At a Glance
- While the Vulcan S embodies a classic cruiser aesthetic, the Vulcan S Cafe exudes a more sporty and modern appeal.
- Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe offer a range of features and technologies to enhance the riding experience.
- Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe have basic sound systems, but the Vulcan S Cafe has a slightly better sound quality due….
The Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe are two distinct cruisers from the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer that cater to different tastes and riding styles. While the Vulcan S embodies a classic cruiser aesthetic, the Vulcan S Cafe exudes a more sporty and modern appeal. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two cruisers, exploring their key features, performance, design, and more to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs better.
Engine and Performance
Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe are powered by the same liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with a displacement of 649cc. However, there are subtle differences in their power output and torque delivery. The Vulcan S produces 61 horsepower and 46 lb-ft of torque, while the Vulcan S Cafe slightly edges it out with 64 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque.
The Vulcan S Cafe’s engine is tuned for a more responsive and aggressive power delivery, making it more exhilarating to ride, especially in the mid-range. The Vulcan S, on the other hand, offers a smoother and more relaxed power delivery, making it ideal for cruising at lower speeds.
Handling and Suspension
The Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe offer different handling characteristics due to their distinct chassis designs. The Vulcan S features a traditional cruiser-style frame with a long wheelbase and a low seat height. This setup provides stability and a comfortable riding position, but it can feel a bit cumbersome in tight turns.
In contrast, the Vulcan S Cafe has a shorter wheelbase, a higher seat height, and a more aggressive riding position. These changes enhance agility and cornering capabilities, making it a more engaging ride on winding roads. The Vulcan S Cafe also benefits from upgraded suspension components, including a fully adjustable rear shock, which further improves handling and stability.
Design and Aesthetics
The Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe have contrasting design philosophies that reflect their intended riding styles. The Vulcan S embraces a classic cruiser aesthetic with a sleek and understated profile. Its low-slung stance, flared fenders, and chrome accents give it a timeless and elegant appearance.
The Vulcan S Cafe, on the other hand, exudes a more sporty and modern vibe. It features a muscular fuel tank, a sleek tail section, and a blacked-out engine. The Cafe also comes with a flyscreen and a belly pan, further enhancing its sporty credentials.
Features and Technology
Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe offer a range of features and technologies to enhance the riding experience. The Vulcan S comes standard with features such as a digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and cruise control. The Vulcan S Cafe adds to this list with a traction control system, a slipper clutch, and a quick-shifter.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe offer different levels of comfort and ergonomics. The Vulcan S has a low seat height and a relaxed riding position, making it suitable for riders of all heights. The Vulcan S Cafe, with its higher seat height and more aggressive riding position, may be less comfortable for taller riders.
Price and Value
The Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe are priced differently, reflecting their different features and capabilities. The Vulcan S starts at around $8,000, while the Vulcan S Cafe is priced around $9,500.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe depends on your riding preferences and budget. If you prioritize comfort, classic styling, and a relaxed riding experience, the Vulcan S is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more sporty and engaging ride with enhanced handling and performance, the Vulcan S Cafe is the better option.
Alternatives to Kawasaki Vulcan S vs Cafe
If the Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe do not meet your needs, here are a few alternative cruisers to consider:
- Harley-Davidson Softail Slim
- Indian Scout Sixty
- Triumph Bonneville T120
- Honda Rebel 1100
- Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which has a better sound system?
Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe have basic sound systems, but the Vulcan S Cafe has a slightly better sound quality due to its upgraded speakers.
2. Which is more fuel-efficient?
The Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe have similar fuel efficiency, with both models returning around 50 mpg in real-world riding conditions.
3. Which has a larger fuel tank?
The Vulcan S has a larger fuel tank than the Vulcan S Cafe, with a capacity of 5.3 gallons compared to 4.1 gallons.
4. Which is easier to maintain?
Both the Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe are relatively easy to maintain, with similar service intervals and maintenance costs.
5. Which has a better resale value?
The Kawasaki Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe have comparable resale values, with the Vulcan S Cafe holding its value slightly better due to its more desirable features.
