2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S First Look Preview

Have you ever sat on a cruiser with your legs scrunched up and arms stretched out and thought, “Who is this bike designed for?” When it comes to the Vulcan S, Kawasaki wants riders to answer with “everyone.” The Vulcan S allows for up to 18 possible ergonomic adjustment configurations to make the ride comfortable for riders of all shapes and sizes. This ergonomic chameleon of a cruiser hits the 2023 scene with new colors.

The Vulcan comes in Metallic Flat Spark Black (non-ABS) and Pearl Matte Sage Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black (ABS). The Cafe version adds a little flare to the mix with a smoked front cowl, different tank badging, and new two-tone paint with yellow accents and “sport striping.”

To achieve a short-rider-approachable 27.8-inch seat height, Kawasaki offset the rear shock and placed the battery beside it rather than beneath it. The preload-adjustable shock has 3.2 inches of travel and the front 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork has 5.1.

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The Vulcan S has a retuned version of the Ninja 650′s 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin to result in smooth acceleration and new rider friendliness. The exhaust is tucked underneath keeping mass low and centralized. Kawasaki also says this muffler design contributes to the bike’s strong torque pull in low to mid rpm. Peak torque is claimed to be 46.3 lb.-ft. at 6,600 rpm.

At its lowest price of $7,349, ABS is omitted. Want ABS? That version will cost $7,899. The added accessories and different look of the Cafe version rings in at $8,099.