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2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S: Performance, Price, Specs, and Photos

The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S pairs a 649cc twin with up to 46.3 lb-ft of torque. Compare original U.S. prices for non-ABS, ABS, and CAFE versions, plus key specs and photo sources.
Entry562 Date Time3 min MechanicCarCody Team
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The 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S uses a 649cc parallel-twin engine and was offered in the U.S. as a standard model, an ABS version, and a CAFE version. Original U.S. MSRPs ranged from $7,349 to $8,099. Kawasaki lists 46.3 lb-ft of torque, a 27.8-inch seat height, and an 18-setting ERGO-FIT system; it does not establish a horsepower figure or independent acceleration, top-speed, or fuel-economy results in the cited 2023 U.S. specifications.

What performance does the 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S offer?

Kawasaki’s U.S. specifications list a 649cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder DOHC engine paired with a six-speed transmission and positive neutral finder. Maximum torque is 46.3 lb-ft at 6,600 rpm, according to Kawasaki’s 2023 U.S. specification sheet.

Kawasaki describes the Vulcan S and Vulcan S CAFE as sport cruisers with a sportbike-derived chassis and suspension and sporty handling. That is the manufacturer’s characterization, not an independent road-test finding. The cited U.S. material does not provide a horsepower figure or measured acceleration, top speed, or real-world fuel economy, so those results should not be inferred from the engine displacement or torque figure.

Chassis, suspension, tires, and brakes

  • Front suspension: 41mm telescopic fork with 5.1 inches of travel.
  • Rear suspension: linkage-equipped shock with adjustable preload and 3.2 inches of travel.
  • Wheelbase: 62.0 inches.
  • Tires: 120/70×18 front and 160/60×17 rear.
  • Brakes: single discs at the front and rear; the ABS configuration adds anti-lock braking.

How much did a 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S cost?

The following are Kawasaki’s original U.S. model-year MSRPs, not current used-bike values, dealer asking prices, or out-the-door totals. The 2022 Kawasaki U.S. model-year release and 2023 specification sheet list:

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  • 【Compatible with】Our waterproof motorcycle cover fits perfectly for Kawasaki Vulcan S 650/900/1500/Vulcan S CAFE ABS. Note: NOT fits for Vulcan 1600! Dimensions: 100"L x 50"W x 40"H. In order to provide you with a satisfactory shopping experience, please measure the size of your motorcycle before purchasing! Make sure the motorcycle body is dry and clean before installing the cover. Enjoy a wonderful motorcycle touring trip with our excellent vulcan 650 motorcycle cover!
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2023 U.S. configuration Original MSRP Published curb weight Documented distinction
Vulcan S, non-ABS $7,349 491.7 lb No ABS listed
Vulcan S ABS $7,899 498.3 lb Anti-lock braking; 6.6 lb heavier than the listed non-ABS model
Vulcan S CAFE $8,099 not stated (Kawasaki’s cited 2022 U.S. release) Three-tone paint, signature tank badging, sport striping, and dark-tinted windshield deflector

Kawasaki’s 2022 U.S. model-year announcement lists the non-ABS model in Metallic Flat Spark Black and the ABS model in Pearl Matte Sage Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black. The CAFE was listed in Pearl Storm Gray / Ebony. The CAFE is an appearance-and-equipment variant in the cited information; Kawasaki does not identify an engine or performance change for it.

Does the 2023 Vulcan S have ABS?

ABS was configuration-dependent. Kawasaki listed a non-ABS Vulcan S and a Vulcan S ABS, so check the specific motorcycle’s trim and equipment rather than assuming every 2023 Vulcan S has anti-lock brakes. The published curb weights are 491.7 lb for non-ABS and 498.3 lb for ABS.

Rank #2
2015-2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650 Vulcan ABS CAFÉ SE OEM Oil Change Kit KAW07
  • See Description For Vehicle Fitment.
  • 4 Stroke Engine Oil (10W40)
  • Motorcycle
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What are the seat height and fit like?

Kawasaki lists a 27.8-inch seat height, 3.7-gallon fuel capacity, and 62.0-inch wheelbase for the U.S. model. The seat-height figure alone cannot tell you whether the motorcycle will feel comfortable or manageable: reach to the ground, leg position, handlebar reach, and individual proportions all matter.

Kawasaki says ERGO-FIT offers 18 possible configurations to help tailor fit. The company’s Vietnam-market Vulcan S page describes an adjustable interface involving components such as the handlebar, footpegs, and seat; exact parts and adjustment ranges can vary by model and market. Arrange an in-person fit check on the actual motorcycle and confirm which adjustments are available for that bike.

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Rank #3
Detachable Passenger Backrest Sissy Bar for Vulcan S650 VN650 EN650 2015-2024 (with Luggage Rack)
  • Fitment: Compatible with Vulcan S650 VN650 EN650 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024.

Where can you see photos of the 2023 Vulcan S?

Kawasaki’s Vietnam-market model page has a gallery that includes images labeled for the 2023 Vulcan S ABS. Kawasaki’s U.S. model-year release directs media to its media site for high-resolution downloads. Match captions to the pictured market and trim: ABS equipment and CAFE styling can differ, and a photograph of one configuration should not be treated as a picture of every Vulcan S. Check applicable access and reuse terms before publishing official imagery; availability of a photo does not by itself grant publication rights.

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What should a buyer verify on a specific motorcycle?

  • Confirm whether the bike is non-ABS, ABS, or CAFE; do not rely on a generic model name alone.
  • Check that the paint and CAFE features match the claimed trim.
  • Inspect the actual motorcycle and test its fit rather than relying only on the seat-height number.
  • For a current purchase, verify local condition, availability, taxes, and dealer charges independently; the original MSRP is not a current market quote.

Kawasaki’s Vietnam-market page advises riders to wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper apparel. Choose a helmet that fits correctly and meets the safety requirements applicable where you ride.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 2
2015-2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650 Vulcan ABS CAFÉ SE OEM Oil Change Kit KAW07
2015-2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650 Vulcan ABS CAFÉ SE OEM Oil Change Kit KAW07
See Description For Vehicle Fitment.; 4 Stroke Engine Oil (10W40); Motorcycle; Canister Oil Filter
$39.50
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LED Fender Eliminator Integrated Tail Light For Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650 15-23
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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