Cruisers

1997Kawasaki VN 800 Classic

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The 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic is a mid-sized cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible V-twin character without overwhelming power. Its 805cc liquid-cooled engine delivers smooth torque, while the low 710mm seat height and manageable 235kg weight make it ideal for novice cruiser enthusiasts. Best known for combining classic styling with reliable performance and easy handling.

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Engine: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 235.0 kg
Seat height: 710 mm
Power: 55.0 HP

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic

vs the 1996

Spec	1996	1997
Engine capacity	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Power	55.00 HP	55.0 HP
Torque	62.80	64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs)
Top speed	—	170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)
Weight	225.0 kg (496.0 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Seat height	725 mm (28.5 inches)	710 mm (28.0 inches)
Rear brakes	Expanding brake	not listed
Cooling	—	Liquid

Other years 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring55%

Two-up55%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and short highway jaunts rather than outright speed or aggressive cornering.
Built for: A classic-styled, unhurried cruiser that rewards a relaxed riding style with steady torque and easy, predictable handling.
Not ideal for: Not suited for riders seeking sharp sport handling, off-road capability, or high-speed touring performance.

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 710mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic, 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 →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Power: 55.0 HP
Torque: 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m)
Engine type: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2340 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 88.0 x 66.2 mm
Cooling system: Liquid
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Performance

Top speed: 170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Seat height: 710 mm
Dry weight: 235.0 kg

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1996	1997	1998	2000	2002	2004
Capacity	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)	805.00 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Dry weight	225.0 kg (496.0 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Seat height	725 mm (28.5 inches)	710 mm (28.0 inches)	710 mm (28.0 inches)	705 mm (27.8 inches)	—	720 mm (28.3 inches)
Fuel capacity	—	—	—	15.00 litres (3.96 gallons)	—	15.00 litres (3.96 gallons)
Color options	—	—	—	Blue, red, gray	—	Blue