2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S SE Review LAMS Approved Cruiser

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2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S SE Tech Talk

The liquid-cooled, DOHC, eight-valve 649cc parallel twin with fuel injection is tuned to deliver smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. Kawasaki state the engine was tuned for rider-friendly power characteristics that will inspire confidence in new riders.

The triangular layout of the crankshaft and transmission shafts makes the engine very short front-to-back. Transmission input shaft, output shaft and change drum are contained in a “cassette”-style package that both allows a compact layout and facilitates transmission maintenance chores.
A semi-dry sump design reduces engine height. The plated, linerless cylinder is lightweight, and the narrow cylinder pitch reduces engine width. Under-engine muffler improves mass centralisation and lowers the bike’s centre of gravity.

Particular attention was paid to the intake ports and camshaft profiles, and long-type intake funnels result in strong low-mid rpm performance. Kawasaki says the large-bore 38mm throttle-bodies feature sub-throttles for high power output with smooth, sensitive throttle response. Crankshaft design includes a heavier flywheel mass.
An under-engine muffler design contributes to strong torque in the low-mid rpm range. Muffler internal construction and catalyser layout ensure clean emissions that will pass Euro4 regulations. Lightweight drive chain offers less mechanical loss and lower weight than a belt drive.

The compact engine allows use of a slim, minimalist frame, resulting in a design that is narrow at the knees and feet. 3D analysis was used to achieve the ideal stiffness balance for the frame. The frame is constructed of high-tensile steel, contributing to light weight. The layout of the offset single-shock rear suspension allows the battery to be located beside the shock instead of beneath it.
This arrangement allows a lower seat height as well as a slim design. As much as possible, the exhaust was kept under the engine, ensuring a slim chassis and an unobstructed reach to the ground.

Wheel sizes (18in for the front, 17in for the rear) are closer to those found on a sportsbike than a typical cruiser model (which often have much larger front wheels). The smaller front wheel contributes to the Vulcan S’s claimed natural, light handling.
A large 300mm front disc is slowed by a two-piston caliper, and at the rear, a 250mm disc is gripped by single-piston caliper. The compact ABS unit contributes to the lightweight chassis, and is conveniently tucked away under the rear shock, which ensures a slim construction beneath the seat.

A seat design with thick, 62mm padding offers a wide surface and excellent hip support, which Kawasaki say ensures ample comfort for city riding and short tours. The seat bracket is rubber-mounted, reducing vibration transferred through the seat.
Footpeg position is adjustable with three positions available: STD, 25mm forward, 25mm back (Alternate shift linkage rods, sold separately, are necessary when changing the position from standard.)

An accessory handlebar positions the handle grips 44mm closer to the rider. An accessory reduced-reach seat positions the rider 53mm closer to the tank and controls accommodates shorter riders. An accessory comfort seat offers a more spacious seating position for taller/larger riders. Brake and clutch levers can be adjusted to suit the rider’s hand size and preference.

Curved, flowing style blended with a ‘powerful, long-and-low stance’ and modern elements creates a unique, eye-catching design says Kawasaki. An inverted triangle headlamp contributes to the Vulcan S’s claimed fresh, unique design. A position lamp is built into the upper portion of the headlamp unit. A tear drop-style fuel tank aims to add a cruiser-style touch. The tail fender is shaped to hug the rear wheel as closely as possible. The design was made possible in part by the offset laydown rear shock.

A compact, stacked instrument cluster matches the bike’s overall design and features a claimed easy-to-read layout. Analogue-style tachometer and multi-function LCD screen use blue LED backlights designed for excellent visibility at night. Features include gear position indicator, fuel gauge, digital speedometer, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range, average/instant fuel consumption and the Economical Riding Indicator.

Jeff Ware

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