Upon first glance at the Vulcan 900 series (consisting of the Classic, Classic LT and Custom Special Edition) I knew I was in for an experience. Neither good nor bad, just an experience. Why? As a point of reference, my typical bikes of choice are generally sportbikes, from the razor-sharp Yamaha R6 to the kings of the drag strip, the Suzuki Hayabusa and Kawasaki’s own blazing ZX-14. But, I am a rider with diverse style and taste, so I welcomed the opportunity to hop on Kawasaki’s mid-weight V-Twin cruiser lineup.

To allow ample seat time on each model, the Kawasaki team mapped out a route from upstate New York through Vermont and back to Lake Placid, New York. Given my style and background, I jumped on the stealthy sporty Custom Special Edition. With its thick 180mm rear wheel, large 21” diameter cast front wheel and custom black paint with burnt orange accents set off with matte black exhausts pipes, the Custom called to me so I had to answer. Although it had been several months since my last ride on a cruiser, I immediately felt at home on the Custom. Given its low profile, nimble handling and the zesty fuel-injected 903cc engine, I was able to enjoy a different kind of ride, one of relaxing comfort and ease with a little road carving. Before I knew it was time to switch up. 

Somewhat begrudgingly, I gave up the Custom Special Edition for the full fairing, saddlebag laced Classic LT. Call me naïve to the cruiser world, but never would've I have imagined how convenient saddlebags actually are. Placing a full backpack in one bag and a leather riding jacket in the other created an additional sense of freedom I'm not accustomed to. I typical roll with a back pack held down with bungee cords or strapped to my back, which does the job. However, bungee cords can't touch the practicality of saddlebags - and they provide that road warrior “Nomad” look. Adding another level to this experience was the full front windshield.

Next up was the Classic. Like its siblings, the ride was smooth, coupled with equally impressive handling and enough ummmph to keep me more than satisfied.

My biggest quirk with the Vulcan 900 series actually turned out to be one of the features I initially admired because of the cool look it creates - the low seat height/wheel base. I would have preferred a longer a wheelbase as I found myself stretching and repositioning my legs and keister on occasion during the ride. Not so much so that it took away from my overall experience, but it could be a deal breaker for those with longer legs.  
 
The Vulcan 900 Series offers a variety of models along with a plethora of accessories to suit your personality and style. With a fuel economy rating of 45 mpg and affordable pricing (MSRPs of $7,499 for the Classic, $8,799 for the Classic LT, and $8,099 for the Custom Special Edition), I would be out of my Vulcan mind to pass up another opportunity to cruise on a Vulcan 900.

For more information visit: www.kawasaki.com