Cruisers

2001Kawasaki VN 1500 Drifter

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The 2001 Kawasaki VN 1500 Drifter is a classic cruiser motorcycle designed for riders seeking a low-slung, accessible riding position and timeless styling. Powered by a 1471cc V-twin engine delivering 113 Nm of torque, it emphasizes smooth, relaxed cruising over aggressive performance. The lightweight 304 kg frame and shaft drive make it an ideal choice for casual weekend riders and those seeking a straightforward, reliable custom cruiser experience.

Capacity: 1471.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 304.0 kg
Seat height: 730 mm
Power: 64.0 HP (47.1 kW) @ 4700 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2001 Kawasaki VN 1500 Drifter

vs the 2000

Spec	2000	2001
Engine capacity	1470.0 ccm (89.70 cubic inches)	1471.0 ccm (89.77 cubic inches)
Torque	113.0 Nm (11.5 kgf-m or 83.3 ft.lbs) @ 2800 RPM	113.0 Nm (11.5 kgf-m or 83.3 ft.lbs)
Top speed	140.0 km/h (87.0 mph)	182.0 km/h (113.1 mph)
Dry weight	302.0 kg (665.8 pounds)	304.0 kg (670.2 pounds)
Fuel capacity	16.00 litres (4.23 US gallons)	19.00 litres (5.02 US gallons)
Gearbox	6-speed	5-speed

Other years 1999 2000 2001

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring65%

Two-up65%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and classic American-style styling rather than outright performance or agility.
Built for: A retro-styled, V-twin cruiser that rewards a relaxed riding style with a deep torque-driven feel, shaft-drive smoothness, and heritage cruiser presence.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high-speed performance, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 730mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 Kawasaki VN 1500 Drifter, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

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