For new riders, choosing a first motorcycle is equal parts excitement and anxiety. Kawasaki’s cruiser lineup offers two compelling options: the Vulcan S 650 and the Eliminator 450. Both bikes promise reliability, approachable power, and Kawasaki’s signature engineering—but they cater to very different priorities.
Let’s break down this debate, using insights from real riders, mechanics, and industry experts to help you decide which bike deserves your garage space.
The Core Dilemma
At the heart of the debate lies a classic trade-off. The Vulcan S 650 (starting at $7,899) is a 649cc parallel−twin cruiser with a sport bike-derived engine, offering enough power to “grow into” for years. Meanwhile, the Eliminator 450 ($6,799–$7,249) is a 451cc lightweight designed for instant confidence, weighing 100 pounds less than its sibling.
“The Vulcan S feels like a ‘forever bike,’ but the Eliminator is like training wheels that don’t suck,” explains a Rider who’s owned both.
Sporty vs. Friendly
Vulcan S 650:
- Power: 61 HP and 46 lb-ft of torque. Its Ninja 650-sourced engine is retuned for low-end grunt, ideal for highway passes and carrying passengers.
- Real-World Feel: Smooth but snappy throttle response that demands finesse at low speeds. “It’s forgiving once you’re used to it, but my first week involved some jerky starts,” admits a Vulcan owner.
- Highway King: Stable at 70+ mph, with minimal vibration. Perfect for riders planning longer rides.
Eliminator 450:
- Power: Around 44-49 HP and 31 lb-ft of torque. The Ninja 400-based engine prioritizes low-RPM torque for city riding.
- Real-World Feel: “Peppy and predictable—no surprises,” says a new Eliminator owner. The assist/slipper clutch reduces hand fatigue, a boon in traffic.
- Buzz Alert: Riders note a “buzzy” feel above 6,000 RPM at sustained highway speeds. Great for suburbs, less so for cross-country trips.
Verdict: The Vulcan S offers grown-up power; the Eliminator masters stress-free commutes.
Custom Fit vs. Instant Comfort
Vulcan S 650:
- Ergo-Fit System: Adjustable handlebars, seats, and footpegs let you tailor the bike to your body. A 5’2” rider can shrink the reach, while a 6’3” rider stretches out.
- Seat Woes: The stock seat is infamous for becoming a “numbness generator” after an hour. Most owners upgrade to aftermarket options like Corbin or Mustang ($200–$450).
- Riding Position: Traditional cruiser stance with forward controls. “Feels natural if you’ve trained on cruisers,” says an MSF instructor.
Eliminator 450:
- Low & Light: A 28.9-inch seat height (Kawasaki’s lowest) lets most riders flat-foot easily. The mid-controls mimic standard bikes, easing transitions to other styles.
- Suspension Trade-Off: Lighter riders love the agility, but heavier riders (180+ lbs) report a firm rear shock on bumpy roads.
- Minimal Tweaks: No Ergo-Fit, but accessory seats tweak height. “I didn’t need to change a thing—it just fit,” says a 5’4” rider.
Verdict: Vulcan S = customization; Eliminator = accessibility.
Heavyweight Agility vs. Featherweight Flickability
- Vulcan S 650: At ~500 lbs, it’s nimble for a cruiser but still demands respect in parking lots. The low center of gravity helps, but “catching a tip-over feels like wrestling a fridge,” laughs one owner.
- Eliminator 450: At 388 lbs, it’s a parking lot superstar. “I practiced figure-8s for hours without breaking a sweat,” boasts a new rider.
Both handle city traffic well, but the Eliminator’s weight advantage shines in tight spaces.
Cost of Ownership
- Purchase Price: The Eliminator wins new ($1,100+cheaper), but used Vulcan S models (2015–2022) flood the used market at $4,900–$6,300.
- Insurance: Expect to pay 20–30% less for the Eliminator—insurers see its smaller engine as lower risk.
- Fuel Economy:
- Vulcan S: 45–50 MPG (real-world).
- Eliminator: 50–55 MPG (ideal for urban frugality).
- Maintenance: Both use proven engines, but Vulcan S parts are cheaper due to aftermarket support.
Who Should Choose Which?
Pick the Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 if you:
- Want a bike that’ll handle highways, weekends, and daily commutes for years.
- Are willing to master throttle control and invest in a better seat.
- Value customization (Ergo-Fit is a game-changer for non-average body types).
Pick the Kawasaki Eliminator 450 if you:
- Prioritize low-speed confidence and urban agility.
- Have a smaller budget (or want lower maintenance).
- Crave a modern-retro look without the “beginner bike” stigma.
“Sit on both. Feel the weight difference. Rev the engines. The right choice will click,” advises a Kawasaki dealer. Whether you’re drawn to the Vulcan’s growl or the Eliminator’s flickable charm, both bikes deliver Kawasaki’s reliability—and a gateway to endless miles of freedom.
