The passenger benefits from a similarly upright riding position with a comfortable seat that’s slightly higher than the rider’s so as to enjoy a better view of the landscape. The slim, tank-mounted dashboard encompasses all the vital instruments: speedometer, LCD odometer, trip meter and clock, plus warning lights for fuel, oil pressure and water temperature.

Beginner-friendly
With a lower weight and center of gravity, the Vulcan 900 is easy to straddle and perfectly suited for beginners and shorter riders, as everyone can rest their feet on the ground and feel at ease, regardless of size.

The V-twin lets out a velvety sound that’s characteristic of Japanese mills. In the first three gears, accelerations are surprisingly strong, even at ultra-low revs as the electronic injection system minimizes the bucking effect typically associated with older, carburetor-equipped engines. And unlike the chains of old time, the belt final drive sends power to the rear wheel in smooth, buck-free fashion.

Bravo for clean design, and for the velvety sound it produces.

When riding the 900 solo, whether in the city or on the highway, 50 horsepower (@ 5,700 rpm) are enough to keep pace with traffic and still have a bit of juice left should the need arise. The transmission operates without a hitch, while the clever gear spacing makes it easy to find the correct gear at all times. Another thumbs up for the adjustable front brake lever and Kawasaki’s exclusive Positive Neutral Finder -- just lift the pedal from first at a stop to find neutral easily, every time.

Braking is also easy, with good stopping power in most situations. Given the low displacement, the engine brake is rather weak. Judicious use and modulation of the front and rear brakes allows the rider to stop with confidence… provided that the bike’s speed and load (rider and passenger) are not excessive.

Compact and compliant
Riding the Vulcan 900 Classic in the city poses no problem whatsoever, although the big handlebar requires attention in dense traffic. On small country roads, the light weight and superb handling invite the rider to just cruise along or try to push it a little. Beware of potholes, however, as the firmness and limited travel at the back causes the suspension to bottom out much too often. That’s the price you have to pay for a striking "slammed" look.

On the flip side, the well-calibrated fork takes care of bumps smoothly without bottoming out or sending the bike into a nosedive under braking. Over time, you get used to the genuine cruiser characteristics that allow you to ride smoothly and happily.

If you like to cruise away from reality on a machine that’s simple and stylish, not too big and not too expensive, the 2010 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic is a smart choice. Yet another great example of "more for less".





Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux