Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic is a mid-sized cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its 903cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers accessible power and torque, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cruiser enthusiasts. Known for comfortable cruising, affordable ownership, and timeless retro aesthetics, it remains a popular entry point into the cruiser category.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2008
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox2-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionTCBI with Electronic Advance
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches)
Compression9.5:1
Torque82.44 Nm (8.4 kgf-m or 60.8 ft.lbs) @ 3700
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:903.00 ccm (55.10 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter272 mm (10.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter272 mm (10.7 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre dimensions180/70-15
Front tyre dimensions130/90-16
Rear suspensionUni-Track® swingarm / 4.1 in.
Front suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in.
Trail160 mm (6.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)32.0°

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,646 mm (64.8 inches)
Overall width1,006 mm (39.6 inches)
Overall length2,464 mm (97.0 inches)
Overall height1,064 mm (41.9 inches)
Seat height681 mm (26.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight253.1 kg (557.9 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsEbony, Candy Cardinal Red, Candy Caribbean Blue, Metallic Titanium

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

52 hp
Peak Power
6.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track5%
City55%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring52%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForWell suited to beginner and intermediate riders thanks to its low seat height, manageable weight for its class, and mellow torque-driven power delivery.
PurposeA classic-styled cruiser built for relaxed boulevard rides and easy weekend cruising rather than outright speed or sport handling.
Rider FitThe low 26.8 inch seat height and low center of gravity make it approachable for shorter riders, though the nearly 620 lb wet weight demands some care at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterDelivers a laid-back, torque-rich cruiser experience with classic Vulcan styling, a smooth V-twin thrum, and unhurried acceleration.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high top-end speed, or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 681mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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