Kawasaki has increased its stake in MODENAS from 19% to 30% and part of this plan includes the local assembly of certain Kawasaki models.
MODENAS has confirmed that the Vulcan S will be assembled in Malaysia.
The plans will eventually include the local-assembly of all twin-cylinder Kawasaki models.
Ever since Kawasaki increased its stake in MODENAS, the Malaysian motorcycle industry has been abuzz with which Kawasaki models will be re-introduced as MODENAS models.
As for purchasing the Vulcan S, the model will be introduced towards the end of the year at Kawasaki shops throughout Malaysia.
MODENAS says it plans to introduce two types of Kawasaki shops in Malaysia:
1. Kawasaki Shop: This term is as simple as it gets, and the Kawasaki Shop will only sell Kawasaki models exclusively as well as genuine Kawasaki accessories and merchandise.
2. Kawasaki Station: This is a multibrand dealership that will also offer Kawasaki products. This is not an exclusive dealership.
There is no indication in pricing, but MODENAS has hinted that it will be lower than before.
Kawasaki has revealed new colour options for the ER-6f, the ER-6n, the Versys 650, as well as the Vulcan S.
While the Versys 650 and the Vulcan S are new models, the ER-6f and ER-6n were expected to go through an extensive update by mid 2016, but looking at Kawasaki’s decision to introduce new paint options, we feel that it is safe to say that the refreshed ER-6f and ER-6n will take longer than we expected to make their debut.
Coming back to the new paint options, the ER-6fgets three options for the 2016 season. The iconic green Candy Lime Green version now features fairing sides in Metallic Spark Black fading to a lighter colour fairing lower. In a similar style, the Candy Persimmon Red model also has Metallic Spark Black fairing sides while the Metallic Carbon Gray option sticks to an all over single colour approach.
Like its ER-6n partner, each new for 2016 ER-6f comes with a coloured rear shock absorber spring and pin-striped wheels as standard. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.
The Vulcan S on the other hand, is now available in white. The beige Urban City White option is joined by Metallic Matt Carbon Gray, creating an impactful and purposeful look. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.
And then we have the Versys 650, which is currently available in Metallic Matte Carbon Gray and Metallic Spark Black machine. New for next year are the striking Candy Matte Orange and Pearl Stardust White combined with Metallic Spark Black option.
On another note, Kawasaki mentioned in the press release that it has many announcements due in the near future. So, we can expect 2016 to be a pretty busy and interesting year for the brand.
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.’
