Cruisers
1997Kawasaki VN 800
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The 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 is a middleweight cruiser that suits riders seeking an accessible, manageable machine with classic styling. Its liquid-cooled 805cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, torque-rich power ideal for cruising and city riding. Known for its lightweight frame and approachable ergonomics, the VN 800 balances authentic cruiser character with everyday practicality.
- Capacity
- 805.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 225.0 kg
- Seat height
- 710 mm
- Power
- 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
What’s new for the 1997 Kawasaki VN 800
vs the 1996| Spec | 1996 | 1997 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 62.8 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.3 ft.lbs) @ 3300 RPM | 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 3300 RPM |
| Top speed | — | 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph) |
| Seat height | 720 mm (28.3 inches) | 710 mm (28.0 inches) |
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
- 64.0 Nm (6.5 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
Performance
- Top speed
- 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 710 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 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Capacity of 805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki VN 800 have?
The 1997 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 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki VN 800?
The 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Torque of 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 3300 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki VN 800 weigh?
The 1997 Kawasaki VN 800 has a Dry weight of 225.0 kg (496.0 pounds).
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2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic
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