Cruisers

2021Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic

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The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic is a mid-sized cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible, comfortable cruising with classic styling. Its 903cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, low-end torque ideal for relaxed highway riding and urban commuting. Known for its reliable performance, affordable price point, and timeless custom cruiser aesthetic, it appeals to both new and experienced riders.

Capacity: 903.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 281.1 kg
Seat height: 680 mm
Power: 49.6 HP (36.2 kW) @ 5700 RPM

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What’s new for the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Front suspension	41mm hydraulic telescopic fork	41mm Showa telescopic fork
Rear suspension	Triangle swingarm with Uni-Trak single shock	Uni-Trak® swingarm, 7-way adjustable spring preload
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Hydraulic.

Other years 2006 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%

Cornering30%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring52%

Two-up45%

Track5%

Best for: A classic-styled cruiser built for relaxed boulevard rides and easy weekend cruising rather than outright speed or sport handling.
Built for: Delivers a laid-back, torque-rich cruiser experience with classic Vulcan styling, a smooth V-twin thrum, and unhurried acceleration.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high top-end speed, or any 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?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 680mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic, 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: 0.1764 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: 2465 mm
Overall width: 1005 mm
Overall height: 1064 mm
Seat height: 680 mm
Wet weight: 281.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.00 litres
Ground clearance: 135 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Front suspension: 41mm Showa telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Uni-Trak® swingarm, 7-way adjustable spring preload
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 104 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 160 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Hydraulic.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Hydraulic.
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
Front tyre: 130/90-16
Rear tyre: 180/70-15

Other

Color options: Pearl Storm Gray/Pearl Blizzard White
Warranty: 12
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2006	2011	2016	2021	2026
Capacity	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc	903 cc
Dry weight	253 kg	—	—	—	—
Seat height	681 mm	681 mm	681 mm	680 mm	681 mm
Fuel capacity	18.2 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 Classic motorcycle is a standout cruiser that offers a perfect blend of power, comfort, and style. With a 903cc V-twin engine, this bike delivers strong acceleration and a satisfying rumble that will turn heads on the open road. The Vulcan 900 Classic also features a timeless design with a low-slung profile, classic styling, and chrome accents that exude a sense of nostalgia. Its comfortable riding position and plush seat make it a great option for long rides, while the responsive handling and smooth ride quality ensure a pleasant experience for riders of all skill levels.

Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic motorcycle is an impressive cruiser that offers a winning combination of performance and style. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, this bike is sure to impress with its power, comfort, and timeless design. With its strong engine, comfortable ride, and classic styling, the Vulcan 900 Classic is a standout choice in the cruiser motorcycle market.

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