Cruisers
1996Kawasaki VN 800
16 fields on record
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 is a middleweight cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible, laid-back riding with classic styling. Powered by a 805cc V-twin four-stroke engine producing 55 hp, it offers manageable performance and low seat height ideal for shorter riders. Known for its reliability, affordable entry into cruiser ownership, and approachable handling characteristics, the VN 800 remains a practical choice for cruiser enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 225.0 kg
- Seat height
- 720 mm
- Power
- 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising and boulevard riding rather than outright speed or aggressive cornering.
- Built for
- A classic V-twin cruiser that favors laid-back torque and easygoing handling over performance thrills.
- Not ideal for
- Not suited to riders seeking sharp sport handling, high-speed touring, 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
- 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
- Torque
- 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m) @ 3300 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2444 HP/kg (dry)
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 720 mm
- Dry weight
- 225.0 kg
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 | 1996 | 1997 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 805 cc | 805 cc |
| Dry weight | 225 kg | 225 kg |
| Seat height | 720 mm | 710 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 VN 800?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Capacity of 805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN 800 have?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Power of 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki VN 800 have?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki VN 800?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Torque of 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.3 ft.lbs) @ 3300 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki VN 800 weigh?
The 1996 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Dry weight of 225.0 kg (496.0 pounds).
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Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
1999 Suzuki VZ 800 Marauder
805 cc · 207 kg · 700 mm
1997 Suzuki VZ 800 Marauder
805 cc · 209 kg · 700 mm
1997 Yamaha XV750 Virago
748 cc · 220 kg · 715 mm
1995 Yamaha XV750 Virago
748 cc · 219 kg · 715 mm
1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883
883 cc · 222 kg · 723 mm
1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883
883 cc · 222 kg · 723 mm
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