If you prefer the modern classic style of the Honda Rebel 1100 but want something more affordable, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a worthy consideration. Its 649 cc parallel-twin engine, adjustable ERGO-FIT ergonomics, and sharp urban design give you a confident cruiser feel for much less money. While it doesn't have the same power or engine size as the Rebel 1100, the Vulcan S offers a great mix of performance, agility, and value. It's a stylish, easy-to-ride, and budget-friendly cruiser that still feels like a big bike.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced directly from Kawasaki and Honda. The information provided is current as of the time of this writing.
The Vulcan S Costs Considerably Less Than The Rebel 1100
Smaller engine, simpler features, and approachable MSRP make Kawasaki's cruiser a budget-friendly Rebel rival
The 2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S is priced at an MSRP of $7,399 without ABS and $7,899 with ABS, making it a budget-friendly option for riders seeking a stylish cruiser without a hefty price tag. In contrast, the 2025 Honda Rebel 1100 starts at an MSRP of $9,599, with ABS, and ranges up to the DCT SE model, which starts at $11,099. The Vulcan S's lower price point can be attributed to its smaller 649 cc engine and simpler features compared to the Rebel 1100's larger 1,083 cc engine and advanced technologies. This makes the Vulcan S an attractive option for riders seeking an affordable cruiser with modern styling and performance.
Power Meets Practicality: How The Vulcan S Stacks Up Against The Rebel 1100
Kawasaki's rev-happy twin takes on Honda's torque-rich powerhouse
At the heart of the Kawasaki Vulcan S lies a 649 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, adapted from Kawasaki's sporty Ninja 650. It's a smooth, rev-happy powerplant that makes roughly 61 horsepower and 46 pound-feet of torque, delivered through a linear throttle that rewards riders who enjoy winding the engine out. While it doesn't boast the muscle of larger cruisers, the Vulcan's lightweight frame and free-revving nature make it surprisingly lively in city traffic and on backroads, with a broad midrange that's easy to manage for novice or intermediate riders.
The Honda Rebel 1100, on the other hand, packs a far more potent punch. Its 1,083 cc Unicam parallel-twin engine, borrowed from the Africa Twin adventure bike, produces around 81 horsepower and 68 pound-feet of torque, most of which is available low in the rev range. That gives the Rebel a muscular, effortless feel at highway speeds and a confident surge off the line. The Rebel's throttle-by-wire system and available Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) add a layer of refinement and versatility that the Vulcan can't quite match. In practice, the Rebel 1100 is the performance heavyweight of the two, while the Vulcan S offers a smoother, lighter, and more approachable ride, proving that a cruiser doesn't need brute force to deliver genuine satisfaction.
Vulcan S Vs. Rebel 1100 Engine And Performance Specifications
Model
Vulcan S
Rebel 1100
Engine
Liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Displacement
649 cc
1,083 cc
Compression
10.8:1
10.1:1
Power
61 HP @ 7,500 RPM
81 HP @ 7,000 RPM
Torque
46.3 LB-FT @ 6,600 RPM
68 LB-FT @ 4,750 RPM
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Six-speed manual (Opt: DCT)
Top Speed
~100 MPH
~115 MPH
Comparing The Chassis, Suspension, And Handling Of The Vulcan S To The Rebel 1100
When comparing the chassis, suspension, and handling characteristics of the Kawasaki Vulcan S and Honda Rebel 1100, riders will notice distinct differences tailored to their design philosophies. The Kawasaki Vulcan S features a lightweight steel frame with a 41 mm telescopic front fork offering 5.1 inches of travel, complemented by a lay-down offset rear shock with 3.2 inches of travel and adjustable preload. This setup, combined with 18-inch front and 17-inch rear radial tires, contributes to the bike's nimble handling and low seat height of 27.8 inches, making it particularly approachable for newer riders. The ERGO-FIT® system further enhances comfort by allowing customization of the seat, handlebars, and footpegs to accommodate riders of various sizes.
In contrast, the Honda Rebel 1100 features a more robust chassis, equipped with a 43 mm conventional telescopic front fork that offers 5.5 inches of travel. The rear suspension comprises dual Showa shocks, providing 3.7 inches of travel and adjustable preload. This configuration, along with a seat height of 27.5 inches, provides a stable and comfortable ride suitable for longer distances. The Rebel 1100's design emphasizes a low center of gravity and compact mass, enhancing maneuverability and handling. Ultimately, the Vulcan S excels in light, agile handling ideal for urban environments, whereas the Rebel 1100 offers a more substantial and stable ride for extended journeys.
Vulcan S Vs. Rebel 1100 Chassis And Suspension Specifications
Model
Vulcan S
Rebel 1100
Front Suspension/ Travel
41 mm telescopic fork/5.1 inches
43 mm conventional telescopic fork w/ adj. preload/ 5.5 inches
Rear Suspension/ Travel
Lay-down offset rear shock with linkage and adjustable preload/ 3.2 inches
Dual Showa® shocks w/ 12.5 mm shafts & adj. preload, piggyback pressurized reservoirs/ 3.7 inches
Rake/ Trail
31°/4.7 inches
28º/4.3 inches
Lean Angle
35°
35°
Front Tire
120/70-18
130/70-18
Rear Tire
160/60-17
180/65-16
Front Brake
300 mm disc, twin-piston caliper; ABS
330 mm disc, four-piston monobloc, radial-mount hydraulic caliper; ABS
Rear Brake
250 mm disc, single-piston caliper; ABS
256 mm disc, single-piston hydraulic caliper; ABS
Design And Styling: Modern Sport Vs. Classic Cruiser
Kawasaki's sleek, customizable Vulcan S takes on Honda's timeless Rebel 1100 aesthetic
The Kawasaki Vulcan S and Honda Rebel 1100 each offer distinct styling that caters to different rider preferences. The Vulcan S presents a modern, urban cruiser aesthetic with its long and low stance, minimalist bodywork, and angular lines. Its design emphasizes a sporty edge, appealing to riders seeking a contemporary look. The ERGO-FIT® system allows for customization of the seat, handlebars, and footpegs, ensuring a tailored fit for various riders.
In contrast, the Rebel 1100 boasts a more traditional cruiser appearance, characterized by its low-slung profile, wide handlebars, and classic bobber styling. The blacked-out components and minimalist design elements contribute to its sleek and timeless look. The 2025 SE trim introduces additional styling features, including a headlight cowl, bar-end mirrors, and a custom seat, enhancing its visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the Vulcan S and Rebel 1100 comes down to personal preference. The Vulcan S caters to those desiring a modern, customizable cruiser, while the Rebel 1100 appeals to riders who appreciate classic cruiser aesthetics with contemporary performance.
Vulcan S Vs. Rebel 1100 Design Specifications And Dimensions
Model
Vulcan S
Rebel 1100
Length
90.9 inches
88.3 inches
Width
34.6 inches
33.6 inches
Height
43.3 inches
43.9 inches
Seat Height
27.8 inches
27.5 inches
Wheelbase
62.0 inches
59.8 inches
Ground Clearance
5.1 inches
4.7 inches
Fuel Capacity
3.7 gallons
3.6 gallons
Curb Weight
498.3 lb (ABS), 491.7 lb (non-ABS)
487 lbs (ABS)
Why The Vulcan S Offers Big Style Without The Big Price
Smart design and streamlined engineering make Kawasaki's cruiser an affordable Rebel alternative
The Kawasaki Vulcan S stands out as a more affordable option than the Honda Rebel 1100, focusing on efficiency and practicality rather than expensive technology. Its design uses lighter parts and simple systems, which helps keep both manufacturing and maintenance costs low. Every choice, from the bodywork to the seating, is designed for flexibility and everyday use, rather than luxury touring or top-end performance. This allows Kawasaki to offer a capable and stylish cruiser without additional costs. If you're looking for a stylish, well-rounded motorcycle that doesn't require a significant financial outlay, the Vulcan S is an innovative and budget-friendly option.