Cruisers

2021Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom

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The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is a midweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with manageable power. Its 903cc V-twin engine produces 49.6 horsepower and 78 Nm of torque, delivering smooth low-end performance ideal for relaxed cruising. Known for its affordable price point and traditional cruiser aesthetics, it appeals to riders wanting an accessible entry into the cruiser category.

Capacity: 903.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 276.7 kg
Seat height: 685 mm
Power: 49.6 HP (36.2 kW) @ 5700 RPM

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Other years 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring45%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and short-to-medium rides where style and low-end torque matter more than outright speed.
Built for: A classic V-twin custom cruiser with a big front wheel, laid-back stance, and torque-focused feel rather than high-rev excitement.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering performance, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 685mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 903.0 ccm
Power: 49.6 HP (36.2 kW) @ 5700 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 115 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: MKAXC.903AAB-014-R01
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 4.90 L/100km (48.0 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 3.1 CO g/km
Torque: 78.0 Nm (8.0 kgf-m) @ 3700 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1793 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: TCBI with digital advance
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Wet multi-disc

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1645 mm
Overall length: 2405 mm
Overall width: 895 mm
Overall height: 1120 mm
Seat height: 685 mm
Wet weight: 276.7 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.00 litres
Ground clearance: 140 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Double-cradle, steel
Front suspension: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Triangle swingarm with Uni-Trak single shock
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 104 mm
Rake (fork angle): 33.0°
Trail: 183 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Hydraulic.
Rear brakes diameter: 242 mm
Front tyre: 80/90-21
Rear tyre: 180/70-15

Other

Color options: Candy Steel Furnance Orange/Metallic Spark Black
Warranty: 12
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

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	2007	2012	2017	2021	2026
Capacity	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc
Dry weight	249 kg	—	—	—	—
Seat height	686 mm	686 mm	686 mm	685 mm	686 mm
Fuel capacity	20.1 L	20.1 L	20.1 L	20 L	20.1 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is a stylish and powerful cruiser motorcycle that offers a comfortable and smooth ride. It features a 903cc V-twin engine that delivers plenty of torque and a satisfying rumble. The low seat height and forward controls make it easy to handle, while the sleek and modern design turns heads wherever it goes. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road, the Vulcan 900 Custom provides a great balance of performance, comfort, and style.

For riders looking for a versatile and reliable cruiser, the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is an excellent choice. Its impressive power and nimble handling make it a joy to ride, while its timeless design ensures that it stands out from the crowd. With its comfortable seating position and advanced features, this motorcycle is a great option for anyone seeking a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience.

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