Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, a bike that’s been turning heads with its sleek design and approachable performance. If you're in the market for a cruiser that blends style, comfort, and affordability, you've probably got this one on your radar. The big question everyone asks, of course, is: what's the price? But there's more to it than just the cost. We're going to explore everything you need to know about the 2020 Vulcan S 650, from its price tag to its features, performance, and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What's the Price of a 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650?

When considering a new motorcycle, the price is always a crucial factor. For the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically hovered around $7,099. However, this is just the base price. Depending on the color options, any additional accessories, and of course, dealer fees, the final price can vary. It’s also worth noting that prices can fluctuate based on your location and any promotions or discounts the dealership might be offering. When you are talking about used models, the price can vary quite a bit based on mileage, condition, and any modifications the previous owner might have made. Websites like Cycle Trader, Motorcycle.com, and even local classifieds can give you a good idea of the current market value. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like sales tax, registration fees, and insurance when you're budgeting for your new ride. Insurance costs, in particular, can vary widely depending on your age, riding experience, and the coverage you choose. It’s always a good idea to get a quote from your insurance provider before you make a purchase, so you know exactly what to expect. Overall, the 2020 Vulcan S 650 offers a compelling package for its price point. It’s a bike that’s accessible to both new riders and experienced folks looking for a stylish and comfortable cruiser. Keep an eye out for deals and do your research, and you’ll be cruising in no time!

Key Features and Specs

The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 isn't just about the price; it's packed with features that make it a standout in the cruiser category. Let’s dive into the key specs and features that make this bike so appealing. First off, the heart of the Vulcan S 650 is its 649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This engine is known for its smooth and responsive power delivery, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road, the Vulcan S 650 provides ample power without being intimidating. The fuel injection system ensures efficient fuel delivery and smooth throttle response, which is particularly beneficial for newer riders. Kawasaki has really nailed the balance between power and manageability with this engine. The Vulcan S 650 also features a comfortable and customizable riding position. Kawasaki's Ergo-Fit system allows riders to adjust the footpegs, seat, and handlebar reach to suit their individual preferences. This is a huge plus, especially for riders who struggle to find a comfortable fit on other bikes. The ability to tailor the ergonomics to your body can significantly improve your riding experience and reduce fatigue on longer rides. Suspension-wise, the Vulcan S 650 comes with a telescopic front fork and a single rear shock with adjustable preload. The suspension setup provides a comfortable ride on most road surfaces, soaking up bumps and providing stable handling. The adjustable rear shock is particularly useful if you plan on carrying a passenger or luggage, as you can fine-tune the suspension to handle the extra weight. Braking is handled by a single disc brake at both the front and rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is available as an option, providing an added layer of safety, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The brakes offer good stopping power and feel, giving riders confidence in various riding situations. In terms of styling, the Vulcan S 650 boasts a modern and sleek design. Its low-slung profile, blacked-out components, and distinctive frame create a stylish and aggressive look. The bike is available in several color options, allowing riders to choose a look that suits their personality. The digital instrument panel provides all the essential information at a glance, including speed, fuel level, and gear position. Overall, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 combines a potent engine, customizable ergonomics, and stylish design, making it a well-rounded cruiser that appeals to a wide range of riders.

Performance and Handling

When you're considering a motorcycle, performance and handling are crucial aspects to evaluate. The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 truly shines in these areas, offering a balanced and enjoyable riding experience. Let's delve into what makes this bike perform so well on the road. The heart of the Vulcan S 650's performance is its 649cc parallel-twin engine. This engine is known for its smooth and tractable power delivery, making it incredibly rider-friendly. It provides ample torque in the low to mid-range, which is perfect for everyday riding and cruising around town. You'll find that the bike accelerates smoothly and predictably, making it easy to control, especially for newer riders. On the open road, the Vulcan S 650 has enough power to comfortably cruise at highway speeds. The engine doesn't feel strained, and there's plenty of power in reserve for overtaking. The smooth power delivery also makes longer rides less tiring, as you're not constantly battling a jerky throttle. Handling is another area where the Vulcan S 650 excels. The bike's lightweight chassis and low center of gravity contribute to its nimble and responsive handling. It feels stable and planted in corners, inspiring confidence even for less experienced riders. The suspension setup, consisting of a telescopic front fork and a single rear shock, does a good job of soaking up bumps and road imperfections. The rear shock's adjustable preload is a valuable feature, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to suit your weight and riding style. This is particularly useful if you often ride with a passenger or carry luggage. The Vulcan S 650's relaxed riding position also plays a significant role in its handling characteristics. The forward-set footpegs and comfortable seat create a natural and balanced riding posture, which makes it easy to control the bike in various situations. The wide handlebars provide good leverage, making it easy to steer and maneuver. Braking performance is adequate, with a single disc brake at both the front and rear. The brakes offer good stopping power, and the optional ABS provides an added layer of safety, especially in emergency braking situations or on slippery surfaces. Overall, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 offers a well-rounded performance package. Its smooth engine, nimble handling, and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to ride in a variety of conditions. Whether you're a new rider or an experienced cruiser enthusiast, the Vulcan S 650 delivers a rewarding and enjoyable riding experience.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort and ergonomics are key considerations when choosing a motorcycle, especially if you plan on taking longer rides. The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 stands out for its emphasis on rider comfort, thanks to its thoughtfully designed ergonomics and customizable features. Let’s explore what makes this bike so comfortable to ride. One of the standout features of the Vulcan S 650 is Kawasaki's Ergo-Fit system. This system allows riders to adjust the footpegs, seat, and handlebar reach to achieve their ideal riding position. This is a game-changer, as it means riders of various sizes and shapes can find a comfortable fit on the bike. The ability to adjust the footpegs is particularly useful. Kawasaki offers extended reach, mid-reach, and reduced reach options, allowing you to position your feet for optimal comfort and control. Similarly, the seat can be swapped out for different options, including a reduced reach seat for shorter riders and an extended reach seat for taller riders. The handlebar reach can also be adjusted, further fine-tuning the riding position to suit your preferences. The Vulcan S 650's standard seat is well-padded and provides good support for most riders. The low seat height (around 27.8 inches) makes it easy to flat-foot at stops, which is confidence-inspiring, especially for newer riders. The relaxed riding position contributes significantly to the bike's overall comfort. The forward-set footpegs and swept-back handlebars create a laid-back posture that's comfortable for cruising. The riding position is upright enough to provide good visibility and control, but not so upright that you're fighting against the wind at higher speeds. The suspension also plays a role in the Vulcan S 650's comfort. The telescopic front fork and single rear shock do a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The adjustable preload on the rear shock is a valuable feature, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to suit your weight and riding style. This is particularly useful if you often carry a passenger or luggage. Overall, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 excels in comfort and ergonomics. Its customizable Ergo-Fit system, comfortable seat, relaxed riding position, and well-tuned suspension make it a great choice for riders who value comfort on both short commutes and longer trips. Whether you're a new rider or an experienced enthusiast, the Vulcan S 650 is designed to keep you comfortable in the saddle.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let’s break down the pros and cons of the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. No bike is perfect, and it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. So, what are the good things about the Vulcan S 650, and what are some potential drawbacks? First, let's talk about the pros. One of the biggest advantages of the Vulcan S 650 is its rider-friendly engine. The 649cc parallel-twin is smooth, responsive, and provides ample power for both city riding and highway cruising. It's an engine that's easy to manage, making it a great choice for newer riders. Another major pro is the Ergo-Fit system. The ability to adjust the footpegs, seat, and handlebar reach is fantastic, allowing riders of different sizes to find a comfortable riding position. This is a feature that sets the Vulcan S 650 apart from many other cruisers in its class. The bike's handling is also a strong point. The lightweight chassis and low center of gravity contribute to its nimble and responsive handling. It feels stable in corners and easy to maneuver in traffic. The Vulcan S 650's styling is another pro for many riders. Its modern, sleek design and blacked-out components give it a distinctive and attractive look. It's a bike that stands out from the crowd. Finally, the price point is a major advantage. The Vulcan S 650 offers a lot of value for the money, making it an accessible option for riders on a budget. Now, let's consider the cons. One potential drawback is the suspension. While the suspension is adequate for most riding conditions, it's not as sophisticated as some higher-end cruisers. The ride can be a bit harsh on rough roads. Another con is the braking system. While the brakes offer good stopping power, the single disc setup at both the front and rear isn't as powerful as dual disc systems found on some other bikes. The lack of a traditional cruiser aesthetic might be a con for some riders. The Vulcan S 650's modern styling is appealing, but it doesn't have the classic, retro look that some cruiser enthusiasts prefer. Finally, the aftermarket support for the Vulcan S 650 is not as extensive as it is for some other models. While there are plenty of accessories available, the selection is not as vast as for, say, a Harley-Davidson or a Honda Rebel. In conclusion, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 is a well-rounded cruiser with a lot to offer. Its rider-friendly engine, customizable ergonomics, and nimble handling make it a great choice for a wide range of riders. While it has a few drawbacks, its advantages far outweigh its disadvantages, especially considering its attractive price point.

Is the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 Right for You?

So, we’ve covered a lot about the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. But the ultimate question is: is this bike right for you? To answer that, let's consider who this bike is best suited for. The Vulcan S 650 is an excellent choice for beginner riders. Its smooth engine, manageable power, and low seat height make it confidence-inspiring and easy to handle. The adjustable Ergo-Fit system is a huge plus for new riders, as it allows them to customize the bike to their body size and riding style. It’s also a great option for experienced riders looking for a lightweight and nimble cruiser. The Vulcan S 650's sporty handling and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to ride on twisty roads and long trips. The bike's modern styling and attractive price point are also appealing to riders who want a stylish and affordable cruiser. If you value comfort, the Vulcan S 650 is definitely worth considering. The adjustable ergonomics and relaxed riding position make it a comfortable bike for long rides. The smooth engine and well-tuned suspension also contribute to a comfortable riding experience. If you're on a budget, the Vulcan S 650 is an excellent choice. It offers a lot of value for the money, with a competitive price tag and low running costs. The bike's fuel-efficient engine and reliable mechanics make it an affordable option for everyday riding. However, the Vulcan S 650 might not be the best choice for riders who prefer a traditional cruiser aesthetic. Its modern styling is appealing, but it doesn't have the classic, retro look that some cruiser enthusiasts prefer. It also might not be the best choice for riders who frequently carry passengers or luggage. While the Vulcan S 650 can handle occasional passenger duty, it's not as well-suited for this purpose as some larger cruisers with more comfortable passenger accommodations. If you're looking for a bike with a lot of aftermarket customization options, the Vulcan S 650 might not be the best fit. While there are plenty of accessories available, the selection is not as vast as for some other models. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're a beginner rider, an experienced cruiser enthusiast, or someone who values comfort and affordability, the Vulcan S 650 is definitely worth a look. Consider your riding style, budget, and personal preferences, and you'll be able to make an informed decision.