Kawasaki Vulcan S vs Harley-davidson Nightster
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Kawasaki Vulcan S vs Harley-davidson Nightster. Kawasaki Vulcan S: 61 hp @ 7,500 rpm hp, 228 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 185 km/h (estimated), Motoryk rating 7.5/10. Harley-davidson Nightster: 89 hp @ 7,500 rpm hp, 220 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 185 km/h (estimated), Motoryk rating 7.8/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Vulcan S
Harley-davidson Nightster
Horsepower (hp)
61 hp
89 hp
Torque (Nm)
63 Nm
95 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
185 km/h
185 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
228 kg
220 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
61 hp @ 7,500 rpm
89 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque
63 Nm @ 6,600 rpm
95 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Top Speed
185 km/h (estimated)
185 km/h (estimated)
Weight
228 kg (wet/curb weight)
220 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
4.5 L/100km (approx. 22 km/L typical real-world average)
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki Vulcan S
7.5/10
"The sensible cruiser that actually makes mechanical sense used."
Pros
+Adjustable ergonomics suit everyone
+Parallel-twin engine lives forever
+Low maintenance belt drive
Cons
−Stock seat punishes longer rides
−Styling divides opinion sharply
−Low resale value retention
Harley-davidson Nightster
7.8/10
"A genuinely good motorcycle that earns respect beyond the badge."
Pros
+Revolution Max engine is excellent
+Actually corners with confidence
+Low, manageable seat height
Cons
−Stock seat is punishment
−Cramped for tall riders
−Limited wind protection
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
