Available in India since 2018, Kawasaki Vulcan S rivals the likes of Honda Rebel 500 and RE Super Meteor 650
Kawasaki has launched the 2026 Vulcan S at a sticker price of Rs 8.13 lakh. This is around Rs 54,000 costlier than the MY24 model. One of the key updates is E20 compliance. While power output is the same as earlier, there’s a slight change in the torque output. Let’s check out the details.
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S – What’s new?
In line with regulatory policies, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is now compatible with E20 fuel. This ensures peace of mind for those concerned about the potential adverse effects of using E20 fuel. The 2026 Vulcan S is likely to have undergone some tweaks to the fuel system components to ensure E20 compatibility. Engine calibration could also have been adjusted, as required.
In terms of performance, the power output of 61 PS is the same as earlier. However, the torque output has dropped slightly to 61 Nm from the earlier 62.4 Nm. The exact reason for this is not known, although it could be linked to the changes introduced for E20 compatibility. The slight drop in torque output can also come from other factors such as a revised exhaust system, changes in air intake design, etc.
The engine is the same as earlier – a 649 cc, liquid cooled, parallel twin unit. For the 2026 Vulcan S, Kawasaki has also introduced a new Metallic Flat Spark Black colour. The Pearl Matte Sage Green colour option available with the previous model has been removed. The 2026 Vulcan S essentially utilizes an all-black theme, which complements the bike’s powerful road presence. Most parts, such as the headlamp cowl, engine, exhaust shield and frame, have a blacked-out finish.
Apart from the new colour, the overall design remains the same as earlier. Key features include an angular headlamp, rectangular rear-view mirrors, classic fuel tank design, 2 into 1 exhaust and broad rear fender. Users can expect optimal comfort and handling with the low seat height (705 mm), foot-forward riding position and a scooped rider seat with thick padding.
Specs, features
2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S continues with the same hardware as earlier. The bike is built on a perimeter frame, with 41 mm telescopic front forks. At the rear, Vulcan S has an offset laydown single-shock suspension. It comes with linkage, which ensures a longer stroke for enhanced ride comfort. Braking setup comprises 300 mm and 250 mm disc brakes at the front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard.
The bike has a kerb weight of 235 kg, which is 6 kg heavier than the previous model. Wheel sizes are 18-inch front and 17-inch rear, wrapped in 120/70 and 160/60 tyres, respectively. The instrument console utilizes a blend of an analogue-style tachometer and a multi-purpose LCD screen. Readouts include speed, tripmeter, odometer and gear indicator. An Economical Riding Indicator is also available, which helps riders to improve fuel efficiency.
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
