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Cruisers

2022Kawasaki Vulcan S

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The 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a middleweight cruiser designed for new and returning riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with classic styling. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power ideal for learning and commuting while maintaining the laid-back cruiser character. Known for comfortable ergonomics, user-friendly handling, and affordable pricing, it's best suited for those prioritizing approachability over raw performance. A factory ABS option was also available.

Capacity: 649.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 222.7 kg
Seat height: 705 mm
Power: 60.4 HP (44.1 kW) @ 7500 RPM

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What’s new for the 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S

vs the 2021

Spec	2021	2022
Wet weight	226.0 kg (498.2 pounds)	222.7 kg (491.0 pounds)

Other years 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027

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?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

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 2022 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 maker's published fuel consumption 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: 60.4 HP (44.1 kW) @ 7500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 107 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: NKAXC.649AAE-012-R01
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
Fuel consumption: 4.40 litres/100 km (22.7 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2712 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: 2310 mm
Overall width: 880 mm
Overall height: 1100 mm
Seat height: 705 mm
Wet weight: 222.7 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

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

Other

Color options: Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Matte Graphite Gray, Pearl Robotic White
Warranty: 12
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

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	2015	2018	2021	2022	2024	2027
Capacity	649 cc	649 cc	649 cc	649 cc	649 cc	649 cc
Seat height	706 mm	705 mm	705 mm	705 mm	705 mm	706 mm
Fuel capacity	14 L	14 L	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

The 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a powerful and agile cruiser motorcycle that is perfect for riders of all skill levels. With a 649cc parallel-twin engine, the Vulcan S delivers smooth and consistent power, making it ideal for both city commuting and long-distance touring. The bike's lightweight chassis and low seat height provide excellent maneuverability and control, while its adjustable ergonomics ensure a comfortable riding experience for riders of varying heights. Additionally, the Vulcan S comes with a range of customizable options, allowing riders to tailor the bike to their unique preferences and riding style.

Overall, the 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a versatile and reliable cruiser motorcycle that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and customization options. Whether you're a beginner rider looking for a manageable yet powerful bike or an experienced rider in need of a versatile and comfortable cruiser, the Vulcan S has something to offer. With its smooth power delivery, agile handling, and adjustable ergonomics, this bike is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a quality cruiser motorcycle.

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