2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S vs Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 – A Comparison of Mid-Weight Cruisers!

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S: The mid-weight cruiser segment is heating up in 2025 as the Kawasaki Vulcan S faces off against the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. These bikes have distinct characteristics: the Vulcan S is a Japanese model known for its refinement, while the Super Meteor is a British-rooted Indian favorite recognized for its classic style. Let’s explore their pricing, features, performance, and riding experiences.

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S Design and Styling

In design, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 showcases a classic cruiser appearance with its teardrop fuel tank, round LED headlamp, wide handlebars, and low seating. Its chrome accents and fine details add to its vintage charm. Conversely, the Kawasaki Vulcan S leans towards a modern cruiser look, featuring a strong fuel tank, sharp headlight, and a sporty stance. The Vulcan S also includes Kawasaki’s “Ergo-Fit” concept, allowing adjustments for footpeg positions and seating for enhanced comfort.

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S Engine and Performance

The Vulcan S is powered by a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, adapted from Kawasaki’s Ninja 650, producing about 60 bhp and 63 Nm of torque. Its engine delivers smooth performance, making it great for highway cruising. In contrast, the Super Meteor 650 features a 648cc air-oil cooled parallel-twin engine generating 47 bhp and 52 Nm of torque. While it doesn’t rev as high as the Vulcan, it offers strong mid-range torque for relaxed cruising speeds, complemented by a deep exhaust sound.

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S Ride and Handling

The Vulcan S is designed for comfort, with adjustable ergonomics, telescopic front forks, and a rear monoshock. Its low seat height and balanced weight distribution make it easy to handle for a 650cc bike. On the other hand, the Super Meteor 650 emphasizes classic cruiser comfort with a wide seat and forward footpegs, ideal for long journeys. Its suspension, with 43mm upside-down forks and twin shocks, handles bumps well, though it feels heavier in city traffic compared to the Vulcan.

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S Features and Technology

In 2025, both bikes offer modern features. The Kawasaki Vulcan S includes a semi-digital instrument console, LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, and optional accessories such as windshields and saddlebags. Its build quality is a highlight. The Super Meteor 650 features Royal Enfield’s Tripper Navigation, all-LED lighting, and improved switchgear. While its fit and finish have enhanced, it lacks the customization options available on the Vulcan S.

2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S Price and Value

In India, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is priced from around ₹3.6 lakh (ex-showroom), providing strong value in the cruiser market. The Kawasaki Vulcan S 2025, being an imported model, has a higher starting price of approximately ₹7.1 lakh (ex-showroom). It offers advanced engineering and performance but at a higher price point.

Verdict: Which Cruiser to Choose?

If you prefer modern design, strong performance, and adjustable features, the Kawasaki Vulcan S 2025 is a better fit. It offers smooth rides and a premium feel. However, for those who appreciate classic design, authentic cruiser appeal, and value for money, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 emerges as a great choice, blending comfort, style, and affordability effectively.