Cruisers
1996Kawasaki VN 400 Classic
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The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic is an entry-level cruiser designed for new and smaller-framed riders seeking affordable custom styling. Its compact 399cc V-twin engine delivers modest power with smooth low-end torque, making it ideal for city commuting and leisurely highway cruising. Known for reliability and ease of handling, it remains a popular choice for riders transitioning into cruiser motorcycles.
- Capacity
- 399.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 233.0 kg
- Seat height
- 700 mm
- Power
- 33.0 HP (24.3 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's built as an entry-level cruiser for relaxed boulevard riding rather than performance or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- It has a classic, laid-back cruiser personality with a V-twin thump, styled to mimic its bigger 800cc sibling.
- Not ideal for
- It's not for riders seeking high speed, aggressive cornering, or serious highway 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 399.0 ccm
- Power
- 33.0 HP (24.3 kW)
- Torque
- 32.0 Nm (3.3 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1416 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 62.0 x 66.2 mm
- Compression
- 9.8:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- CDA
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Lubrication system
- Wet sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet plates
Performance
- Top speed
- 140.0 km/h (87.0 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1605 mm
- Overall length
- 2370 mm
- Overall width
- 930 mm
- Overall height
- 1130 mm
- Seat height
- 700 mm
- Dry weight
- 233.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 15.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- 135 mm
- Oil capacity
- 2.70 litres
- Reserve fuel capacity
- 4.00 litres
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Double Cradle
- Front suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear suspension
- Swing arm - Monoshock
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. 2-piston calipers
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Rear brakes diameter
- 180 mm
- Front tyre
- 130/90-16
- Rear tyre
- 140/90-16
Other
- Modifications compared to previous model
- Looks identical to the Kawasaki VN 800 Classic.
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki VN 400 Classic?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic has a Capacity of 399.0 ccm (24.35 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN 400 Classic have?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic has a Power of 33.0 HP (24.3 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki VN 400 Classic have?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki VN 400 Classic?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic has a Torque of 32.0 Nm (3.3 kgf-m or 23.6 ft.lbs).
How much does the Kawasaki VN 400 Classic weigh?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 400 Classic has a Dry weight of 233.0 kg (513.7 pounds).
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Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
2001 Yamaha XVS 400 DragStar
400 cc · 225 kg · 660 mm
2002 Yamaha Drag Star Classic Four
399 cc · 224 kg · 710 mm
2002 Honda Shadow 400
398 cc · 225 kg · 675 mm
2003 Honda Shadow 400
398 cc · 225 kg · 675 mm
2008 Suzuki Boulevard 400
399 cc · 240 kg · 700 mm
2008 Suzuki Intruder Classic 400
399 cc · 244 kg · 700 mm
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