2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S Test Ride Review [SURPRISING]
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- Опубліковано 2 лип 2019
- The 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S is the Japanese cruiser you didn't know you needed and in this video, I tell you exactly what I love about this amazing machine.
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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 120/70x18
Rear Tire 160/60x17
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/491.7 (non-ABS)**
Fuel Capacity 3.7 gal
Wheelbase 62.0 in
Color Choices Metallic Matte Covert Green, Stormcloud Blue
Warranty 12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional) 12, 24, 36, or 48 months
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MotoVlog Camera: GoPro Hero 7 Black
Point & Shoot: Sony RX 100ii
DSLR: Sony a6500 w/ Sigma 18-35 f1.8
Audio: Sony 2 Channel Lapel Mic
Helmet: Shoei RF1200
Gloves: Dainese 4 stroke
Jacket: Dainese Air
#Kawasaki #Vulcan - Авто та транспорт
![2019 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero First Ride Review [Japanese Harley?!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/11DcMoYJfA8/mqdefault.jpg)
![2019 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero First Ride Review [Japanese Harley?!]](/img/tr.png)
![2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S First Ride Review [Japanese Harley?]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/aDev7IrO2Jo/mqdefault.jpg)
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DukeOfDC how about 2019 Honda Shadow Phantom 750? I’m debating between the Vulcan S and the Shadow.
Would this bike be okay if your 5'11?
I live in this area and I just checked that exact bike out with Daniel at woods.
@@rileydd08 The Vulcan S has the "ergo-fit" system which allow customization for all rider sizes (peg positions, seat options, handlebar options). I'm 5'11 too, and you'd be fine with the standard setup.
How about fuel consumption? About when you accelerate?
"Im pre-disposed not to like this bike"
3 seconds later in first gear
"I love this bike"
I tell it how it is hahaha
So I went and sat on this bike at my local dealership and went home and wanted to watch some videos on it. Only to find a video you of THE EXACT BIKE I SAT ON FROM THE DEALER IN MY TOWN. You drove right past my house on your test drive. And yes that school zone sucks.
well now i know where you live.
Великий Рен lmao
Великий Рен party at this guys house
It is worth mentioning that Vulcan S has a parallel-twin engine instead of a V-twin design, and therefore, it has very different control riding characteristics. When I go to very light throttle, it gets a slight vibration/shudder. Not really lugging motor and it will accelerate fine. The Vulcan S simply doesn’t like “light throttle “. It likes to be wound out and shifted around 5000 rpm. I wanted to shift at 2000 rpm and ride at 2500 to 3000 rpm and Vulcan S engine doesn’t like that (shudder and vibrate). I now shift at 4500 to 5000 rpm and cruise around 5000 rpm. It just takes some getting used to (for those who used to ride a V-twin bike).
This bike is a sleeper that many cruiser riders don’t know about. It’s a cruiser with a mild sport bike engine that handles well. This in an awesome bike. I currently ride a Sportster but will seriously check out one of these for my next purchase. This bike can cruise all day long or hammer some twisties comfortably, nice review!
I really really enjoyed this thing, and I'm so glad I gave it a chance.
Thanks for offering a real world view of every bike you review. Great videos man... Keep it up.
Thanks for the input.
One of the things I liked about watching this vid is seeing how you considered the potential hazards.
It was noticeable and refreshing.
Bought my 2017 Vulcan S SE new, have over 16k miles on it now. It is my daily rider. No regrets. I added Viking saddle bags (get stronger bolts), and a fully adjustable Madstad windshield for winter. Tons of fun. Expect about 7-8k miles for rear tires. Front about 14k. Read the manual and follow the break-in and service schedules -- bike will last forever.
Still riding it two years later?
@@FloridaaboysTV I traded it in with 23k miles and got a z900rs. No regrets on the Vulcan-S. Also got a 2005 Vulcan 1500 classic for my bagger. See ya on the road!
That is a gorgeous bike and doesn't sound obnoxious. My favorite cruiser so far
Thank you for your review, you helped me a lot to decide what to get , there is only one little thing is missing! The sound of the bike 🏍
Texan here checking in. We pronounce it like Brawn-fulls. Good review :D
Haha I learned the hard way. Thanks for the positive vibes though!
My New Vulcan arrives tomorrow! I’m so fricken excited!! Cool video. Thanks.
How is it?
sir, we are waiting:)
Excellent overview and ride. I can see something like this in yours or my future just to cruiser around and enjoy being on two wheels... comfort and all.
Amen brother
I want one! Great review. Thank you!
I have a 2017. I absolutely love it. It really is in a category all its own. Great bike for the money.
Bryan Petrich how tall are you ? I ask Bcuz I’m new to ridding and I’m 6’5 trying to see if it’s good enough to fit me
Great review... Beautiful countryside there, in that part of Texas
Just bought a 2020 today, black and Dark Purple. I pick it up on Tuesday!!! I have never wanted a long weekend to end so badly!!!!
What a gorgeous location you are riding at!!
Excelent sound, i can hear the motor perfectly, great v.
Been wanting to buy a comfortable bike since I like to travel far and this one is my top 1 watch list..nice review!
I love your review short and fun
I love your comment!
I bought one in December, came from a zx9r so didn't expect much, I was very surprised at how good this bike is and getting better as engine frees off. Comfy, quick to say its not high power but has low down grunt, copes well 2up, only letdown I find is the budget suspension, iv fitted preload adjusters to front and taken the oil up one grade and found it much better.
Very cool! I certainly agree with you on the suspension front, but glad to hear there was a relatively inexpensive option for improving it
Wow I live down the street from that dealer ship. It's crazy that I just stumbled across your video and it happens to be made in my town lol, and yes you pronounce New Braunfels wrong but you were very close. I hope you enjoy riding on our messed up streets lol. Be safe out there.
I got in trouble with corporate for saying it wrong lol... shame on me... Glad you enjoyed the video!
I've got a Vulcan 500, these Kawasaki twins are legends in my mind. Super reliable with usable power everywhere, comfy but handles shockingly well. I love my bike, but a Vulcan S is pretty tempting... I like the style alot and fuel injection would be nice. Seems like the spiritual successor to the 500 but better in every way.
good review. beautiful scenery. i like this bike
1st vid I see from you,came in my recommended,subbed :)
That’s so cool!! Thanks for subscribing
Most ppl dont understand what a incredible machine that is...
Really enjoyed your video keep them coming! I would like to see you ride the Suzuki M109
Thank you! Comments like this make my day
Those are incredible machines
I had this few years ago and I loved the bike!
The only annoying thing is the peg scratching the road when leaning on curves at speed. I know that it is not design to go for speed when turning. But the bike was so fun to ride with, given the perfect powerful sporty engine (for its class).
Once you tasted it, other cruiser at the same class will not be appealing anymore...
I have a '17 ABS SE which I bought brand new in early '18 and now have over 5000 miles on it. I absolutely love the bike, it is so fun to ride. I'm 6-1 and 185#. Bike was setup mid reach from the factory, but you get all the parts to extend or reduce for free from Kawasaki. I rode around for about a week in mid reach until my parts arrived and it was fine. Once I setup for extended reach it was perfect.
I totally agree that it's like a mini Xdiavel. The Vulcan S is so good, I don't even know where to go for my next bike. Kawasaki should definitely come out with a 1200 version of this like you said.
What do you mean you get em for free?
You get all the parts you need for your ego-fit free from Kawasaki when you buy the bike new. I got the longer shift rod and seat for free. If you go reduced reach you get the longer handlebars and shorter seat for free.
It's sold as a learner approved bike here in Australia.
It's based on power to weight restrictions, but limited overall with an engine capacity of not more than 650cc.
Some sports bikes are sold with factory throttle governors or restrictor plates so they qualify.
Best part, ride it like a cruiser but when when you want to have some fun keep the revs up. It will go pretty good when ya push it.
I really wanted a Rebel 500 for my forever bike and was sold on it.... until I sat on the Vulcan S. The only thing issue I had was that my arms felt out stretched to their limit and I'm 6' tall with a 34 inch inseam. Might sit on some more bikes, but the Vulcan S is looking really good right now.
Thank you for at least getting on the bike, which so few "demonstrators" do. You actually got into a little bit of the speed and grunt the bike has, which gave me a better idea about it. I don't think I want this bike, as I thought I once did.
I am 6’ 5” tall. You actually did not mention the EURO-FIT program Kawasaki has. They outfitted me with a long shifter rod and moved foot pegs far forward, my seat changed out for a gel seat and designed for sitting far back. The handlebars were fine but there are 2 handlebar choices, 3 seats, and 3 foot peg positions and they say to outfit the bike up to a 6’ 2” rider. But, in my lifetime I’ve gotten used to being a little too tall for everything. Love the bike. I don’t even have to downshift to throttle up for a pass. But if I do it’s a rocket. It was reviews like your’s that lead me to this bike. I purchased it June 1st, 2019 and put 4,700 miles on it before the snow hit the fan Sunday night here near Chicago.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 is a amazing motorcycle!
Nice video Duke! Can you consider test-riding an Indian Scout Bobber or Harley-Davidson Iron 883? I'm loving the diversity in your reviews!
I’ve got my eyes peeled for an Indian dealership out here because the Scout and the FTR are high on my list. I’ll keep the 883 in mind as well!
“brakes are a lil mushy wooshy oh ga lee geez” subbed instantly.
Creed 😂😂
The good thing about the Vulcan a the dealer can custum fit it to your style of riding
River Rd is a beautiful drive! Seems like the Yamaha Bolt is a good bike to compare with this if you get the chance. Great review!
I just wish the speed limit was a little higher
Agreed!
You did say u like forward controls, I’m a new subscriber, & looking for videos on more comfortable bike such as this one & other cruisers, you say at end of ur videos to let you know what we want to see. I’ve watched a couple & now you have me as a subscriber, I will look forward to watching ur videos, keep up the good work!
Thank you my man!!
M109r, I know it’s old school since 2007, but how it compares to the new bike of today.
That's it man, I'm selling both my Harleys and getting one of these ....
"Are you tired of big displacement engines with hardly any horsepower to show for it? Then have we got a deal for you."
Dude, swear to gawd I just bought one.
@@nedwalport4426 how do you like it? From everything I've seen about it and sitting on one myself I bet you're pretty happy. I need to go test ride it this weekend...
@@nedwalport4426
Did you really just buy one?
Did you really sell your Harleys?
@@nedwalport4426 I am buying one as a second bike... hell yahhh!
I love that color
Yeah, a nice play on the Kawasaki Green🤔😁👍!
I really liked the matting
Very good review! I'm a beginner and have always loved Harley's and my only option was a HD 500 which didn't suit me at all as I'm 6'5. After doing some homework I settled on a 2019 Vulcan S in matte black with the extended reach and it's perfect. I've done nearly 1000ks and have so much fun on it id wished I had of done it years ago. Better late than never as they say. 😀
So glad you enjoyed the review and even happier you found the right bike for you! Safe riding out there!
@ I sit really comfortable on it and haven't cramped up yet, although the longest I've been on it is roughly an hour. I found it to be a great bike, though the seat could have a bit more cushion in it. Apart from that, I'd highly recommend it!!
@ I had a Vulcan EN500 way back in the day too. The Vulcan S is a perfect upgrade. I love the sport engine hidden in a cruiser frame in both these bikes. I've done 600+ mile back to back days on my Vulcan S. Get about 150 miles per tank and I definitely need a 20 minute break during those fillups. See you on the road.
...nice day for a ride...👍
I ride a Harley and I luv those
River Road! I'll be camping there this coming weekend. Ha!
I started out on a 2007 Vulcan 500 LTD, loved the sound of the low end. It was a perfect beginner bike for me. I road it for about 1 yr and sold it to my neighbor. Now I ride a 900z. Still miss my Vulcan and would definitely buy one again.
Great review. I am getting back into motorcycling after a very long break and so am one of those consumers you mention looking for a comfortable ride. Have been looking at the Vulcan S and the reviews have been consistently good. However I am also hearing good things about the new Honda Rebel 500 so would be great if you could get to review that one too.
The rebel is a small bike , that 500 motor is a sewing machine though.
I really need to get out on the new Rebel 500 soon, seeing as I didn't love the 300 and throughout that testride I thought the 500 would solve all the issues I was having.
@Ian Mann thanks Ian. I am booked in to do just that this weekend! Will let you know how I get on.
A long term owner customized his Vulcan with many accessories and said the seat isn’t good past 30 miles. A custom touring seat is worth the investment he said.
Yes I had my seat replaced with gel implants it us very comfortable now.
Really like your review. It’s surprising that you enjoyed the Vulcan more than the Zx6r but then again not. It’s more comfy and the twin cylinder has a more charm than a fire breathing inline four. Either way great work.
I liked them both in their own way!
You describe the Vulcan S exactly how I felt when test riding one, like a cruiser sport bike, not a cruiser muscle bike which is what it looks like it’s trying to be. I have a Versys 650 which shares an engine and frame and honestly the Vulcan S is more fun. I wouldn’t mind swapping, seriously. I’m thinking about it. Kawasaki in general and especially that 650 twin are severely under appreciated. LOVE that induction note! All of the newer 650 models seem to have it and it’s louder than the older ones. Are you aware of the Ergo Fit system on that bike? It can be set up for short and tall riders.
I don't even have a motorcycle, but I like your video
Hello from Ukraine =)
Hello!! Thank you for the kind words :) Means a lot
...has fantastic ergonomics.
oh my God, Freddie's ice cream.
*Comes back after a cut with some ice-cream*
Review the Moto Guzzi v9 bobber sport and some v7's. Vulcan review was great, that's my bike I own 🤗. Looking to get a Guzzi and cant decide between v7 and v9 even after riding both. Their not super fast but super comfortable and fun and sound lovely with an exhaust.
Don't think I've ever heard someone butcher 'New Braunfels' that way. Thanks for the review.
Welp that’s what happens when you’re driven to a new city you’ve never been to at 7am lol
Yeh, in Texas it's not really pronounced the way it's written. But lots of towns are like that all over.
I'm learning that every day lol
It's interesting you said vibration was non-existent. From the Go Pro footage, it seemed to vibrate more than any road footage , in the back country area) I've seen in a while, as you were cruising at mid-50's the engine seemed to be buzzing more than I'd expect, and at the end of your video, your voice kind of did that staccato thing for a second or two that happens during vibrations. The bike seems really nice and I'd be interested but I think I'd prefer an 800cc or 900cc engine to a 650.
I have a 2018 650S. Love the bike.
Hate the seat. Can't sit on it after an hour. Hurts too bad and I just lost 40 lbs.
Just hit 500 miles. Not sure if it's normal or not but I found the chain slack over 40mm. I corrected it. No other complaints than the seat.
Nice review sir.. How about the throttle response in all rev range? Is it accurate and smooth?
It's not my cup of tea. But I'm glad manufacturers are still producing some affordable bikes to pull a new generation of riders into the addiction. Riding is fun and my advice to entry-level riders is to forget about TFT displays and pay up a little for ABS! As always, Duke, your reviews are informative and entertaining!
Thanks, Ben! Really appreciate the kind words. People like you certainly keep me going :)
Pull new generation of rider 😄that is true because I am considering buying one it looks so good. Maybe I can ride it to work every day.
Hi sir, if could request a review, could you please review the 2019 Honda CBR500R . Thank you :) love ur first rides.
very nice on kawasaki
With the honda rebel 500 and vulcan s, I really really hope yamaha does a sport cruiser soon.
yamaha bolt?
@@TheKoosh I wouldnt say that is a sport cruiser? If yamaha makes a sport cruiser, I expect it to go faster then it's competition.
Imagine a sport cruiser with an R6 powerplant but tuned more in conjunction to a cruiser powerband.
"Such a great sound"
You might be the first person out of the few hundred I've seen that has said that haha. Practically everyone (just barring you at the moment) says the sound is lacking/too quiet and you either need to drill holes into the stock exhaust to get it sounding better or get a new exhaust.
Great review anyways though.
LOL @ "...look at that. That's wide open baby." LOL, that was funny. :)
After riding all these super sports with no room for airflow this one was delightful haha
"In a perfect world they would make a Vulcan that has a 1200cc twin"
Try the Vulcan 900 Custom or Vulcan 1700 Voyager
I want one...
Hey Duke, i actually tried to listen to the engine sound, but it's kinda hard to focus in such videos (not your fault ofc) but i have a question following. I have 2018 model (the same with abs and all), and it's my first bike. Did the engine sound kinda "whistling" to you ? i mean, other than the usual "burping" of chopper/cruiser bikie type you can hear the continuous high pitched buzzing while riding which lowers in pitch the slower you go. Stops when still. i can hear this most when im slowing down. All liquids changed on time, chain lubricated, i don't know if that's just this bike simply having this sound because Kawasaki mede it more sporty/race type, or im missing something. And another question, if i may,. Changing gears mostly produces this loud "clak" sound. When changing from neutral to first it almost jumps the whole bike, is it normal ? i always wait with ride until the engine warms up and lowers rpm's.
Ive owned nothing but Hondas, but I want one of these so bad. Id have to see if Mustang ever makes a seat for it before I get one. Stock seats tear my lower back up. The Corbin looks like the same ‘banana’ shape, I need a flat bucket surface.
The only reason I bought the S because of the custum fit
I really like the look of this bike and it features in numerous "Best bikes for taller riders". I'm 6"2, has any of my size or taller got any experience with this bike?
great test, try Honda CB650R NSC
Thank you! On my list!
There actually limiting the speed with which you can drive, thus the speed limits ARE bigger in Texas.
That made my brain hurt more than it should have.
🤣🤣🤣👍👍👍
This is currently on my list as my 1st bike. How would u compare this to the rebel 500? Or what else would u recommends I check out for cruisers around this price point?
mine only makes 15k per liter a deposit only makes 170km, I think it drinks a lot, it has the original Kawasaki Arrow exhaust and driving slowly
I got that very same bike.
oh snap thats river road
Wowww nice vlog
Thank you!
Now im always waiting your vlog.. Idol..
I'd like to get my motorcycle license... learner's permit first of course.
But my family and everyone else always tea lks about thre family they closed from motorcycle accidents because caf drivers and be, incredibly rude and uncaring for motorcycle drivers.
And the Kawasaki has always been the one I enjoyed looking at learning about and especially hearing run that, lovely little engine.
I was tossing up between this bike and the harley street500 as a learner bike. I think Ive decided already just by watching this video. Can the exhaust be upgraded on the Vulcan?
I'm 5'6 you think this will be good
Anyway you can review the new BMW C650 GT? Not really a motorcycle, scooter by visual, but performace and specs say otherwise. Just curious to get your insight on the machine. Planning on doing some long road trips in near future, shopping around.
I've been hunting hard to get one of these. I dont like the 2020 color schemes so I'm looking for this one or their blue one from 2019
I own this in India where it costs $10K ( imported from Thailand ) ! As much as I’m happy about this bike, I must admit that Suspension could have been better and ground clearance could have been higher !
In any case, this is the best bike I could afford and I’m happy that I chose this over Harley Street 750.
Ian Mann : Surprised to know you lived in India.. I’ve Enfield Thunderbird too !
I've heard similar complaints about the suspension, but I suppose if they had invested in nicer suspension then the cost would have gone up
I’m currently looking to sell my GSXR 750 and I’m thinking of getting a new Vulcan s it’s cheap so I can buy a bigger bike next year and still keep this for committing to work or just for cruising on a nice day
You should note that the Vulcan S is limited to 35Kw so that it's already available on the A2 license. Completely unrestriced it's 50 something. It's pretty much a brilliant move from Kawasaki imho.
It was either this or Yamaha Bolt, I went with the Bolt and have ZERO regrets but it was a tough decision but ultimately I believe the Bolt is just a better bike overall.
I was looking at the bolt as well but I couldn’t find forward controls. Vulcan is an amazing bike
Gas Man they have forward controls....I just am got a huge fan as I think it gives you just a little less control of the bike but a little more relaxed.
Interesting...the reps at the Toronto bike show did the rebel a disservice. They said they were unaware of forward controls for the rebel. I understand the control thing but I am physically unable to sit in a mid control or sport bike position. I don’t have any regrets. Rubber side down👍
There's a weird motion blur throughout the whole video, everything blurs a bit when the camera moves. Might be a problem with the video's FPS.
Can you review the new triumph 2019 rocket three?
Please review the 2019 Yamaha star 250. Thinking about buying one for my daughters first bike?
You can buy me one, thanks dad! 😂
I have the exact one but I got everything on it.Bags,windshield, crashbar, radio, ect.
you got any custom pipes that don't sound like this hairdryer?
@@Voltomess check out Von and Hans on Facebook they make custom pipe and more.
I have a 2017 Vulcan S... seat makes my ass go numb on longer rides, might be the riding position. Fun bike to ride around town, my other bike is a CB1000r, for when I want to go nuts. Vulcan S is a laidback, easy bike to ride and enjoy. You'll never have an "oh shit" moment on the Vulcan if you're an experienced rider. Kawasaki really did a great job engineering this model.
Can you add another disk brake to the front?
Nice
is it a bike only for the biker himself ? How comfortable is the rear seat ?
Nice Vidoe. Love it.....I am from Germany and Braunfels is German and means something like Brownrock..... :-)
There are some towns in Texas that are originally German towns. But mexirats have taken over...
Would this be a good beginners bike. Im 30 and finally want to pick up my first motorcycle. Vulcan S is one that catches my attention the most.
For a first first bike, just buy something used and old. Seriously, you will slide or drop the bike, why not learn on a piece of shit you don't mind getting scratches. 1-2 years later you can buy the Vulcan S.
I'm 43 and a brand new rider. I bought a brand new Vulcan S and immediately put Puig Engine guards on it. I also added a rear seat and pegs. I figure the rear pegs will act a bit like sliders when I eventually drop the bike. I'm not a fan of the "learn on a piece of crap" strategy. I wanted to learn on the bike I intend to ride. I started slow. I did lots of parking lot drills and low speed maneuvering. When I drop it, oh well... No big fuckin' deal. I will pick it up and keep going. I don't give a shit about a few scratches or dents.
I got a 2017 vulcan, I loved it and had a bout 3k on it. Sadly a friend wrecked it and it was never the same so i decided to upgrade to a MT-10, great bike and a great starter bike though, would recomend.
Thanks for the insight! This kind of stuff always helps potential buyers
An MT-10 is a great starter bike?
No I'm sorry, I meant the Vulcan, MT-10 is great, definitely not an starter bike though
No I'm sorry, I meant the Vulcan, MT-10 is great, definitely not an starter bike though
@@Turbo495 i'm thinking about getting the MT-07
I have 7000 miles on my 15 which is the same bike except the color options.. The seat is horrid and painful on the tail bone for me on rides longer then an hour...the wind will crank your neck...I have the puig windscreen.. The motor is fun and overall for the price its agood deal...you may get hosed on the re sale tho...