The 2009 Kawasaki VN900 (Vulcan 900) is a solid mid-size cruiser, but like many factory motorcycles, its suspension is tuned for a wide range of riders and budgets. If you're looking to improve ride quality, handling, or load-carrying ability, aftermarket suspension parts are the answer. Several reputable brands produce shocks, fork springs, and cartridge kits specifically for this model. This guide covers the top manufacturers and what they offer.
Rear Shock Options
The stock rear shocks on the VN900 are basic, non-adjustable units that can feel under-damped or harsh on uneven roads. Upgrading the rear is one of the most effective suspension improvements.
Progressive Suspension
Progressive Suspension is a go-to brand for cruiser riders. They offer the Progressive 465 Series shocks for the 2009 VN900. These are emulsion-type shocks with adjustable spring preload and often come in multiple spring rates for rider weight. The 465s are durable, affordable, and provide a noticeable improvement in ride compliance. They are available in standard height or lowered options if you want to drop the rear a couple of inches.
Ohlins
For premium performance, Ohlins makes the S36 Series shocks for the VN900. These are fully adjustable: spring preload, rebound damping, and sometimes compression damping. The S36 shocks use a piggyback reservoir design, which helps keep oil temperature stable during long rides. While expensive, they offer the best control and comfort for aggressive riding or heavy loads. Ohlins also offers custom spring rates tailored to your weight.
Hagon
Hagon is a British manufacturer known for making affordable, quality shocks for classic and cruiser bikes. Their Hagon Nitro shocks are available for the 2009 VN900, with adjustable preload and rebound damping. They use a gas charge to reduce fade. Hagon shocks are a good middle ground between price and performance.
Works Performance
Works Performance offers custom-built shocks for the VN900, such as the W-20 series. You can specify spring rate, ride height, and damping characteristics when ordering. This is ideal if you have a non-standard setup or want a specific feel. Works shocks are rebuildable and made in the USA.
Front Fork Upgrades
The VN900's front forks are 41mm conventional units with limited damping. You can improve them with springs, valves, or complete cartridge replacements.
Race Tech
Race Tech is the leader in fork upgrades. They sell Spring Kits (gold valve emulators) and Cartridge Emulators for the 2009 VN900. The spring kit includes straight-rate springs matched to your weight, and the gold valve emulator adds adjustable compression damping. This is a DIY-friendly upgrade that dramatically improves front-end control and feedback. Race Tech also offers complete Fork Cartridges if you want a fully modern setup.
Progressive Suspension
Progressive Suspension offers Fork Springs for the VN900 as well. Their progressive-rate springs provide a softer initial stroke for small bumps and stiffen up under hard braking. This is a simpler, lower-cost upgrade than emulators, but still a noticeable improvement.
Sonic Springs
Sonic Springs is another brand that makes straight-rate springs for the VN900 forks. They offer a variety of spring rates based on rider weight and a kit with spacers and new oil. Sonic Springs are known for precise machining and consistent performance.
Andreani Group
For a high-end option, Andreani Group produces fully adjustable Fork Cartridges that replace the internal damping components. These are particularly good for riders who want external adjusters for compression and rebound. They are available for the VN900 but require professional installation.
Complete Suspension Kits
Some riders prefer a matched set of front and rear components. A few manufacturers sell bundle deals or have recommended pairings.
Progressive Suspension
Progressive Suspension offers a front and rear kit that includes their 465 shocks and fork springs. This is a convenient, cost-effective way to upgrade both ends simultaneously. The parts are designed to work together, giving balanced handling.
Race Tech
Race Tech recommends pairing their gold valve emulators with a rear shock from their preferred partner (often Works Performance or Hagon). While Race Tech doesn't sell rear shocks themselves, they can help you select a compatible setup.
Ohlins
Ohlins has a complete rear shock and front fork cartridge system for the VN900. Both components are fully adjustable and deliver race-level performance. This is the most expensive option but provides the highest level of customization.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before purchasing aftermarket suspension parts for your 2009 VN900, keep these points in mind:
- Rider weight and load: Most brands offer multiple spring rates. Order springs designed for your weight (including gear and passenger if you carry one).
- Riding style: Cruising, touring, curves, or straight-line comfort all require different damping characteristics. Adjustable shocks allow you to dial in the feel.
- Budget: You can spend anywhere from $200 for basic fork springs and rear shocks to over $1,500 for premium fully adjustable setups.
- Installation: Some upgrades (like fork springs) are doable at home with basic tools. Cartridge kits and custom rear shocks may need a shop.
- Model year compatibility: The 2009 VN900 uses the same suspension as other years in the 900 series (2005–2012). Always verify with the manufacturer's fitment chart.
Practical Recommendation
For most riders, a combination of Progressive Suspension 465 shocks in the rear and Race Tech gold valve emulators with Sonic Springs up front offers the best balance of cost and performance. This setup gives you adjustable damping, correct spring rates, and significantly improved ride quality. If your budget allows, stepping up to Ohlins S36 rear shocks and Andreani front cartridges will get you top-tier performance for long-distance touring or spirited riding.
Remember to set sag correctly after installation and, if possible, take a test ride to adjust damping settings. The right suspension makes your VN900 feel like a new bike—more composed, comfortable, and fun to ride.