Which Vulcan 900???

[LocoPatrick]

This is my first post here, and I have enjoyed reading a lot of your posts. Very informative.

After doing much research, I believe that I have chosen the model bike I wish to purchase: The Kawasaki Vulcan 900!

I am up in the air about which model to get specifically, and would like some input. So please let me give you some background, and see what you think.

I want to get a cruiser that meets these requirements:

• Comfortable for long rides
• Good compromise between power and fuel economy
• Steady on the interstate
• Reasonably nimble for the mountain roads (I live in Colorado)
• Exceptionally reliable
• Comfortable for long rides
• Floorboards
• Windshield
• Passenger back-rest
• Saddlebags are a nice-to-have, not a must-have
• Comfortable for long rides

Floorboards rule out a stock Vulcan 900 Custom
The windshield requirement and passenger backrest seem to lead towards the Vulcan 900 Classic LT.

*** BUT ***

One of the first mods I plan on performing is to replace the stock seat with a Mustang Wide Touring Seat with both the driver and passenger backrest. I sat on a stock Vulcan 900 at the dealer this weekend, and the feel and balance of the bike was wonderful, except that I could tell immediately that the stock seat would wear my hind-end out rather quickly.

Vulcan 900 Classic MSRP: $7349
Vulcan 900 Custom MSRP: $7399
Vulcan 900 Classic LT MSRP: $8649

So, my question is: Assuming that I am paying MSRP for a brand new bike, would it be more cost effective to:
A. Purchase the Vulcan 900 Classic LT and just replace the seat?
B. Purchase the Vulcan 900 Classic and replace seat, add a windshield that I like, and perhaps add saddlebags of my own choosing?
C. Purchase the Vulvan 900 Custom and replace the seat, add a windshield that I like, replace the footpegs with floorboards, and perhaps add saddlebags of my own choosing?

[c_law23]

Kind of hard to say. i would say lt since you want an aftermarket seat, shield and bags. doing all of this to the classic is going to put you around the price of the lt. however the classic and the lt pretty much have the same seat (and according to the majority, it isnt a comfortable one) so if you got the classic, added bags, seat and shield it would probably be less then an lt with an aftermarket seat.

The fenders on the custom are different then the ones on the other and IMO do not look as good with bags on them.

IF i had to pick one for you, i would pick the classic and add shield, seat and bags.

good luck and welcome.

[mcneese5]

Hey Loco sorry I cant help but im sure some will be jumping in here soon. i just wanted to say welcome.

[jbsmd]

Check out the prices of the stuff you want, saddlebags, windshield, floorboards, seat etc. $1,300.00 extra for the stuff on the lt. Personally, I like the looks of customs, wheel style and fenders. I have never ridden any of them, so I don't know the difference in the comfort between the two styles. The Classic looks to be more comfortable.

[mbigica]

I had the same thought process when buying my V2k. I bought the LT because out the door it was set up as needed. If I were to do it again, I would buy the classic. The reason for this is I am one who wishes the passenger backrest, and windshield would quick release. Which they don't. If I bought the classic I could of spent more time buying a windshield that did quick release. So I would look at the aftermarket offerings to see if they have some more options the stock parts do not provide.

But also I go such a good deal on the LT, I feel I am still ahead even if I do change some stuff.

Also visit several dealers. There are still some 07, and even 06 new leftover bikes on there floors that they are very eager to sell. Out the door the cost should be around MSRP, or below. When I bought my 2006 V2K Classic LT in Feb of 07, I paid around 13k out the door. Almost 1500 below MSRP. There was a delear I went to last augustish I believe who had my bike, in red. Out the door I could of had it for around 12,700. They are hungry to sell.

[azwiley1]

Originally Posted by LocoPatrick

This is my first post here, and I have enjoyed reading a lot of your posts. Very informative.

After doing much research, I believe that I have chosen the model bike I wish to purchase: The Kawasaki Vulcan 900!

I am up in the air about which model to get specifically, and would like some input. So please let me give you some background, and see what you think.

I want to get a cruiser that meets these requirements:

• Comfortable for long rides
• Good compromise between power and fuel economy
• Steady on the interstate
• Reasonably nimble for the mountain roads (I live in Colorado)
• Exceptionally reliable
• Comfortable for long rides
• Floorboards
• Windshield
• Passenger back-rest
• Saddlebags are a nice-to-have, not a must-have
• Comfortable for long rides

Floorboards rule out a stock Vulcan 900 Custom
The windshield requirement and passenger backrest seem to lead towards the Vulcan 900 Classic LT.

*** BUT ***

One of the first mods I plan on performing is to replace the stock seat with a Mustang Wide Touring Seat with both the driver and passenger backrest. I sat on a stock Vulcan 900 at the dealer this weekend, and the feel and balance of the bike was wonderful, except that I could tell immediately that the stock seat would wear my hind-end out rather quickly.

Vulcan 900 Classic MSRP: $7349
Vulcan 900 Custom MSRP: $7399
Vulcan 900 Classic LT MSRP: $8649

So, my question is: Assuming that I am paying MSRP for a brand new bike, would it be more cost effective to:
A. Purchase the Vulcan 900 Classic LT and just replace the seat?
B. Purchase the Vulcan 900 Classic and replace seat, add a windshield that I like, and perhaps add saddlebags of my own choosing?
C. Purchase the Vulvan 900 Custom and replace the seat, add a windshield that I like, replace the footpegs with floorboards, and perhaps add saddlebags of my own choosing?

I guess it would depend on two things really, which body style do you like best, since the fenders are different between the Classic and Customs. Do you like the look of the studded bag and current shield on the LT?

Personally, I don't care for the studded seat and bags, so when I do get mine, it will be the Classic, for which I will add a shield and a trunk, not bags.

[bosscat]

Given that you want floorboards you might want to drop the custom from the short list. My personal opinion ( for what thats worth ) is that the classic looks better with the windshield etc than the custom . Or maybe that the customs styling looks more "right" without one.
Now between the Classic and Lt. Look at the windshield, bags, and backrest. If you think you might find yourself looking to replace them then that should figure into your decision. Such as going with hardbags or replacing the backrest with a nonstudded one. Either way once you upgrade the seats you'll have a ride that meets all the requirements you mentioned. I noticed you put comfortable for long rides twice, so upgrade the seat.

[Utah Motorcyclist]

I decided to get the classic and added my bags and shield. Make it a little more unique.

oh...and you should see if you can get a new 07. Never pay msrp if you don't have to.

[jbsmd]

Re-reading your post, I'd say go with the Classic, and do it the way you want.

[yooper cruiser]

The 900 is a great bike to match your list.

Go with the classic or custom, depending on the one you like the looks of more. Then, add the accessories you want.
Also, don't pay retail. I shopped around and paid $6400 OTD for my '06 in mid summer '06.
Also, if you aren't in a hurry, you can find very good used accessories for 3/4 to 1/2 the price of new.

[ks_greg]

I bought the classic and added the factory shield, then bought aftermarket bags, sissybar, etc. Ended up spending way less than buying the LT. Unless you're wanting the two tone paint, and the extra year warranty.
Either way, the 900 is a winner. Good power in town and on the highway (around 70 mph or less). 45-50 mpg's.
Stock seat's good for about 45 mins of riding time, would be the only complaint. If you're wanting to do some serious interstate highway riding, you might want to look at something bigger. But for around town, and cruising at 65 mph, she's tough to beat.

[mshumate99]

I have the custom and I love it to death. The look of the Drag style handlebars and the custom wheels and fenders really is to my taste.

but...

I dont plan on putting a windshield or saddlebags on it.

If I were you I would get the classic and customize to your taste.

Safe riding!

Mitch

edit: oh also make sure you get the scootworks front overdrive pulley. Its a must have.

[jhester]

I bought the classic and added my own windshield and sissybar. Planning to get the bags next weekend for my trip to the mountains and still don't have anywhere near the cost of the LT. Do have to say I WILL be replacing the seat for the kawi gel seat very soon. I don't do more than 65-70mph on the hwy ( i enjoy the ride not just getting somewhere in a hurry) so the 900 is more than enough for me and the wife to enjoy.

BTW... welcome to the club!

[Sinecure]

Same here. I bought the Classic and added a windshield, sissy bar, passenger floorboards, mustang wide touring seat with driver backrest, and scootworks pulley all for about $100 less than the difference I would have paid for the LT. More bang for the buck, if you don't mind doing the mods yourself. Plus, adding all of the accessories yourself is a great way to get to know your bike.

[LocoPatrick]

Thanks for all the input. If I have nothing but new bikes to choose from, I believe I will go with the Classic and add my own mods. The two-tone paint and stock equipment of the LT is nice, but the Classic looks great, too. And to me, looks are secondary to comfort and reliability.

If, however, there is a great deal on a used or previous year's Classic LT, I think I'll grab it!

Unfortunately, it's going to take some time before the cash is available. I'm still trying to get my new business off the ground, so my 1993 KLR650 will have to do for now. Once the business is going, I think it will be time to buy me a present!

[CootoronScooter]

I'd say for long rides and comfort on either type of bike plan on having memory foam added to the stock seat or get an aftermarket or Kawi Gel seat. A driver backrest would be nice too.

[MrLee]

Hey LocoPatrick'..
I found mine on:
Buy or Sell New and Used Motorcycles - CycleTrader.com
wether it's a New 08(mine) or
new 07.. You will find that the
LT's overall are the best value..
They come with a 2yr warranty,
and customs/classics.. come with
only a 1 year warranty!
Not sideways, Keep it Vertical
MrLee
Larsclik Bike mods

[ZeroPunch]

I chose the Classic and added what I wanted. Also bought an additional two year warranty. I still came out cheaper than the LT. The stock seat has been OK so far but I haven't ridden over an hour strait. May change my mind after a few planned trips this season, we'll see.

[VrUoLcCkAsN]

My two cents is:

Love my 08 Classic LT. I wish the windshield was adjustable though to give it more of an angle because it's very straight and it can feel like you're pushing through three feet of snow sometimes. I wish the saddlebags had a locking mechanism to safely store things while I'm in a store or whatever. I always feel like I can't stop somewhere for long with things in them. And the seat... It was a little hard to get use to at first but my butt must be getting callused because it doesn't really bother me anymore.

Otherwise, the LT is an awesome ride, very well balanced, lots of power, and a head turner bigtime. I had a state police stay just back and to the left of me for about 2 miles yesterday. I knew I wasn't doing anything wrong so wasn't worried. He finally pull along side and I looked over to find him giving me a thumbs up and a big smile. Made my day!

[Scruffy]

I'd go with a Classic and build it to suit your tastes and requirements. My 800 Classic has the bags of my choosing and modifying (finished them today). The windshield of my choosing hasn't been a factory offering since HD quit making Panheads in 1965 (I like edge beading and color matched lower section). At least the 900s come with Dunlops instead of the unsafe and unsatisfactory Bridgestones of the 800s.

Whichever way you go, make it yours and enjoy it. Bikes are meant to be ridden and Kawasaki makes a pretty fair bang for the buck.
-Scruffy