Cruisers

2001Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter

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The 2001 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter is a mid-sized cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible, laid-back cruising with classic styling. Its 805cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, manageable power ideal for highway and casual riding. Known for comfortable ergonomics and affordable entry into the cruiser segment, it appeals to both new and experienced cruiser enthusiasts.

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 246.0 kg
Seat height: 760 mm
Power: 57.0 HP (41.9 kW)

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What’s new for the 2001 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter

vs the 2000

Spec	2000	2001
Rear brakes	Expanding brake	Single disc

Other years 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring58%

Two-up55%

Track10%

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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 760mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 Kawasaki VN 800 Drifter, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 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 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Power: 57.0 HP (41.9 kW)
Torque: 61.0 Nm (6.2 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.2317 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

Performance

Top speed: 170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)

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

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	246 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