The 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S continues with the 649cc parallel-twin engine, updated for E20 fuel, while retaining its relaxed cruiser layout and familiar riding feel.
By Divyam Dubey
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Kawasaki India has launched the 2026 Vulcan S at Rs 8.13 lakh ex-showroom, and this time the update is all about fuel compliance rather than visual drama. The price sees a Rs 54,000 increase over the earlier version, mainly due to homologation work and component revisions needed for ethanol-blended fuel. The chassis setup carries over without changes. A perimeter frame forms the base, paired with a 41mm telescopic front fork offering 130mm travel.
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At the rear, the monoshock gets 80mm travel along with five-step preload adjustment. With a wheelbase of 1,410mm, a 30-degree rake and 120mm trail, the Vulcan S keeps its stable cruiser geometry, making it comfortable for steady highway runs and relaxed city riding.

Braking hardware is also unchanged for 2026. The motorcycle uses a 300mm front disc with a twin-piston calliper and a 250mm rear disc with a single-piston calliper. Dual-channel ABS is standard. Tyres are tubeless radials, sized 120/70-17 at the front and 160/60-17 at the rear, offering predictable grip and braking performance for everyday riding conditions.
Under the tank, the Vulcan S continues with the familiar 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. It produces 61bhp at 7,500rpm and 61Nm at 6,600rpm, with torque dipping slightly by 1.4Nm compared to the previous model. Kawasaki has recalibrated the fuel injection system so the engine can safely run on petrol blended with up to 20 per cent ethanol. The DOHC layout with four valves per cylinder remains unchanged, which means the riding feel stays familiar for those who value smooth power delivery over outright punch.
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The 14-litre fuel tank supports longer rides between fuel stops. For 2026, Kawasaki introduces a Metallic Flat Spark Black paint scheme, replacing the earlier green shade. Built at the Chakan facility near Pune, the Vulcan S continues to target riders who want easy-going cruiser ergonomics with adjustable footpegs, handlebars and seat positions, while taking on rivals like the Honda Rebel 1100 and Indian Scout Bobber in the Indian market.