Engineered by Kawasaki for the touring motorcycle segment, the 2011 Kawasaki VN 900 Light Tourer relies on a 903 cc (55.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 49.6 HP (36.2 kW) at 5,700 rpm while maximum torque reaches 78 Nm (57.5 lb-ft) at 3,700 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 54.9 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,700 rpm) and peak power (5,700 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the VN 900 Light Tourer measures 282 kg (622 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.18 HP/kg (5.69 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,650 mm (65 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2011 to 2012, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
54.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.18 HP/kg (5.69 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,700–5,700 rpm
Engine
Displacement903.0 ccm (55.10 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power49.6 HP (36.2 kW)) @ 5700 RPM
Torque78.0 Nm (8.0 kgf-m or 57.5 ft.lbs) @ 3700 RPM
Compression9.5:1
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 74.2 mm (3.5 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionDigital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble-cradle, steel
Rake32.0°
Trail160 mm (6.3 inches)
Front Suspension41 mm telescopic fork with 7-way preload
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.
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.
