph but it's not unbareable .
Thanks for the video 👍 I see what you mean seems smooth, I'm looking into the custom I'm just going to go for it and put on the scootworks pully kit to help with the rpm' at that speed .
yeah I was thinking about the pulley kit as well
strix2035, read the reviews about the scootworks pulley ... and go for the Baron front and rear.
i ride a vn 800 . same issue seriously good bike. not the best but good and solid.
2012 Vulcan custom never had this issue
So, no vibration at 80+? Also, how heavy are the RPMs at that speed?
Had it on stock, installed the big 3 and vibrations are gone
I bought new 2015 classic. Over 90 mile feels vibrations. And want to change rear and front pulley. But don't know it changes speed or not.
amandeep bajwa from what I understand it will change the speedometer reading
I think if I change pulleys then bikes top speed is more than 180 on highway. my top speed is 180 on full throttle opened.
don't know how can increase top speed.
amandeep bajwa read this about changing the gears it will explain how it works
lifeatlean.com/the-effects-of-motorcycle-gearing-changes/
Thanks a lot. It means if I changed pulleys get result of pickup acceleration and tyre slip according to torque. And engine performance.
My 09 900 vibrates at 65-70. Feels like it is not made to go faster. May be a fix for it though. tires, suspension, etc. I'm not going to chase it down. I bought a Nomad.
What ever it is seems to be in early years a lot of people who have ones made before 2016 have that vibration complaint mine is a 16 and I have not noticed any
thanks dvtpilot, what part of the city are you in?
Awesome 👏 I want 1 😂 😂
You went past my exit, 7th Street LOL
I have Vulcan vn900 2008 and i drive my bike 90 miles per hour without winshield and normal to vibrate, Vulcan it's not have aerodynamic line for high speed.
So do you think it is revving to many RPM at 80. mine at 75 revs so high I can't stand to ride it. it is good about 52 to 55 even at 65 it is to high of RPM for me but at lease I can stand it for a couple miles. The bike is gear way to low final drive at 4.33. that is good red light to red light but it sucks on a long distances trip like 4000 miles or so. a 1200 sporty has a 3.36 final drive ratio and a 883 has a 3.62 final drive. both doable. I bought a 900 Vulcan because I'm 70 and the price and payments were right for my income. to do a 4000 trip, but looks like my 1200 with a 120,000 mile will be the one to ride. if I want to spend any time at 80 mph anyway. I just did a 4 day test run on the Vulcan 1800 miles, most of the way 55 or 60 getting over out of peoples way and helping trucks get pass me. at 80 your taching about 4800 rpm way to high to be good on a long trip. but I've just had the bike 3 weeks. it now has 3000 miles on it. it is a 2019 I got it for 5999.00 with 1 mile on it so it was a good deal. but suck that many rpm what was Kawasaki thinking. we in America spend a lot of time at 80 on long trips this bike sucks. It is pretty and comfy but screw 4800 rpm all day.
I would say check into Baron's pulley
www.amazon.com/dp/B008BYRGCC/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_i_oRiSEb7ZBXAFB
@@racerpeters i have 150 for a 34 tooth should help. The real question is Y Kawasaki didn't do it to start with
I think I just found my first bike
daddy eyez it's a good choice
There is loads of vibration over 60mph through the floor boards and hand grips on my 2006 model. Otherwise a great bike that you want to ride all the time.
it would be cool if could add a chain and sprocket
2008 900 C. I have ZERO vibration at any speed. Hot 90 once and smooth as a babies butt. 6th gear would be nice but still a fantastic bike
did any body try the 2 pully mod, and see any difference? how to vids or links?
Could u have done 80mph without the wind shield?
Yes why?
@@racerpeters coz I have an iron 1200 and boy it’s difficult to ride at 80mph without a windshield. The whole front end starts to wobble the moment I start. Seeking for a another machine to replace it.
If the front end starts to wobble I would suggest checking the neck bearings make sure that they're tightened and check your tires make sure tires are okay and balanced correctly no bike should do that with or without the windshield
@@racerpeters noted. But I just purchased it 3 weeks ago from a dealer ship. It’s a brand new bike. I was just very surprise that it had difficulties even going at 80mph. The wind blows the bike all over the place. I don’t see myself riding this for another 3 months. Lol
@@TheRicokilla well if it's brand new I think I take it back to the dealer and have their mechanics go over it with a fine tooth comb voice your concerns about what it's doing and see what they say it should have some sort of a warranty there might be something wrong
There's something wrong with the bike. Your bike may vibrate, but not all Vulcans are the same. Get it checked out. I have a Vulcan 1600. I get no vibration.
Try a ride without the windshield ,see if it gives up an answer ?
Hi, does this windshield protect the head?
What are you looking for protection from
@@racerpeters from the wind
@@vulcan4024 I'm 5'9 and it works for me I have it set as low as it can go
@@racerpeters Great , thank you
@@vulcan4024 sure thing
My 900 won’t go over 70 mph unless I’m going down hill could you tell me why
unfortunately no I don't have any idea why your ears won't go over 70 miles an hour top speed on the classic LT which is what I have is around 110 I have had it up to about 100 before
Did you ever think it was the driver?
08 no vibrations great bike
lol, ur in AZ, nice. early morning ride looks like
Farmer Ted yeah early mornings during the summer is pretty nice anything after about 9 or 10 in the summer is usually pretty brutal
@@racerpeters ha brutal he says
@@JohnJohn-kv5nk yep 110 to 115 is kind of brutal
I have one I'm in the process of putting it my injectors
The problems start at 80mph for the Vulcan.
Are you in Utah?
Thisthatandtheother Chan No I'm in Arizona
Ive always road old Harleys ,resently bought a 2010 vaucan custom. Yall dont know what " buzzy" is. Sure the bike is a underpowered slug but buzzy.... nah. I like it a lot and have described it like riding a big moped. Im with the guys that are going to change out the rear pully need to drop about 12 teeth
You own a "vaucan" and you gona drop the rear pulley by 12 teeth?
This bike is belt driven ... good luck!
I hope you can find a belt, or you have to extend your bridge.
I have a easy sollution, but i like to read, watch and "learn" here.
i guess it is good if you never leave town or just ride it 1 Saturday a month just put 1200 miles a year on a bike.
No I take it out of town going up to Jerome today
@@racerpeters I did mean u, I was just talking randomly about the bike in general. 4800 is screaming at you all day. not enjoyable noise.
They aren't cruisers stock .they are a bobber more than a cruiser !
At 75 your doing about 70 and at 90 on a gps the bike has a serious vibration, it's in the crankshaft , designed just like Harley , it's inevitable
Wheel balance!
And tire pressure
Yep. Look for the simplest causes for any malfunction first.
It's hard to believe that ANY motorcycle manufacturer would design a cruiser that had vibrations at high speed. That should be an automatic death sentence. Who would buy such a bike?
Wade Rivers the complaint from people with earlier versions of this bike is that the RPMs were so high on the freeway that the bike would vibrate I have found no such thing with my bike I don't know if it was something that was done in earlier versions that was fixed in the later versions that's why this video was made
You making me drunk. LOL
not sure exactly what you're talkin about if you're referring to the camera yeah that's the Sena 10c it doesn't have real Good vibration stabilization I'm using a GoPro hero 5 black now in my later videos It works way better
...vibrations? Everything is relative and subjective. Depends who's riding. Is it a snowflake or an old boy? You know how that works out. I've never heard more whimpering about discomforts than from the last couple of generations.
Gary Miller--- You might be right.
Tighten your head bearings...they come loose after riding a lot...and dump that goofy windshield and buy some mini 10 inch apes and you will enjoy your bike a lot more...I know I did