[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/46355449282/[/flickr]

Windblast is the only problem while riding at high speeds

Verdict – The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a very unique motorcycle when it comes to matching cruiser standards. It matches almost all the requirements yet adds the reliability of a Japanese motorcycle to the mix. You don’t see any Japanese cruiser bikes in India and this makes the Vulcan S very unique. The high-revving nature of the engine and spot-on riding dynamics fulfils an enthusiast’s needs. While it is also a great alternative to the Harley-Davidson Street 750. Although Kawasaki’s service network isn’t that widespread, the Vulcan S is a really feasible motorcycle to live with.

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32534274108/[/flickr]

The Vulcan does look all stealth in the all black colour scheme

What’s Cool

* Riding dynamics are spot on
* Only Japanese cruiser motorcycle in India
* Performance from the engine is for the enthusiast

What’s Not So Cool

* Instrument console looks dated
* Windblast becomes an issue at high speed
* Brakes lack feel and feedback under heavy stopping

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/31466708297/[/flickr]

From the front to the tail, the Vulcan S is quite sleek

Kawasaki Vulcan S Specifications

* Engine: 649cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin
* Power: 61 PS @ 7500 RPM
* Torque: 63 Nm @ 6600 RPM
* Transmission: 6-Speed Constant
* Top Speed: 180 km/hr
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Fuel Consumption: 22 km/l
* Frame: Steel Perimeter Frame
* Suspension: 41 mm Telescopic Forks (Front), Offset Monoshock (Rear)
* Tyres: 120/70/18 (Front), 160/60/17 (Rear)
* Brakes: 300 mm Disc (Front), 250 mm Disc (Rear), ABS

Kawasaki Vulcan S Dimensions

* Length x Width x Height: 2310 mm x 855 mm x 1090 mm
* Wheelbase: 1575 mm
* Seat Height: 705 mm
* Ground Clearance: 130 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 14-litres
* Kerb weight: 235 kgs

Testers’ Note:

“The Kawasaki Vulcan S is proof that cruiser motorcycles don’t have to be loud and lack practicality, they can be refined and reliable too. Although lacking the brand pull of Harley-Davidson in the cruiser segment, Kawasaki still excites with the fantastic 650cc engine that is thoroughly refined and the surefooted handling in spite of the weight. The icing on the cake is the high revving engine which excites those who are more into sports touring.” – Faisal Khan, Editor, MotorBeam.

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