Positioned in Kawasaki's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2001 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter relies on a 805 cc (49.1 cu in) v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 57 HP (41.6 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 61 Nm (45 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 70.8 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), 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 Drifter measures 246 kg (542 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.23 HP/kg (4.32 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 760 mm (29.9 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,615 mm (63.6 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 170 km/h (106 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1999 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
70.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.23 HP/kg (4.32 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
760 mm (29.9 in)
Engine
Displacement805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power57.0 HP (41.6 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque61.0 Nm (6.2 kgf-m or 45.0 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 66.2 mm (3.5 x 2.6 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)
Chassis
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear Travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase1615 mm (63.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-H16
Rear Tyre140/90-H16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø270 mm (10.6 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight246.0 kg (542.3 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2317 HP/kg
Seat Height760 mm (29.9 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.
