Built around Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2012 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom utilizes a 903 cc (55.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 78.9 Nm (58.2 lb-ft) at 3,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches) with a 9.5:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the Vulcan 900 Custom measures 277.1 kg (611 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 686 mm (27 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,646 mm (64.8 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20.06-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 19 indexed model years from 2007 to 2026, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
686 mm (27 in)
Engine
Displacement903.0 ccm (55.10 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Torque78.9 Nm (8.0 kgf-m or 58.2 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI with dual 34mm Keihin throttle bodies (2)
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionTCBI with Electronic Advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake33.0°
Trail183 mm (7.2 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in.
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak swingarm, 7-way adjustable spring preload / 4.1 in.
Wheelbase1646 mm (64.8 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre80/90-21
Rear Tyre180/70-15
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.277.1 kg (610.8 pounds)
Seat Height686 mm (27.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1120 mm (44.1 inches)
Overall Length2405 mm (94.7 inches)
Overall Width894 mm (35.2 inches)
Fuel Capacity20.06 litres (5.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsPearl Purplish Black Mica/Candy Sparkling Orange
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.
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.
