Cruisers
2020Kawasaki Vulcan S
49 fields on record
The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a lightweight, accessible cruiser designed for new and returning riders seeking comfortable, manageable street riding. Known for its approachable 705mm seat height, nimble handling, and forgiving 228kg weight, it delivers classic cruiser character without intimidation. Its standard ABS braking system and narrow 880mm width make it ideal for urban commuting and confident city navigation.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 228.0 kg
- Seat height
- 705 mm
- Power
- 60.4 HP (44.1 kW) @ 7500 RPM
What’s new for the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S
vs the 2019| Spec | 2019 | 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear suspension | Horizontal Back-link with 7-way adjustable preload | Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Twin-piston caliper, ABS | Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston caliper, ABS | Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper. |
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
- 60.4 HP (44.1 kW) @ 7500 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 107 CO2 g/km
- EPA Certificate No.
- LKAXC.649AAE-003
- 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
- 0.2649 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
- 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 double pipe perimeter
- 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. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. 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 Flat Spark Black, Metallic Spark Black/Gold, Metallic Spark Black/Green
- 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 | 2020 | 2021 | 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 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?
The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Power of 60.4 HP (44.1 kW) @ 7500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan S have?
The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Vulcan S?
The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Torque of 63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan S weigh?
The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S has a Wet weight of 228.0 kg (502.7 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a stylish and versatile cruiser motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride for both experienced and novice riders. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers ample power for city commuting and highway cruising, while its ergonomic design and adjustable components make it an ideal choice for riders of various heights and body types. The Vulcan S also features a sleek and modern aesthetic, with customizable color options and accessory packages available to suit individual preferences.
In addition to its impressive performance and customizable options, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S also comes equipped with advanced safety features, including ABS brakes and a slipper clutch for smoother downshifting. Its lightweight chassis and low seat height contribute to its easy handling and maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for riders looking for a reliable and user-friendly cruiser. Overall, the 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience for riders of all skill levels.
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