Cruisers
1989Kawasaki VN-15 SE
19 fields on record
The 1989 Kawasaki VN-15 SE is a cruiser-style motorcycle powered by a 1470cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine producing 70 horsepower. Best known for its classic styling and manageable weight of 281kg, it appeals to riders seeking accessible cruiser performance with comfortable, laid-back ergonomics. The shaft-drive transmission provides reliable, low-maintenance touring capability.
- Capacity
- 1470.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Wet weight
- 281.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed, laid-back cruising and boulevard riding rather than performance or sport riding.
- Built for
- A classic big-bore V-twin cruiser character with a shaft drive, offering a torquey, unhurried ride and traditional custom styling.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp handling, high-speed touring comfort, 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.
Engine
- Capacity
- 1470.0 ccm
- Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2491 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 102.0 x 90.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 173.0 km/h (107.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 150/90-15
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 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1470 cc | 1470 cc | 1470 cc | 1470 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 12 L | 12 L | 12 L | 12 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-15 SE?
The 1989 Kawasaki VN-15 SE has a Capacity of 1470.0 ccm (89.70 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN-15 SE have?
The 1989 Kawasaki VN-15 SE has a Power of 70.0 HP (51.5 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki VN-15 SE have?
The 1989 Kawasaki VN-15 SE has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki VN-15 SE weigh?
The 1989 Kawasaki VN-15 SE has a Wet weight of 281.0 kg (619.5 pounds).
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