Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster vs Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom (2026)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportsterstacks up against the Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson XLCH SportsterKawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom
Model year19692026
Price$9,999
Engine883 cc903 cc
Weight277 kg
Seat height685 mm
Fuel capacity20.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
TransmissionManual, 5 speed, Belt
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Hydraulic Disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Hydraulic Disc
Tires80/90-21 (48H) / 180/70-15 (76H)

Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster vs Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster and the Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster brings its published horsepower, while the Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom counters with its own power figure at 277 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: