The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 has established itself as a reliable option for novice motorcyclists since its launch in 2006. With nearly two decades in the mid-sized cruiser market, this V-twin bike has captured the attention of beginners and seasoned riders alike. Known for its dependability, affordability, and ease of maintenance, the Vulcan 900 is readily available both new and used, making it an attractive choice for those looking to start their riding journey.
Kawasaki offers the Vulcan 900 in various trims, including Classic, Custom, and Classic LT, with the base model priced at $9,599. For those interested in a more budget-friendly option, the used market presents opportunities to purchase a Vulcan 900 for around $3,000. This competitive pricing positions the Vulcan 900 as a compelling option for first-time riders eager to enter the world of motorcycling.
Why Riders Recommend the Vulcan 900
One of the standout features of the Vulcan 900 is its low seat height, which allows riders to comfortably plant both feet on the ground. This aspect is crucial for new riders, especially when navigating city streets. With a power output of 51 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 58.3 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm, the Vulcan 900 delivers a manageable performance for beginners.
YouTube motorcycle enthusiast Salty Old Biker emphasizes that the bike’s power is sufficient for new riders, noting, “[…]it’s got plenty of power […] but for first-time riders, it’s not enough to get you in trouble.” Many users on platforms like Facebook and Reddit echo this sentiment, with one member of a motorcycle riders group sharing that their Vulcan 900 has taken them on two cross-country trips, accumulating 75,000 miles over ten years.
The Vulcan 900’s reputation for reliability is further solidified by claims from riders that, with regular maintenance, the bike can run for up to 100,000 miles. Comments on Reddit highlight satisfaction among owners, such as one user reflecting on their positive six-year experience with a 2008 Vulcan 900 Custom.
Considerations for New Riders
While the Vulcan 900 offers numerous advantages, there are some considerations for potential buyers. Weighing in at 619.6 lbs, some riders find the bike challenging to handle, particularly those with smaller frames. Prospective buyers are encouraged to sit on the bike and take it for a test ride to assess maneuverability.
Another point of discussion among riders is the bike’s simplicity. The Vulcan 900 is regarded as a basic motorcycle, which some enthusiasts appreciate for its straightforward design. However, new riders have expressed concerns about the absence of a sixth gear, particularly during highway riding. One Reddit user noted that the bike felt like it needed an extra gear to achieve better road control at speeds between 70 and 80 miles per hour.
Despite these critiques, many believe that the Vulcan 900 remains an excellent choice for urban riders who primarily operate within city limits. Its understated design may not appeal to everyone, but it is a hallmark of Kawasaki’s approach to producing reliable motorcycles.
Given the vast amount of information available online, researching the Vulcan 900 can be challenging. This article relies heavily on user reviews and discussions found within community-based sites and forums. By sifting through numerous comments, we focused on perspectives from both new and veteran riders who have firsthand experience with the bike. While opinions vary—especially regarding the bike’s weight—there is a consensus that supports the Vulcan 900’s status as a solid beginner motorcycle.
In summary, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 presents an appealing option for those looking to start riding. With its blend of reliability, comfort, and manageable power, it continues to be a popular choice among new motorcyclists.
