Built around Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2002 Kawasaki VN 1500 Mean Streak pairs a 1470 cc (89.7 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 72 HP (52.6 kW) at 5,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 108 Nm (79.7 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 49 HP per liter and a 2,500 rpm working window between peak torque (3,000 rpm) and peak power (5,500 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the VN 1500 Mean Streak measures 316 kg (697 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.23 HP/kg (4.39 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 700 mm (27.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,705 mm (67.1 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 185 km/h (115 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2002 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
49 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.23 HP/kg (4.39 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–5,500 rpm
Standover Height
700 mm (27.6 in)
Engine
Displacement1470.0 ccm (89.70 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power72.0 HP (52.6 kW)) @ 5500 RPM
Torque108.0 Nm (11.0 kgf-m or 79.7 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionDigital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed185.0 km/h (115.0 mph)
Chassis
Front Suspension43 mm inverted telescopic fork
Rear SuspensionSwingarm with twin shocks, 4-way rebound damping
Wheelbase1705 mm (67.1 inches)
Ground Clearance125 mm (4.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/70-R17 M/C 62H
Rear Tyre170/60-R17 M/C 72H
Front BrakesDouble disc. Six-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rear Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight289.0 kg (637.1 pounds)
Weight incl.316.0 kg (696.7 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2491 HP/kg
Seat Height700 mm (27.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
