2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Specs & Review

The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a modern middleweight cruiser built around a smooth parallel-twin, tuned for easygoing torque and everyday versatility. With thoughtful ergonomics and approachable dimensions, it’s aimed at riders who want a low, confidence-inspiring seat and friendly manners without giving up spirited performance. This Kawasaki Vulcan S review focuses on real-world usability and the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S specs that matter.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel twin, DOHC, 8 valves
• Displacement: 649 cc
• Power: 60 hp @ 7,500 rpm (ISO 4106)
• Torque: 46.5 lb-ft @ 6,600 rpm (63.0 N·m)
• Kawasaki Vulcan S seat height: 27.8 in / 705 mm
• Kawasaki Vulcan S weight: 498.3 lb (ABS) / 491.7 lb (non‑ABS) US curb; 228 kg EU curb mass
• Fuel capacity: 3.7 gal / 14.0 L

Below are the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S specs explained for riders comparing options in the class.

Engine & Performance

The Vulcan S’s 649 cc, liquid-cooled parallel twin delivers 60 hp at 7,500 rpm per ISO 4106 and 46.5 lb-ft at 6,600 rpm (63.0 N·m), numbers that translate to relaxed commuting and enough punch for weekend rides. The broad torque curve and smooth fueling from DFI with 38 mm throttle bodies (and sub‑throttle valves) make low‑rpm roll‑ons predictable in traffic, while the twin wakes up nicely when you stretch it out on the highway.

A 6‑speed transmission with Kawasaki’s positive neutral finder helps with clean shifts in stop‑and‑go riding. TCBI ignition with Electronic Advance keeps throttle response crisp, and the sealed chain final drive keeps maintenance straightforward. If you like a cruiser that’s calm at low revs but willing to rev when asked, this twin hits that sweet spot.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki Vulcan S Seat Height

The Kawasaki Vulcan S seat height of 27.8 in (705 mm) is a major confidence booster, especially at parking‑lot speeds. Pair that with the Kawasaki Vulcan S weight—498.3 lb (ABS) or 491.7 lb (non‑ABS) in US trim—and you get a stable, planted feel that’s still manageable for newer riders. In the EU, curb mass is listed at 228 kg.

Geometry is classic cruiser‑stable: a 31° rake, 4.7 in (120 mm) trail, and a 62.0 in (1,575 mm) wheelbase. That setup favors straight‑line stability and smooth sweepers over ultra‑quick transitions, which suits the Vulcan’s mission. The 41 mm telescopic fork and lay‑down offset rear shock (with linkage and preload adjustability) deliver 5.1 in (130 mm) of front travel and 3.2 in (80 mm) at the rear—enough to take the sting out of rough city streets without compromising the low stance. Ground clearance is 5.1 in (130 mm).

Kawasaki’s ERGO‑FIT adjustable ergonomics—seat, footpegs, and handlebar—are a standout feature for dialing in rider triangle comfort across a wide range of body types. Tire sizes (120/70‑18 front, 160/60‑17 rear) strike a nice balance between feedback and cruiser aesthetics.

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by a single 300 mm front disc with a twin‑piston caliper and a single 250 mm rear disc with a single‑piston caliper. ABS is available, and the bike also features an Economical Riding Indicator to help you ride efficiently.

Suspension is straightforward but effective: a 41 mm front fork and a linked, preload‑adjustable rear shock. Fuel capacity is 3.7 gal (14.0 L), and the final drive is a sealed chain. Additional tech includes DFI fueling with sub‑throttle valves and TCBI ignition. Special mention goes to ERGO‑FIT adjustability, which is unusually comprehensive in this segment.

US color choices include Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Flat Spark Black. US MSRP is $7,649 for the non‑ABS model and $8,149 for ABS.

Who Is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S For?

Riders who value approachability and fitment will love the Vulcan S. Newer riders will appreciate the low seat, available ABS, and predictable power delivery, while experienced commuters will enjoy the smooth twin, comfortable ergonomics, and low maintenance needs. With a 3.7‑gal tank, it’s well‑suited to daily rides and weekend evening cruises rather than cross‑country stretches.

If you’re comparing bikes in the middleweight cruiser space, the Vulcan S caters to those who want modern parallel‑twin response in a low, customizable chassis.

Torquepedia Verdict

The Vulcan S nails the fundamentals: a friendly yet engaging 649 cc twin, confidence‑inspiring 27.8‑in seat height, and standout ERGO‑FIT adjustability. It’s easy to live with, easy to recommend, and its 60 hp/46.5 lb‑ft output gives it genuine open‑road capability without overwhelming newer riders.

On the flip side, the single front disc and 3.7‑gal fuel capacity are reminders that this is a practical cruiser rather than a long‑haul tourer or sport‑leaning machine. Still, taken as a whole, the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S specs and real‑world manners make it one of the most approachable, well‑rounded picks in the class.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S good for beginners?

  • Yes. Its 27.8 in (705 mm) seat height, available ABS, ERGO‑FIT adjustable ergonomics, and manageable 60 hp/46.5 lb‑ft power delivery make it beginner‑friendly while leaving room to grow.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S?

  • 27.8 in / 705 mm.

• How heavy is the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S?

  • Kawasaki Vulcan S weight (US curb): 498.3 lb (ABS) or 491.7 lb (non‑ABS). EU curb mass: 228 kg. Estimated dry weight is 467.5 lb (ABS) / 460.8 lb (non‑ABS) US and 214 kg EU.

• How much power does the 2026 Vulcan S make?

  • 60 hp @ 7,500 rpm (ISO 4106) and 46.5 lb‑ft @ 6,600 rpm (63.0 N·m).

• Does the 2026 Vulcan S have ABS and what brakes does it use?

  • ABS is available. Brakes are a single 300 mm front disc with twin‑piston caliper and a single 250 mm rear disc with single‑piston caliper.