Kawasaki Vulcan S Special Edition - 2016 Specifications and Reviews
The 2016 Kawasaki Vulcan S Special Edition is a middleweight cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible yet capable standard custom motorcycle. Powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 61 horsepower, it delivers responsive performance and manageable torque ideal for both new and experienced riders. Known for its comfortable ergonomics, nimble handling, and approachable character, the Vulcan S excels as an entry-level cruiser that doesn't compromise on modern engineering or style.
2016
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2016 |
| Model | Kawasaki Vulcan S Special Edition |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Transmission type,final drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Ignition | TCBI with digital advance |
| Fuel control | Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Fuel system | Injection. 38 mm x 2 with sub-throttles |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches) |
| Compression | 10.8:1 |
| Torque | 63.00 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM |
| Power | 61.00 HP (44.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM |
| Engine type | Twin, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 250 mm (9.8 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston caliper. Optional ABS. |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS. |
| Rear tyre | 160/60-17 |
| Front tyre | 120/70-18 |
| Rear wheel travel | 81 mm (3.2 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload |
| Front wheel travel | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 41mm telescopic fork |
| Trail | 119 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 31.0° |
| Frame type | Perimeter, high-tensile steel |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 14.00 litres (3.70 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,575 mm (62.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Overall width | 881 mm (34.7 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,311 mm (91.0 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,100 mm (43.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 706 mm (27.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 225.0 kg (496.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Comments | Limited power version of 35 kW available. ABS adds 3 kg. |
| Factory warranty | 12 Month Limited Warranty |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Metallic Matte Carbon Gray/Metallic Matte Phantom Silver |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
61 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track20%
City72%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding75%
Touring45%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Well suited to newer riders and returning riders thanks to its approachable power delivery and low seat height, while still offering enough engagement for more experienced riders in urban settings. |
| Purpose | Designed primarily as a stylish, accessible cruiser for daily commuting and relaxed street riding rather than outright performance or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | The low 705mm seat height and manageable 229kg weight make it easy for shorter or less physically strong riders to handle confidently. |
| Character | A modern, sporty-leaning cruiser that blends laid-back cruiser styling with surprisingly nimble handling from its lighter chassis and sharper geometry. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, serious two-up long-distance travel, or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
Add a Comment
Related Motorcycle Specifications
More Kawasaki Motorcycles
Related Variants
- Motorcycles in database: 45863
- Technical specifications: 1490298
- Images of motorcycles: 72681
- Videos: 339
- Manufacturers: 501






































Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.