Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Special Edition - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Special Edition is a mid-sized cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Known for its accessible seat height, manageable power delivery, and comfortable riding position, it appeals to both newcomers and experienced cruiser enthusiasts. The liquid-cooled engine and fuel injection provide dependable performance for highway cruising and casual weekend rides.

2016
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Special Edition
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

DrivelineKevlar-reinforced belt
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionDigital
Fuel controlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. 34 mm x 2 with dual throttles
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches)
Compression9.5:1
Torque78.92 Nm (8.0 kgf-m or 58.2 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Power48.00 HP (35.0 kW) @ 5700 RPM
Engine details52° V-twin
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:903.00 ccm (55.10 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsWire spoked wheels
Rear brakes diameter250 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Hydraulic. Two-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Hydraulic. Two-piston calipers.
Rear tyre180/70-15
Front tyre130/90-16
Rear wheel travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak swingarm, 7 way adjustable spring preload
Front wheel travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Trail160 mm (6.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)32.0°
Frame typeDouble-cradle, steel

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,646 mm (64.8 inches)
Ground clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Overall width1,006 mm (39.6 inches)
Overall length2,464 mm (97.0 inches)
Overall height1,064 mm (41.9 inches)
Seat height680 mm (26.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc282.0 kg (621.7 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Factory warranty12 Month Limited Warranty
StarterElectric
Color optionsMetallic Matte Carbon Gray/Pearl flat Crystal White

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

48 hp
Peak Power
6.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding65%
Touring58%
Passenger55%

Rider Profile

Best ForWell suited to beginner and intermediate riders thanks to its low seat height, mellow power delivery, and predictable handling.
PurposeBuilt primarily for relaxed cruising and classic cruiser styling rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Rider FitLow 680mm seat height and manageable 282kg weight make it approachable for shorter or less experienced riders, though its cruiser stance limits ground clearance and cornering lean.
CharacterA classic-styled V-twin cruiser that emphasizes laid-back torque, comfortable ergonomics, and easygoing boulevard manners over speed or sportiness.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Special Edition Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 680mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic Special Edition, 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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