Built around Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2004 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic utilizes a 805 cc (49.1 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 55 HP (40.1 kW) at 7,000 rpm 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 235 kg (518 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.23 HP/kg (4.27 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 720 mm (28.3 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,600 mm (63 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, 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
0.23 HP/kg (4.27 kg/HP)
Standover Height
720 mm (28.3 in)
Engine
Displacement805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power55.0 HP (40.1 kW)) @ 7000 RPM
Torque64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed167.0 km/h (103.8 mph)
Chassis
Wheelbase1600 mm (63.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-H16
Rear Tyre140/90-H16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2340 HP/kg
Seat Height720 mm (28.3 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.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
