2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE Review

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE
2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE

 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE
2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE

 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE
2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE

 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE
2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE

 



 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE Review

 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE on www.Totalmotorcycle.com

 

BREAKING BOUNDARIES…

 

Unlike any other cruiser, the Vulcan® S is geared to fit a wide range of riders. Never taking away from its stylish features, this bike takes comfort, adjustability, and Ninja®-derived power and performance to the next level.

 

The Vulcan S is not your average cruiser. It stands apart, with its Parallel Twin engine, unique frame and suspension layout, and its very non-traditional looks. Unlike any other cruiser, the Vulcan S is geared to fit a wide range of riders. Never taking away from its stylish features, this bike takes comfort, adjustability, and Ninja®-derived power and performance to the next level.

 

With its unique engine, frame, suspension and non-traditional cruiser looks, the Vulcan® S was designed to be different. It was also designed to provide a high level of fit and comfort to help inspire a confidence in riding that makes the Vulcan® S especially attractive to new riders.

 

KAWASAKI RETURNS WITH THE VULCAN S PLATFORM, THE MODERN CRUISER WITH CUSTOMIZABLE ERGO-FIT™ COMPONENETS AND A SMOOTH RIDE

 

Returning for 2017 is the comfortable, sporty, smooth and easy-to-ride cruiser, the Kawasaki Vulcan S motorcycle. Designed to rethink cruisers, with a low-seat height, sporty suspension, comfortable and adjustable ergonomics, the Vulcan S line of bikes is back with added features.

 

The Vulcan S has the same low silhouette of a bigger-bore Vulcan® cruiser, mixed with Kawasaki sportbike-derived power and handling, as well as its popular ERGO-FIT components, designed to comfortably fit a wide range of riders.

 

For 2017, the Kawasaki Vulcan S returns with the smooth ride and cruiser-good looks, but with a new added feature. First, all Vulcan S models will feature a gear-position indicator; knowing what gear you’re in is a major plus for riders.

 


Your Way

 

Vulcan S, not your average cruiser. Standing apart, with its Parallel Twin engine, unique frame and suspension layout and designed for independent minded riders, Vulcan S does not require the rider to conform to some “herd-mentality”, outdated fashion or lifestyle. Accessible in all senses of the word, the accommodating new Vulcan S encourages you to go Your Way!

 



 

 

 

 


 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

 

KEY FEATURES

 

• SMOOTH AND POWERFUL, YET EASY-TO-CONTROL ENGINE
• ULTRA-LOW SEAT HEAT HEIGHT
• ERGO-FIT™ 3-POSITION FOOTPEGS
• ERGO-FIT™ HANDLEBAR AND SEATS ALLOW FURTHER ERGONOMIC TUNING
• UNIQUE STYLING WITH A MODERN FLAIR
• VULCAN® S ABS SE ADDS 2-TONE PAINT
• VULCAN® S ABS CAFÈ INCLUDES WIND DEFLECTOR AND 3-COLOR PAINT


 

 

 

 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

 

2017 KAWASAKI VULCAN S:
” NEW All Vulcan S models feature new paint schemes and colors
” NEW Gear-position indicator on all models.
” ERGO-FIT components allows for multiple seat and handlebar options as well as footpeg placement, at no additional charge (see below for details)
” Proven 649cc, parallel-twin engine provides smooth power delivery
” Lightest motorcycle in its class, smooth suspension
” Low cruiser design, narrow chassis and comfortable, tapered seat make it easy to reach the ground in stop-and-go city traffic

 

The Vulcan S cruiser returns with Kawasaki’s user-friendly and unique ERGO-FIT components. This allows for two seat options for added comfort and rider placement, three-foot control placement options for added control, and two different reach handlebars.
Furthermore, the Vulcan S boasts one of the lowest weights of any motorcycle in its class (twin cylinder cruiser of similar displacement) and we all know what that means – easier to maneuver, quicker acceleration, easier to stop, quicker to turn and smooth suspension action.

 

Another standout element of the 2017 Vulcan S is its 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. The engine is very smooth when pulling away from a traffic light, and responsive when the rider wants to accelerate. This makes it suitable for novice riders, while its top-end power and the nimble handling will keep more experienced riders entertained all day.

 

 

THE 2017 VULCAN S
The Vulcan S platform is designed to enhance a rider’s individuality. With a list of available accessories and optional ERGO-FIT components, the Vulcan S also comes in a variety of models, each with their own unique style.

 

The Vulcan S cruiser is available in four configurations:
” Vulcan S
” Vulcan S ABS
” Vulcan S ABS SE (Special Edition)
” Vulcan S ABS Café

 

To even further help the Vulcan S stand out from the market, Kawasaki introduces new colors for the entire range of models for 2017, starting with the Vulcan S and Vulcan S ABS, which both come in a Metallic Matte Carbon Gray.

 

The Vulcan S ABS SE (Special Edition) has high-class looks and style with Metallic Imperial Red paint and a Metallic Spark Black graphic. The SE also includes black wheels with a red pin stripe to match the paint scheme as well as color-matched radiator and side-frame covers. The radiator cover features a multi-tone graphic.

 

Finally, the Vulcan S ABS Café will be available in two colors: Metallic Matte Carbon Gray with Matte Urban City White graphics, or Pearl Blizzard White with Candy Lime Green accents. For 2017, the Vulcan S ABS Café features a new solid mounting system for the stylish front wind deflector.

 

 

COMFORT & CONFIDENCE
There are many aspects that can influence the comfort and confidence of a motorcycle rider, and one of the most obvious is the fit.

 

So, first and foremost, the Vulcan S has been designed to accommodate a wide range of riders.

 

Being a cruiser-style motorcycle, the seat has a low height of 27.8 inches and is conveniently tapered at the front, meaning most riders will be able to place their feet firmly on the ground, helping to keep them stable when stopped, and increasing confidence in stop-and-go city traffic.

 

The Vulcan S has a slim chassis thanks to the narrow parallel-twin engine, which has its engine cylinders positioned further forward than a V-twin engine. The parallel-twin configuration also enabled engineers to route the exhaust under the engine and away from the rider’s legs. A further benefit of the slim chassis is an increased lean angle when cornering.

 

The Vulcan S suspension was designed to absorb the bumps and give the rider positive feedback, allowing them to relax and feel in control.

 

 

TAILORED FIT
Kawasaki offers several Kawasaki Genuine Accessories to tailor the motorcycle to fit individual riders. The ERGO-FIT Reduced Reach Seat, for example, moves the hip support 2 inch further forward, making it easier for riders with a shorter inseam to reach the adjustable footpegs and handlebar. There is also an optional ERGO-FIT Extended Reach Seat with firmer foam with a gel insert that moves the hip support further back to accommodate taller riders.

 

The rider’s forward-positioned footpegs are mounted in a relaxed position that is typical of the cruiser riding experience. As a first for this class of motorcycle, the footpegs have three positions to accommodate a variety of riders. With an adjustment range of 1 inch forward and 1 inch backwards from the middle mounting points, the footpegs are able to suit riders of varying stature for maximum confidence and comfort. ERGO-FIT shift rods are required when the footpegs are repositioned.

 

It doesn’t stop there. Kawasaki also offers an ERGO-FIT Reduced Reach handlebar to help riders with shorter arms to comfortably reach the bar, which is brought 1 inch closer to the rider.

 

When combined with the low seat height, adjustable footpegs and range of accessory options, the Vulcan S motorcycles have been designed to instill confidence and increase the overall riding enjoyment, making it a good choice for a wide range of riders. As an added bonus, the selected ERGO-FIT parts will be fitted to the motorcycle at the time of purchase to ensure customers leave the Kawasaki dealership with the ideal fit.

 

For the rider who wants to take along a friend, the Vulcan S cruiser is customizable with a selection of optional Kawasaki Genuine Accessories such as a passenger seat, and passenger footpeg setup that will accommodate a second rider. A passenger backrest can also be added for comfort, confidence and style.

 

 

CONTROLS
Continuing with the tailored fit theme of the 2017 Vulcan S, both the clutch and brake levers are adjustable for easy reach to suit a range of hand sizes. The rider will also appreciate the Positive Neutral Finder, which makes it easier to select neutral when stopped.

 

The wide diameter handlebar provides a positive feel and is rubber-mounted to help reduce vibration, increasing overall comfort.

 

The instrumentation consists of a compact analog tachometer with a multifunction dual window. The digital display features speed, fuel level, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, range, average and instant fuel economy as well as an Economical Riding Indicator to show when the rider is optimizing fuel economy. New for 2017 model year is a factory installed GPI (Gear Position Indicator) to keep the rider informed as to the transmission gear selected.

 

 

 


ENGINE
The liquid-cooled 649cc parallel twin engine is another important aspect of the Vulcan S. It brings many distinct advantages over a regular cruiser, which includes its Kawasaki sportbike DNA that enables superb flexibility at all engine speeds, a healthy dose of power and legendary dependability. It is also considerably smoother than the V-twin engines used in most cruisers.

 

For the Vulcan S, the engine has been engineered specifically to make it cruiser-friendly and to inspire confidence in new riders, while still being fun and responsive for experienced riders. There has been specific tuning to the camshaft profiles, intake funnel length, throttle body spacer and air intake to provide exceptional low- and mid-range power delivery. The aim was to create an engine with user-friendly characteristics that helps ensure the motorcycle is easy to ride, with a smooth power delivery that is responsive to rider inputs at low speed. It also has enough power at higher RPM to keep it entertaining, being considerably more powerful than most cruisers, without becoming intimidating.

 

Thanks to its use of digital fuel injection technology to carefully meter the fuel used by the 649cc engine, the Vulcan S cruiser will sip gas reasonably from its 3.7-gallon fuel tank, providing more miles and smiles between fuel stops.

 

The exhaust system has been routed under the engine to keep the motorcycle narrow for easy reach to the ground. It uses a dual-wall header pipe construction with a large diameter that is designed to look good and sound even better, having a distinctive growl that separates it from the typical cruiser.

 

The six-speed transmission drives an O-ring chain to efficiently transfer engine power to the road. It also has a Kawasaki Positive Neutral Finder: When stopped, this allows you to simply upshift from first to select neutral easily.

 

 

CHASSIS
With its cruiser appeal, the Vulcan S is long and low, with a wheelbase designed for increased performance at typical highway cruising speeds. Kawasaki brought its sportbike expertise to create the slim, lightweight chassis that has a low center of gravity and centralized mass for even greater performance as well as nimble handling. These benefits will be felt as soon as you maneuver it out of the garage or into a tight space, but will be most appreciated on a Sunday morning ride.

 

The perimeter frame adds to the unique styling of the Vulcan S and incorporates a rear subframe with slim backbone that eliminates seat rails. By keeping the motorcycle narrow, it helps the rider’s feet reach the ground more easily. There is also a “D” section steel swingarm that provides both style and strength.

 

The 31-degree rake and 4.7 inch trail of the front fork contribute to the light handling and easy control of the motorcycle, with the fork prioritized towards comfort and control.

 

The suspension was designed to absorb bumps and provide plenty of feedback. In fact, despite its low appearance, the Vulcan S has an ample 3.15 inches of rear wheel travel, which contributes to the greater comfort.

 

The rear shock also includes a seven-position, cam-style preload adjuster. It can be easily adjusted to suit the rider or when carrying a passenger and luggage. This means the Vulcan S rider will enjoy confidence thanks to its suspension technology that is neither rough nor fatiguing, as it can sometimes be on cruiser motorcycles with short-travel suspension.

 

The 2017 Vulcan S motorcycle is fitted with stylish cast wheels that feature a five-spoke design with twin spokes. These measure 18-inch front, 17-inch rear and exemplify cruiser style. The wheels are fitted with modern, high-performance radial tires to provide responsive handling.

 

The brakes comprise a single 300mm rotor and twin-piston caliper up front, with a 250mm rotor mated to a single-piston rear caliper. The Vulcan S ABS, Vulcan S ABS SE and Vulcan S ABS Café model also add anti-lock braking (ABS) technology, which contributes to rider confidence in the motorcycle’s stopping ability because it assists braking under certain conditions.

 

 

STYLING
As with any cruiser, style is very important, and the Vulcan S doesn’t disappoint. It incorporates elements such as the teardrop-shaped, 3.7-gallon fuel tank, inverted triangular headlight and black mirrors to match the black frame and exhaust muffler.

 

The distinctive front headlight design works in conjunction with a large and bright LED taillight. The rear light is incorporated into the rear fender, which is supported by the separate rear subframe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: ABS $7,699 USD

 

Power
Engine
4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Displacement
649cc
Bore x Stroke
83.0 x 60.0mm
Compression ratio
10.8:1
Maximum Torque
46.3 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm
Fuel System
DFI® 38mm throttle bodies (2), with sub-throttle valves
Ignition
TCBI with digital advance
Transmission
6-speed with positive neutral finder
Final Drive
Sealed Chain
Performance
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel
41mm telescopic fork/5.1 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel
Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload/3.1 in
Front Tire
120/70×18
Rear Tire
160/60×17
Front Brakes
Single 300mm disc with twin-piston caliper, ABS
Rear Brakes
Single 250mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS
Details
Frame Type
High-tensile steel diamond frame
Rake/Trail
31°/4.7 in
Overall Length
90.9 in
Overall Width
34.6 in
Overall Height
43.3 in
Ground Clearance
5.1 in
Seat Height
27.8 in
Curb Weight
498.3 lb**
Fuel Capacity
3.7 gal
Wheelbase
62.0 in
Color Choices
Metallic Imperial Red
Warranty
12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional)
12, 24, 36, or 48 months

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 


 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $8399 CAD

 

ENGINE
Displacement 649cc
Type 4-stroke, Parallel Twin
Bore and stroke 83.0 x 60.0 mm
Cooling Liquid-cooled
Compression ratio 10.8:1
Valve system SOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system Fuel injection: 38mm x 2 with sub-throttles
Ignition Digital
Lubrication Forced lubrication (semi-dry sump)
BRAKES
Front: type Single 300 mm discs
Front: calipers Dual Piston
Rear: type Single 250mm disc
Rear: calipers Dual-piston
DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2,310 mm
Overall width 880 mm
Overall height 1,100 mm (High position)
Wheelbase 1,575 mm
Ground clearance 130 mm
Seat height 705 mm
Curb mass** 226 kg (EN650B: Single Seat)
Fuel capacity 14 litres
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission 6-speed, return
Final drive Chain
Primary reduction ratio 2.095 (88/42)
Gear ratio: 1st 2.438 (39/16)
Gear ratio: 2nd 1.714 (36/21)
Gear ratio: 3rd 1.333 (32/24)
Gear ratio: 4th 1.111 (30/27)
Gear ratio: 5th 0.966 (28/29)
Gear ratio: 6th 0.852 (23/27)
Final reduction ratio 3.067 (46/15)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
FRAME
Type Perimeter, high-tensile steel
Wheel travel: front 130 mm
Tire: front 120/70R18M/C 59H
Wheel travel: rear 80 mm (3.1 in.)
Tire: rear 160/60R17M/C 69H
Caster (rake) 31º
Trail 120 mm
Steering angle (left/right) 35º / 35º
SUSPENSION
Suspension, front 41 mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear Offset laydown single-shock, linkage-equipped with adjustable preload
DETAILS
Warranty 12 months warranty

 

 

 

 

 


 

2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS SE – www.Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See dealer for pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

 

Engine
Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Displacement
649 cm³
Bore x stroke
83 x 60 mm
Compression ratio
10:8:1
Valve system
DOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system
Fuel injection: 38 mm x 2 with sub-throttles
Starting System
Electric
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi dry sump
Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, front
Single 300 mm disc. Caliper: Dual-piston
Brakes, rear
Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Single-piston
Suspension, front
41 mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear
Horizontal Back-link with 7-way adjustable preload
Performance & Transmission
Maximum power
45 kW {61 PS} / 7,500 rpm
CO2 emission
109g/km
Power down kit 35 kW
Available
Maximum torque
63 Nom {6.4 kgfom} / 6,600 rpm
Transmission
6-speed
Final drive
Sealed chain
Primary Reduction Ratio
2.095 (88 / 42)
Gear Ratios 1st
2.438 (39 / 16)
Gear Ratios 2nd
1.714 (36 / 21)
Gear Ratios 3rd
1.333 (32 / 24)
Gear Ratios 4th
1.111 (30 / 27)
Gear Ratios 5th
0.966 (28 / 29)
Gear Ratios 6th
0.852 (23 / 27)
Final reduction ratio
3.067 (46 / 15)
Clutch
Wet multi-disc, manual
Frame & Dimensions
Frame type
Tubular diamond, high-tensile steel
Trail
120 mm
Wheel travel front
130 mm
Wheel travel rear
80 mm
Tyre, front
120/70 R18M/C 59H
Tyre, rear
160/60 R17M/C 69H
Steering angle, left / right
35o / 35o
L x W x H
2,310 x 880 x 1,100 mm
Wheelbase
1,575 mm
Ground clearance
130 mm
Fuel capacity
14 litres
Seat height
705 mm
Curb mass
229 kg

 

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

About Michael Le Pard 10160 Articles
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