Are you torn between the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650? You’re not alone. With so many options on the market, choosing the right cruiser can feel overwhelming. Both bikes offer unique features and styles that cater to different riding preferences.
In this article, you’ll discover how these two popular models stack up against each other. We’ll break down their performance, comfort, and design to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding the strengths of each bike will guide you toward the perfect match for your riding adventures.
Key Takeaways
- Performance Comparison: The Kawasaki Vulcan S features a 649cc engine with 61 horsepower, while the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 has a 648cc engine producing around 47 horsepower, catering to different performance preferences.
- Design Styles: The Vulcan S offers a modern cruiser aesthetic with customization options, whereas the Super Meteor 650 incorporates retro styling and classic features, appealing to different rider tastes.
- Riding Comfort: Both motorcycles prioritize comfort, with the Vulcan S providing adjustability for a tailored fit and the Super Meteor 650 focusing on a relaxed riding position for longer rides.
- Handling and Stability: The lightweight design of the Vulcan S enhances maneuverability, while the Super Meteor 650 promotes stability with its lower weight and well-tracking chassis during cornering.
- Fuel Capacity & Mileage: The Vulcan S has a 3.2-gallon tank with average mileage of 50-60 MPG compared to the Super Meteor 650’s 3.5-gallon tank averaging 40-50 MPG, influencing travel range considerations.
- Pricing Insights: The Vulcan S is priced at approximately $7,199, making it more accessible, while the Super Meteor 650 is around $7,999, offering classic styling alongside modern features at a slightly higher cost.
Overview of Kawasaki Vulcan S
The Kawasaki Vulcan S offers a blend of modern features and classic cruiser styling, appealing to a wide range of riders. This motorcycle emphasizes comfort, versatility, and accessibility, making it a great choice for different riding experiences.
Key Features
- Ergonomic Design: The Vulcan S features a low seat height of 27.8 inches, ensuring easy handling for various rider heights. Adjustability options exist for the seat position, footpegs, and handlebars, allowing a customized fit for comfort.
- Engine: Powered by a smooth 649cc parallel-twin engine, the Vulcan S provides a balanced mix of power and efficiency. It produces approximately 61 horsepower and offers torque peaks of around 47 lb-ft at 6,600 RPM.
- Ninja DNA: Inspired by Kawasaki’s Ninja series, the Vulcan S incorporates a modern trellis frame. This enhances stability and cornering while maintaining a lightweight design at 497 pounds (wet).
- Technology: Standard ABS improves safety during braking, while the digital instrument cluster offers clarity and accessibility to important ride information.
- Accessories and Customization: A wide range of accessories, including saddlebags and different windshields, allows you to enhance the bike’s functionality and tailor its appearance to your style.
- Acceleration: The Vulcan S achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, making it responsive in urban settings.
- Fuel Capacity: With a fuel tank capacity of 3.2 gallons, this motorcycle offers decent range, averaging 50-60 MPG under standard riding conditions.
- Suspension: The front features a telescopic fork with 41mm diameter, while the rear uses a progressive linkage monoshock. These components provide a comfortable ride, effective in absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road.
- Braking: Equipped with 300mm front and 250mm rear disc brakes, the Vulcan S delivers reliable stopping power. The presence of ABS boosts confidence during emergency braking.
- Tires: Fitted with 120/70 front and 160/60 rear tires, the Vulcan S ensures good traction while enhancing cornering abilities.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S combines performance with comfort and functionality, making it a reliable option for both new and experienced riders.
Overview of Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 stands out in the cruiser segment, offering a blend of classic design and modern technology. It caters to riders who appreciate style, comfort, and performance in equal measure.
Key Features
- Engine: The Super Meteor 650 features a 648cc parallel-twin engine, producing around 47 horsepower. This engine provides a smooth riding experience, making it suitable for both city commutes and longer journeys.
- Design: With its retro styling, the motorcycle has a distinctive look. Elements like round headlights, a teardrop fuel tank, and chrome accents enhance its classic appeal.
- Comfort: An ergonomic seat design ensures comfort on extended rides. The bike features mid-set footpegs and a relaxed riding position, making it accessible for various rider heights.
- Technology: Modern touches include a fully digital instrument cluster that displays essential information clearly. Features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhance safety on the road, while LED lighting improves visibility.
- Acceleration: The Super Meteor 650 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.6 seconds, making it responsive for urban riding and highway merging.
- Fuel Capacity: With a fuel tank capacity of 3.5 gallons, it provides decent range, averaging about 40-50 MPG, perfect for long-distance rides.
- Weight: The bike weighs approximately 197 kg (434 lbs), contributing to its stability on the road while maintaining manageable handling for those new to cruising.
- Braking System: The Super Meteor 650 utilizes disc brakes at both the front and rear, ensuring effective stopping power in various conditions.
These features and specifications of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 establish it as a strong competitor in the cruiser market, appealing to riders seeking both comfort and performance.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of both motorcycles reflect their unique character and target audience. Each model showcases distinct styling elements that appeal to different rider preferences.
Kawasaki Vulcan S Design
Kawasaki Vulcan S features a modern cruiser aesthetic blended with classic elements. The low-slung chassis offers a streamlined appearance, making it visually appealing while enhancing stability. You’ll notice the sculpted fuel tank and a minimalist tail section that contribute to its sleek silhouette.
The motorcycle comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster that provides essential ride information at a glance. Customization options include adjustable seats and a variety of accessories, allowing you to personalize the bike to match your style. The vibrant color options, such as Candy Lime Green and Metallic Flat Spark Black, add a touch of flair, making the Vulcan S stand out on the road.
Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Design
Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 embraces a retro-inspired design that pays homage to classic cruisers. The round headlights and teardrop-shaped fuel tank evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the chrome detailing enhances its vintage charm. The bike’s relaxed riding position features mid-set footpegs and a comfortable seat, creating an inviting experience for riders of all heights.
A modern touch is present with the fully digital instrument cluster, which merges traditional styling with contemporary functionality. The choice of colors, including Celestial Red and Astral Blue, offers options that appeal to various tastes. This blend of classic design and modern tech makes the Super Meteor 650 not only a looker but also practical for everyday riding.
Riding Experience
Riding experience varies between the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, making individual preferences crucial in determining the best fit for you.
Comfort and Ergonomics
You’ll find both motorcycles offer unique comfort features. The Kawasaki Vulcan S has a low seat height at 27.8 inches, allowing for easy foot placement. The seat is well-padded, making it suitable for long rides. Mid-set footpegs promote a natural riding posture. The adjustable handlebars let you customize your grip.
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 focuses on relaxation with its wide, contoured seat and feet positioned for a comfortable reach. Its seat height of 29.5 inches caters to a range of rider sizes. The relaxed geometry of the riding position enhances comfort during extended journeys. Additionally, the bike’s classic design integrates modern ergonomics to provide a smooth ride.
Handling and Stability
Handling is critical for your riding enjoyment. The Kawasaki Vulcan S weighs around 496 lbs, contributing to nimble handling. The lightweight trellis frame enhances maneuverability, making it suitable for both city traffic and winding roads. Its 41mm front forks and rear monoshock suspension systems provide a balanced ride.
In comparison, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 weighs about 434 lbs, which promotes stability. The bike’s chassis tracks well during cornering, allowing for confident turns. It features a 43mm front fork and twin rear shock absorbers for a cushioned ride over varying surfaces. The overall design enhances its stability at higher speeds, making it perfect for highway cruising.
You’ll appreciate these features while deciding which bike aligns with your riding style and comfort requirements.
Pricing and Value
Understanding the pricing and overall value of the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 helps in making an informed decision.
Cost Comparison
The Kawasaki Vulcan S comes in at an MSRP of approximately $7,199, which offers strong features for the price. Factors such as customizable accessories and a lightweight frame enhance its appeal without significantly raising costs.
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, priced around $7,999, provides a similar value but emphasizes vintage aesthetics and modern features. This bike includes a more extensive set of standard accessories, which adds to the overall ownership experience.
| Motorcycle | Base Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Vulcan S | $7,199 | ABS, digital cluster, customizable options |
| Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 | $7,999 | ABS, LED lighting, digital instruments |
Overall Value Proposition
Both bikes deliver excellent value, but their strengths cater to different rider preferences.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S excels in accommodating new riders with its approachable ergonomics and robust performance. Its combination of features and customization options means you can tailor it to your style and comfort.
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 stands out for riders valuing classic design and heritage. With its solid performance and additional features at a slightly higher price, it attracts those who appreciate nostalgia and innovation.
Ultimately, you should consider your riding style, preferences, and budget when weighing the value of each motorcycle.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 really comes down to what you value in a ride. If you’re after a modern cruiser with a lightweight feel and sporty performance the Vulcan S might be your best bet. On the other hand if you appreciate classic aesthetics and a relaxed riding experience the Super Meteor 650 could be just what you need.
Both bikes offer unique features that cater to different preferences. Take your time to consider your riding style and what makes you feel most comfortable. Whichever you choose you’re sure to enjoy the journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main features of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The Kawasaki Vulcan S features a 649cc parallel-twin engine with 61 horsepower, an ergonomic design with a low seat height of 27.8 inches, and a lightweight trellis frame. It includes standard ABS, a digital instrument cluster, and a variety of customization options, making it suitable for both new and experienced riders.
How does the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 stand out?
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 offers a retro-inspired design combined with modern technology. Its 648cc parallel-twin engine produces 47 horsepower, and it features classic styling elements like round headlights and a teardrop fuel tank. Comfortable seating and advanced safety features make it an attractive option for cruiser enthusiasts.
What is the price difference between the two motorcycles?
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is priced around $7,199, while the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is available for approximately $7,999. While both offer excellent value, the Vulcan S focuses on approachability for new riders, whereas the Super Meteor emphasizes classic design.
How do the riding experiences compare between the Vulcan S and Super Meteor 650?
The Vulcan S provides nimble handling with a low seat height of 27.8 inches, adjustable handlebars, and a lightweight frame. In contrast, the Super Meteor 650 features a contoured seat at 29.5 inches, prioritizing comfort for long rides while offering stability during cornering.
Which motorcycle is better for new riders?
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is generally regarded as a better fit for new riders due to its approachable ergonomics, lightweight design, and powerful performance. It allows for easy handling and adjustments, making it user-friendly for those just starting their riding journey.
