Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is a middleweight cruiser that delivers classic styling with modern reliability, featuring a liquid-cooled V2 engine producing 48 horsepower and 59 foot-pounds of torque. Ideal for riders seeking an accessible entry into cruiser culture, it combines manageable performance with the iconic low-slung aesthetic that defines the Vulcan lineage. Known for its smooth belt-driven power delivery and comfortable ergonomics, it appeals to both novice riders and experienced cruiser enthusiasts seeking a versatile, dependable machine.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelKawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

DrivelineKevlar-reinforced belt
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
Fuel controlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. DFI with dual 34mm Keihin throttle bodies (2)
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

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter242 mm (9.5 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Front brakes diameter272 mm (10.7 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Rear tyre180/70-15
Front tyre80/90-21
Rear wheel travel104 mm (4.1 inches)
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak swingarm, 7-way adjustable spring preload
Front wheel travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Trail183 mm (7.2 inches)
Rake (fork angle)33.0°
Frame typeDouble cradle, high-tensile steel
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity20.06 litres (5.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,646 mm (64.8 inches)
Ground clearance140 mm (5.5 inches)
Overall width894 mm (35.2 inches)
Overall length2,405 mm (94.7 inches)
Overall height1,120 mm (44.1 inches)
Seat height686 mm (27.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc277.1 kg (610.8 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Factory warranty12 Months
StarterElectric
Color optionsPearl Crystal White/Metallic Carbon Gray

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

51 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring45%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuitable for newer riders as well as experienced cruiser fans thanks to its low seat height and manageable power delivery.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed boulevard cruising and short-to-medium rides where style and low-end torque matter more than outright speed.
Rider FitThe low 27-inch seat height and cruiser ergonomics make it accessible to shorter riders, though the 610-plus pound wet weight demands confident low-speed handling.
CharacterA classic V-twin custom cruiser with a big front wheel, laid-back stance, and torque-focused feel rather than high-rev excitement.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering performance, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 686mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom, 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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