Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom Vs Yamaha Bolt

The world of cruisers is a vast and diverse one, with a wide range of options to choose from. Two of the most popular models in this segment are the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom and the Yamaha Bolt. Both bikes offer a unique blend of style and performance, making them ideal choices for riders who want to experience the freedom and adventure of the open road.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom vs Yamaha Bolt, comparing their specifications, features, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision about which bike is right for you.

Engine and Performance

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom is powered by a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 903cc V-twin engine that produces 50 horsepower and 54 lb-ft of torque. The Yamaha Bolt, on the other hand, features a fuel-injected 942cc air-cooled V-twin that delivers 54 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque.

While both bikes offer similar levels of power, the Vulcan 900 Custom’s liquid-cooling system provides better temperature management and smoother performance, especially in hot weather conditions. The Bolt’s air-cooled engine, while reliable and low-maintenance, may experience overheating issues in prolonged high-temperature riding situations.

Handling and Suspension

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom features a low seat height of 27.7 inches, which makes it accessible to riders of all heights. The bike also has a comfortable and upright riding position, thanks to its wide handlebars and footboards. The Yamaha Bolt has a slightly higher seat height of 27.9 inches, but it also offers a more relaxed riding position with its narrow handlebars and forward-mounted foot controls.

In terms of suspension, the Vulcan 900 Custom comes with a telescopic front fork and a dual rear shock setup. The Bolt, on the other hand, utilizes a conventional fork and a single rear shock. Both bikes provide a comfortable ride, but the Vulcan 900 Custom has a slight advantage in handling due to its more responsive suspension.

Brakes and Safety Features

Both the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom and the Yamaha Bolt come equipped with dual disc brakes in the front and a single disc brake in the rear. The Vulcan 900 Custom also features an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard, which provides enhanced braking performance and safety in slippery conditions. The Bolt does not offer ABS as an option, which may be a disadvantage for riders who prioritize safety.

Style and Design

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom exudes a classic cruiser aesthetic with its low-slung stance, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and blacked-out components. The Yamaha Bolt, on the other hand, has a more modern and minimalist design, with a sleek fuel tank, spoke wheels, and chrome accents.

Ultimately, the choice between the Vulcan 900 Custom and the Bolt comes down to personal preference. The Vulcan 900 Custom is a great option for riders who prefer a classic cruiser style, while the Bolt appeals to those who appreciate a more contemporary and understated look.

Price and Value

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom has a starting price of $8,599, while the Yamaha Bolt starts at $8,999. Both bikes offer excellent value for money, providing a combination of style, performance, and features that are hard to beat in this price range.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom and the Yamaha Bolt are both excellent cruiser motorcycles that cater to different riding styles and preferences. Here’s a summary of the key differences between the two bikes:

• Engine and Performance: The Vulcan 900 Custom offers a smoother and more temperature-managed ride, while the Bolt produces slightly more power and torque.
• Handling and Suspension: The Vulcan 900 Custom has a more responsive suspension and a lower seat height, while the Bolt offers a more relaxed riding position.
• Brakes and Safety Features: The Vulcan 900 Custom comes standard with ABS, while the Bolt does not offer this feature.
• Style and Design: The Vulcan 900 Custom has a classic cruiser aesthetic, while the Bolt has a more modern and minimalist design.
• Price and Value: Both bikes offer excellent value for money, with the Vulcan 900 Custom being slightly more affordable.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both models and see which one fits your riding style and preferences the best.

The Final Verdict:

Both the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom and the Yamaha Bolt are outstanding cruiser motorcycles that offer a unique blend of style, performance, and value. The Vulcan 900 Custom is a great choice for riders who prefer a classic cruiser aesthetic and appreciate its smoother ride and standard ABS feature. The Bolt is a solid option for riders who want a more modern and minimalist look, with slightly more power and torque.

Regardless of your choice, you can’t go wrong with either of these cruisers. They are both reliable, comfortable, and guaranteed to provide years of riding enjoyment.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which bike has more storage space?

• A: Both bikes have limited storage space, but the Vulcan 900 Custom has a small saddlebag on the left side.

Q: Can I customize either bike easily?

• A: Yes, both bikes have a wide range of aftermarket accessories available, making it easy to personalize them to your liking.

Q: How fuel-efficient are these bikes?

• A: The Vulcan 900 Custom has a slightly better fuel efficiency than the Bolt, with an estimated 45 mpg compared to the Bolt’s 40 mpg.

Q: Which bike is better for long-distance riding?

• A: The Vulcan 900 Custom’s more comfortable riding position and responsive suspension make it a better choice for extended trips.

Q: Can I ride either bike with a passenger?

• A: Yes, both bikes have passenger seats and footpegs, but the Bolt’s more relaxed riding position may be more comfortable for passengers.