Built around Kawasaki's touring motorcycle platform, the 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan S Light Tourer pairs a 649 cc (39.6 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 61 HP (44.5 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 63 Nm (46.5 lb-ft) at 6,600 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 94 HP per liter and a 900 rpm working window between peak torque (6,600 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the Vulcan S Light Tourer measures 229 kg (505 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.27 HP/kg (3.75 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 705 mm (27.8 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,575 mm (62 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.4 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 318 km (198 miles) between fill-ups.
Specific Output
94 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.27 HP/kg (3.75 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,600–7,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~318 km (198 mi)
Engine
Displacement649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Power61.0 HP (44.5 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM
Compression10.8:1
Bore x Stroke83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI with two 38mm throttle bodies, with sub-throttles
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multi-disc
Performance
Fuel Consumption4.40 litres/100 km (22.7 km/l or 53.46 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases102.1 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular diamond, high-tensile steel
Rake31.0°
Trail119 mm (4.7 inches)
Front Suspension41mm telescopic fork
Front Travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear SuspensionHorizontal Back-link with 7-way adjustable preload
Rear Travel81 mm (3.2 inches)
Wheelbase1575 mm (62.0 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-18
Rear Tyre160/60-17
Front BrakesDouble disc. Dual-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear Brake Ø250 mm (9.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.229.0 kg (504.9 pounds)
Seat Height705 mm (27.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1100 mm (43.3 inches)
Overall Length2310 mm (90.9 inches)
Overall Width880 mm (34.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity14.00 litres (3.70 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsPearl Lava Orange, Metallic Flat Spark Black
Carrying CapacitySaddel bags
Warranty12 Month Limited Warranty
Notes
Windscreen. Limited power version with 35 kW available.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
