Cruisers
2006Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter
31 fields on record
The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter is a lightweight cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, manageable platform with classic styling. Its 805cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power suitable for both new and experienced cruiser enthusiasts. Known for its low seat height and nimble handling, the Drifter excels at accessible everyday riding and weekend cruising.
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 245.8 kg
- Seat height
- 759 mm
- Power
- 52.3 HP (38.5 kW)
What’s new for the 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter
vs the 2005| Spec | 2005 | 2006 |
|---|---|---|
| Front suspension | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in. |
| Rear suspension | UNI-TRAK® single shock system with seven-way preload adjustment | UNI-TRAK® single shock system with seven-way preload adjustment / 4.1 in. |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Hydraulic | Single disc |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Single disc |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and retro styling rather than outright speed or sport performance.
- Built for
- A laid-back, classic Americana-styled V-twin cruiser that rewards smooth, easy-going riding over aggressive throttle inputs.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Power
- 52.3 HP (38.5 kW)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2128 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 66.2 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Digital with Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1615 mm
- Overall length
- 2489 mm
- Overall width
- 1006 mm
- Overall height
- 1125 mm
- Seat height
- 759 mm
- Dry weight
- 245.8 kg
- Ground clearance
- 160 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- High-tensile steel, double cradle
- Front suspension
- 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.9 in.
- Rear suspension
- UNI-TRAK® single shock system with seven-way preload adjustment / 4.1 in.
- Rake (fork angle)
- 31.5°
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 130/90-x16
- Rear tyre
- 140/90-x16
Other
- Color options
- Ebony / Galaxy Silver
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 | 2005 | 2006 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 805 cc | 805 cc |
| Dry weight | 246 kg | 246 kg |
| Seat height | 759 mm | 759 mm |
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 Vulcan 800 Drifter?
The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter has a Capacity of 805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter have?
The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter has a Power of 52.3 HP (38.5 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter have?
The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter weigh?
The 2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Drifter has a Dry weight of 245.8 kg (541.9 pounds).
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