Cruisers
2021Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe
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The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe is a middleweight custom cruiser that appeals to riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with retro styling. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power ideal for both commuting and weekend rides. Known for its comfortable ergonomics and approachable performance, this cafe racer-styled cruiser suits new riders and those preferring lighter, nimble handling over pure muscle.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 228.0 kg
- Seat height
- 705 mm
- Power
- 48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 6600 RPM
What’s new for the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe
vs the 2020| Spec | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 53.0 Nm (5.4 kgf-m or 39.1 ft.lbs) @ 5600 RPM | 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.3 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A style-focused cruiser with cafe-racer touches designed for relaxed street riding and city cruising rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- Offers a torquey, easygoing low-rpm feel typical of Kawasaki's 649cc parallel twin, wrapped in a customized cafe-inspired silhouette.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, off-road capability, or track-level performance.
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 usEngine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 6600 RPM
- Torque
- 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 6600 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2105 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
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
- 228.0 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
- 79 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 31.0°
- Trail
- 119 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 250 mm
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 120/70-18
- Rear tyre
- 160/60-17
Other
- Color options
- Pearl Storm Gray/Ebony
- Warranty
- 24
- Comments
- Small windscreen. Economical Riding Indicator.
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 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2024 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Dry weight | — | — | — | — | — | 214 kg |
| Seat height | 705 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 Cafe?
The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe have?
The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe has a Power of 48.0 HP (35.0 kW) @ 6600 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe have?
The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe?
The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe 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 Cafe weigh?
The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe has a Wet weight of 228.0 kg (502.7 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe motorcycle is a stylish and sporty option for riders who want a sleek and nimble ride. With a powerful 649cc parallel-twin engine and modern café racer styling, this bike offers a unique combination of performance and aesthetics. The adjustable handlebars and footpegs allow for a customizable riding position, making it comfortable for a wide range of riders. Additionally, the Vulcan S Cafe features a unique Ergo-Fit system that allows riders to tailor the bike to their specific size and riding style.
Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe is a standout option for riders looking for a versatile and stylish motorcycle. Its combination of power, comfort, and customizable features make it a top choice in the café racer category. Whether you're cruising through the city streets or hitting the open road, the Vulcan S Cafe delivers a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience. If you're in the market for a motorcycle that offers impressive performance and head-turning looks, this bike is definitely worth considering.
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