Vulcan S, not your average cruiser. Standing apart, with its Parallel Twin engine, unique frame and suspension layout and designed for independent minded riders, Vulcan S does not require the rider to conform to some “herd-mentality”, outdated fashion or lifestyle. Accessible in all senses of the word, the accommodating new Vulcan S encourages you to go Your Way!
Modern, urban styling
Flowing style with long-and-low stance and modern elements like the original headlamp and cast wheels with five spoke pair design give the Vulcan S very non traditional cruiser looks.
Long range
With its 14 litre fuel tank capacity and the Parallel Twin engine’s good fuel economy, the long range offered by the Vulcan S means riders can go longer between fill-ups—convenient in town, and reassuring when out on a daytrip.
Relaxed, foot-forward riding position
The compact engine and slim frame result in a design that is narrow at the knees and feet. Forward positioned footpegs are ideal for relaxed, cruiser style riding.
Comfortable seat
Sculpted seat design with thick padding offers excellent comfort and good hip support.
Low seat height
Being able to easily put your feet on the ground when stopped is one of the most important factors in feeling comfortable on a motorcycle. At 705 mm, the Vulcan S’s low seat is very accommodating.
Large disc brakes
Large-diameter disc brakes balance ample stopping power with easy control for beginning riders.
Adjustable footpegs
3-position footpegs allow riders to adjust foot position to suit size and preference. Three positions available: STD, 25 mm forward, 25 mm back.
Under-engine muffler
Muffler located under the engine contributes to a low centre of gravity, and is tucked out of the way, making it easier to reach the ground when stopped. The muffler’s design conveys both power and style.
Adjustable clutch/brake levers
Multi-position levers allow riders to adjust lever position to suit hand size and preference.
Linkage-equipped offset laydown single-shock
Offset laydown single-shock rear suspension is equipped with linkage to enable a longer stroke for increased ride comfort. The rear suspension arrangement also contributes to the bike’s compact design, freeing up space for a large-volume silencer under the engine. Rear shock features adjustable preload, with 7 positions to suit rider size and payload.
Slim backbone-style rear frame
The design of the frame, rear suspension and swingarm create an integrated line running from the front of the bike to the rear hub.
A pipe frame of high-tensile steel gives the bike a lightweight appearance. 3D analysis was used to achieve the target rigidity and stress values.
Easy-to-read instrumentation
Original-design instrumentation cluster features an analogue-style tachometer and multi-purpose LCD. Convenient features keep riders fully informed of operating conditions.
Long wheelbase
Wheelbase of 1,575 mm was chosen for a balance of light handling and superior riding stability. The same characteristics that make it fun to ride (light handling and relaxed, rider-friendly ergonomics), also make the Vulcan S ideal for new riders.
Easy-to-control 649 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649 cm3 Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. The engine was tuned for rider-friendly power characteristics that will inspire confidence in new riders. The Vulcan S offers smooth starts from a standstill, smooth acceleration, and a satisfying pull when accelerating. The strong acceleration facilitates highway merging and passing.
Light handling
Low overall weight, fine-tuned chassis rigidity balance, 18”/17” radial tyres and suspension settings result in a bike with light, easy handling and easy manoeuvrability.
Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin |
Displacement | 649 cm³ |
Bore x Stroke | 83 x 60 mm |
Compression ratio | 10:8:1 |
Valve system | DOHC, 8 valves |
Fuel system | Fuel injection: 38 mm x 2 with sub-throttles |
Ignition | Digital |
Starting System | Electric |
Lubrication | Forced lubrication, semi‑dry sump |
Maximum power | 44.7 kW {61 PS} / 7,500 rpm |
CO2 emission | 104 g/km |
Maximum torque | 62.4 N•m {6.4 kgf•m} / 6,600 rpm |
Limited power version | |
Power down kit 35 kW | |
Fuel consumption 35 kW kit | |
CO2 emission 35 kW kit | |
Transmission | 6-speed |
Final drive | Sealed chain |
Primary Reduction Ratio | 2.095 (88 / 42) |
Gear Ratios 1st | 2.438 (39 / 16) |
Gear Ratios 2nd | 1.714 (36 / 21) |
Gear Ratios 3rd | 1.333 (32 / 24 |
Gear Ratios 4th | 1.111 (30 / 27) |
Gear Ratios 5th | 0.966 (28 / 29) |
Gear Ratios 6th | 0.852 (23 / 27) |
Final reduction ratio | 3.067 (46 / 15) |
Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
Brakes, front | Single 300 mm disc. Caliper: Dual-piston |
Brakes, rear | Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Single-piston |
Suspension, front | 41 mm telescopic fork |
Suspension, rear | Offset laydown single-shock, linkage equipped, with 7-way adjustable preload |
Frame type | Tubular diamond, high-tensile steel |
Trail | 120 mm |
Wheel travel front | 130 mm |
Wheel travel rear | 80 mm |
Tyre, front | 120/70 R18M/C 59H |
Tyre, rear | 160/60 R17M/C 69H |
Steering angle, left / right | 35° / 35° |
L x W x H | 2,310 x 880 x 1,100 mm |
Wheelbase | 1,575 mm |
Ground Clearance | 130 mm |
Fuel Capacity | 14 litres |
Seat Height | 705 mm |
Curb mass | 229 kg |
If you're looking to break the mold with an alternative cruiser option, with it's aggressive modern styling and some classic cruiser touches the new 2025 Vulcan S is the real deal. The low seat height and smooth power of the 650cc parallel twin motor make the Vulcan S ideal for a wide range of riders and can also be A2 license compliant. With all the benefits of a classic cruiser including an impressively comfortable seat, laid back riding position and mean urban styling, the new Vulcan S could be the perfect addition to your garage. With two classy colour options to cater for all rider tastes, the Vulcan is one cool looking cruiser from Kawasaki.
This stunning modern take on the cruiser category from Kawasaki really needs to be seen in the metal to do it justice, so pop on down to Orwell Motorcycles in Ipswich to see the new Vulcan S for yourself. If you're put off by the idea of a big heavy cruiser, then the Vulcan S is the perfect solution with it's low overall weight and manageable dimensions delivering awesome and user-friendly handling. You can also adjust the footpeg position to personalise the bike to your own height and preference. Get in touch with us today to dicuss the the Kawasaki Vulcan S in more detail.