Kawasaki Vulcan S A Modern Cruiser Built for Comfort and Control

Kawasaki Vulcan S The Cruiser That Truly Lets You Ride Your Way

In a world where motorcycles are often categorized but rarely differentiated, the Kawasaki Vulcan S stands out as a cruiser that refuses to conform. Rather than merely following tradition, it reinterprets the cruiser ethos with a modern, performance-oriented twist that appeals to both seasoned riders and newcomers who want something comfortable yet distinctive on the road.

A Cruiser With a Modern Heart

At the core of the Vulcan S is a 649 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine the same block that powers Kawasaki’s celebrated Ninja 650 and Versys 650, but retuned here for smooth, usable torque across a broad rev range. The engine produces around 61 horsepower and about 61 Nm of torque, making it responsive in urban traffic while still capable of confident highway cruising. Power is delivered through a seamless six-speed transmission, which gives the bike relaxed, effortless cruising ability at all speeds.

What truly sets the Vulcan S apart from many cruisers is how this power feels on the road. Rather than the throaty rumble and heavy-torque vibe of traditional V-twin cruisers, the Vulcan’s twin engine delivers a more linear, refined burst of power. This gives rise to quick on-the-go acceleration without intimidating novices, and makes overtaking on open highways a calm, composed affair rather than a nerve-wracking push.

Ergo-Fit: Tailored Comfort for Every Rider

Cruiser motorcycles are all about comfort and presence, and the Vulcan S takes this philosophy further with Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit system. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all riding position, the frame and foot controls are designed to be adjustable. Riders can fine-tune the reach to the handlebars and footpegs to suit their height and riding style — a feature that’s far from common on motorcycles in this segment.

This means a 5′5″ rider and a 6′2″ rider can both find a natural, ergonomic position without compromise. Whether tackling city streets, canyon roads, or long interstate stretches, the Vulcan S feels comfortable and composed.

Suspension, Handling, and Ride Quality Kawasaki Vulcan S

Despite its cruiser stance, the Vulcan S doesn’t feel ponderous or sluggish in corners. The chassis is built around a perimeter frame that combines rigidity with intuitive feedback. Up front, traditional telescopic forks soak up bumps and road irregularities without harshness, while the rear sports a preload-adjustable monoshock that lets you dial in the ride quality depending on load and road surface.

The bike’s wheel setup, with an 18-inch front and 17-inch rear, lends it confidence while cornering and stability at speed, yet the overall package remains relatively light and easy to maneuver especially compared to heavier, more classic cruiser designs with massive V-twin engines and sprawling bodywork.

Braking is handled by a 300 mm front disc and a 250 mm rear disc, with dual-channel ABS providing reliable, reassuring stopping power that’s up to the needs of varied road conditions. The semi-digital instrument cluster, while simple, delivers all essential information clearly and efficiently.

Styling That Merges Classic and Contemporary

Visually, the Kawasaki Vulcan S occupies a unique aesthetic space. It borrows cruiser cues a low seat height, long wheelbase, and muscular fuel tank but it also integrates modern lines and functional ergonomics that lend it a purpose-driven look rather than aesthetics for aesthetics’ sake.

The low 705 mm seat height makes it surprisingly approachable for a wide range of riders, offering confidence at stops and in traffic. The fuel tank typically holds about 14 litres, giving decent range for touring or adventure rides. Its blacked-out finishes and minimalist bodywork communicate a rugged personality without resorting to needless ornamentation.

The Price Point: A Premium Cruiser Experience Kawasaki Vulcan S

For riders in India looking to step into a true middleweight cruiser, the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S comes with an ex-showroom price of Rs 8,13,000.

This price places the Vulcan S above many mainstream motorcycles in the Indian market, but that premium reflects the bike’s advanced engineering, international pedigree, and the unique experience it offers. On-road prices naturally vary depending on state taxes, registration charges, and insurance, often landing in the ₹8.5–₹9.4 lakh range in major cities still significantly higher than many domestic offerings but in line with its positioning as a sophisticated, import cruiser.

Who Is the Vulcan S For?

The Vulcan S is ideal for riders who want:

• A cruiser that doesn’t sacrifice agility or performance.
• Long-distance comfort without the intimidating size and weight of traditional cruisers.
• A motorcycle that blends versatility with character, suitable for daily riding as well as weekend adventures.
• Customisable ergonomics that make the bike more personal and comfortable.

See also this: Mahindra BE 6 Redefining the Future of Electric SUVs in Indian market

If a rider’s priority is pure retro aesthetic or the deep rumble of a giant V-twin, there are other machines that cater to that taste. However, for those who appreciate modern reliability, versatile performance, and a cruiser that’s as comfortable in the city as on an open highway, the Vulcan S offers an enticing proposition.

Conclusion

The Kawasaki Vulcan S is more than just another 650cc cruiser — it’s a motorcycle that challenges the norms of cruiser design while embracing the core elements that make cruising enjoyable. It delivers a comfortable, engaging ride, backed by practical ergonomics, contemporary engineering, and the kind of everyday usability that few cruisers can match.

At an ex-showroom price of about Rs 8.13 lakh in India, it positions itself as a premium choice for riders who value substance and style in equal measure. By offering adjustable ergonomics, smooth twin-cylinder performance, and a confident road presence, the Vulcan S truly lives up to its tagline: “Ride Your Way.”