Cruisers
2003Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter
27 fields on record
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter is a cruiser designed for riders seeking a low-slung, manageable custom motorcycle. Its 805cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, torque-friendly power ideal for relaxed riding and cruising. Known for its accessible seat height and moderate weight, it appeals to intermediate riders preferring classic styling with practical everyday usability.
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 246.0 kg
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Power
- 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)
What’s new for the 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter
vs the 2002| Spec | 2002 | 2003 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 57.0 HP (41.9 kW) | 56.0 HP (41.2 kW) |
| Top speed | 170.0 km/h (105.6 mph) | not listed |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed, classic-styled boulevard and weekend cruising rather than outright speed or sport handling.
- Built for
- A retro-styled V-twin cruiser that emphasizes styling, torque-driven low-end pull, and unhurried highway comfort over performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good match for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or high-speed sport 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Power
- 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)
- Torque
- 61.0 Nm (6.2 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2276 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 66.2 mm
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1615 mm
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Dry weight
- 246.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 15.00 litres
Chassis & suspension
- Front wheel travel
- 150 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 100 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 270 mm
- Front tyre
- 130/90-H16
- Rear tyre
- 140/90-H16
Other
- Color options
- Black
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 | 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 805 cc | 805 cc | 805 cc | 805 cc | 805 cc |
| Dry weight | 298 kg | 248 kg | 246 kg | 246 kg | 246 kg |
| Seat height | 760 mm | 760 mm | 760 mm | 760 mm | 760 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter?
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter has a Capacity of 805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter have?
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter has a Power of 56.0 HP (41.2 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter have?
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter?
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter has a Torque of 61.0 Nm (6.2 kgf-m or 45.0 ft.lbs).
How much does the Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter weigh?
The 2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter has a Dry weight of 246.0 kg (542.3 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
2002 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic
805 cc · 235 kg
2003 Kawasaki VN 800 Classic
805 cc · 235 kg · 705 mm
2003 Suzuki VL 800 Intruder Volusia
805 cc · 239 kg · 700 mm
2002 Suzuki VL 800 Intruder Volusia
805 cc · 239 kg · 700 mm
2005 Triumph America
790 cc · 226 kg · 720 mm
2006 Triumph America
790 cc · 226 kg · 720 mm
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.