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Cruisers

2018Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe

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The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe is a lightweight custom cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible, manageable handling without sacrificing style. Known for its low 706mm seat height and nimble 228kg curb weight, it excels as an entry-level cruiser or comfortable commuter. The bike delivers classic cafe racer aesthetics with practical ABS braking and fuel injection technology for everyday reliability.

Capacity
649.0 ccm
Engine
Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox
6-speed
Wet weight
228.0 kg
Seat height
706 mm
Power
48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 5700 RPM

What’s new for the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe

vs the 2017
Spec20172018
Wet weight 226.0 kg (498.2 pounds) 228.0 kg (502.7 pounds)
Rear brakes Single disc. Single-piston caliper. Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper.
Other years 2016 2017 2018 2019

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 44Agility 67Comfort 62Off-road 10Touring 45Road manners 70
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering60%
City riding72%
Daily riding70%
Touring42%
Two-up35%
Track20%
Best for
Built primarily as a stylish urban cruiser with a cafe-racer flavor, better suited to commuting and weekend rides than long-distance touring or performance riding.
Built for
Delivers a laid-back cruiser feel with a torquey, smooth parallel twin and sportier-than-usual handling for its class thanks to the sport-cruiser chassis tuning.
Not ideal for
Not the right choice for riders seeking high-speed performance, serious touring range, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 706mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
649.0 ccm
Power
48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 5700 RPM
Torque
77.0 Nm (7.9 kgf-m) @ 3700 RPM
Engine type
Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.2105 HP/kg
Bore x stroke
83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression
10.8:1
Cooling system
Liquid
Fuel system
Injection
Starting
Electric
Ignition
TCBI with digital advance
Valves per cylinder
8
Lubrication system
Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Transmission
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Clutch
Wet multi-disc, manual
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1575 mm
Overall length
2311 mm
Overall width
881 mm
Overall height
1100 mm
Seat height
706 mm
Wet weight
228.0 kg
Fuel capacity
14.00 litres
Ground clearance
130 mm
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
Frame
High-tensile steel double pipe perimeter
Front suspension
41mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension
Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload
Front wheel travel
130 mm
Rear wheel travel
81 mm
Rake (fork angle)
31.0°
Trail
119 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter
300 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper.
Rear brakes diameter
250 mm
ABS
Yes
Front tyre
120/70-18
Rear tyre
160/60-17
Other
Color options
Pearl Storm Gray
Warranty
12

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 2016201720182019
Capacity 649 cc 649 cc 649 cc 649 cc
Seat height 706 mm 706 mm 706 mm 706 mm
Fuel capacity 14 L 14 L 14 L 14 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe motorcycle is a sleek and stylish bike with a powerful engine that provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The ABS feature adds an extra layer of safety and control, making this bike perfect for both beginner and experienced riders. The cafe style design adds an extra touch of flair, making it a standout option for anyone looking for a unique and eye-catching motorcycle.

Overall, the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe motorcycle is a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and visually appealing bike. With its powerful engine, safety features, and unique design, it's a great option for riders of all experience levels. Whether you're cruising through the city or hitting the open road, this bike provides a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. Experience the thrill of the open road with the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe motorcycle.

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe?

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe have?

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe has a Power of 48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 5700 RPM.

How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe have?

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe has a Gearbox of 6-speed.

What is the torque of the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe?

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe has a Torque of 77.0 Nm (7.9 kgf-m or 56.8 ft.lbs) @ 3700 RPM.

How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe weigh?

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe has a Wet weight of 228.0 kg (502.7 pounds).

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