Positioned in Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic relies on a 903 cc (55.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 49.6 HP (36.2 kW) at 5,700 rpm while maximum torque reaches 78 Nm (57.5 lb-ft) at 3,700 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 54.9 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,700 rpm) and peak power (5,700 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Vulcan 900 Classic measures 298.1 kg (657 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.17 HP/kg (6.01 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 680 mm (26.8 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,645 mm (64.8 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 20 indexed model years from 2006 to 2026, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
54.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.17 HP/kg (6.01 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,700–5,700 rpm
Standover Height
680 mm (26.8 in)
Engine
Displacement903.0 ccm (55.10 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine Details55° V-twin
Power49.6 HP (36.2 kW)) @ 5700 RPM
Torque78.0 Nm (8.0 kgf-m or 57.5 ft.lbs) @ 3700 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI® 34mm throttle bodies (2), with sub-throttle valves
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchWet multi-disc
DrivelineKevlar-reinforced belt
Chassis
Frame TypeSemi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake32.0°
Trail160 mm (6.3 inches)
Front Suspension41mm Showa telescopic fork
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak® swingarm, 7-way adjustable spring preload
Rear Travel104 mm (4.1 inches)
Wheelbase1645 mm (64.8 inches)
Ground Clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-16
Rear Tyre180/70-15
Front BrakesSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Rear Brake Ø270 mm (10.6 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.298.1 kg (657.1 pounds)
Seat Height680 mm (26.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1481 mm (58.3 inches)
Overall Length2465 mm (97.0 inches)
Overall Width1005 mm (39.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity20.00 litres (5.28 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsPearl Storm Gray/Pearl Blizzard White
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
