Published October 24, 2025 by Michael Le Pard , Editor‑in‑Chief
The 2026 Vulcan S CAFE also comes equipped with three-tone paint, signature tank badging, sport striping, and a dark-tinted windshield deflector.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS: BOLD BY DESIGN.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS…
Unlike any other cruiser, the Kawasaki Vulcan S, Vulcan S ABS and Vulcan S CAFE ABS sport cruiser motorcycles are geared to fit a wide range of riders with its exclusive ERGO-FIT sizing system that includes 18 possible configurations. Never taking away from its vintage styling, this cruiser takes comfort, adjustability, Ninja-derived power and performance to the next level. The 2026 Vulcan S and Vulcan S CAFE ABS feature a 649cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin engine, sportbike-derived chassis and suspension, sporty handling, and the ability to find your perfect fit with the ERGO-FIT system. The 2026 Vulcan S CAFE also comes equipped with three-tone paint, signature tank badging, sport striping, and a dark-tinted windshield deflector. The Vulcan S cruiser is available in three configurations: the Vulcan S is available in a Metallic Flat Spark Black colorway, while the Vulcan S ABS is offered in Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black; the Vulcan S CAFE ABS is available in Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Ocean Blue.
ADJUST YOUR RIDING POSITION TO FIT YOUR HEIGHT AND REACH
Unlike any other cruiser, the Vulcan® S is designed to transport riders into a sporty realm in edgy style. Blending an aggressive ride with vintage styling and a powerful 649cc engine, this bike kicks any experience into high gear. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying a day trip, the Vulcan S adds confidence-inspiring performance to every ride.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- 649cc PARALLEL-TWIN ENGINE
- SPORTBIKE-DERIVED CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION
- ERGO-FIT® EXCLUSIVE SIZING SYSTEM
- 2-tone paint
- Signature tank badging
- Sport striping
- Dark-tinted wind deflector
KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES FALL RELEASE OF 2026 STREET MOTORCYCLES
No matter what type of motorcycle you’re looking for, Kawasaki’s 2026 lineup has the model for you as it welcomes the return of several naked, retro, touring, adventure, cruiser, and EV models to its street motorcycle lineup. These 2026 model-year motorcycles are set to arrive in Kawasaki dealerships during the fall months so that riders can continue to “Let the Good Times Roll.”
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
ERGO-FIT®
ADJUST YOUR RIDING POSITION TO FIT YOUR HEIGHT AND REACH
Take command of comfort with 18 different adjustable configurations to achieve your preferred fit.
A Perfect Fit
ERGO-FIT® is an exclusive sizing system that creates the perfect fit for riders of all sizes by offering adjustments to the bike’s seat, footpegs, and handlebar to accommodate the rider’s height and reach. With 18 possible configurations between Reduced Reach, Mid Reach, and Extended Reach, ERGO-FIT helps produce a more comfortable and confident riding experience.
After you purchase a Vulcan® S motorcycle, you’ll have the option to get fitted at no additional cost. And at dealerships with an ERGO-FIT Center, it’s even more convenient to get fitted.
5’6″ and Under
This configuration is the starting point for shorter to average-height riders. The handlebar is positioned 1 in closer to you for a confident riding experience, while the Reduced Reach sculpted seat is tapered and moves you 2 in forward. Footpegs are placed rearward for an optimal leg stretch*.
*Accessory shift-linkage rods required when changing footpeg position from standard.
5’7″ to 6’0″
This configuration is the starting point for average-height riders. The handlebar is positioned to accommodate both average-height and taller riders. The Mid Reach sculpted seat is tapered for an easy reach to the ground and footpegs are placed in the standard position for optimal comfort.
6’1″ and Over
This configuration is the starting point for average-height to tall riders. The handlebar is positioned to accommodate both taller and average-height riders, while Extended Reach sculpted seat moves hip support back 1 in to provide extra room. Additionally, footpegs are placed forward for optimal leg comfort.*
*Accessory shift-linkage rods required when changing footpeg position from standard.
POWER
SPORTBIKE DNA
Powered by a 649cc Ninja®-derived engine, the Vulcan® S motorcycle delivers potent power with ample low- to mid-range torque for an exhilarating ride.
Smooth & Torquey
The compact 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth and responsive power. A light overall weight produces easy handling and exceptional performance for a confidence-inspiring experience.
Feel Every RPM
Predictable roll-on power contributes to a confident riding experience as the revs climb, offering a spirited ride in the high-rpm range.
PERFORMANCE
SPORT CRUISER PERFORMANCE
The Vulcan® S motorcycle delivers exhilarating sport cruiser performance for maximum enjoyment on every ride.
Lightweight & Responsive
Sportbike-derived chassis and suspension provides light and responsive handling for easy maneuvering and sporty feel.
Optimal Traction
Sportbike-influenced wheels and tires contribute to the light-handling feel and provide confident traction.
SMOOTH & ADJUSTABLE
Built to accommodate a variety of riders, the rear shock features a 7-position preload adjuster that can optimize the rear suspension, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride. Adjustments can be made to suit rider preference—a softer setting for a more plush feel or stiffer setting for a sportier ride.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $8749 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $10299 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
POWER
| POWER | |
| Engine | 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 649cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower | 60 hp¹ @ 7,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 46.5 lb-ft @ 6,600 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI® with 38mm throttle bodies (2), with sub-throttle valves |
| Ignition | TCBI with Electronic Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed with positive neutral finder |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Economical Riding Indicator, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) |
PERFORMANCE
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 41mm telescopic fork/5.1 in |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload/3.2 in |
| Front Tire | 120/70-18 |
| Rear Tire | 160/60-17 |
| Front Brakes | Single 300mm disc with twin-piston caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 250mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS |
DETAILS
| DETAILS | |
| Frame Type | High-tensile steel diamond frame |
| Rake/Trail | 31°/4.7 in |
| Overall Length | 90.9 in |
| Overall Width | 34.6 in |
| Overall Height | 44.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5.1 in |
| Seat Height | 27.8 in |
| Estimated Dry Weight | 471.9 lb** |
| Curb Weight | 502.7 lb* |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal |
| Wheelbase | 62.0 in |
| Special Features | ERGO-FIT® |
| Color Choices | Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Ocean Blue |
*Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied). When equipped, California evaporative emissions equipment adds approximately 2.2 lb.
**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).
¹This vehicle’s HP was measured according to ISO standard 4106. This ISO standard measures HP differently than the SAE standards by which the horsepower of many cars is measured, and as a result the referenced HP measurement may be higher than if it were measured by an SAE standard.
KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the maintenance schedule in your Owner’s Manual. ©2025 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Specifications subject to change.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
POWER
| Power | 45 kW {61 PS} / 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 63 Nm {6.4 kgfm} / 6,600 rpm |
| Engine | 649cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 8-valve parallel twin |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection: ø38 mm x 2 with dual throttle valves |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Starting | Electric |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Final Drive | Chain |
PERFORMANCE
| Frame | Perimeter, high-tensile steel |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | ø41 mm telescopic fork / 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Offset laydown single-shock, linkage-equipped, with adjustable preload / 80 mm (3.1 in) |
| Rake / Trail | 31.0° / 120 mm |
| Steering Angle (L/R) | 35° / 35° |
| Front Tire | 120/70R18M/C 59H |
| Rear Tire | 160/60R17M/C 69H |
| Front Brake | ø300 mm disc with dual-piston caliper |
| Rear Brake | ø250 mm disc with single-piston caliper |
DETAILS
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,310 x 880 x 1,130 mm (90.9 x 34.6 x 44.5 in) |
| Wheelbase | 1,575 mm (62.0 in) |
| Road Clearance | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Seat Height | 705 mm (27.8 in) |
| Curb Weight* | 228 kg (503 lb) |
| Estimated Dry Weight** | 214 kg (472 lb) |
| Fuel Capacity | 14 litres |
| Instrumentation | Analogue-style tachometer + multi-function LCD screen with gear position indicator, fuel gauge, digital speedometer, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, remaining range, average/instant fuel consumption and Economical Riding Indicator |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Kawasaki Protection Plus | 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 months |
*Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
**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).
KAWASAKI CARES: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Professional rider shown on a closed course. 2020 Canadian Kawasaki Motors, Inc.
Specifications subject to change.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
NA
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
