KAWASAKI Vulcan S vs KAWASAKI Z650

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Scores, summary & seat (optional) Estimates and auto text from specs — open if you want them.

Technical score (estimate)

Weighted mix of power, torque, power-to-weight, top speed and lighter weight within this comparison only. Not a real-world verdict — riding style and roads matter.

KAWASAKI Vulcan S
0 pts
Top on paper
KAWASAKI Z650
100 pts

Usage fit (estimate)

Rough scores for city riding, touring, sporty riding and new riders — mix of specs and bike category. Same caveats as the technical score: traffic, skill and tyres matter.

City / commute

KAWASAKI Vulcan S
52.5 pts
Best fit here
KAWASAKI Z650
60.5 pts

Touring / long rides

KAWASAKI Vulcan S
38.1 pts
Best fit here
KAWASAKI Z650
74.9 pts

Sporty riding

KAWASAKI Vulcan S
9.4 pts
Best fit here
KAWASAKI Z650
93.8 pts

New rider friendly

Best fit here
KAWASAKI Vulcan S
63.4 pts
KAWASAKI Z650
41.8 pts

Seat height (cm)

Figures are as in the database; boots, suspension sag and road surface change how tall the bike feels.

  • KAWASAKI Vulcan S 70.5 cm Lowest seat here
  • KAWASAKI Z650 79 cm Tallest seat here

Spread in this comparison: about 8.5 cm.

Rough guide: comfortable flat-foot reach often needs inseam roughly in the same ballpark as seat height (varies a lot by ergonomics).

Auto summary from specs

Generated from the numbers in the comparison — not a review.

  • Power spans 61 hp (KAWASAKI Vulcan S) up to 68 hp (KAWASAKI Z650).
  • Torque spans 63 Nm (KAWASAKI Vulcan S) up to 64 Nm (KAWASAKI Z650).
  • Weight spans 188 kg (KAWASAKI Z650) to 229 kg (KAWASAKI Vulcan S).
  • Engine sizes are very close.
Specification KAWASAKI Vulcan S KAWASAKI Z650
Brand KAWASAKI KAWASAKI
Model KAWASAKI Vulcan S KAWASAKI Z650
Engine size 650cc 650cc
Power 61hp 68hp
Torque 63nm. 64nm.
Cylinders / valves Twin cylinder, 8 valves Twin cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 229kg 188kg
Front brake 300 mm single disc, dual-piston caliper 300 mm dual discs, dual-piston caliper
Rear brake 250 mm single disc, single-piston caliper 220 mm single disc, single-piston caliper
Seat height (cm) 70.5cm 79cm
Front tyre 120/70-18 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Rear tyre 160/60-17 160/60ZR17M/C (69W)
Cooling Liquid cooling Liquid cooling
Front suspension 41 mm telescopic fork 41 mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension Horizontal monoshock, link-type, 7-step adjustable preload Horizontal back-link with preload adjustment
Motorcycle type Chopper – Cruiser Naked
Top speed 190km/h 220km/h
Fuel capacity / consumption 14 L – 6 L/100km 15 L – 4 L/100km
Service network
Service quality
Parts availability
Price $7349 $8149
Brand price lists View KAWASAKI price list View KAWASAKI price list
Extra features

-Adjustable footpegs

-Adjustable clutch lever / brake lever

-Economical riding indicator

-Dual throttle valves

-Assist Slipper Clutch

-Economical Riding Indicator

-Dual Throttle Valves

Opinions

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2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S vs 2023 KAWASAKI Z650: Which One is Better for You?

2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 are very similar in terms of engine capacity and power. In this case, design, driving comfort, and personal preferences may take precedence. Additionally, 2023 KAWASAKI Z650, with its 68hp, stands out for users seeking speed and performance.

1. Cylinder Capacity and Performance

2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 have almost identical engine capacities, offering similar performance. In this case, design, driving comfort, and other features will play a more significant role in your choice.Both models have an engine capacity of 650cc. Experienced riders may prefer it for long-distance journeys.

2. Torque Power

2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 have almost identical torque values, offering similar traction power. This suggests that other features might play a more significant role in your choice regarding performance. 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 is ideal for users requiring rapid acceleration. Moderate torque power is suitable for both city use and short-distance trips.

3. Top Speed

2023 KAWASAKI Z650, as a Naked, can reach a maximum speed of 220 km/h. This speed feature can be considered an extra advantage for a motorcycle of this type. 2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S, as a Chopper – Cruiser, offers a lower maximum speed of 190 km/h, but this does not overshadow its other features.

4. Cooling System

2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S features a Liquid-Cooled system, while 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 offers a Liquid-Cooled system. Both models deliver equal performance in their cooling systems.

5. Design and Comfort

2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 are close in weight, offering similar experiences for different usage scenarios. Additionally, 2023 KAWASAKI Z650, with a seat height of 79cm, is more suitable for taller riders, offering greater comfort.2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S, with a seat height of 70.5cm, provides a more ergonomic ride for average-height riders.

Conclusion

2023 KAWASAKI Z650 emerges as the winner of this comparison based on total points. 2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 have nearly identical engine capacities. 2023 KAWASAKI Vulcan S and 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 have nearly identical torque values. 2023 KAWASAKI Z650, with a top speed of 220 km/h, stands out for speed enthusiasts. Both models have similar cooling systems, offering comparable performance for long journeys. In conclusion, 2023 KAWASAKI Z650 stands out in terms of technical specifications and overall performance. However, depending on your riding preferences and usage needs, both models offer unique advantages.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of KAWASAKI Vulcan S vs KAWASAKI Z650?

KAWASAKI Z650 is listed at 220 km/h vs 190 km/h for KAWASAKI Vulcan S.

Which has more horsepower, KAWASAKI Vulcan S or KAWASAKI Z650?

KAWASAKI Z650 has 68 hp compared with 61 hp on the KAWASAKI Vulcan S.

Which is better, KAWASAKI Vulcan S or KAWASAKI Z650?

It depends on your riding style. Compare top speed, weight, fuel use and price in the table on this page, then vote for the bike you prefer.