Cruisers

1999Kawasaki VN 800 Vulcan

19 fields on record

The 1999 Kawasaki VN 800 Vulcan is a mid-sized cruiser that appeals to riders seeking an approachable, manageable platform with classic styling. Its liquid-cooled 805cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable power ideal for both newcomers and experienced cruiser enthusiasts. Known for reliability and comfortable ergonomics, the VN 800 excels as an accessible entry point into cruiser riding.

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 232.0 kg
Seat height: 735 mm
Power: 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)

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What’s new for the 1999 Kawasaki VN 800 Vulcan

vs the 1998

Spec	1998	1999
Power	55.0 HP (40.5 kW)	56.0 HP (41.2 kW)
Torque	62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.3 ft.lbs) @ 3300 RPM	63.4 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 46.8 ft.lbs)
Top speed	—	170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)
Dry weight	225.0 kg (496.0 pounds)	232.0 kg (511.5 pounds)

Other years 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding65%

Touring58%

Two-up55%

Track15%

Best for: Built as a classic mid-size cruiser for relaxed boulevard riding and weekend rides rather than performance or long-haul touring.
Built for: A laid-back, torque-driven V-twin cruiser that rewards smooth, unhurried riding over aggressive cornering or speed.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp handling, high-speed performance, or serious 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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 735mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1999 Kawasaki VN 800 Vulcan, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 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 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 805.0 ccm
Power: 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)
Torque: 63.4 Nm (6.5 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2414 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system: Liquid
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: 1625 mm
Seat height: 735 mm
Dry weight: 232.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.00 litres

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Expanding brake

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	1995	1997	1998	1999	2000	2001
Capacity	805 cc	805 cc	805 cc	805 cc	805 cc	805 cc
Dry weight	225 kg	225 kg	225 kg	232 kg	232 kg	232 kg
Seat height	735 mm	735 mm	735 mm	735 mm	735 mm	735 mm
Fuel capacity	15 L	15 L	15 L	15 L	15 L	15 L