Kawasaki Z900 2018 vs. Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Kawasaki Z900 2018

Kawasaki Z900 2018

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

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Overview - Kawasaki Z900 2018 vs Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

The Kawasaki Z900 2018 and the Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015 are two different models with distinct features and specifications.

Starting with the Kawasaki Z900 2018, it boasts a powerful and smooth engine with an impressive output of 125.4 HP. The engine is an inline, four-cylinder type with a displacement of 948cc. It delivers a torque of 98.6 Nm, providing excellent acceleration and performance. The Z900 also features a chain transmission and liquid cooling for optimal engine temperature control.

In terms of chassis, the Z900 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, which enhances stability and handling. The front brakes are double disk type with four pistons, ensuring efficient stopping power. The front and rear tires have a width of 120mm and 180mm respectively, with both having a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1450mm, and the seat height is 795mm. The Z900 weighs 210kg with ABS.

Kawasaki Z900 2018

Kawasaki Z900 2018

The strengths of the Z900 include its powerful and smooth engine, which produces a great sound. The chassis design contributes to its sharp and sporty appearance. The low seating position and easy handling make it a comfortable and maneuverable bike.

However, the Z900 does have a few weaknesses. It lacks traction control, which can be a disadvantage in certain riding conditions. Additionally, tall riders may find the knee angle strenuous during long rides.

Moving on to the Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015, it features an inline, two-cylinder engine with a displacement of 649cc. The engine delivers 61 HP of power and 63 Nm of torque. Like the Z900, it has a chain transmission and liquid cooling.

The Vulcan S has a steel frame with a perimeter design, providing stability and strength. The front brake is a single disk type with double pistons, ensuring reliable braking performance. The front tire has a width of 120mm and a diameter of 18 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 160mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is longer than the Z900 at 1575mm, and the seat height is lower at 705mm. The Vulcan S weighs 228kg with ABS.

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

The strengths of the Vulcan S include its rev-happy engine, which performs well in both high and low rev ranges. The bike also features a decent brake system with ABS, ensuring safe and controlled stopping. The idiosyncratic look of the Vulcan S adds to its appeal, and the narrow rear tire enhances maneuverability. The Ergo-Fit system allows riders to customize the bike for optimal comfort.

However, the Vulcan S does have a few weaknesses. The Ergo-Fit system comes at an additional cost, which may be a drawback for some buyers. The wind protection is moderate, and the gear indicator is only available as an option.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 and the Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015 have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Z900 excels in terms of engine power, chassis design, and sporty appearance. On the other hand, the Vulcan S offers a rev-happy engine, comfortable chassis, and customization options. Ultimately, the choice between the two models depends on individual preferences and riding style.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z900 2018 compared to Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Kawasaki Z900 2018
Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore73.4 mmBore83 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke60 mm
Engine powerEngine power125.4 HPEngine power61 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpm
TorqueTorque98.6 NmTorque63 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,700 rpmRpm at Torque6,600 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.8 Compression Ratio10.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
IgnitionIgnitionDigitalIgnitionDigital
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders4Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement948 ccmDisplacement649 ccm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeDouble cradleFrame typePerimeter

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeSingle disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonDouble piston

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter18 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,070 mmLength2,310 mm
WidthWidth820 mmWidth880 mm
HeightHeight1,065 mmHeight1,100 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,450 mmWheelbase1,575 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height795 mmSeat Height705 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)210 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)228 kg
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z900 2018

Kawasaki Z900 2018

Fortunately, the new Kawasaki Z900 has lost none of its character through the use of electronics. It is and remains a playful mid-range naked bike, which at the same time masters the brisk pace on the country road magnificently. The riding pleasure and suitability for everyday use are high, the now installed riding aids offer a plus in safety. Your opponents will have a really hard time from now on.

Light and natural handling with high stability

Silky engine with full pull from mid revs

High chassis transparency, great feedback

Sitting position with feel-good factor

Fair price

TFT display mounted too low

Cumbersome menu operation

Rear view mirrors offer modest visibility

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015

No matter which platform Kawasaki puts the 650 cubic two-cylinder in, the result is always a great motorbike! Even though the engine is unusually rev-happy for a cruiser, it results in a cruiser that actually qualifies as a sports cruiser when paired with the sporty chassis set-up. The only brake is the limited lean angle clearance, but this will not deter lovers of hearty footrest grinding. With such a good bike, we hope that Kawasaki will follow suit - after all, the Vulcan S has been with us almost unchanged since 2015.

powerful engine

chassis tuning with sporty Kawasaki DNA

real cruiser seating position

easy-to-read display

potential in tuning

Appearance a little outdated

moderate wind protection

Price Comparison Average Market Price Kawasaki Z900 vs Kawasaki Vulcan S

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z900 2018 and a Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Z900 2018 is about 33% higher. A Kawasaki Z900 2018 experiences a loss of 640 USD in one year and 520 USD in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 380 USD and 400 USD for a Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015. Compared to Kawasaki Vulcan S 2015 there are more Kawasaki Z900 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 55 compared to 8. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Vulcan S with 75 days compared to 112 days for the Kawasaki Z900. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 and 13 reviews for the Kawasaki Vulcan S since model year 2015. The first review for the Kawasaki Z900 was published on 11/11/2016 and now has more than 93,200 views. This compares to more than 14,800 views for the first review on Kawasaki Vulcan S published on 10/16/2014.

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Vulcan S

Model year
Current average market prices

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