Cruisers

2018Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Special Edition

40 fields on record

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Special Edition is an approachable cruiser designed for new and returning riders seeking manageable weight and low seat height. Known for its accessible ergonomics, responsive handling, and standard ABS braking, it delivers a comfortable, confidence-inspiring ride perfect for urban commuting and weekend cruising.

Capacity: Not on record
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Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 226.0 kg
Seat height: 705 mm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Special Edition

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Power	48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 5700 RPM	61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
Torque	77.0 Nm (7.9 kgf-m or 56.8 ft.lbs) @ 3700 RPM	63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM
Front brakes	Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.	Double disc. Two-piston calipers. ABS.
Rear brakes	Single disc. Single-piston caliper.	Single disc. Single-piston caliper. ABS.

Other years 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering55%

City riding68%

Daily riding70%

Touring45%

Two-up35%

Track15%

Best for: Built as a stylish, sporty-leaning cruiser for relaxed street riding and short trips rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: A liquid-cooled parallel-twin cruiser that blends classic custom styling with modern handling, offering a more agile ride than typical heavyweight cruisers.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, passenger-friendly ergonomics, 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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 705mm, 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 Special Edition, 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

Power: 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
Torque: 63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 6600 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2699 HP/kg (wet)
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: 4
Capacity:: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1575 mm
Overall length: 2311 mm
Overall width: 881 mm
Overall height: 1100 mm
Seat height: 705 mm
Wet weight: 226.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular diamond, high-tensile steel
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. Two-piston calipers. ABS.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single-piston caliper. ABS.
Rear brakes diameter: 250 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-18
Rear tyre: 160/60-17

Other

Color options: Pearl Lava Orange
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	2017	2018
Seat height	706 mm	705 mm
Fuel capacity	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 Special Edition is a stylish and versatile cruiser motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers ample power for highway cruising, while the ergonomic design and adjustable components make it easy to customize for a perfect fit. The special edition features a sleek Matte Green paint job with unique graphics, adding a touch of personality to an already impressive bike. With its responsive handling and reliable ABS system, the Vulcan S ABS Special Edition offers a confident and enjoyable riding experience for both beginners and experienced riders alike.

Overall, the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Special Edition is a stand-out option in the cruiser motorcycle category. Its combination of modern styling, customizable comfort, and advanced safety features make it a top contender for riders looking for a versatile and reliable bike. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out on a weekend adventure, the Vulcan S ABS Special Edition is sure to deliver a fun and exciting ride every time.