My thoughts on my wifes current bike the Kawasaki Vulcan 650 s after roughly 6000 miles of ownership.
Пікірлер: 238
@mithrandirthegrey76448 ай бұрын
In the process of buying this bike now as my first ever motorcycle. Needless to say, I'm excited for warmer weather.
@bikerbeliever81698 ай бұрын
I've been there. Usually there's good deals on bikes this time of year can get them lot cheaper. Good bike.
@jayprichard20242 жыл бұрын
This likely the best cost to performance/reliability you'll find on the market. Even at 650cc, it's not lacking power at all. It's not so light that it'll float away on the highway and not so heavy that the "less inclined" can't lift it. Only complaint is the engine braking is pretty significant. Change the exhaust and it'll sound much better, but I find it unnecessary. It handles better than cruisers, quicker than cruisers, and cheaper than most cruisers. I am surprised more people don't buy this bike. It's my daily and with the right mods, plenty comfortable for trips. This is the bike that could get more people into riding.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Yes its great just all round bike and probably best performance in cruiser for price on the market.
@leonardjackson76342 жыл бұрын
I love mine as well no complaints or mods
@johndickinson88482 жыл бұрын
Have you found a chip that will take care of the engine braking ?
@FreddySavage32 жыл бұрын
@@johndickinson8848 i put a booster plug on mine and it floats
@WillPage11 ай бұрын
Ridden a rebel 500?
@genegoodwin892511 ай бұрын
I've owned motorcycles since 1967 and since 1995 most have been V-Twins. I am tired if the chug chug chug. I don't like the term "beginner bike" I think the Vulcan S is a good bike for anyone. I love the way it revs. The sounds of it when it revs so quickly is music to my ears. If you listen to the exhaust note of the new Harley Davidson 975 Nightster it sounds a lot like the Vulcan S but doesn't cost near as much, just about half price of the Hatley.. There are other things I really like about the Vulcan S. It might sound strange to some, but I like chain drive motorcycles over belt drive. The reaon why is because there are a wide selection of rear spockets for the Vulcan S and I can fine tune the gearing to suit me at very little cost. You can't do that with most belt drive motorcyckls. I would prabably go to a 44 or maybe even a 42 tooth rear spocket to lower the revs at highway speeds which would all but eliminate the vibratiins that cause your hands and butt to go numb. Another thing I really like about the Vulcan S are the mag wheels which means TUBELESS tires.If you have a blow out with a tube tire the bead will break loose from the wheel ,making it very hard to handle. WIth a tubeless tire the bead usually stays put and is much easier to bring down to a stop. It's a huge safety factor. That and the mag wheels are much easier to keep clean. I'm OLD and gettting pretty lazy.
@bikerbeliever816911 ай бұрын
The vulcan is awesome bike. It's actually very quick and handles really well too. Nothing wrong with liking it as more than a beginner bike. My wife loves the way the vulacn sounds she says it makes pops on decel a little and it tickles her lol, I drilled holes in muffler for that. I enjoy a good v twin but I like a good high revved parallel twin too. They all got their different personalities, I enjoy almost every bike I ride.
@frios011 Жыл бұрын
I’m sick and tired of people TRYING to compare Japanese cruisers to Harley. ITS NOT A HARLEY, I DONT WANT A HARLEY! Those type of people that go for the old style cruiser with loud pipes and gobs of chrome, are a dying breed. This is the direction many manufacturers are going with for cruisers and I gotta say, this is the way to go!
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
The vulcan is a fantastic bike.
@MarissaTheMuse3 ай бұрын
Why? The Japanese themselves have been doing so for decades. This isn’t a proper cruiser in the traditional sense. The actual Japanese Harley competitors are often superior so…your issue is more with people comparing cheap cruiser “style” bikes from Japan with higher end Harley’s
@chefpengu6597Ай бұрын
Japanese Cruiser > Murican Harleys
@bikerbeliever8169Ай бұрын
I agree
@steve.n368510 ай бұрын
Doing my MSF course next month gotta Kawasaki dealership 2 blocks from the house been looking at this bike for months and watching lots of videos really like it
@bikerbeliever816910 ай бұрын
It's a great bike, not just as a beginner bike neither. It's plenty quick enough to ride for along time and not get bored. It's got plenty of pep but forgiving enough to not be intimidating.
@chrisman7143686 ай бұрын
Have had mine since 2019 bought used threw on a delkevic pipes rear seat rest and cargo rack it is still fun to ride as day 1. Like the green black too. Never drove a Harley and prob never will. Good luck with yours
@rileyk94334 ай бұрын
@@chrisman714368 Just put delkevic pipes on mine!! Sounds killer!
@genegoodwin89256 ай бұрын
Everybody talks about "character" when they ride a cruiser. What they really mean is the chug chug chug of a V-Twin. I've had my share of Japanese V-twins and four Harleys (never again). I think I would like the smoothest of the Vulcan S. If I ever buy one I might change the rear spocket to a smaller one which would lower the rpm at highway speeds, and help the throttle not feel "jerky". It would lose a little bit of the quick response, but I don't plan to go racing anyway.
@LordMcKrakenVonLittleBits2 жыл бұрын
Had a Vulcan VN750 for 10 years and put 75k miles on it. Being an older carb bike it started becoming a lot more trouble than it was worth. Kawasaki really did it right making what feels like to me as an updated version of their previous smaller bikes. The specs were so close that it was a no brainer to get the Vulcan S as an equal replacement to keep that same demeanor that I'd come to love from my older bike. The only thing I miss is the V-Twin sound.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Yeah v twins typically got lot of character
@TexasNewMoney10 ай бұрын
Man, you're riding in God's country out there. I wish I had those beautiful roads where I'm at.
@bikerbeliever816910 ай бұрын
Thank you I am very blessed, it truly is God's country.
@iiFuture2 жыл бұрын
After installing the booster plug and the CS Racing full system exhaust, the Vulcan 650 has become my favorite bike. You can’t beat going on a 3 hour road trip while doing twisties. Oh and I only pay $10 a month for insurance.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Wow thats good. The cs was the one on top of my list which its newer and the new freedom performance exhaust as well. I think im paying $20 a mo th which is full coverage and aint bad at all on it. Its a good all round bike probably best bang for buck good bike out there right now.
@paganrythyms2 жыл бұрын
Which insurance are y'all using?
@el.grantelbart Жыл бұрын
@@paganrythyms In germany its also 13€ a month for me at the highest insurance settings with all exras. its the HUK COBURG
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
The cs exhaust sounds very good that's one I would like for our vulcan. I haven't tried booster plug but have thought about it for awhile.
@allenarneson43493 жыл бұрын
As another has stated - A Booster Plug will solve the throttle issue and relieve some of the engine breaking as well. It will not hurt the MPG at all. Just makes the throttle act like it is suppose to. As for the exhaust. I've tried Delkavic both the 16 inch and 21 inch exhaust. Then switched to Musarri. I love the Musarri exhaust. Again, does not hurt MPG but gives a good sound. MHO..
@allenarneson43493 жыл бұрын
The Musarri Exhaust can be bought on Amazon for $350... Just saying. There are plenty of examples of the sound. A Google search or KZfaq search will get you there.
@jsrides20653 жыл бұрын
Hey there Allen weren’t you a subscriber of kawaka John channel?
@allenarneson43493 жыл бұрын
@@jsrides2065 Hi J, to your question - Yes. Sadly John gave it all up. But I still have my Vulcan-S, and enjoy every minute of riding my bike. It gets my mine right on some days. I have 2,500 miles on my bike. I do not get to ride it as much as I would like due to the weather, grand kids and the honey do list...
@jsrides20653 жыл бұрын
@@allenarneson4349 yes I heard John gave up sadly come join my channel I do rides around Devon and Cornwall I have lots of short rides and some long 1s I’m still riding my kvs but like you not that much because of the weather and life’s responsibilities looking after mother and wife and sister, glade you’re still loving your bike 🏍💨💨💨cheers j’srides jamie 👍🏻🤟🏻
@HUMPTYNUGGET2 жыл бұрын
Allen as a newbie biker what is a booster plug please ?
@tvicic3 жыл бұрын
keyword "reliability" and a note "no problem whatsoever". enough for me. thank you :o)
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
Super Reliable no problems at all.
@huntingclarkson70962 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 is that gear tracker on the left handle bar standard or did you add that on that’s a pretty useful thing for new folks
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Its aftermarket. Ours is 2016 model and don't have one quipped stock. 2017 and up vulcans have a Gear indicator in the dash stock.
@murraykriner94252 жыл бұрын
Just wanted to see another's view on this machine since a whole lot of people really seem to like it. Not in the market for a Vulcan after being around a Mean Streak years back and talking to the owner for a while convinced me to find something a bit more Urban and leave the long roads to the Tourer instead. If it's giving you faulty throttle inputs I would have the TPS or the bike emissions system looked after although the ignition could still be at fault if the electronic advance isn't functioning properly because of a short or a damaged CDI box. The triggers in the module are solid state but can age badly from water intrusion, cold solder joints in the IC board, or even vibration from the engine creating instability in the circuitry, much like a bad connector from a rectifier/regulator. All I'm saying is the bike should jet once you roll on the throttle, not act like some clogged pilot jet in a dirty old carburetor. Stay safe and be well.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
It's pretty common thing with Kawasaki in general I believe. It's not the worst thing in the world it can just be a little alarming to first time riders. Vulcan is good bike but mean streak is a monster of a motor big difference id believe.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
I absolutely love my Vulcan, and will not upgrade unless they build one with a parallel twin 900+! It's fast, peppy, sporty, and I love the parallel twin engine! I am a lady rider though!
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Yes its a fantastic bike. I love it and my wife (its her main bike now) really loves it.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
Tell her I said to ride like the wind! Lol
@bharsen2 жыл бұрын
Well get ready to trade up. Kawasaki is announcing something like 12 new models in October. I have a funny feeling one of those bikes is going to be the rumored Vulcan H2. If they do release it its going to be a supercharged liter cruiser with 200hp. Too much power for me, I'd kill myself haha.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Yeah I like the thoughts of a new vulcan. I actually don't want that kind of power though, I'd get hurt I fear. 100bhp and good torque and thats all I would ever use for the riding I do.
@bharsen2 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 I'm the same way man. I have about 105whp and weigh 500lbs. 1st gear is actually pretty scary. And that's in standard mode where it cuts a bit of the power off. I really don't see why you would need any more than 100whp on a sub 600lbs bike. Anything more is a death wish. Lol
@brotherbread6549 Жыл бұрын
My throttle was buttery smooth before I put a full exhaust system with a power commander tuned properly. Then it was even better. I have zero issues with jerkiness
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
That's odd. It's definitely got on off feeling to me. I've heard lot of other people express this as well. Does it mean I don't enjoy the bike? No, it's fun bike. My other bikes don't have this issue, throttle is linear and responds as you twist the throttle, and nonits not a free play issue. It's electronic issue, just a slight delay in throttle opening and giving fuel from when you twist the throttle. Definitely there on my bike. And seems to be on others but if yours isn't noticeable that's a good thing.
@njt425311 ай бұрын
WOW !! are you riding on private road or is it a regular road ? I would give anything to be able to ride my back roads in NJ for almost 20 minutes without a car up my ass or coming at me. Damn that"s some beautiful riding country you have wherever you are
@bikerbeliever816911 ай бұрын
Public roads in North East Kentucky yep.
@alexanderrodriguez9897 Жыл бұрын
Soon i will have enough saved money to be able to get one of these babies before the summer ends.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Awesome they r very good bike
@zacpdx3 жыл бұрын
Just ordered the Angel GTs and swapping the rear sprocket to a 43 to get a better highway speed/rpm range. Can't wait!
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
Dude the Angel GT's make a huge difference, or they did to me. The stock tires for me were not good. The Angel GT's made it night and day difference for me and really boosted my confidence as a beginner rider.
@Mereshot1013 жыл бұрын
What do you think of the 43 sprocket? I have been going on longer rides and wouldn't mind bringing down the highway rpms.
@zacpdx3 жыл бұрын
@@Mereshot101 when I install it I'll let you know. I've done that with previous bikes and it makes a huge difference. Plus I've read it helps with the throttle response/engine breaking. I have the booster plug coming as well... Bike runs way to lean so I'm hoping that evens things out.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
For me there's nowhere up to go from my Ninja Cruiser Vulcan! I will keep it!
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Nothing wrong in that its a fantastic bike.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
I enjoyed every detail you provided in your video. Thank you for taking the time to make it:)
@david-johntiemens5739 ай бұрын
Thanks brother. I love the bike. I want one with an H2 so bad!
@johnd90312 жыл бұрын
Good review. I’m undecided between the Vulcan s, Vulcan 900 custom and Honda shadow 750 phantom.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Vulcan 650 for sure on performance. I like the honda shadow phantom styling better though. It also has shaft drive. They all are gonna be good reliable bikes though.
@pjeng12 жыл бұрын
This is the best beginner's bike and you get what you pay for. It will last a long time before you start to think about upgrading to your next higher performance bike after you've become an experienced biker.
@ekimandersom44782 жыл бұрын
No need for higher performance. The longer you ride the more you realize that
@kjfrank20362 жыл бұрын
I been riding forever and had bikes with way more power than this thing, bikes that corner way better, tour way better, etc. and I'm perfectly happy on this bike as a 35 year experienced rider. It's not a beginner bike, it's a niche bike. You buy this bike to have a lightweight cruiser bike that flicks and handles twisties while commuting and kicking around locally with maybe a longer trip here n there. You have fuel injection, liquid cooled bulletproof engine too. I feel it's actually a purpose built bike. In my opinion beginner bikes are 500cc and below. I've seen noobs destroy themselves on a 650 "beginner bike".
@QFrankdatrucker Жыл бұрын
@@kjfrank2036 I’m thinking about getting this my first bike new rider with 0 experience I never rode a bike ever.. you believe this isn’t a good beginner bike. I’m 6’0 465 pounds
@kepmafakheer30553 жыл бұрын
I see ur tail tidy there sir. Great work.
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
Yes, thanks, the kuryakyn products are typically really good and solid.
@TranslateToEnglish3 жыл бұрын
Where did you see it?
@kepmafakheer30553 жыл бұрын
@@TranslateToEnglish in the video man.
@Justaguyinnc3 жыл бұрын
I have not seen any reviews that don't like the Vulcan 650 for what it is... pretty peppie light weight cruiser style at a very affordable price.. It probably out runs your MotoGuzzi V7 850 too...:-)
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
I will do a comparison try and do a little acceleration run between the two. I would do a head to head race, but my wife would be the other rider and she's still learning to shift smooth and be good on throttle and stuff so Im not going to put her in that position. I may find someone around here to ride it and run it against me though and Ill try and film it.
@chotu51752 ай бұрын
She's a beauty ❤
@bikerbeliever81692 ай бұрын
That she is
@arkadiuszmolinski44432 жыл бұрын
awesome green painting....but exhaust must be changed....minus for that model.
@soaringblackbird4431Ай бұрын
Great stuff
@henryhartley99933 жыл бұрын
SRK cycles ran this bike against a bunch of Harleys and it smoked all of them...
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
Oh Im not suprised at all. It has some pep in its step, so to speak. Sometimes it doesnt feel fast because the power is very linear, but then you look at the speed and your like oh man it is quicker than I thought.
@stephenwilder23203 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 when I first got this bike I took it out a couple times and thought man this bike isn’t as fast as I thought it would be. Then one day I really cracked the throttle and looked down and realized how quick it actually was. And I still haven’t given it hell yet to see what it can do.
@RocketRob993 ай бұрын
I love those mirrors over the stock bricks, I don't see anything like those on Revzilla or Cycle Gear.. Where did you get them.
@leeinwis3 ай бұрын
They look like Kawasaki mirrors from other models.
@bikerbeliever81693 ай бұрын
Amazon they were just generic mirrors
@DOCFWHАй бұрын
How often do you have to clean/lube the chain on a Vulcan S? Thanks in advance for your response. Also, I noticed you mentioned in one response that you had sold the Vulcan S. What did you replace it with?
@bikerbeliever8169Ай бұрын
About every 300-500 miles of cleaning and lubing chain and checking the slack. I had several bikes, moto guzzi v7, Husqvarna svartpilen 701, and sold them since as well and now have a cfmoto ibex 800t currently.
@DOCFWHАй бұрын
@bikerbeliever8169 Thanks so much! BTW, a couple months ago I rode my 900 Vulcan Classic into Fleming County, Goddard Covered Bridge area from Georgetown. That's certainly a beautiful area! Continue to ride safely and enjoy.
@dvclassic4718 Жыл бұрын
Cool mirror swap.
@Hattinchannel9 ай бұрын
Which ones is he using now?
@kalnwi20237 ай бұрын
Z650@@Hattinchannel
@azgrandpadon61862 жыл бұрын
Brother, where are you riding in this video?!! I love it! It reminded me of some of the roads I used to ride in SE Tennessee 35 years ago!
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Northeast Kentucky
@chadmilburn18112 жыл бұрын
I would have guessed somewhere in TN. Those look like some epic roads with no traffic.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Kentucky and Tennessee got Appalachian mountains passing through both, very similar states, similar terrain, roads, except supposedly our grass in KY is blue.
@Justin-tp3lr Жыл бұрын
Where did you get the gear indicator for your handlebar?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Off Amazon I think. I also got a little bracket for handlebar for it as well. IDEA Waterproof Motorcycle Gear Indicator Plug & Play LED Display for Kawasaki (Rectangle, Blue) a.co/d/4lsG9TP (except green was available back then)
@grullord2 жыл бұрын
Did your bike came with that awesome shift indicator? If not where did you get it? Was it hard to install?
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
No it did not. It's a very easy install. There's different paths of install. I did the diagnostic port install very easy gear indicator was setup and plugged directly into it and gives you the gear. You can do the accessory relay option as well but have to buy the accessory relay also, but would still be easy.
@jamesbradford85742 жыл бұрын
My Vulcan 900 std has the same throttle problem. I wish it was smoother. Great bike all around, though.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Oh yeah seems like different bikes now a days have that off on throttle issue. Kawasaki makes good machines though.
@georgeikejiri94759 ай бұрын
Good presentation
@bikerbeliever81699 ай бұрын
Thanks I appreciate it
@TranslateToEnglish3 жыл бұрын
When you were talking about the tail lights shouldn't your video capture the tail light? I have a 2020 Vulcan S Cafe and I haven't found any problem with the throttle. I do agree about the seat however. The only change I made to my bike is installing the Arrow exhaust system to it. Sounds great.
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
yeah I hear the arrow exhaust is the best, it was just really pricey for me to justify it at the time. My bike is a 2016 also, they may have adjusted the throttle issues over the years, so Id imagine it could be better each new year. The throttle doesn't bother me now, but it was my first bike I actually owned and initially caught me off guard a bit and made me nervous. It isn't bad just for somebody that has never rode before it could be slightly alarming first time (just because this bike is recommended as one of best beginner bikes by a lot of people)
@timillo1232 жыл бұрын
I'm getting one soon looks great
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
vulcan is a great bike
@scottneal27382 жыл бұрын
I have to say, foot ergo needs work for when hitting bumps, fuel tank if you are going 75+. Don't get me wrong as it can be one of the best mpg for in town riding but doing hwy and definitely around 80....the range and fuel meter drops quickly.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
I think fuel gonna drop quick on any bike or vehicle when going 80 plus. May get there quicker but fuel gonna go down quicker too. I probably guess I ride between 55 and 70 on most roads with Vulcan and it's around 50 to 55 mpg. For first few thousand miles I was only getting like 45mpg to 50 at most. Bike got better over time things just run smoother now then when I had it new.
@scottneal27382 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 I had other bikes but way higher CC and fuel drain wasn't as bad but those bikes didn't get what the vulcan does for in town. I can get around 60mpg with mine if not that hard on it.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
@@scottneal2738 that's really good actually. My wife weighs less than me and she's getting over 55mpg really good since she has taken over riding it most of time. She loves the bike.
@scottneal27382 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 it definitely is a fun bike and to me it can really move for the idea of being a 650, the sport part really gives it a great feeling. Not sure if you have but I throttle shift at 4k rpm and it's smooth and don't feel a throttle lag. I weigh 160
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Your light guy, my wife weighing less is really quick with her on it. I'm 260ish now, but it has good pull performance for sure.
@billmeloche4918 Жыл бұрын
Like your gear indicator:) Where did you purchase it?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Amazon
@turtle19dad Жыл бұрын
Looking at this as a second bike. Since I have the Versys. However, looking at the Cafe model.
@khrisstake2210 Жыл бұрын
I couldn’t the differences between the s and cafe model. Are the handle bars lower out something?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
No it comes with a fairing but most people take it off
@aujax1 Жыл бұрын
i dont see any reason to put it in a “beginner” class. its just a great all-rounder. its lighter so i guess that makes it easier to handle for the less-experienced rider. personally, i love lighter bikes. better power-to-weight ratio and rides like a bike, not like a car!
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
I could have easily learned to ride on this bike no problem. A lot of others could have as well, its gonna come down to the individual and if they are competent or not. The Guzzi imo rides very direct to me, probably because of the shaft drive and direct connection to the rear wheel. Yes it handles like a bike because well it is a bike.
@ed.t.hansen6499 Жыл бұрын
Considering chg from my ctx700, loaded but. Easier handling in city, crowded area. But another few $k for the same options
@Skatebetter7 ай бұрын
Does this bike not show the gear you’re in on the stock display? Looks like you added your own
@bikerbeliever81697 ай бұрын
The newer models do. I think they added it to the stock display in 2017 and up I believe.
@Skatebetter7 ай бұрын
Thanks! I’m a noob but I’m taller and I think this bike is a good fit for me. Appreciate the review
@bikerbeliever81697 ай бұрын
If taller get the extended ergonomics and you should be good.
@CantTreadOnMe Жыл бұрын
$6,850 is cheapest I can find BUT every dealer charges an extra $1,000 for "freight, delivery, prep" so it's actually $7,850 PLUS another $600 in state taxes (varies by state) PLUS another $250 for registration/tags/title/inspection!!! Also, if you need it shipped to your house, you're talking another $400+!!! Oh, and let me add that this is carryover from the previous year inventory! So, it will be a 2022 model, not a 2023. Sure, it's a new bike with mileage & condition, but it's not the latest new model! Where the heck does everyone find these bikes for so cheap? I've looked within 250 mile radius of my house and it's always the same song and dance with price. $8,700 without shipping is the price. Msrp is so misleading and has really made my search for a bike a nightmare! I want a bike but when the "cheap" bikes are close to $10k after all the fees, it's really not approachable financially for a 1st time rider like myself who wants to come into riding. They sure aren't capturing me as a new customer and potential new long-term customer with misleading pricing. Why am I paying $300 for "prep fees"? If im buying a brand new bike from their in stock inventory, then why are they charging me to make sure it's what they advertise it as? Also, why am I paying a freight fee for a bike they have in inventory? That freight cost is their business cost! It's almost the same as asking me to pay their payroll because it's a business expense, not a customer expense. Shipping it to my house is a fee I understand, but them ordering bikes that they want to sell shouldn't be a customer fee.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Find a good dealer. It's alright to negotiate, worst they can do is say no. Build a relationship with a good dealer and they will give you better prices and perks and be willing to let you test ride new bikes when they come in.
@CantTreadOnMe Жыл бұрын
@The Boss of Hart Lane Yeah im working on that right now with a couple dealers I found that offer the best inventories but so far I haven't had any luck getting a deal. Maybe I'll wait until winter when they are stuck with inventory and riding season is over.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
@TuggyPeppa yeah also go to demo days. I went to one and they are fun anyways. I got a $500 off any new Kawasaki bike just for riding motorcycles. It's fun and you get free stuff lot of times, also got free pair of Kawasaki motorcycle gloves from the dealer. It was nice.
@CantTreadOnMe Жыл бұрын
@The Boss of Hart Lane Thanks I'll certainly try that. Appreciate the tips!
@thetruthspeaker51012 жыл бұрын
That is beautiful country you riding through. Where is it
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Northeastern Kentucky near Goddard
@pb95484 ай бұрын
What do you recommend for switching out to LED headlight?
@bikerbeliever81693 ай бұрын
I have no idea we sold the bike awhile back I don't remember what we got exactly, it wasn't bad bad expensive off Amazon should be something that would work.
@ehgg_61164 ай бұрын
I had my course on this bike which they provided, now i regret not buying it😢
@bikerbeliever81693 ай бұрын
Oh man yes we don't ha e it anymore but it's probably the best bike you can get for the money certainly.
@ehgg_61163 ай бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 they still sell it here under partnership with modenas, from malaysia btw. Materials are probably not so reliable now but we'll see since its a new collaboration.
@Kephers724 күн бұрын
Looking to buy this bike. There is one close, but the sales guy was a giant douche, saying 'my daughter could ride this bike, youre a grown man, you need a bigger bike, what the f()* are you doing, youre wasting your time, i'm gonna rake you over the coals for for the trade in value' and the like. I'm convinced he just didnt wanna waste his time with a more budget bike. Maybe his commission was based on cost or size bike? I don't know. But I left and said I'm not giving you or your company a sale like that. So, on principle I'm looking a little farther away to see who can get this bike in for my first.
@bikerbeliever816920 күн бұрын
Ya that sounds horrible I'd find another dealer or salesman.
@Rolilasx2 жыл бұрын
Might I ask how tall you are ? Would you say its a good fit for somebody around 184 cm ? Thanks for the video btw :)
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
I am 6 foot 1 inches tall if that helps
@Rolilasx2 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 It does, thanks :)
@Rainan-hi8ds3 жыл бұрын
Nice bike What for gloves u have bro!
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
scorpion klaw ii gloves in grey if I remember right.
@thetwogardens60482 жыл бұрын
Good vid and Review !
@stephengessner5500 Жыл бұрын
What kind of mirrors did you put on the Vulcan?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Should be in the description
@bharsen2 жыл бұрын
I had my Vulcan S for 6 years. Bought it the year it came out. No problems other than the shifter bolt snapping when I went to shift it one time. Had to be trailered to the dealership for a quick fix and then I was on my way. After 6 years with 60 horsepower it honestly got a little boring for me. So I upgraded to a Harley with 121 horsepower/94ft lbs tq with a wet weight of 500lbs. Thing absolutely rips my face off in first gear lol.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Vulcan is a good bike, but 120 horsepower is obviously a lot and going to be more exciting, and 94lb ft torque is gonna make for good ride as well. I like all bikes Ive rode, vulcan is a good starter bike and good value (minus the on off throttle thing). Harley's are expensive and tough entry point into biking unless get used sportster.
@hassanhassoon69442 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 does anybody know what is the top speed for this bike ? Kawasaki Vulcan s650
@DShinskey2 жыл бұрын
@@hassanhassoon6944 116
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
It costs over 2.5 times more too. It is nice for sure though.
@kjfrank20362 жыл бұрын
You don't compare a Harley to this bike lol. They're not even remotely the same. When you "upgrade" to a Harley you upgrade the initial cost of the bike, maintenance costs, the heat on your legs, the vibration, the insurance cost, the gas cost, the accessories costs and you give away all the reliability. I been riding 35 years and I know all about it as I've owned everything you can think of. Having said that, ALL bikes are pretty awesome in my opinion. 2 wheels, open air, the wind..Can't beat it!
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
By the way, what area do you live in? Those are beautiful roads, trees, and mountains. Thank you
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Flemingsburg, KY area.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
Thank you. It was absolutely beautiful countryside:) We're looking for better places to which we might relocate in the future. Kentucky is certainly a possibility!
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Lived here whole life never had desire to leave
@Joyx20113 жыл бұрын
I'm set on getting this bike as a first. Is this a sure fire way to get it...? 1) I've budgeted for the MSF course which I'll schedule this weekend for next weekend. 2) after I'll pass the written test. 3) get license. 4) go to motorcycle dealership and finance one of these. Will try to take my friend who rides so I won't get fucked. 5) getting decent gear is my priority. .... Am I missing anything? And will I be able to get it in graystone red black?
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
This is/can be a good first bike. My advice, be patient, take your time, wear your gear. Take the written exam for your bike permit first (though this may differ by state, not sure). If you get your permit you could already be practicing, riding the roads to practice right now, legally. Then if you already have your permit, then after you pass the msf, all you have to do is go in and have them update your license and show them and you are officially legal on a bike on the main roads. As far as buying the bike, that depends on how you want to do it. I bought the bike before I had ever even rode one. That being said it took me few weeks of practice, just driveway, small road practice to get going. It was frustrating a bit, but then it became easy and second nature and is so relaxing and enjoyable now to ride for me. So be patient, understand learning to ride is a process and their will be frustration and just take your time, it could take you weeks to even be comfortable to pull out of your driveway. For me the clutch and gear shifting was easy, I had to work more on my balance and learning to push the direction I wanted to go, as well as getting used to the throttle sensitivity on the bike. Check out motojitsu's channel, he is great and can help you a lot as far as becoming a better, safer rider. As far as the color scheme you get for your bike, thats going to depend on the dealer you go to and what they got available or if they can order the paint scheme you are looking for, as well as how far you are willing to drive to a dealer that may arleady have what you are looking for, so you'll have to call ahead and figure it out set it up.
@Mereshot1013 жыл бұрын
You should check out dan dan the fireman he has some pretty good tips as well.
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
@@Mereshot101 yes Dan Dan is great
@chrisroberson71563 жыл бұрын
I like your game plan. First time rider myself (older guy in my 40s). Started looking at bikes and watching videos. Took the MSF in April, bought a decent helmet but basic/cheap gear for class. Wanted to make sure my want (to be a rider) and my abilities (to ride affectively) matched up before any more financial commitment. Took the class and passed ( on a crappy DMV bike) and the hook was set. Scheduled DMV visit in May for license and started shopping Used shops and FB marketplace. Found my 2015 Vulcan S for $5k with 1500 miles on it. Kept watching a ton of Dan Dan the fireman videos and other training and tips. Hit the closest school parking lot until I was road ready. Took a lot of left and right turns, braking, slow maneuvers. The Vulcan has a sensitive throttle. Stalled it a bunch of times, dropped it once (every new rider does). While I was practicing started upgrading to my street ready gear. Better jacket, gloves, boots. Got a good deal on FB for jacket. Then progressed to neighborhood roads and light traffic. Now I ride most days, commuting and casual riding. Still stall it occasionally when I get quick on the clutch but feel more confident every day and very happy with my first bike choice. I think the hardest part was the time between the course and license and the bike purchase because I didn’t have anything to practice on. I will add my buddies who rode were a great source of information and tips just don’t listen to the one who says shorts and tennis shoes are fine. Hope your journey to riding goes well. Get ready to throw down the two fingers sign!
@Joyx20112 жыл бұрын
Oh yeah I never updated this. This is the route I ended with. I took the CMSP course in Cali. Passed. Got my license. While saving for my bike I bought bits and pieces of high quality gear during the holidays. Bought a 250cc adventure bike. Paid off. And now the plan is to practice motojitsu. Take more courses. Get more miles under my belt. And a year from now upgrade to a faster adv bike and do some traveling. Thanks for supporting me when not many people did.. because ya know motorcycles are dangerous. See y'all out there I'll throw the ✌️ up. :)
@manosmanos4663 Жыл бұрын
I am thinking change my rebel 500 2022 for vulcan. I don't know. The riding position of the rebel is awesome but I want the power of the vulcan.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Honestly don't know if the power would be that much more impressive. It would be but not like drastically. If wanting more power I'd pass the vulcan if your already good at riding and get little more cc unless u just like the styling of the vulcan.
@turtle19dad Жыл бұрын
Are you using the mirrors off the Versys? I love those mirrors.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Not that I'm aware of. Just Amazon mirrors.
@Hattinchannel9 ай бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169any links?
@zacpdx3 жыл бұрын
What mirrors are those? Thanks
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
they are stealth mirrors if i remember? they were generic and cheap on amazon i got them for like less than $20
@NOISY_ShortShot3 жыл бұрын
Looking really nice, how come you didn't put a different exhaust on?
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
Money, lol. Expensive and wasnt 100% certain I liked the exhausts I heard online and paying what they cost. I like the two brothers racing exhaust at idle sound, but its really loud everybody says and will ring your head if you ride too long, so I was like nah. People said that delkevic was overly loud too, my second choice, but I didnt think it sounded as throaty thumpy at idle like the tbr. So I never settled on any I was happy about and just tried the drilled holes exhaust mod and it sounded not too bad, not overly loud ring your brains out.
@mzstibbz13 жыл бұрын
Firetong Willy sounds nice too
@Mereshot1013 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 I have the delkevic and its too loud for my preference. With the longer 21" it interferes with adding spools to the bike just a heads up. Luckily I got the bike with the exhaust otherwise I would be upset lol
@frapp312 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 I have put a delkevic ceramic exhaust on mine and its not too loud. It's less than the tbr and not annoying. It also improved the jerkingness of the throttle.
@montidude2 жыл бұрын
I got the arrow full system exhaust and couldn't be happier! In Switzerland we have rather strict laws concerning well anything therefore the muffler must be in at all times but it sounds amazing even with the muffler.
@marvinmartinez26376 ай бұрын
That's nice
@justaclosedaccount Жыл бұрын
I have one of these. Recently purchased. It's the first 650 Kawasaki I've owned. Has 20,000kms on it. Is it normal for these Kawasaki 650 engines to sound like a bucket full of marbels? Like... Rattly and loose in the top end?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
No I don't think so. Have you done a valve clearance check?
@justaclosedaccount Жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 nope. Kawasaki said there's no problem with it, but I'm wondering if they're trying to save themselves an engine out job.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
I mean the engine has a slight buzz to it maybe, but not like a can of marbles. I would definitely make sure you got proof take note that you contacted them about it for future warranty claim, otherwise drive it like you atole it. Mine has been bulletproof through 12k miles of ownership.
@Jflo4308 Жыл бұрын
are those stock headlights and turning indicator?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
No they are not. Kuryakyn rear turn brake signals. I forget what the front are.
@ed.t.hansen6499 Жыл бұрын
Must have large eindshield, floorboards.
@nickcavolli30722 жыл бұрын
Tough decision choosing between this and a honda CB500/650
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
I hear the rebel 500 is nice. It won't be as fast but will be smoother and more user friendly probably for a beginner especially. Kawasaki just has that weird on off throttle which makes low throttle situations awkward and tough kind of.
@stephaniebreland59262 жыл бұрын
The Vulcan beats the Honda, hands down! No comparison!
@khrisstake2210 Жыл бұрын
Why don’t cruisers have cruise control?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
I wish I knew every bike should have it.
@royword1762 жыл бұрын
Nice mirrors!! Are they better than stock?? If so can u share the link
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Stock are actually pretty good tbh
@Wayne_Farrow Жыл бұрын
Can I ask what mirrors those are?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
They were some cheap stealth mirrors off Amazon.
@chengsgroup2518 Жыл бұрын
U had it in mid peg mount control like rebel or just short reach peg."?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Mid
@MatiasNorman2 жыл бұрын
what year model is this?And Does it have a gear indicator? I thought the gear indicator was standard what year model is this? I thought the gear indicator was standard from 2017 and up?
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
It's a 2016. You are correct 2017 and up has a gear indicator stock.
@chadmilburn1811 Жыл бұрын
Where can I buy those mirrors?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
Universal Black Motorcycle 7 8 Handle Bar End Side Mirrors for Cruiser Sport Bikes Cate Racer Street Bike a.co/d/3tMQMWl
@Ojeramup12 Жыл бұрын
When at 6,000 rpm at about what speed are you going? What speed seems smooth and comfortable?
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
The bike is best for cruising between 4 and 6k rpm. That seems to be where the meat of its torque band is at. For power obviously it revs up to 9k little over. But to me the power though it keeps reving feels like it dies off close to 8k maybe little before.
@Ojeramup12 Жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 Thanks for the reply. I am considering on buying one very soon.
@bikerbeliever8169 Жыл бұрын
It's a good all round bike and probably best or one of best cruisers for the money for sure, especially if you like one that has a lot of lean angle.
@karloanttila3 жыл бұрын
Pro Tip on mods -- don't. They almost never add value or performance to your bike. Instead, spend that money on becoming a better, faster rider.
@bikerbeliever81693 жыл бұрын
I can see the logic in that
@bnolsen3 жыл бұрын
Typically true, unless it's a mod to address something lacking in the bike. It looks like the booster plug is probably a worthwhile addition to fix the throttle response that is broken due to regulations.
@sonkaldo2 жыл бұрын
How far can you get on a full tank please.
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
Itll do over 150, probably 180 (assuming your not constantly punching the throttle), but I always fill up early to be on safe side. 3.7 gallon fuel tank, mileage of around 50mpg. My wife is averaging around 55mpg when she rides I get closer to 50mpg when I ride I'm over 100lbs heavier than her taller, wider than her, more wind resistance and weight and ride casually aggressive. It has a fuel guage that is pretty good for a bike actually.
@sonkaldo2 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 thank you.
@SuperRichie2002 жыл бұрын
Put crash bars on mine.
@kcledis2596 Жыл бұрын
Good job by covering your license plate, somebody could have saw the numbers. #deedeedee
@garretgonzales7 ай бұрын
whats the green spring on your bike
@bikerbeliever81697 ай бұрын
The spring/suspension?
@garretgonzales7 ай бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 I want a custom color
@bikerbeliever81697 ай бұрын
Oh you'd have to search on ebay or aftermarket somewhere
@garretgonzales7 ай бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 do you know a part number.
@garretgonzales7 ай бұрын
Or better yet a solid site without being scared about knockoff sruff
@damdam852 жыл бұрын
👌👍
@HUMPTYNUGGET2 жыл бұрын
What is a booster plug please anyone ?
@bikerbeliever81692 жыл бұрын
It plugs into the 02 sensor sensor and tricks ecu into giving more fuel in low revs to run smoother and not so jerky or bucky when just taking it smooth and easy.
@HUMPTYNUGGET2 жыл бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 Ta mate
@Winedineandrhyme8 ай бұрын
All I heard was "yeah this bike isn't that good"
@bikerbeliever81698 ай бұрын
No it's great bike, just not super characterful.
@ed.t.hansen6499 Жыл бұрын
Why not stock with big ass seat! Omg.
@MarissaTheMuse3 ай бұрын
Great looking bike but this motor is trash imo
@bikerbeliever81692 ай бұрын
The motor is good but not unique or characterful I guess. A 270 crank makes a much more pleasing engine and exhaust note.
@MarissaTheMuse2 ай бұрын
@@bikerbeliever8169 the motor * is good…I can accept that depending on the yard stick being used. I mean it’s functional and reliable but that’s it. Not to diminish those features it’s just …I mean the ninja 400 motor is even better imo because at least you can rev that thing out. The 650 is barely more performative than the 400, a bit more down low but even top speeds of the z400 vs z650 for example are basically identical. There’s just too many far superior options. You have to want a new bike, a small & light bike…cruiser style no less, a Japanese bike….at this price range and with 650 power. If you’re willing to alter any 1 or 2 of those metrics there’s much better options. Willingness to buy used destroys this as even an option imo. I like its looks, I’ll give it that. I’d rather the w800 though by far.
@bikerbeliever81692 ай бұрын
@MarissaTheMuse oh I love the w800 I'd take that in a heartbeat
@julianfairhurst11953 жыл бұрын
Interesting review of the bike. Get your self some proper riding gear and protect yourself if you want some credibility as a competent biker.