Comprehensive Maintenance Schedule for the Kawasaki Vulcan S Motorcycle
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a cruiser-style motorcycle first introduced in 2015. Known as the EN650 in some markets, the Vulcan S combines a sporty 649cc parallel-twin engine derived from the Ninja 650 with relaxed cruiser ergonomics and unique Ergo-Fit adjustability to suit a wide range of riders.
Why Riders Love the Kawasaki Vulcan S
- Sporty Handling and Performance: The 649cc parallel-twin engine offers strong performance.
- Comfortable Riding Position: Upright ergonomics ensure rider comfort.
- Ergo-Fit Adjustability: Customizable seat, footpegs, and handlebars fit different rider sizes.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Easy to handle for a cruiser.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers great value.
- Stylish Looks: Blacked-out components and sleek design.
- Reliable and Low-Maintenance: Known for its durability.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | 2015-2022 | 2023+ |
|---|
| Engine | 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC 8-valve parallel twin | 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC 8-valve parallel twin |
| Power | 61 hp @ 7500 rpm | 61 hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 46.3 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm | 46.3 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Seat Height | 27.8 in | 27.8 in |
| Wet Weight | 498 lbs | 498 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal | 3.7 gal |
| Front Suspension | 41mm telescopic fork | 41mm telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload | Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload |
Key updates for 2023: Styling and color options.
Fluid Specifications
| Fluid | Type | Capacity | Change Interval |
|---|
| Engine Oil | 10W-40 API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 | 2.9 qt | 7500 mi / 12000 km |
| Coolant | Kawasaki Long Life Coolant (LLC) or ethylene glycol antifreeze + distilled water (50/50 mix) | 1.3 qt | 24000 mi / 36000 km (2 years) |
| Brake Fluid | DOT4 | — | 24000 mi / 36000 km (2 years) |
| Fork Oil | Kawasaki SS-8 or equivalent 10W | 12.5 oz per fork | 15000 mi / 24000 km |
Parts Requiring Regular Maintenance
Every Ride
- Check tire pressure and tread wear.
- Check brake fluid level.
- Check engine oil level.
- Check coolant level.
- Check all lights and horn function.
Every 600 mi / 1000 km
Every 3000 mi / 5000 km
- Check, clean, lubricate, and adjust drive chain.
- Check brake pad wear.
- Check brake hoses for cracks or damage.
- Check spoke tightness and rim runout.
Every 7500 mi / 12000 km
- Change engine oil and filter.
- Check valve clearance.
- Check and adjust throttle control system.
- Replace air cleaner element.
- Check evaporative emission control system.
- Check brake master cylinder cup and dust cover.
Every 15000 mi / 24000 km
- Check fuel hoses for cracks or damage.
- Check and adjust steering stem bearings.
- Check and adjust wheel bearings.
Every 24000 mi / 36000 km
- Change brake fluid.
- Change coolant.
- Check and adjust cam chain tension.
Maintenance Schedule
| Miles (x1000) | 0.6 | 3 | 7.5 | 15 | 24 | 30 |
|---|
| Kilometers (x1000) | 1 | 5 | 12 | 24 | 36 | 48 |
| Engine Oil/Filter | R | – | R | R | R | R |
| Valve Clearance | – | – | I | I | I | I |
| Air Cleaner Element | – | I | R | R | R | R |
| Spark Plugs | – | – | I | R | I | R |
| Evap. Emission Control System | – | – | I | I | I | I |
| Brake Fluid | – | I | I | I | R | I |
| Brake Pads | I | I | I | I | I | I |
| Brake Hoses | I | I | I | I | I | I |
| Drive Chain | Clean/Lube 600 mi; Check/Adjust 3000 mi | | | | | |
| Coolant | – | – | – | – | R | – |
| Valve Sync | – | – | I | I | I | I |
| Steering Stem Bearings | – | – | – | I | – | I |
| Wheel Bearings | – | – | – | I | – | I |
| Spoke Tightness/Rim Runout | – | I | I | I | I | I |
| Fuel Hoses | – | – | – | I | – | I |
| Throttle Control System | I | I | I | I | I | I |
| Clutch | – | – | I | I | I | I |
| Cam Chain Tension | – | – | – | – | I | – |
| Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners | I | I | I | I | I | I |
I = Inspect, R = Replace, – = No service required
Maintenance Q&A
- What is the recommended engine oil for the Vulcan S?
- Use 10W-40 motorcycle oil meeting API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM standards with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 rating. Kawasaki recommends their own brand, but any oil meeting those specifications can be used.
- How often should I change the oil on my Vulcan S?
- Kawasaki recommends changing the engine oil and filter every 7500 miles (12000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
- Can I adjust the valves myself or do I need to take it to a dealer?
- Checking and adjusting valve clearance requires removing the camshaft cover and precisely measuring clearances with a feeler gauge. While it can be done at home, it requires mechanical skill. Many owners prefer to have a Kawasaki dealer perform valve adjustments.
- What is the difference between DOT3 and DOT4 brake fluid? Can I use DOT3 in my Vulcan S?
- DOT4 brake fluid has a higher boiling point than DOT3. Kawasaki specifies DOT4 fluid for the Vulcan S, so that is what should be used. Using a lower-spec fluid could result in brake fade under hard use.
- My chain seems loose. How can I adjust it?
- Chain slack should be 1.2-1.6 in (30-40 mm) with the bike on its side stand. Loosen the rear axle nut, turn the adjusters evenly on both sides until the proper slack is reached, then torque the axle nut to spec (65 lb-ft).
- What are the symptoms of worn brake pads?
- Squealing or screeching noises, increased lever travel, visible wear indicator marks on the pads, or a pulsing sensation in the lever can all indicate worn pads that need replacement.
- How much does a typical Vulcan S service cost?
- Prices vary, but expect to pay around $200-300 for an oil change/inspection service, and $500+ for a major service with valve adjustment. Doing some tasks yourself can save labor costs.
- Do I need any special tools to work on my Vulcan S?
- A rear stand, oil filter wrench, chain slack gauge, torque wrenches, and feeler gauges are helpful for common maintenance tasks. A factory service manual is also highly recommended.
- Can I use aftermarket parts or do I have to stick with Kawasaki parts?
- Aftermarket parts are generally fine as long as they are high quality and designed for your specific bike. Avoid cheap knockoffs. Using genuine Kawasaki parts ensures compatibility and may be required to maintain warranty coverage.
- I’m hearing a rattling noise from the engine. What could it be?
- A rattling noise at idle that goes away with revs could indicate a loose cam chain tensioner. Have a mechanic check the cam chain tension and adjust as needed. Don’t ignore it as a loose chain can cause engine damage.
Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Kawasaki Vulcan S
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule religiously.
- Warm up the engine before riding and avoid high revs when cold.
- Keep the chain properly tensioned and lubricated.
- Check tire pressure frequently and replace tires before they are completely worn out.
- Store the bike indoors or under a cover to protect from the elements.
- Use high-quality fluids and parts.
- Ride smoothly and anticipate stops to minimize hard braking.
Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|
| Engine won’t start | Dead battery, blown fuse, faulty ignition switch, clogged fuel filter, fouled spark plugs | Charge/replace battery, check fuses, test ignition switch, clean fuel system, clean/replace spark plugs |
| Engine overheating | Low coolant, stuck thermostat, failed water pump, clogged radiator, dragging brakes | Fill coolant, replace thermostat, water pump and/or radiator, check brake calipers |
| Poor handling | Incorrect tire pressure, worn tires, loose steering stem bearings, bent frame | Set tire pressure, replace tires, adjust steering bearings, inspect frame |
| Shifting problems | Incorrect clutch adjustment, worn clutch plates, bent shift fork, damaged shift drum | Adjust clutch, replace plates, inspect shift fork and drum |
| Brakes not working | Worn pads, contaminated fluid, damaged lines, warped rotors | Replace pads, bleed/flush brake fluid, replace lines, resurface or replace rotors |
Resources
Recommended Tools for Home Maintenance
- Sockets and wrenches (metric)
- Allen keys
- Torque wrench
- Oil filter wrench
- Tire pressure gauge
- Chain slack measuring tool
- Feeler gauges for valve clearance
- Multimeter for electrical diagnostics
Reliable Sources
Primary References
- Wikipedia – Kawasaki Vulcan: Provides an overview of the Kawasaki Vulcan series, including the Vulcan S model.
- Autoevolution – Kawasaki Vulcan: Detailed information on the Kawasaki Vulcan models, including specifications and user reviews.
- Kawasaki Australia – Vulcan S: Official site with detailed specifications and features of the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
- RoadRUNNER – 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S Review: In-depth review of the 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S, highlighting its features and performance.
- Viking Bags Blog – Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe: Detailed specs, background, and performance review of the Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Cafe.
- Kawasaki Australia – 2024 Vulcan S Special C and G: Information on the latest 2024 Kawasaki Vulcan S models with special features.
- YouTube – Kawasaki Vulcan S Review: Video review of the Kawasaki Vulcan S, discussing its features and performance.
- Motorcycle Specs – Kawasaki Vulcan S: Detailed technical specifications and features of the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
Technical and Maintenance Information
- YouTube – Kawasaki Vulcan S Maintenance Tips: Video offering maintenance tips and procedures for the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
- Kawasaki Australia – Motorcycle Oil: Information on recommended oils and lubricants for Kawasaki motorcycles, including the Vulcan S.
- Kawasaki Australia – Brake Fluid: Details on the recommended brake fluid for the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
- YouTube – Kawasaki Vulcan S Chain Maintenance: Video demonstrating chain maintenance procedures for the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
- Kawasaki – Service Manuals: Official service manuals for Kawasaki motorcycles, including the Vulcan S.
- Maintenance Schedule – Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650: Provides a detailed maintenance schedule for the Kawasaki Vulcan S EN650 model.
Additional References
- Vulcan Forums – Maintenance Schedule Discussion: Forum discussion about understanding and following the maintenance schedule for the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
- Kawasaki Australia – Vulcan S Stories: Personal stories and reviews from Kawasaki Vulcan S owners.
