Cruisers
2023Kawasaki Vulcan S
49 fields on record
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a middleweight cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible, manageable performance without sacrificing style. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, controllable power ideal for both newcomers and experienced cruiser enthusiasts. Known for its lightweight chassis, comfortable ergonomics, and modern fuel injection, the Vulcan S excels as an approachable entry into cruiser culture. A factory ABS option was also available.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 223.0 kg
- Seat height
- 705 mm
- Power
- 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
What’s new for the 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S
vs the 2022| Spec | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Front brakes | Double disc. Optional ABS. Two-piston calipers. | Double disc. Twin-piston caliper, optional ABS |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Optional ABS. Single-piston caliper. | Single disc. Single-piston caliper, optional ABS |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- 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 usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased 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.
Engine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 107 CO2 g/km
- EPA Certificate No.
- PKAXC.649AAE-007-R01
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 4.56 L/100km (51.6 US mpg)
- EPA CO Emissions
- 2.3 CO g/km
- Torque
- 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 6600 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Fuel consumption
- 4.00 litres/100 km (25.0 km/l)
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2735 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 electronic 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
- 2309 mm
- Overall width
- 879 mm
- Overall height
- 1100 mm
- Seat height
- 705 mm
- Wet weight
- 223.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 14.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- 130 mm
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- High-tensile steel diamond frame
- 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. Twin-piston caliper, optional ABS
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Single-piston caliper, optional ABS
- Rear brakes diameter
- 250 mm
- ABS
- Optional
- Front tyre
- 120/70-18
- Rear tyre
- 160/60-17
Other
- Color options
- Metallic Flat Spark Black, Pearl Matte Sage Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black
- 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 | 2023 | 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Power of 61.0 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Torque of 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.3 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan S weigh?
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Wet weight of 223.0 kg (491.6 pounds).
Shop this bike
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Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
2022 Suzuki Boulevard S40
652 cc · 160 kg · 700 mm
2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S Performance
649 cc · 215 kg · 705 mm
2020 Yamaha XVS650 A
649 cc · 247 kg · 710 mm
2024 Kawasaki Vulcan S Performance
649 cc · 215 kg · 705 mm
2021 Suzuki Boulevard S40
652 cc · 160 kg · 700 mm
2019 Yamaha XVS650 A
649 cc · 247 kg · 710 mm
The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a stylish and modern cruiser motorcycle that offers both performance and comfort. Its liquid-cooled 649cc parallel-twin engine provides smooth and responsive power, making it a joy to ride on the open road. With its adjustable footpegs, seat, and handlebars, the Vulcan S offers a customizable riding position to fit a wide range of riders. Additionally, its sleek and aggressive styling sets it apart from other cruiser bikes on the market, making it a great choice for riders who want a bike that stands out in the crowd.
In addition to its performance and style, the 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S also offers a range of advanced features, including ABS brakes and a lightweight chassis for nimble handling. Its low seat height and manageable weight make it an accessible option for riders of all experience levels, while its ergonomic design and comfortable seating make long rides a breeze. Whether you're a new rider or a seasoned veteran, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a versatile and capable cruiser motorcycle that's sure to impress. With its combination of performance, comfort, and style, the 2023 Vulcan S is a standout option in the cruiser motorcycle market.
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