ERGO-FIT is an interface system that allows a wide range of riders to feel at one with their machine. Genuine Kawasaki Accessories may need to be purchased for certain Ergo Fit adjustments.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS: YOUR WAY.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS…
Vulcan S, not your average cruiser. Standing apart, with its Parallel Twin engine, unique frame and suspension layout and designed for independent minded riders, Vulcan S does not require the rider to conform to some “herd-mentality”, outdated fashion or lifestyle. Accessible in all senses of the word, the accommodating new Vulcan S encourages you to go Your Way!
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
AVAILABLE COLOURS
Metallic Graphite Gray / Metallic Spark Black
Metallic Flat Spark Black
New MY26 colours for Kawasaki cruisers
Kawasaki’s mid-capacity cruiser range gets some livery updates for the 2026 season to keep these popular machines at the forefront of their style sector.
The three machines – one Vulcan and two Eliminators – are attractive to many types of rider including those with European A2 licences looking to migrate up from a smaller capacity machine. But that is only one area where Kawasaki cruisers score as a growing number of older and more experienced riders are finding that the 500cc to 650cc arena caters perfectly for not just their performance expectations but also the size and weight of these machines means they are eminently manageable.
With its water-cooled 649cc parallel twin engine, the Vulcan S has, over a number of years, carved itself a reputation for style, performance and durability. The combination of a sleek 18 inch front wheel and traditional wide rear 17 inch item is allied to effective cruiser styling and a relaxed ergonomic riding position that can be revised due to the use of Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit accessory items covering both handlebar position and reach to the foot controls. Retaining its ever popular Metallic Flat Spark Black option for the ’26 model year, the Vulcan S can now also be optioned in a Metallic Graphite Gray/ Metallic Flat Spark Black livery.
Kawasaki dealer showrooms will also display two versions of the recently launched Eliminator 500 in 2026, those being the standard machine and the SE version. With their trellis type chassis and newly developed parallel twin, fuel-injected engines, the Eliminators have opened up cruiser style motorcycling to riders who had previously aspired to such a machine and either did not feel there was a model that suited their requirements or was beyond their budget.
At a maximum of 33.4 kW {45 PS}, these machines comfortably comply with EU A2 category licencing laws yet boast a finely balanced power to weight ratio that delivers Kawasaki’s traditional “fun to ride” character. While both machines share an advanced specification including digital instrumentation and a combination of 18 inch front and 16 inch rear wheels, the SE model also boasts a headlamp cowl and a convenient USB-C socket as standard fitment.
In terms of colours, the standard machine will still be available in Metallic Flat Spark Black while a new second colour of Metallic Imperial Red/Ebony will be offered. For the SE model the new colour for 2026 will be Metallic Matte Carbon Gray/Flat Ebony. Whatever the option chosen, Vulcan and Eliminator riders in 2026 can rest assured their choice of boulevard cruiser is already endorsed by an enthusiastic and loyal community of Kawasaki Cruiser owners.
The Vulcan S will be available from October. The Eliminator 500 range will be available from January.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Modern, urban styling
Flowing style with long-and-low stance and modern elements like the original headlamp and cast wheels with five spoke pair design give the Vulcan S very non traditional cruiser looks.
Long range
With its 14 litre fuel tank capacity and the Parallel Twin engine’s good fuel economy, the long range offered by the Vulcan S means riders can go longer between fill-ups—convenient in town, and reassuring when out on a daytrip.
Relaxed, foot-forward riding position
The compact engine and slim frame result in a design that is narrow at the knees and feet. Forward positioned footpegs are ideal for relaxed, cruiser style riding.
Comfortable seat
Sculpted seat design with thick padding offers excellent comfort and good hip support.
Low seat height
Being able to easily put your feet on the ground when stopped is one of the most important factors in feeling comfortable on a motorcycle. At 705 mm, the Vulcan S’s low seat is very accommodating.
Large disc brakes
Large-diameter disc brakes balance ample stopping power with easy control for beginning riders.
Adjustable footpegs
3-position footpegs allow riders to adjust foot position to suit size and preference. Three positions available: STD, 25 mm forward, 25 mm back.
Under-engine muffler
Muffler located under the engine contributes to a low centre of gravity, and is tucked out of the way, making it easier to reach the ground when stopped. The muffler’s design conveys both power and style.
Adjustable clutch/brake levers
Multi-position levers allow riders to adjust lever position to suit hand size and preference.
Linkage-equipped offset laydown single-shock
Offset laydown single-shock rear suspension is equipped with linkage to enable a longer stroke for increased ride comfort. The rear suspension arrangement also contributes to the bike’s compact design, freeing up space for a large-volume silencer under the engine. Rear shock features adjustable preload, with 7 positions to suit rider size and payload.
Slim backbone-style rear frame
The design of the frame, rear suspension and swingarm create an integrated line running from the front of the bike to the rear hub. A pipe frame of high-tensile steel gives the bike a lightweight appearance. 3D analysis was used to achieve the target rigidity and stress values.
Easy-to-read instrumentation
Original-design instrumentation cluster features an analogue-style tachometer and multi-purpose LCD.
Convenient features keep riders fully informed of operating conditions.
Long wheelbase
Wheelbase of 1,575 mm was chosen for a balance of light handling and superior riding stability.
The same characteristics that make it fun to ride (light handling and relaxed, rider-friendly ergonomics), also make the Vulcan S ideal for new riders.
Easy-to-control 649 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649 cm3 Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. The engine was tuned for rider-friendly power characteristics that will inspire confidence in new riders. The Vulcan S offers smooth starts from a standstill, smooth acceleration, and a satisfying pull when accelerating. The strong acceleration facilitates highway merging and passing.
Light handling
Low overall weight, fine-tuned chassis rigidity balance, 18”/17” radial tyres and suspension settings result in a bike with light, easy handling and easy manoeuvrability.
ERGO-FIT
ERGO-FIT is an interface system that allows a wide range of riders to feel at one with their machine. Genuine Kawasaki Accessories may need to be purchased for certain Ergo Fit adjustments.
ABS
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures stable braking performance by preventing wheel lock during braking.
Dual Throttle Valves
Dual Throttle Valves offer increased power and greater ease of use care of a second set of ECU-controlled throttle valves.
Economical Riding Indicator
The Economical Riding Indicator is a mark appearing on the instrument panel to indicate favourable fuel consumption, encouraging fuel efficient riding.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ TBA USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ TBA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £7,199 (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
TBA
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
TBA
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Displacement
649 cm³
Bore x stroke
83 x 60 mm
Compression ratio
10.8:1
Valve system
DOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system
Fuel injection: 38 mm x 2 with sub-throttles
Ignition
Digital
Starting System
Electric
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi‑dry sump
Performance & Transmission
Maximum power
44.7 kW {61 PS} / 7,500 rpm
Limited power version
35 kW
CO2 emission
104 g/km
Power down kit 35 kW
Available
Maximum torque
62.4 N•m {6.4 kgf•m} /
Transmission
6-speed, return
Final drive
Sealed chain
Primary Reduction Ratio
2.095 (88 / 42)
Gear Ratios 1st
2.438 (39 / 16)
Gear Ratios 2nd
1.714 (36 / 21)
Gear Ratios 3rd
1.333 (32 / 24)
Gear Ratios 4th
1.111 (30 / 27)
Gear Ratios 5th
0.966 (28 / 29)
Gear Ratios 6th
0.852 (23 / 27)
Final reduction ratio
3.067 (46 / 15)
Final reduction ratio
3.067 (46 / 15)
Clutch
Wet multi-disc, manual
Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, front
Single 300 mm disc. Caliper: Dual-piston
Brakes, rear
Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Single-piston
Suspension, front
41 mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear
Offset laydown single-shock, linkage equipped, with 7-way adjustable preload
Frame & Dimensions
Frame type
Tubular diamond, high-tensile steel
Trail
120 mm
Wheel travel front
130 mm
Wheel travel rear
80 mm
Tyre, front
120/70 R18M/C 59H
Tyre, rear
160/60 R17M/C 69H
Steering angle, left / right
35° / 35°
L x W x H
2,310 x 880 x 1,100 mm
Wheelbase
1,575 mm
Ground clearance
130 mm
Fuel capacity
14 litres
Seat height
705 mm
Dry weight
215 kg** | **Estimated Dry weight does not include all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
Curb mass
229 kg
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on September 5, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
