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Ducati Scrambler Vs Kawasaki Vulcan S: Battle Of The Retro Road Warriors

Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his...

What To Know

  • The Kawasaki Vulcan S is also well-equipped, featuring a digital speedometer, a fuel gauge, and a gear indicator.
  • The Kawasaki Vulcan S offers an excellent value proposition, providing a comfortable, reliable, and feature-rich motorcycle at a more affordable price point.
  • The Ducati Scrambler is known for its agile and nimble handling, while the Kawasaki Vulcan S offers a more stable and planted ride.

The world of motorcycling is filled with a vast array of options, catering to every taste and preference. Two such motorcycles that have garnered significant attention are the Ducati Scrambler and the Kawasaki Vulcan S. Both machines offer unique characteristics and capabilities, making them worthy contenders in the realm of cruiser motorcycles. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of the Ducati Scrambler vs Kawasaki Vulcan S, exploring their features, performance, and overall value proposition.

Design and Aesthetics

The Ducati Scrambler exudes a classic and timeless appeal, paying homage to the iconic Scrambler motorcycles of the 1960s and 1970s. Its retro-inspired design features a round headlight, a minimalist fuel tank, and a comfortable upright riding position. The Kawasaki Vulcan S, on the other hand, embraces a more modern and sleek aesthetic. Its low-slung silhouette, angular lines, and aggressive stance give it a distinctive and contemporary look.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Ducati Scrambler lies an air-cooled L-twin engine that produces a healthy 80 horsepower and 58 pound-feet of torque. This engine is known for its lively and responsive nature, delivering a thrilling riding experience. The Kawasaki Vulcan S is powered by a liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that generates 61 horsepower and 44 pound-feet of torque. While it may not be as powerful as the Ducati, the Vulcan S’s engine is smooth, refined, and fuel-efficient.

Handling and Suspension

The Ducati Scrambler boasts a nimble and agile handling, making it a joy to ride through winding roads and urban environments. Its wide handlebars and upright ergonomics provide excellent control and maneuverability. The Kawasaki Vulcan S, with its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity, offers a more stable and planted ride. Its suspension system is well-tuned, ensuring a comfortable and composed ride even over rough road surfaces.

Features and Technology

The Ducati Scrambler comes equipped with a range of modern features, including a digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and a USB charging port. It also offers a variety of customization options, allowing riders to personalize their machines to their liking. The Kawasaki Vulcan S is also well-equipped, featuring a digital speedometer, a fuel gauge, and a gear indicator. It also comes with Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit system, which allows riders to adjust the handlebars, seat, and footpegs to achieve an optimal riding position.

Price and Value

The Ducati Scrambler is typically priced higher than the Kawasaki Vulcan S. However, its premium build quality, iconic design, and thrilling performance justify the additional cost for many riders. The Kawasaki Vulcan S offers an excellent value proposition, providing a comfortable, reliable, and feature-rich motorcycle at a more affordable price point.

In a nutshell: A Tale of Two Titans

The Ducati Scrambler and the Kawasaki Vulcan S represent two distinct approaches to the cruiser motorcycle segment. The Ducati Scrambler is a stylish, performance-oriented machine that evokes nostalgia and offers a thrilling riding experience. The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a modern, comfortable, and value-packed motorcycle that is ideal for both commuting and long-distance touring. Ultimately, the choice between these two titans depends on the individual rider’s preferences, riding style, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which motorcycle is more powerful, the Ducati Scrambler or the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Ducati Scrambler produces more horsepower and torque than the Kawasaki Vulcan S.

2. Which motorcycle has better handling, the Ducati Scrambler or the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Ducati Scrambler is known for its agile and nimble handling, while the Kawasaki Vulcan S offers a more stable and planted ride.

3. Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long-distance riding, the Ducati Scrambler or the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Kawasaki Vulcan S, with its lower seat height and more relaxed ergonomics, is generally considered to be more comfortable for long-distance riding.

4. Which motorcycle is more customizable, the Ducati Scrambler or the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Ducati Scrambler offers a wider range of customization options, allowing riders to personalize their machines to their liking.

5. Which motorcycle is more expensive, the Ducati Scrambler or the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Ducati Scrambler is typically priced higher than the Kawasaki Vulcan S.

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Matthew

Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his current Yamaha FZ6, Matthew enjoys tinkering with and upgrading his bikes. He has a keen interest in bike mechanics and regularly shares tips on maintenance and repairs with his readers. Matthew also provides gear and equipment reviews, helping other riders choose the best kit for weekend rides or longer touring trips. Beyond talking motorbikes, Matthew's blog gives readers an insight into his life. He shares stories and photos from motorcycle trips around the UK as well as further afield in Europe. Readers often describe Matthew's writing as both entertaining and inspirational; he aims to fuel the wanderlust of other bikers. Through his passion for two-wheel adventures on all types of roads, Matthew explores the freedom that motorcycling brings. He looks forward to many more years of thrills on two wheels and chronicling his experiences on matthewbikelog.
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