KAWASAKI Vulcan S — Top Speed 190 km/h (118 mph)

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S a good buy? Quick answer

The Kawasaki Vulcan S has a listed top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph) with 61 hp, 63 Nm torque, 650 cc engine, 229 kg curb weight. It sits in the Chopper / Cruiser segment and is better matched to experienced sport riders than absolute beginners. Compare rivals side-by-side using the tools on this page.

Feature Value
Brand KAWASAKI
Model KAWASAKI Vulcan S
Engine size 650 cc
Power 61 hp
Torque 63 Nm
Cylinder / Valve Double Cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 229 kg (505 lb)
Front Brake 300 mm single disc, dual-piston caliper
Rear Brake 250 mm single disc, single-piston caliper
Seat Height 70.5 cm (27.8 in)
Front Tyre 120/70-18
Rear Tyre 160/60-17
Cooling Liquid Cooled
Front Suspension 41 mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Horizontal monoshock, link-type, 7-step adjustable preload
Motorcycle Type Chopper / Cruiser
Top Speed 190 km/h (118 mph)
Fuel Capacity 14 L (3.7 US gal)
Fuel Consumption 6.0 L/100 km (39.2 mpg US)
Prevalence of Service Network
Service Quality
Spare Parts Availability
Price $7,349
For Other Motorcycle Price Lists Click for KAWASAKI Price List

Spec-based reading of the Kawasaki Vulcan S as a Chopper / Cruiser: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.

Pros

  • Approachable seat height (~705 mm / 27.8 in)
  • Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight (~229 kg / 505 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care

Who is it for?

Best suited for shorter or mid-height riders, riders who prefer relaxed cruiser ergonomics.

Who is it not for?

Less ideal for brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.

Commuting / city use

As a cruiser, relaxed ergonomics suit low-stress riding; tight traffic may need more room.

Highway / longer rides

Highway cruising comfort is typically stronger than sharp sport handling.

Good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the Kawasaki Vulcan S a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Seat height & rider fit

Seat height is about 705 mm (27.8 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.

Fuel economy & range

Listed fuel use is about 6 L/100 km (~39.2 mpg US). With a ~14 L tank, theoretical range is around 233 km (real-world range varies).

Two-up riding

Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Our specification data lists 190 km/h (118 mph) for the Kawasaki Vulcan S.

How much horsepower does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?

Listed power is 61 hp.

How much torque does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?

Listed torque is 63 Nm.

What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Engine displacement is listed as 650 cc.

How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan S weigh?

Curb weight is listed at about 229 kg (505 lb).

What is the seat height of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Seat height is about 705 mm (27.8 in).

What is the fuel economy of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Listed consumption is about 6 L/100 km (about 39.2 mpg US).

What is the fuel range of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Theoretical range is around 233 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S liquid cooled?

Yes — it is listed as liquid-cooled.

How many cylinders does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?

It is listed as a 2-cylinder engine.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the Kawasaki Vulcan S a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S good for commuting?

The Kawasaki Vulcan S can be used for commuting, although its size, weight and riding position should be considered for frequent urban use.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S good for highway riding?

With a listed top speed of 190 km/h, the Kawasaki Vulcan S has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S suitable for short riders?

Seat height is about 705 mm (27.8 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.

Is the Kawasaki Vulcan S A2 licence friendly?

A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.

What are the pros of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Approachable seat height (~705 mm / 27.8 in); Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management.

What are the cons of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?

Heavy curb weight (~229 kg / 505 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care.

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