2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S Special Edition Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
At the heart of the 2017 Kawasaki Vulcan S Special Edition custom - cruiser motorcycle, Kawasaki 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 Special Edition 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 supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2016 to 2017, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
94 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.27 HP/kg (3.75 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,600–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
705 mm (27.8 in)
Engine
Displacement649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, 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. 38 mm x 2 with sub-throttles
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multi-disc
DrivelineSealed chain
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 SuspensionLay-down offset rear shock with linkage and 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. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS.
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.
