The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S has launched in India as a refined mid-capacity cruiser, priced at Rs 8.13 lakh ex-showroom, blending sporty performance with everyday usability. It introduces E20 fuel compatibility and a sleek new color, making it future-ready for Indian roads while keeping the core appeal intact.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S is the familiar 649 cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that fans of the model already know and trust. It makes a healthy ~61 hp and just over 61 Nm of torque — figures that aren’t about blistering top-end speed, but about smooth, tractable power that suits both cruising highways and city streets.
The big technical headline this year is E20 fuel compliance — meaning this engine can run safely on petrol blended with up to 20 % ethanol, which is rapidly becoming the norm across India and other markets. This sounds like a small detail, but for owners it’s huge: better future-proofing, better emission alignment, and no worries about fueling anywhere you go.
Pairing is a 6-speed gearbox with an assist & slipper clutch, which smooths downshifts and makes daily stop-and-go traffic a lot less fatiguing on your left hand.
Chassis, Suspension & Handling
What really defines the Vulcan S is its geometry and feel — low slung, planted, and confidence-inspiring.
Frame: Perimeter steel frame with a balanced center of gravity.
Front suspension: 41 mm telescopic fork tuned for comfort.
Rear suspension: Preload-adjustable mono shock that absorbs bumps without fuss.
Brakes: A 300 mm disc upfront and 250 mm disc at the rear, with dual-channel ABS standard — confidence under hard braking.
Riders often talk about how cruisers feel rather than how fast they go. This bike keeps that vibe — stable at highway speeds yet forgiving and easy to flick around in the city.
Ergonomics & Fit
One of the most thoughtful things about the Kawasaki Vulcan S is Kawasaki’s ERGO-FIT system. Essentially, this means the bike doesn’t force you into a single position — you can adjust the seat, foot pegs, and even handlebar reach to suit your body size and riding style.
This adaptability makes it welcoming to a wide range of riders — from those who are shorter and prefer a more compact feel, to taller riders who like a stretched-out cruiser posture.
The low seat height (around 705 mm) is a big win for confidence at traffic lights or when maneuvering in tight spaces — something that not all cruisers manage so well.
Design & Aesthetics
For 2026, Kawasaki has gone with a new Metallic Flat Spark Black color, replacing the earlier green shade of previous years. This darker, understated finish gives the Vulcan S a more mature, timeless look — something that fits the cruiser personality perfectly.
Visually, the Vulcan S isn’t about overly flashy bits or aggressive angles. Instead, it blends:
Classic cruiser lines
A low, elongated silhouette
Exposed mechanical elements that lend a sense of honesty to its design.
This isn’t a futuristic machine — it’s a bike that whispers “heritage” rather than shouting “trend”.
Tech & Features
The Kawasaki Vulcan S doesn’t chase sophisticated electronics like traction control or multiple ride modes. What it offers instead is:
A semi-digital instrument cluster
Adjustable controls (clutch, brake levers)
Tubeless tyres and predictable braking
A sensible 14-litre fuel tank for decent touring range.
This is a cruiser that focuses on the riding experience itself — uncomplicated, comfortable, and intuitive.
Price & Value
At ₹8.13 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S sits in a premium bracket for a mid-size cruiser in India. The price increase over the previous model reflects both regulatory compliance work and overall market dynamics.
In terms of alternatives, there really isn’t a direct rival that matches this specific blend of engine size, seating comfort, and cruiser identity — though bikes like Royal Enfield’s Super Meteor 650 play in roughly the same broad space at a very different price point.
Conclusion
The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S isn’t trying to be a Harley-Davidson. It’s for the rider who wants a cruiser’s look but a sport bike’s smoothness. It’s refined, reliable, and now environmentally updated. While the price increase is notable, the ability to “tailor” the bike to your body remains its strongest selling point.
