Kawasaki Vulcan S

Built:2015-242015201620172018201920202021202220232024

Choppers or cruisers are currently a bit out of fashion. But because the Honda Rebel is so successful, we have targeted the competition of Kawasaki and ordered the Vulcan S for testing.

The "S" does not stand for sport

Beautiful lyrically black. Quite matte, and just as matte is the only alternative style to choose from: a green. This is surprising at first, because choppers are associated with chrome in addition to the low silhouette, the relaxed sitting position and thick rear wheels. And there comes Kawa's gloomy Vulcan and still bears the "S" in the name, which is commonly associated with sport.

Hm. To anticipate a central driving impression: the S does not stand for sport. For stress-free handling perhaps? Socian comfort? That would be more apt because it fits the Kawa better than anything else.

Faster than expected

Sitting up works as expected without any problems, even if you have shorter legs like me. The Kawa from the side stand also goes without any problems, despite the slight overweight of the machine with 230 kilos. This remains the case in the further course – neither the Vulcan S wg. overweight has to hide in the case of the willingness to curve or the acceleration. Feeling it always brings more power than the Honda Rebel. With 62 hp, the Kawa has a nominal lyh of 15 hp more under the tank than the Honda, so the Kawa pushes forward more committedly from every speed.

Keyword curve: These are the fear-opponents of many choppers of just American design. But the Kawa is not impressed by this: she steers willingly, even dodge hooks lose their terror. Sure: The possible inclinations are limited, the footrests set up comparatively early.

Even if it has to go straight faster on the highway (maximum 180 km/h), the Kawa does not tend to commute or other instability. Good to know: The brakes also have first-class reserves and bring the vehicle safely to a standstill. Small criticism: The handbrake requires more effort than usual.