I'm 6'3" and my very first bike was a Vulcan 900 LT. It was absolutely perfect for me. Easy to handle and learn on with plenty of power and comfort for touring.

I have the exact model Vulcan that they used and I HIGHLY recommend it. It is good at everything! Sounds great with the baffles out too.

I too agree that the Suzuki C50 and M50 should have been included in this comparison. I think that C50 model is extremely popular and would be the winner.

My first bike was a 883 sportster I bought brand new in 2003. People laugh at the 883 but it’s fast enough to get you killed! It never held me back from having a good time.

My first street bike was a 750 magna 94 model. Has 90 hp. Still have it and love the bike.

I have owned both a sporster 883 and currently the vulcan 900. I did love my little sportster it's a great bike especially if you want to do alot of customizing but I absolutely love my vulcan 900 has one of the best best stock seat on the market it has great suspension and even though it's a 900 it's a pretty big bike and has alot of low end power and feels more like a 1200cc bike and on the used market you can get them cheap! Mine is a 2016 with only 3,300 miles on and alot of aftermarket parts and got it for $4,400. If your thinking of getting a vulcan 900 just do it you wont regret it

This is a good comparison. As a person who started riding motorcycles in '79, I find it interesting that bikes ranging from 750 - 900+ cc's are described as "entry level". I understand the appeal of size & power, but I believe a first-time rider would be much better off with something under 500 cc's. As second bikes, for those that have a couple years experience under their tires, anyone of these machines would be excellent choices.

Vulcan 900 is the best value in my opinion

I clicked on this video hoping that my outdated Suzuki C50 would be compared here. It was recently featured in a 6 way comparison in a magazine. It came in 2nd to last with 42 horsepower at the rear wheel. I would just like to add that mine is a 2005 with 51,000 miles and the only problem it ever had was a blown fuse 5 years ago. They have been almost unchanged for ten years and they still fit with that cruiser look. Just thought I would mention.

hat, no Suzuki? The C50 or the M50 should have been in this test.

and the M50 Boulevard? :O

I haven't ridden the other bike's but I own a vulcan 900 classic. I have been on many trips with my vulcan. It handles fantastic and the seat doesn't hurt your butt after a day of riding. It is a very comfortable bike and feels almost weight less to me. If you are thinking of picking up a vulcan I would definitely recommend it. This bike will serve you well for a long time.

When I started riding 25 years ago, a 250cc was entry-level. These days I have a V-star 650, and it's plenty enough bike for most riders. How are 900cc bikes entry-level, even if a cruiser??

Are you going to make another one of these anytime soon? Great video by the way!

Great review. I finally get to c all the cruisers in comparison. Which one is ur fav? Can u do a new review for 2016?

for entry level i was expecting like 3000, 4000 dollars or less not 8000, 9000 dollars. lol

Kawasaki hands down, I own a 2009 I tweeked two a 1100s hp I've smoked every stock HD that's made fun of it, you can not give me a junkie HD it's a over priced pos , bought mine new and never been in the shop, 42000 and still strong, my friends who own HD stay in the shop ,I've even pulled HD with my bike .If I wanted something to work on more than riding ide buy me a go-cart cheaper and still get that it's going to break down feeling cheaper

my first bike was a Honda Shadow vlx 600 I was already used to the power after one week of riding after that I got an 03 Sportster 883 I put on a little bit taller handlebars and love that bike.

My 2nd bike was a Kawasaki Vulcan 900 classic Lt and absolutely loved it.. had hi-flow aircleaner roadburnner exhaust and cobra fi2000 tuner.. the ONLY reason I got rid of it was I wanted something bigger and that's it.. I'd buy another one when I'm older probably 🤷 I kinda like my 107

Why wasn't the Suzuki Boulevard C50 featured?

I hear a lot of people say if you're tall that a sportster is not the best to ride for comfort. but I'm 6.2" and ride a 74 xlh1000 and I don't have any complaints but I know everybody has different preferences.

1.yamaha V star 2.kawasaki vulcan 3.honda shadow 4.harley that's the honest opinion folks, unbiased & unpaid !

the narrator needs some serious sleep, for god sake bring someone who can speak instead of reading from a paper

This video just confirmed my decision to buy a Vulcan 900 Custom.

I went with the Star 950 because I liked the looks the best and mostly ride 2-up so the extra size makes it more comfortable. Buying an unsold model from the previous year got me dealer financing and a sticker under $6K on a zero-miles bike. Could not find that offer anywhere else. My previous ride was a 1980 500cc, so any of these would have been a real step up!

When they are talking about beginner bikes - I would have assumed they would be talking about small bikes like the Honda 250 Rebel or the Yamaha 400?

I love my Honda Shadow phantom. It's my first bike and I've only owned it for 3 weeks now. I've put a little over 300 miles on it so far. My only complaint would be I wish it was a 900cc bike for a little more power. I'm 6ft, 170lbs to give an idea.

This narrator guy sounds shy and reluctant, like he really doesn't want to be doing this. WAY TO GO.

So the Vulcan 900 said to be the winner here.

You say the Star had the best top end, but it has lower hp. Hmm... And an "unsightly radiator"? Actually, the 900 has one of the least ugly radiators on any water cooled bike.

This is exactly what I was looking for

I have a heritage now but gotta love sportsters

I own the v star 950 and love it

I know this, I got out with an 09 V star 950 new last week for $6800. Not only was it the best fitting bike for me, it rides like a dream. The Vulcan felt like I was sitting on a tall park bench, and the forks felt like they were to vertical. I don't hurt that the 950 has the longest wheel base in class either.

My 2009 Vulcan 900 custom is a beast looks great and its quick.

Kawasaki VN900 for the win

good review.

If the Vulcan 900 is entry level, than what is the Vulcan S or V-star 250? These bikes are not entry level motorcycles. They are mid size cruisers. It wasn't very long ago that 900cc was considered a big motorcycle, but now its called entry level. I think these categories have more to do with marketing than reality. Just like more adventures can be had on a dual sport than the so called adventure motorcycles. I've seen Kawasaki switch from calling the KLR 650 a dual sport motorcycle to an adventure motorcycle depending on the context and audience. Its all about marketing.

i love riding my 82 yamaha xj650 and 2006 yamaha v star 1100 silverado classic both great running and riding bikes imo.

I like all these bikes but I guess I like the Vulcan 900 Custom best 'cause I bought one. Liquid cooled, belt drive and fuel injected. Can't beat that combination.

u forgot the suzuki m50 but okay, call yourself motousa (king of all motorcycle reviews)

vulcan 900 wins this category hands down.You may have to change the pulley for higher gearing on highway to lower RPM but it can do highway without mods no issues its just running higher RPM and that's true all these bikes on this category.

I just got back from gawking around my local motorcycle shop. I think I'm still a little stoned from all the chrome. I can't wait for the day when I get to graduate from "wannabe" to "noob".

My first cruiser was a Honda shadow 750....now I'm on a Kawasaki z400...but I'm Definitely looking at the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 classic

I went with the Star 950 because I liked the looks the best and mostly ride 2-up so the extra size makes it more comfortable. Buying an unsold model from the previous year got me dealer financing and a sticker under $6K on a zero-miles bike. Could not find that offer anywhere else. My previous ride was a 1980 500cc, so any of these would have been a real step up! The scraping is an issue, but I am no sport bike rider, so low and slow is fine by me.

Could you tell if Kawasaki Vulcan 900 bike is fine as a first bike? (I'm 6'2" and 215 lbs)

I've a question. Why in almost all comparison of the HD 883, the C50 or M50 from suzuki aren't included? They're almost the same price and cc. Are they too different? Thanks

You drew me in with the "Entry-Level" but then did a midrange review (I hoped for a

You can buy the 09 vstar 950 for just 4999 brand new with full warranty

I'm surprised the Triumph Bonneville isn't in there. Though not strictly a cruiser Triumph pretty much solely inspired the biker culture that has surrounded cruisers ever since Marlon Brando first swung his leg over a Thunderbird in The Wild One.

I have a 2000 Yamaha V-star and I love the thing it’s awesome, cheap fun

I remember watching this over and over before i got my first bike, if your strugling on getting just do it. Nothing compairs to it.

@PrettySly if you mount on the forward controls its a lot more comfortable, especially if youre tall

I have a vulcan 2010 hands down its fantastic....stage 1 the exhaust though!

I wouldn't blame you, awesome bike

@clubtc05 I recently bought a '93 Kawasaki Vulcan 750cc as a first bike. I recommend buying a bigger bike than 250cc because you will want more power very quick. I personally took a Beginner's Safety riding course at the local DMV (also highly recommend) and learned the fundamentals of riding on their Suzuki GZ 250cc before i bought my bike. If you like the V-Star i would recommend the 650 instead of the 900 for a beginner. Safe Riding.

What is that 44 & change horsepower like compared to the old 1100

Vulcan for me. I do prefer the 900 Classic, though.

Good review, though I would have thought comparing something a little more similar in style such as the Triumph Speedmaster would have been a better choice than the 883.

Any 2020 update on this??

NEED HELP!!!! I am 6'1 close to 6'2. I'm wanting to get a beginner bike and i've been looking at the Honda Rebel, but people say its a little cramped if you are over 6'0. Any of you know I good starter bike for my height?

NEED HELP!!! Im a beginner to motorcycles and I really like the V-Star 950. And I was wondering is that a good bike for a beginner? I weight about 140pounds, 5'7 ya I know Im light. But I dont want a bike that looks like a beginner bike. I really like the look of the V-Star. IF yall think this bike is a little to advanced for me. What would yall recommend that looks similar to the V-Star?? Thanks for the help

Style-wise, I'll take the Vulcan 900. I wish it had a bit more ponies.

What type of get away from traffic power does the vulcan 900 have at 70+ highway speeds?

Talking of delivery. The 1999 Suzuki SV650, which is not a sports bike like the R6 or gixxer 600 you mention, was tested by Cycle World magazine and the 0-60mph time was found to be the same 3.20 seconds as the 1999 Yamaha R1.

Of all the vids on youtube i can't find any on motorcycles ground clearance :( You should do it! A best to worst ground clearance video per bike group would be nice :) Im a fan of chunky cruisers but know nothing about this issue. See so many vids where riders on cruiser barely lean at all and ground clearance seems could be a huge if not number 1 issue on which bike to get.

@martywatkins Nicely said. It takes a lot of effort to invest the time and money in riding especially if you are doing it with your own money. A really good video.

I agree the sportsters, even the 1200's are uncomfortable even with forward controls. Would be a great around town driver because they sound great and it's a harley. I do have to disagree on the Honda though, they are very comfortable on long rides or short rides and the 750 has plenty of power for single riders but lack top end on highways. The star is a great comfy bike but the seat hurts after a day of riding. The long frame doesn't allow you to take curves very well but that's the sacrifice for a comfortable ride. Never rode a Vulcan but many swear by them so I can't say. Maybe they should try something above 1000cc next time because that's where most riders go to choose a good bike for riding

I ride a virago 750 , I am old school, you will be spriest how nice this bike is today.

The Vulcan 900 fit me nicely just sitting on it, but im worried about it as a starter bike. I have some minimal experience riding, nothing to really talk about, does anyone think it is "too much" for a first bike with basically "starter" experience in terms of riding? Although i prefer a v-twin, should i go with the Vulcan S or something else? Any opinions/experience appreciated. I'm 5'8.

@clubtc05 what about vstar 250?

I just bought a Vulcan 900 custom brand new for 6000$ with a full 1 year warranty..It is an awesome bike!! If anyone is interested they have like 3 more in stock at Fat Alberts Motorsports in Poteau,Ok..Ohh yeah they are 2009 models..

I am surprised that the horsepower and torque numbers are so low on these bikes, I was hoping they would all be much closer to the 90's-110 range.

I'm 6 '4 and 230 pounds would the sportster be too small? (even with forward controls)

its more how comfortable you feel firstly on one and if you have ever ridden a bike at all before. in general a cruiser is heavier than most bikes and compared to say a standard naked style bike they are less power to weight. but having said that if all you want to do is ride weekends at a leisurely pace a cruiser may suit your needs. but its more a try till it fits situation.

Also I've heard HDs described with many words....and precise was never one of them until now.

Who gives a [sht] whether or not you can see the radiator? Liquid cooled engines are the future of motorcycles.

Damn it looks like they went out of business...WTF they had the best reviews.

I have a 2008 883 and i am a big guy 6'1 and 400 lbs this bike moves and is quite affordable I got mine from our dealer here in TN for 7500 out the door tax tags and reg, with a helmet . Mine is the same color as the one in the video. But its also harley's bastard bike accessories are far and few between. Dont get me wrong Where ever i go ppl say nice harley.lol

@metaltera86 Thansk for the reply. I thought about the 250 but then I know once I get the hang of it, I would want to get a bigger bike. So I thought might as well start will a little bigger bike and go from there lol

Well folks, I just have to tell you this. Before deciding which bike you want, try out the Triumph first! Do yourself that favour. Either an America or the Speedmaster. Then you'll know... I did, after 20 years riding Harley's. Now done 6 years on my lovely Speedmaster! And counting. Cheers!

I love my Kawasaki Vulcan 900 custom

Awesome.

They all get the job done. Youre not breaking any land speed records with these bikes. Cruising purpose only. Get the one you like best. Personally i like the looks of the Phantom. Looks proportionally bad ass. -Keep the rubber side down. Its not what you ride just as long as your riding. Ride on bothers and sisters. 🤘

are they entry level motorcycle as well ?

I'm on a Suzuki burgman 400 now and thinking about getting a Kawasaki vulcan 900

what does the term metric mean?

I lol'd at "pegs scrape with alarming ease". Its fun (and way too easy) to make fun of HDs, but I think that's pretty much true for any cruiser style motorbike. I really wonder how long it will be before the EPA will force HD to hang it up with the air cooled twins....I also wonder if people will buy whatever replaces them.

All these motorcycles look like great platforms to make custom parts.

how can these bikes be "entry level cruisers"?? Shit... i´m riding a 125 for now and my next step will be a 250, both Yamaha by the way.

Its hard to believe its been years since Honda made magic V30 and V65 4 cylinders and now just makes mostly "Me-too" V twins. Its the ultimate dumbing down of bike technology.

The problem with most metrics is longevity. Look at a 20 year old Harley Sportster, usually looks the day it was new. Look at a metric cruiser from 20 years ago, all the plasti-chrome has peeled, the thin paint fades and the mirrors/bars gets lots of pitting from rust. I tried sanding the paint off a Harley fuel tank and it took 5 minutes with a power sander to make it through the clear coat, theres a reason they cost more.

hey guys, ive been thinking about getting a motorcycle. Ive never owned one, and have limited experience on them. After i take the motorcycle course, would the honda shadow be good for me? I would prefer a cruiser like it, because i really dont have a burning desire for speed. Can anyone offer me any advice about the shadow or becoming a motorcyclist in general? I mean anything helps! Thanks guys!

Worst thing about a metric bike here in Wyoming is that there are no dealers or support. Harley on the other hand has dealers world wide, not to mention no matter what you do to a metric they are still a metric and you can't make them your own. I like Harley so much just bought another one 2012 Road Glide for the wife. She put over a grand in customs on it before it left the dealer. Stage IV is only $1800 now and is under warranty, When she is ready that is going on it. Post a video of you bike

0:30 dude looks like he just smoked a fat blunt. lol

All of the cruisers are supposed to have "ample" amount of power to do all variety of roads. However, these cruisers are "marketed" for entry level, therefore they have "limited" gearing. Vulcan 900 will suffer going above 65mph, and will be at dangerous revving range due to its gearing from the manufacturer.

My 1st bike, that I killed, was Dad's bike, was a Yamaha virago 1100, fast, but 2wheelers, can make u invisible. I learned the hard way, but 2wheelers r nice.

she's just about the perfect fit for me, comfy and quick and gets 55mpg a lot of the time

@MrChutzpah2002 the 883 sportster is harley longest lasting, most reliable model due to its lighter piston weight resulting in less vibration, which in turn means less engine wear over time. HD reliability probs went away with the intro of the Evo engine, as well with pre heated and better chokes on the carbs, fuel injection further made reliability as good as any of them listed.

Shadow Pantom