2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S/Vulcan S Cafe [Specs, Features, Photos]

The 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S/Vulcan S Cafe: Superb Sport Cruising for Everyone

Model Overview
Specifications
Features
Photos
Videos
Links

Not every Kawasaki Vulcan is a big road cruiser—in fact, the Vulcan S is just the opposite. This nimble, lightweight version of the Vulcan is based more on the Ninja than on the Vaquero and puts a sportier spin on cruising, a la the Honda Rebel or Yamaha Bolt R Spec. And for 2022, Team Green has added a brand new version of the Vulcan S for the cafe racer segment: the (wait for it) Vulcan S Cafe.

What sets the Vulcan S Cafe apart from the version we already know and love (not to mention the sport cruisers offered by other Japanese bike makers)? It’s mostly about the design—you get sport striping and a dark tinted windshield deflector, plus a gorgeous, retro-inspired three-tone paint job (Ebony/Pearl Robotic White/Candy Steel Furnace Orange). Those details will run you about $500 more than the non-ABS standard Vulcan S, and about $200 more than the ABS version.

All models of the Vulcan S pack a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 61 HP @ 7,500 rpm and 46.5 lb-ft of torque @ 6,600 rpm. It’s a fair amount of power—more than enough for city commuting, and perfectly capable of taking you on a day trip through the nearest mountains or canyons. For rider aides, you get dual throttle valves, an economical riding indicator, and Kawasaki’s signature ergo-fit technology that allows riders of roughly any size to fit on the bike comfortably.

This baby’s designed to get you cruisin’ in comfort, and it makes an attractive and approachable addition to the 2022 Kawasaki motorcycle lineup. It starts at $7,449 USD / $8,399 CAD (for the standard Vulcan S without ABS).

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S/Vulcan S Cafe in one place.

Model Overview

General Info

Price: $7,449 USD / $8,399 CAD

Key Features:
- Ninja-derived power and performance
- Ergo-fit technology for adjustable riding positions
- Economical riding indicator
- Dual throttle valves

Main Specs

Engine: 1,352cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve in-line four-cylinder
Power: 61 HP @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 46.5 lb-ft of torque @ 6,600
Curb Weight: 498 lbs (226 kg) for the standard Vulcan S
Seat Height: 27.8 in (705mm)

Competitors

2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S/Vulcan S Cafe Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE
Engine	649cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Power	64Hp
Bore x Stroke	83.0 x 60.0mm
Compression Ratio	10.8:1
Fuel System	DFI 38mm Throttle Bodies (2), with sub-throttle valves
Starter	Electric
Maximum Torque	46.3 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch
Transmission	6-speed with positive neutral finder
Final Drive	Sealed chain
CHASSIS
Suspension Front	41mm telescopic fork/5.1 in
Suspension Rear	Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload/3.2 in
Brakes Front	Single 300mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Brakes Rear	Single 250mm disc with single-piston caliper
Tires Front	120/70×18
Tires Rear	160/60×17
Fuel Tank Capacity	3.7 gal
Color	Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Matte Graphite Gray, Pearl Robotic White
ELECTRICAL
Ignition	TCBI w/ Electronic Advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight	LED
Tail Light	LED
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length	90.9 in
Overall Width	34.6 in
Overall Height	43.3 in
Wheelbase	62.0 in
Ground Clearance	5.1 in
Seat Height	27.8 in
Curb Weight	496.1 lb*
WARRANTY
Warranty	12 Months
Kawasaki Protection Plus	12, 24, or 36 months

2022 Kawasaki Vulcan S/Vulcan S Cafe Features

Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance.

On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

Proper fit is key for rider comfort and control. However, the ideal fit varies from rider to rider, depending on their physical dimensions and riding style.

ERGO-FIT® is an interface system designed to allow riders to find their ideal riding position. Various points of the chassis interface (the handlebar, footpegs and seat, etc.) can be adjusted through a combination of interchangeable parts and parts with adjustable positions. This enables a wide range of riders to find a riding position that offers both comfort and control. Feeling at one with their machine, they will be able to experience how Kawasaki machines are fun and rewarding to ride.
*Adjustable parts and their range of adjustability vary by model.