Cruisers
2012Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition
35 fields on record
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition is a middleweight cruiser ideal for riders seeking authentic V-twin character without excessive power demands. Its 903cc liquid-cooled engine delivers accessible torque for relaxed cruising and low-speed maneuverability. Known for blending traditional cruiser styling with modern fuel injection reliability, it appeals to those prioritizing comfort and easy handling.
- Capacity
- 903.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 282.0 kg
- Seat height
- 680 mm
- Power
- 49.6 HP (36.5 kW) @ 5700 RPM
What’s new for the 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition
vs the 2011| Spec | 2011 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|
| Front brakes | Single disc | Single disc. Twin-piston |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Single disc. Twin-piston |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and weekend rides rather than outright speed or sport performance.
- Built for
- A classic-styled V-twin cruiser that delivers steady, torquey low-end power with a relaxed, unhurried riding character.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring capability, or any off-road ambitions.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 903.0 ccm
- Power
- 49.6 HP (36.5 kW) @ 5700 RPM
- Torque
- 78.0 Nm (8.0 kgf-m) @ 3700 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1759 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 74.2 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Digital
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Belt
- Clutch
- Wet multi-disc, manual
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1650 mm
- Seat height
- 680 mm
- Wet weight
- 282.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 20.00 litres
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Double-cradle, steel
- Front suspension
- 41 mm telescopic fork with 7-way preload
- Rear suspension
- Uni-Trak
- Front wheel travel
- 150 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 100 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 32.0°
- Trail
- 160 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. Twin-piston
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Twin-piston
- Rear brakes diameter
- 270 mm
- Front tyre
- 130/90-16
- Rear tyre
- 180/70-15
Other
- Color options
- White/black
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 903 cc | 903 cc | 903 cc | 903 cc |
| Seat height | 680 mm | 680 mm | 680 mm | 680 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 20 L | 20 L | 20 L | 20 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition?
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition has a Capacity of 903.0 ccm (55.10 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition have?
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition has a Power of 49.6 HP (36.5 kW) @ 5700 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition have?
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition?
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition has a Torque of 78.0 Nm (8.0 kgf-m or 57.5 ft.lbs) @ 3700 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition weigh?
The 2012 Kawasaki VN900 Classic Special Edition has a Wet weight of 282.0 kg (621.7 pounds).
Shop this bike
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