Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic vs Yamaha V-star 1100
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
Yamaha V-star 1100
Horsepower (hp)
50 hp
62 hp
Torque (Nm)
78 Nm
87 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
175 km/h
175 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
272 kg
272 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
50 hp @ 6,000 rpm
62 hp @ 5,750 rpm
Torque
78 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
87 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Top Speed
175 km/h (estimated — note: governed/comfort-oriented cruiser, real-world varies)
175 km/h
Weight
272 kg (wet/curb weight)
272 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
4.8 L/100km (approx. 20.8 km/L typical real-world average)
5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
7.2/10
"Solid, sensible cruiser that rewards practicality over personality every time."
Pros
+Bulletproof reliability record
+Smooth, accessible power delivery
+Comfortable upright riding position
Cons
−Lacks real riding character
−Short fuel range disappoints
−Fork seals age poorly
Yamaha V-star 1100
7.5/10
"A dependable, unpretentious cruiser that rewards patient, practical riders."
Pros
+Shaft drive, zero maintenance
+Exceptional long-term reliability
+Smooth, torquey V-twin
Cons
−Suspension genuinely poor stock
−Carb needs attention neglected
−Cramped for taller riders