Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, a bike that’s been making waves in the cruiser world. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, this bike has something to offer. We’ll break down everything from its engine specs to its overall performance, so you can get a clear picture of what this machine is all about. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the Kawasaki Vulcan S 650

The Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 is a standout in the cruiser category, known for its unique blend of style, comfort, and performance. Unlike traditional cruisers that often focus solely on a classic, retro aesthetic, the Vulcan S 650 brings a modern touch to the table. Its sleek lines and contemporary design elements make it visually appealing to a broad range of riders. What sets this bike apart is its accessibility; it's designed to be comfortable for both new riders and experienced veterans. The adjustable footpegs and seat allow riders to customize the bike's ergonomics to fit their individual body types and preferences. This adaptability ensures a comfortable ride, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. The Vulcan S 650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine, which provides a smooth and manageable power delivery. This engine is known for its reliability and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily use. It offers enough power for confident highway cruising while remaining docile enough for easy handling in city traffic. Overall, the Vulcan S 650 is a well-rounded motorcycle that combines modern styling, rider comfort, and dependable performance, making it a popular choice among cruiser enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Engine: 649cc parallel-twin
• Adjustability: Adjustable footpegs and seat
• Design: Modern and sleek
• Performance: Smooth and manageable power

Engine and Performance Specs

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 tick – its engine and performance. The heart of this bike is its 649cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin engine. This configuration is known for providing a balanced and smooth power delivery, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. The engine features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficient performance and responsiveness. With a bore and stroke of 83.0 x 60.0 mm and a compression ratio of 10.8:1, the engine is designed to deliver a good balance of low-end torque and mid-range power. This means you'll have plenty of pull when accelerating from a stop and enough power for comfortable highway cruising. Fuel injection ensures that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, providing optimal fuel economy and reduced emissions. The digital fuel injection system with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies precisely meters the fuel to match the engine's needs, resulting in crisp throttle response and consistent performance in various riding conditions. When it comes to power output, the Vulcan S 650 delivers around 61 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and approximately 46.3 pound-feet of torque at 6,600 rpm. These figures translate to a bike that's capable of accelerating quickly and maintaining a comfortable pace on the open road. The smooth power delivery makes it easy to control, even for new riders, while still offering enough punch to keep things interesting for more experienced folks. Overall, the engine and performance specs of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 make it a versatile and enjoyable motorcycle to ride, whether you're commuting to work or exploring winding country roads.

Detailed Engine Specs

• Engine Type: 649cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin
• Bore and Stroke: 83.0 x 60.0 mm
• Compression Ratio: 10.8:1
• Fuel System: Digital fuel injection with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
• Maximum Power: Approximately 61 hp at 7,500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: Approximately 46.3 lb-ft at 6,600 rpm

Chassis and Dimensions

Alright, let’s talk about the chassis and dimensions of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. The frame is a high-tensile steel diamond frame, which provides a sturdy and responsive foundation for the bike. This type of frame is known for its strength and rigidity, contributing to the bike's stable handling and overall durability. The suspension system consists of a 41mm telescopic fork at the front and a lay-down offset rear shock with adjustable preload. The front suspension offers 5.1 inches of travel, providing a comfortable ride and good control over bumps and uneven surfaces. The rear suspension has 3.2 inches of travel and can be adjusted to suit different rider weights and riding conditions. This adjustability allows you to fine-tune the suspension to achieve the optimal balance between comfort and handling. In terms of dimensions, the Vulcan S 650 has an overall length of 90.9 inches, a width of 34.6 inches, and a height of 43.3 inches. The wheelbase is 62.0 inches, which contributes to the bike's stability and smooth ride. The seat height is a low 27.8 inches, making it accessible for riders of various heights. This low seat height enhances rider confidence, especially for those who are new to riding or have shorter legs. The bike's curb weight is 465.3 pounds, which is relatively light for a cruiser. This manageable weight makes it easier to handle, both at low speeds and when maneuvering in tight spaces. The fuel tank capacity is 3.7 gallons, providing a decent range for commuting and weekend rides. Overall, the chassis and dimensions of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 are designed to provide a comfortable, stable, and confidence-inspiring riding experience. The sturdy frame, adjustable suspension, and accessible dimensions make it a versatile choice for a wide range of riders.

Key Chassis and Dimension Specs

• Frame: High-tensile steel diamond frame
• Front Suspension: 41mm telescopic fork with 5.1 inches of travel
• Rear Suspension: Lay-down offset rear shock with adjustable preload and 3.2 inches of travel
• Overall Length: 90.9 inches
• Overall Width: 34.6 inches
• Overall Height: 43.3 inches
• Wheelbase: 62.0 inches
• Seat Height: 27.8 inches
• Curb Weight: 465.3 pounds
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7 gallons

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires

Now, let's delve into the brakes, wheels, and tires of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. These components are crucial for safety, handling, and overall riding experience. The braking system consists of a single 300mm disc at the front and a single 250mm disc at the rear. The front brake is equipped with a two-piston caliper, while the rear brake has a single-piston caliper. This setup provides adequate stopping power for the bike's weight and performance capabilities. For added safety, an ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) version is available. ABS helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing the rider to maintain control and reduce the risk of skidding. This is particularly beneficial in wet or slippery conditions, making the bike safer for both new and experienced riders. The wheels are cast aluminum, which are lightweight and durable. The front wheel is 18 inches in diameter, while the rear wheel is 17 inches. These wheel sizes contribute to the bike's stability and handling characteristics. The tires are Dunlop Sportmax D404, with a 120/70-18 tire at the front and a 160/60-17 tire at the rear. These tires are designed to provide good grip and handling in a variety of conditions. They offer a balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for both commuting and recreational riding. The tire sizes also complement the bike's overall design and contribute to its cruiser aesthetic. Overall, the brakes, wheels, and tires of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 are well-matched to the bike's performance capabilities and intended use. The braking system provides reliable stopping power, the ABS version offers added safety, and the wheels and tires contribute to the bike's stable handling and comfortable ride.

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires Specs

• Front Brake: Single 300mm disc with two-piston caliper
• Rear Brake: Single 250mm disc with single-piston caliper
• ABS: Available as an option
• Front Wheel: 18-inch cast aluminum
• Rear Wheel: 17-inch cast aluminum
• Front Tire: 120/70-18 Dunlop Sportmax D404
• Rear Tire: 160/60-17 Dunlop Sportmax D404

Styling and Ergonomics

Let's shift our focus to the styling and ergonomics of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. This bike stands out with its modern and sleek design, setting it apart from traditional cruisers. The low-slung profile, combined with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, gives it a contemporary look that appeals to a wide range of riders. The Vulcan S 650 is available in various color options, allowing riders to choose a style that suits their personal taste. The blacked-out components, such as the engine, frame, and wheels, add to its modern and aggressive appearance. One of the key features of the Vulcan S 650 is its customizable ergonomics. Kawasaki offers Ergo-Fit components, which include adjustable footpegs and seats, allowing riders to tailor the bike to their individual body types and preferences. The footpegs can be adjusted forward or backward, providing a more relaxed or aggressive riding position. The seats are available in different thicknesses, allowing riders to adjust the seat height and overall comfort. The low seat height of 27.8 inches makes the bike accessible for riders of various heights, enhancing rider confidence and control. The riding position is upright and relaxed, with a comfortable reach to the handlebars. This makes the Vulcan S 650 suitable for both commuting and longer rides. The seat is well-padded, providing ample support for extended periods in the saddle. Overall, the styling and ergonomics of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 are designed to provide a comfortable, confidence-inspiring, and visually appealing riding experience. The modern design, customizable ergonomics, and comfortable riding position make it a versatile choice for a wide range of riders.

Styling and Ergonomics Highlights

• Design: Modern and sleek with a low-slung profile
• Color Options: Various color choices available
• Ergo-Fit: Adjustable footpegs and seats for customizable ergonomics
• Seat Height: Low seat height of 27.8 inches for enhanced accessibility
• Riding Position: Upright and relaxed for comfortable riding

Conclusion

So, what’s the final verdict on the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650? This bike is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a versatile, stylish, and comfortable cruiser. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine provides smooth and manageable power, making it suitable for both new and experienced riders. The adjustable footpegs and seat allow you to customize the ergonomics to fit your body, ensuring a comfortable ride. With its modern design and reliable performance, the Vulcan S 650 stands out in the cruiser market. Whether you're commuting to work, cruising on the weekends, or embarking on longer adventures, this bike is up to the task. If you're in the market for a cruiser that combines style, comfort, and performance, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 is definitely worth considering. Happy riding, everyone!