Kawasaki’s “Change your view” tag line is so perfect with the latest Versys 1000 and 650, as we all know the previous one wasnt that good of a looker.
Pictures can only do so much but until we get to see it in the flesh, here is a fresh video from Kawasaki of the Versys 1000 on what looks like every biker’s dream road, the Transfagarasan Pass, Romania.
At the same time Kawasaki also released the 2015 Versys 650 video, both are special release as the company launches both Kawasaki Versys 1000 and 650 bikes yesterday in North America.
Cruiser enthusiast can jump for joy as Kawasaki had just released the Vulcan S, a middle weight cruiser using the 649cc parallel-twin engine from the Versys 650 and ER-6 range.
Adapting to the new chassis, the engine on the Kawasaki Vulcan S is retuned for better low and mid range power. The engine is rated at 61hp and 46lbft or 63.3Nm with a kerb weight of 225kg.
However so far availability is only for America and Europe but we have a feeling its going to be available here too. Hopefully.
More detail when the bike is showcased at the up coming Eicma but here is what the official release by Kawasaki said:
‘Kawasaki launches Vulcan S as new mid-weight contender
A brand new model is set to be added to the Kawasaki 2015 motorcycle line-up in the UK for the coming season, the Vulcan S.
Completing the Vulcan family with a fresh and unique mid-capacity machine for those who think outside the box – and already revealed in the USA – the new Vulcan S will also be gracing European soil, beginning with an unveiling at November’s EICMA show in Milan. The Vulcan S is definitely not a standard everyday cruiser, more an innovative and fashionable approach with low-riding looks and a contemporary urban personality.
At the heart of the Vulcan S is the proven parallel twin 649cm3 engine, known and loved in the Versys 650 and ER6n/f, now reconsidered and re-tuned for a fundamentally different character in its new role. This engine shows its muscle from pull-away with a gutsy low-mid range yet it is still easy to exploit its full performance potential throughout the upper reaches of the power band. Newcomers to the world of two wheels will particularly appreciate the overall engine settings which make the Vulcan S easy to master.
As performance of the Vulcan S is enviable, the brakes too assure safe and smooth braking with a 300mm front disc, controlled by a two-piston caliper, while the rear wheel carries a 250mm disc and single piston caliper. Additionally, the latest spec ABS is optional and programmed to provide safely controlled stopping power in all conditions – another advantage for those new to two wheels.
An offset laydown single-shock rear suspension complements the styling of the bike with a linkage arrangement enabling a longer stroke for increased ride comfort. The rear suspension configuration also contributes to the bike’s compact design, freeing up space for a distinctive large-volume silencer under the engine.
Reassuringly, rider preference and use is also considered as the rear suspension sports adjustable preload, with 7 positions to suit rider size and payload. Putting rider comfort first, the telescopic front fork contributes to the bike’s easy-to-control, light and natural handling.
The low seat height makes this bike accessible to any rider, young or more mature, male or female and makes city stop-and-go riding fun and easy. The slim chassis aids easier ground reach, while the plush sculpted seat offers excellent hip support and comfort. No compromises have been made to stability though, as the long wheelbase, low centre of gravity and centralised mass all offer high stability for highway cruising and easy manoeuvrability.
Interestingly, one of the many great features of the new Vulcan S are 3-position adjustable rear to front foot-pegs so the rider can customise their bike according to their personal measurements and preferences. Further personalising this machine, both the brake and clutch levers are adjustable to facilitate ideal hand reach and effort.
This trend-setting addition to the Kawasaki family adds modern style and flare standing out from the rest of the field. The Vulcan S is positioned as the “real deal” with looks, comfort, practicality, accessibility and performance as key attributes.
With an urban design approach characterised by flowing style and a long-and-low stance – plus modern styling elements like the original headlamp and distinctive cast wheels – the Vulcan S introduces very non-traditional cruiser looks. Discover more about the all-new Vulcan S at EICMA and ride, your way.’
Source: visordown
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Calling all bikers, the Rainbow of Life Forces (ROLF) is looking for friendly bikers to help them distribute some happiness to underprivileged children on their Grant-A-Wish campaign.
The campaign will commence in November where the ROLF will distribute the gifts to the selected homes.
Each child already have a wish thats been collected by ROLF and bikers can contribute by buying the gift for the child, you can log on to http://www.rolfcommunity.org on how to do that.
Or you can give your time instead and
join the ROLF team at the event venue and interact with the kids. There will be games and also a fun ride session where you give the kids a ride on your bike.
Rainbow of Life Forces or ROLF is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Campaign which is initiated to give hope to all children regardless of race, religion, background and nationality.
ROLF brings nations together in mutually supportive relationships when it comes to enhancing the quality of life for children, particularly in mitigating pains and sufferings of the young.
ROLF consists of 7 campaigns. They are Blue Ribbon Campaign, followed by Gold, Orange, Red, Yellow, Green, and Purple. Each of the campaigns is formed to support and help children in different situation.
Interested bikers to join the charity event can contact Kev of Bikingmsia at 0173233363.
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Its finally out in the flesh, after months of teasing which included Gumby style video clips, Ducati rolled it out in Intermot ending the debates we been having about the actual look of the Ducati Scrambler. (more…)
Some of us didnt see it coming but following its bigger brother the Versys 1000, the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 version also gets a make-over.
Just like its bigger brother, the 650 get dual-headlight looking a bit like whats on the ER-6F. And also just like its bigger brother it now features better wind protection for the rider thanks to that wider frontal area and an adjustable windscreen.
The engine also gets tweaked to increase a bit at the upper rev range and improving consumption. Add to the newly increased tank capacity of 21litres, that three litres more than previous means this version will have a longer touring range.
The USD now features ‘separate functions’ for each tube and a stronger subframe is some of the changes made to the chassis.
Specs:
Maximum power: 56ps @ 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 47.2ftlb
Seat height: 840mm
Kerb mass: 214kg/216kg (ABS)
The official release from Kawasaki says:
The latest incarnation of the Versys 650 has been launched by Kawasaki at the prestigious Intermot motorcycle exhibition in Cologne, Germany. The Versys 650, already popular for its multi-purpose capabilities and its fun character, has been redesigned to reflect the sporty range-wide Kawasaki DNA and has received a multitude of upgrades for 2015.
A fresh new look has been given to this all-around machine, uniting both design and a fun and sporty character to create the ultimate Versys 650. The Kawasaki family styling is prominent in the dual front headlamps and the new cowling, which not only look the part but also improve wind protection and aerodynamics.
The proven 649cm3 engine retains its familiar low and mid-range torque, essential for daily riding and two-wheeled fun, but has received a boost in the high rpm performance to enhance its sporty character. Fuel efficiency has also been improved to ensure hours of enjoyment on any street.
Upgrades have been made to the long travel 41mm suspension which now has separate functions for each tube, allowing all adjusters to be at the top of the fork for easy personal refinement. New bike-specific settings contribute to both light handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension features an easy-to-access remote preload adjuster aiding effortless fine-tuning for pillion riding or load-heavy outings.
Adding to the many upgrades the new Versys 650 boasts, the stopping force of the new motorcycle has also been enhanced. New calipers, revised master cylinder settings, new brake pad material and a larger φ250 mm rear disc all deliver increased controllability, stronger initial bite and greater overall brake force.
However, the Versys 650 is not only about daily commuting and solo riding. This bike will devour long distances, alone or in the company of a pillion rider. Keeping this in mind, the touring capabilities of the Versys 650 have been improved by increasing the payload, allowing riders to take more with them and by including many useful accessories in the Kawasaki inventory. A stronger rear frame allows accessory clean-mount panniers and a top case to be used at the same time. An all-new larger adjustable windscreen offers comfort and protection to riders using simple hand-adjust knurled wheels. The fuel tank now holds 21L of fuel (previously 19L) so highway cruising or twisty excursions needn’t be interrupted by frequent refuelling.
Already with a loyal following, for 2015 the new Versys 650 goes the extra mile and stands proudly among the Kawasaki model range embodying the true meaning of a multi-tasking motorcycle. Discover the exceptionally versatile Versys 650, for everyday or weekend fun, ride longer and farther in comfort and in unique Kawasaki style.
sourced from visordown.com
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