Cruisers

2018Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe Light Tourer

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The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe is a lightweight cruiser designed for riders seeking approachable handling and retro styling. Known for its manageable 231 kg weight, low seat height, and nimble agility, it excels as an entry-level cruiser for new and shorter riders. The adjustable suspension and compact dimensions make it ideal for urban commuting and casual weekend riding.

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 231.0 kg
Seat height: 705 mm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering60%

City riding72%

Daily riding75%

Touring60%

Two-up45%

Track25%

Best for: A cruiser-based light tourer with cafe styling, aimed at relaxed street riding, commuting, and short-to-medium distance rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: Delivers a laid-back cruiser feel with a torquey parallel-twin engine, sporty cafe-style ergonomics, and light, neutral handling for its class.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting high-speed touring comfort, aggressive sport performance, or any serious 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 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe Light Tourer, 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: 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 102 CO2 g/km
Torque: 63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 6600 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.40 litres/100 km (22.7 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2641 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression: 10.8:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1575 mm
Overall length: 2310 mm
Overall width: 880 mm
Overall height: 1133 mm
Seat height: 705 mm
Wet weight: 231.0 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: Offset laydown single-shock, linkage equipped, with 7-way 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. Dual-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear brakes diameter: 250 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-18
Rear tyre: 160/60-17

Other

Color options: Pearl Storm Gray
Warranty: 12
Comments: Limited power version with 35 kW available.

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

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe Light Tourer is a sleek and stylish motorcycle that combines the comfort of a cruiser with the agility of a sportbike. With its 649cc parallel-twin engine and lightweight chassis, this bike offers plenty of power and responsive handling. The Cafe Light Tourer version adds a stylish cafe racer-inspired fairing and a sporty seat to elevate the bike's aesthetic appeal.

Overall, the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe Light Tourer is a great option for riders looking for a versatile and eye-catching motorcycle. Its combination of performance, comfort, and style make it a stand-out choice in the light tourer category. Whether you're cruising on the highway or tackling twisty backroads, this bike delivers an enjoyable and engaging ride experience.