The Kawasaki Vulcan S redefines the cruiser category by combining current appearance with dynamic performance and a level of customisation suitable for riders of all sizes. Whether you’re new to motorcycles or a seasoned rider seeking for a flexible cruiser, the Vulcan S has a distinctive set of characteristics that set it apart. In this article, we’ll look at the engine performance, chassis, handling, ergonomics, and other features that make the Kawasaki Vulcan S an excellent choice.
Engine and Performance
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is powered by a 649cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel-twin engine, which is known for being smooth, dependable, and quick. This engine, derived from Kawasaki’s Ninja 650 sportbike, delivers exhilarating yet controlled power, making it ideal for highway cruising and city commuting.
Now, commuting in India is on whole different level. Kawasaki Vulcan S might feel a little bit big for the commuting and the heat it will throw on the legs will be quite annoying. Still if I talk about its performance it is not a typical cruiser bike. Kawasaki Vulcan S would feel like the soul of Kawasaki ninja in the body of cruiser bike. It runs very well on highway and do very well around the corners. This is the main thing that I love about Kawasaki Vulcan S is that it’s ability to go around the corners which is phenomenal.
In traffic it is a well behaved bike since it does not gives the explosive surge of performance. It is nice and gentle on the low rev bands and when you open the throttle the performance delivery is just something to fell in love with.
Key engine specifications:
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel-twin
Displacement: 649cc
Bore x Stroke: 83.0 mm x 60.0 mm
Compression Ratio: 10.8:1
Fuel System: Fuel injection with dual throttle valves
Max Power: 61 hp (45.0 kW) @ 7,500 rpm
Max Torque: 62.4 Nm @ 6,600 rpm
Ignition: Digital
Transmission: 6-speed with a positive neutral finder
Final Drive: Chain
With 61 horsepower and 62.4 Nm of torque, the Vulcan S packs enough punch to keep things interesting, but its power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it a good pick for people new to the cruiser sector. The 6-speed gearbox enables fast gear changes, and the chain drive ensures that power is efficiently delivered to the rear tire, resulting in a responsive and enjoyable ride.
Chassis and Handling
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is based around a high-tensile steel perimeter frame that provides a blend of stiffness and suppleness. This frame, paired with the bike’s low center of gravity, improves stability and makes the Vulcan S simple to ride, whether in narrow city streets or on the wide road.
Now, typical cruisers are known for their really good stability but very less leaning on the curves. But Kawasaki has done some great job while desigining its chassis that it can curve really well and rider donot have to worry about wether it will lean and the foot pegs will get scraped. In cities and even in some light traffic on the highway sometimes it would glide through all the traffic and just pierce through it.
But the one thing through which riders in India might get annoyed is Vulcan S low ground clearance. Which is a problematic thing because a lot of times you will find that bike’s chassis very often hits the ground and specially big speed breakers. That’s why you need to clear the bumps through sideways. Underbelly might get scraped but someone who loves highway riding Kawasaki Vulcan S will be something that rider might learn to live with.
Chassis Specifications:
Frame Type: High-tensile steel perimeter frame
Front Suspension: 41 mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension: Offset laydown single-shock with linkage, preload-adjustable
Front Brake: Single 300 mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear Brake: Single 250 mm disc with single-piston caliper
Front Tire: 120/70R18
Rear Tire: 160/60R17
Wheelbase: 1,575 mm
Seat Height: 705 mm (adjustable via the Ergo-Fit system)
Ground Clearance: 130 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 liters
Curb Weight: Approximately 229 kg (including all fluids and a full fuel tank)
The suspension system includes a 41 mm telescopic fork at the front and an offset laydown single-shock at the back that is preload-adjustable to meet varied rider weights and preferences. This suspension design guarantees a smooth ride while still giving enough input to keep the Vulcan S connected to the road.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S brakes with a single 300 mm disc in the front and a 250 mm disc in the rear. These give tremendous stopping power, and with ABS as an option, you may ride with confidence in a variety of situations.
Ergonomics and Comfort
One of the Kawasaki Vulcan S’s most notable features is its Ergo-Fit system, which lets users to customize the seat, footpegs, and handlebars to fit their body size and riding style. Whether you’re short, tall, or somewhere in between, the Ergo-Fit system will help you discover a comfortable and natural riding posture.
Ergonomic Specifications:
Seat Height: 705 mm (with adjustable Ergo-Fit options)
Foot Position: Forward foot controls for relaxed riding posture
Handlebar Position: Adjustable to suit different rider preferences
The Vulcan S’s low seat height of 705 mm makes it accessible to riders of all sizes, allowing you to securely plant your feet on the ground during pauses. The front foot controls and upright handlebar location allow for a relaxing and comfortable riding posture, which is great for long-distance cruising. The Ergo-Fit system’s adaptability allows the Vulcan S to be adjusted to a wide range of riders, from shorter persons to those over 6 feet tall.
Features and Styling
The Kawasaki Vulcan S deviates from the classic cruiser appearance, opting for a more contemporary and minimalist look. The bike’s sleek lines, paired with its sport-inspired components, offer it a modern appearance that will appeal to a wide spectrum of riders.
Styling and Feature Specifications:
Instrumentation: Analog tachometer with multifunction digital display (speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, gear position indicator, and more)
Lighting: Halogen headlamp, LED taillight
Exhaust: Under-engine exhaust for a clean rear look
The equipment comprises an analog tachometer and a multifunction digital display that provides all necessary information at a glance. The halogen headlight and LED taillight improve visibility while also adding to the bike’s current appeal. Furthermore, the under-engine exhaust arrangement serves to decrease the center of gravity while preserving a clean, uncluttered rear appearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a cruiser that defies convention. Its quick performance, configurable ergonomics, and modern design make it a fantastic choice for cruiser riders seeking something unique. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned cruiser aficionado, the Vulcan S provides a one-of-a-kind and adaptable combination that is difficult to pass up.
For someone who wants the bike for highway rides and very less city or traffic ride then Kawasaki Vulcan S might be a really good option to consider. The only problem that I think people would find very annoying is Kawasaki Vulcan S low ground clearance. But on highways it will ride like a sports bike but with more cruiser comfort.
Know more about us and Contact us for our personalised reviews and more.
Check out our another blogs:
1.Kawasaki Z 7 Hybrid: The Future of Motorcycle Performance and Efficiency
2.Kawasaki Z900RS: A Modern Classic with Timeless Appeal
3.Honda CB 650 R: The Ultimate Neo-Sports Café Experience
References:
1.Kawasaki
2.Team BHP
Image Credits: Kawasaki