2016Kawasaki Vulcan S

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The 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a middleweight custom cruiser powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 61 horsepower, designed for riders seeking an accessible entry point to cruiser styling without overwhelming power. Known for its comfortable riding position, manageable weight, and approachable performance, it suits new and returning riders who want classic cruiser aesthetics with modern reliability and fuel injection technology. A factory ABS option was also available.

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 225.0 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%

Cornering55%

City riding78%

Daily riding75%

Touring55%

Two-up45%

Track20%

Best for: Designed primarily for relaxed street cruising and commuting with a sporty edge rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: An approachable, torque-friendly parallel-twin cruiser that trades top-end excitement for smooth, confidence-inspiring everyday usability.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders chasing high-speed thrills, serious off-road capability, or long two-up touring comfort.

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 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan S, 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 →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 107 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: GKAXC.649AAE-002
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 4.56 L/100km (51.6 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 2.3 CO g/km
Torque: 63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 6600 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2711 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
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Force lubrication, semi-dry sump

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: 225.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Perimeter, 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