At the heart of the 2002 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic custom - cruiser motorcycle, Kawasaki utilizes a 805 cc (49.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 55 HP (40.1 kW) while maximum torque reaches 64 Nm (47.2 lb-ft), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 68.3 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the VN 800 Classic measures 245 kg (540 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.22 HP/kg (4.45 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 1,605 mm (63.2 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.93 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 304 km (189 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 167 km/h (104 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 8 indexed model years from 1996 to 2004, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
68.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.22 HP/kg (4.45 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~304 km (189 mi)
Engine
Displacement805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power55.0 HP (40.1 kW))
Torque64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs)
Compression9.5:1
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CVK 36
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionDigital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
DrivelineConstant mesh
Performance
Top Speed167.0 km/h (103.8 mph)
Fuel Consumption4.93 litres/100 km (20.3 km/l or 47.71 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases114.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Front Suspension41 mm. hydraulic telescopic
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak with 7-way cam-type preload adjuster
Wheelbase1605 mm (63.2 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre80/90-16
Rear Tyre140/90-16
Front BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø180 mm (7.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Weight incl.245.0 kg (540.1 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2340 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.
