Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 - Motorcycle specifications, reviews

Tell us what you think of this VN 800 DRIFTER 1999

presentation of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999

are you interested in custom bikes? You're in luck: there's a plethora of bikes on offer, a wide range of models and a bewildering choice. But you don't want to ride the same old Fat Boy, Electra Glide, Shadow or Dragstar... With the Drifter, assert your difference. Introduced at the same time as the 1500, this custom model takes its inspiration from the American Indian brand. With its huge, wrap-around mudguards, this machine stands out from current production. Designers and engineers are to be commended for having stripped the rear end of its traditional side shocks. In fact, these are hidden under the engine. We also appreciate that the bike is available in attractive red or beige colors. For such a low price and with an engine cubing less than a liter, we might have feared that the engine would pale in comparison with the big 1500 Drifter. But no! It's a pleasant surprise to find that the little twin, with only 7 hp less power, is so flexible, so happy to be alive, and so good at performance. The big 1500 would almost take a dim view. The very pleasant seat and remarkable rear damping make the Drifter very comfortable for a machine in this class. It's a pity that the ground clearance too quickly shows its limits and that the single front brake disc is sometimes limiting. The 1500 has the prestige of displacement on its side, but with use, the choice may be harder than expected, and not necessarily for the one you think...

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M.B - manufacturer's photos

Published on 10/12/20
by Greg

Key facts Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER (1999) : What you need to know before you buy

Highlights

Engine flexibility
Saddle comfort
Balanced part-cycle

Weak points

Frank avant
Limited ground clearance
Protection

Prices

	Basic version
France	7,999€

Bikers' reviews

of 40 reviews Read reviews

Model sold in 1999 2000 2001 2002

Replaced by

VN 800 DRIFTER 2000

Performance

Max speed : approximately 170 km/h (105.60 mph)
0-100 km/h acceleration : 6.30 s

Specifications Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999

Chassis: Frame : Double steel cradle; Fuel capacity : 15 liters (3.96 US gallons); Seat height : 759 mm (29.88 in); Length : 2,490 mm (98.03 in); Width : 1,006 mm (39.61 in); Min height : 1,125 mm (44.29 in); Wheelbase : 1,615 mm (63.58 in); Dry weight : 246 kg (542 lb); Weight when fully loaded : 267 kg (589 lb)

Front axle: Telehydraulic fork Ø 41 mm, Wheel travel : 160 mm (6.30 in); Braking 1 disc Ø 300 mm (11.81 in), 2-piston caliper; Front tire : 130 / 90 - 16 → Order this type of tire; Pressure : 2 bar

Transmission: 5 stage gearbox; Secondary by chain

Rear axle: 2 handsets under the engine, Wheel travel : 105 mm (4.13 in); Braking 1 disc Ø 270 mm (10.63 in), 2-piston caliper; Rear tire : 140 / 90 - 16 → Order this type of tire; Pressure : 2 bar

Motor: two-cylinder 55° V-shaped , 4 strokes; carburettor Ø 36 mm; Cooling system : liquid; 1 ACT per cylinder; 4 valves per cylinder; 805 cc; 57 ch (56.20 hp) to 7,500 rpm; 6.20 mkg to 5,500 rpm; Power-to-weight ratio : 4.38 kg/ch; Weight / torque ratio : 39.68 kg/mkg; Compression : 9.5 : 1

Practical information

Take care of your motorcycle! Find all the parts and maintenance products you need to keep your bike in top condition.

motor fluid exhaust Chain kit electricity filtration braking Tires

Motorcyle equipment adapted for all members of the family and security elements.

Models

2002

2001

2000

1999

Used

We don't have used motorcycles for this model, but refine your search and find the model that best suits your needs.

Competitors

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999

Find others Cruiser of 1999

Compare the VN 800 DRIFTER to its competitors

Acceleration

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : 6.3 s

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 6.5 s

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 8.4 s

Fuel consumption

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 Undisclosed

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 5.30 liters/100km (0.44 mpg)

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 7 liters/100km (0.34 mpg)

Range

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 Undisclosed

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 264 km (164 miles)

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 229 km (142 miles)

Torque

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : 6.2 mkg

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 6.5 mkg

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 5.2 mkg

Power

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : 57 ch (56.20 hp)

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 46 ch (45.40 hp)

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 40 ch (39.40 hp)

Power-to-Weight ratio

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : 4.38 kg/ch

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 5.04 kg/ch

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 5.43 kg/ch

Torque-to-Weight ratio

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : 39.68 kg/mkg

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : 35.23 kg/mkg

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 41.15 kg/mkg

Speed

Kawasaki VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 : approximately 170 km/h (105.60 mph)

Honda VT 750 SHADOW C2 1999 : approximately 150 km/h (93.20 mph)

Yamaha XVS 650 DRAGSTAR 1999 : 150 km/h (93.20 mph)

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Bikers' reviews Leave a review - 40 reviews

oldschool spirit of indian

Adrets Model 2002

What a mouthful, to make you flinch.... I get my kicks with my '99 drifter 800. 10/06/2022 17:52 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Adrets

Très bonne moto

Titi Model 2002

Superb motorcycle with a look that doesn't go unnoticed. Over 50000 kms on mine with no problems at all, sold with regret as it unfortunately has a crit air 4 rating and lives in a ZFE zone.the suspension system, with the whole rear end independent, is magnificent The only thing to be reviewed is the plastic headlight dish, which vibrates and makes a nasty noise The engine is sufficient, even for a duo, and makes long trips possible 05/18/2021 07:34 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Titi

Giani Model 1999

Nothing more to say, easy to maneuver, good handling, super relaxed, just the front brakes, lacking a second disc. But for the rest, it's a feast for the eyes and a pleasure to drive. 06/09/2019 13:37 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Giani

boboldschool Model 2000

The 800 drifter kawa is one of the best mid-range custom bikes around
mine was built in 2000, with 57 hp in carburetor, no electronics, and a unique look not matched by the new Indian model? A hair above the 800 vn in terms of finishing touches (rear disc brake, double-branch selector, etc.)
good fishing for a custom 800
in short, a great experience for me.

youtube: oldbobtimer 01/15/2016 20:23 Rating : 5/5 Respond to boboldschool

piéces vn 800 drifter de 1999

bruno Model 1999

hello, i'm looking for a chrome headlight or one that could be mounted on my vn as well as a chrome cylinder protector slt a tous 11/25/2014 22:27 Rating : 5/5 Respond to bruno

Pare cylindre

jipeo Model 1999

I am looking for a cylinder ( or leg guard as you prefer ) 10/02/2014 05:12 Rating : 4/5 Respond to jipeo

Pare brise et pare cylindre

koochize Model 1999

bonsoir a tous,je suis un petit nouveau,appelle moi fab,et je suis,depuis 15jour heureux proprietaire d'un drifter 800 vn,et je suis tomber amoureux de cette charmante demoiselle,je recherche un pare cylindre et aussi un pare brise,si vous connaissez.tel.0661598268
bonne route a tous 08/31/2014 19:04 Rating : 5/5 Respond to koochize

Parebrise et roue avant

marcopolo85 Model 1999

hello, I'm looking for a windscreen for my drifter 800 and a front wheel for my drifter 800. Does anyone know if the 800vn classic rims are identical to the drifter 800? Thank you for your answers 08/18/2014 08:59 Rating : 4/5 Respond to marcopolo85

cheyene

hello everyone
i've been riding my 2003 800 drifter for 5 years now, the only complaint is that its rear disc brakes are too powerful for its weight, and its handling can vary depending on its transmission 03/16/2016 10:55 Rating : 5/5 Participate in the conversation

carbyrateur 36 Keihyne

bolino Model 1999

cherche pochette carbu 36 KEIHYNE 05/01/2014 12:20 Rating : 5/5 Respond to bolino

accessoires

kimboxer Model 1999

i'm looking for a windshield for my 1999 drifter 800 ?? but with a black frame and not a chrome one !!!! thank you !!!
12/15/2013 09:20 Rating : 4/5 Respond to kimboxer

jérémy

hello i am selling a vn 800 windshield with black frame, if you are interested i sell it for 75 â'¬
very good condition 02/26/2014 09:40 Rating : 5/5 Participate in the conversation

marcopolo85

do you still have the windshield for 800 drifter for sale if so please contact me cdt 08/23/2014 16:56 Rating : 4/5 Participate in the conversation

Durée de vie du VN800

demon Model 1999

hello
who can tell me the maximum km covered by the vn 800. my vn has 45 mill km how much more can it do without rebuilding the engine?
thank you 09/03/2012 13:20 Rating : 3/5 Respond to demon

Durée de vie du VN800

Yffic Narbonne membre de l'équipe Logo en petite résolution du site motoplanete

Hi, there,

The lifespan of a motorcycle depends mainly on the owner's maintenance. A VN 800 can easily do 100000km if the maintenance is done conscientiously.
Bonne route
09/03/2012 13:49 Rating : 3/5 Participate in the conversation

redge Model 1999

salut a tous et toute.je viens d'aquérir un vn 800 clasic 1994.je suis vn depuis 1988 je possédais un vn 750 alors je peux dire que c'est le jour et la nuit franchement je ne regrette rien la conduite est fachement plus agréable sur le 800 et en plus il y a des pots carpe le bruit harley par contre je n'ai pas encore rencontré la police.bon sur ceu je vous souhaite bonne route a tous et toute 07/26/2009 20:48 Rating : 5/5 Respond to redge

francky Model 1999

Slt a tous les motards possedant le vn 800 moi je roule depuisuit sept année avec mon vn 40000 klm jamais de probleme juste mon quitte chaine normal.j'ai mis des pot US mais grave le bruit j'ai du les revendres probleme avec la police
otherwise the vn super alone or duo
Slt a tous 02/20/2008 18:42 Rating : 5/5 Respond to francky

YANOU 87 Model 1999

Hi guys, I'm a passenger on my Man's 800 VN, this bike is great (so is my boyfriend); we travel the roads and concentrates of the South: No problems, comfort, torque and recovery!
Run out and buy one, you won't regret it! 11/30/2007 15:45 Rating : 5/5 Respond to YANOU 87

RV 87 Model 1999

Hello,
I'm 48 and I've had a VN 800 for 1 year; I've done a lot of driving on the roads of the South West. It's perfect for my taste. Comfort, recovery, torque ... I think I'll keep it for a few years. So don't be in any doubt: ride safely... 05/13/2007 10:06 Rating : 5/5 Respond to RV 87

papy.jlou Model 1999

bonjour tout motard 800 vn et autres jai 54 ans jai eu beaucoups de moto grosse cc mais
for me the top is the vn800 classic. 12/13/2006 00:02 Rating : 5/5 Respond to papy.jlou

Stf Model 1999

I own a 1998 vn 800, which I found ugly with its original accessories. I stripped everything, drag pipes, homemade saddle, flat fender rear fender, offset plate, plain paint. Today, I think it looks great, the engine is smooth and pleasant, a reliable machine with a hellish look that's as good as those expensive Harleys..
08/27/2006 15:00 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Stf

rebel76 Model 1999

i own 1 95 vn with a 50000 odometer it has taken me to work in all weathers for 4 years never had any particular problem.for me it's a very good beaker now i only use it for pleasure.i don't think i'll ever get rid of it with the preparation i've done to it,flamed paint,drag bar,drag pipes,bats headlights,flashing led lights,retro ness,license plate ness,rear tail dragger fender,carburetor hypercharger kuriakin phase 3,and so on
bats,cligno leds,retro ness,plaque immat ness,garde boue ar tail dragger,carbu hypercharger kuriakin phase 3,et j'en passe bonne route a tous
route a vous tous ,peu peutre un jour sur la route
hi 07/20/2006 19:23 Rating : 5/5 Respond to rebel76

ambiancefu Model 1999

Hi everyone..
i've owned a Vn 800 classic for 3 years, before I was a BMWist but I don't regret my choice. the bike is very easy to handle, pleasant to ride but temperamental in tight corners... very average rear brake or you need big calves. I've completely customized it (personal color, handlebars, white seat, rear fender, rear light... it's uncluttered. I'm looking for someone who could give me some information about a big rear boudin and custom pots (Belgium cork region if possible). Because HD purists don't want to work on my bike.... JALOUSIE.... lol
Having said that: caution is always the best friend... bon route. 06/14/2006 10:40 Rating : 5/5 Respond to ambiancefu

m canot Model 1999

tres bonne moto .c'est la garde au sol et le frein avant les seuls points noirs mais quand meme 46000km sans auqun proleme une machine a rouler et a garder.difficile de trouver la bagagerie qui vat bien avec 02/10/2006 22:19 Rating : 5/5 Respond to m canot

edjac42 Model 1999

i bought the technical review of my vn at noroto (about22,23 euros if I remember correctly)I am very happy with this bike.except for the comfort.I don't understand why this category of bike is not as well cared for as the others 11/30/2005 23:20 Rating : 5/5 Respond to edjac42

tenere3 Model 1999

hello, i've had an 800vn for 3 years and found it great except in tight turns. i've just bought an 800vn classic and it's the best, i find it much easier to handle. 10/15/2005 21:09 Rating : 5/5 Respond to tenere3

Lise Model 1999

In April I bought a vn800 classic, and I love it. It's my third bike. It's the ideal bike for a short woman who still has enough power. I put on a lowering kit, my bike is 1 to 2 inches shorter. it's perfect. I've done some long trips and I'm very comfortable, good buy. 08/27/2005 03:23 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Lise

fred Model 1999

i've just acquired a superb machine, an 800 vn from 98 i already owned a vn in 2000 that i had to sell then for my daughter i rode a side car 1300 venture but due to a mechanical breakdown i had to sell it then i was offered to exchange it for this vn all home made (paint saddle bag ex....) all homemade by the former owner took it for a H.D. Many people think that I have a HD this machine and the top for girls and beginners even for me an old who has tried everything in stile of motorcycle if you want pictures write me. 08/08/2005 13:02 Rating : 5/5 Respond to fred

didi barte Model 1999

i've been passionate about my VN 800 classic for 2 years now and I'm happy to be riding this machine. A word of advice: go for it and get 1! 06/22/2005 20:22 Rating : 5/5 Respond to didi barte

kanteskonv Model 1999

Finally, here I am, putaing cong(Toulouse)! I've just bought my 1st custom and it's a second-hand VN 800 classic (from Herley, funny isn't it?). I took my time, tried out lots of bikes, listened to friends' opinions and finally, despite the chain, it's not bad. I'm going to equip it, ride it over long distances (we've also got our Route 66, the N20, as a duo etc...) and ride it for a while. I'll keep you posted 06/22/2005 09:32 Rating : 5/5 Respond to kanteskonv

swen Model 1999

800 vn classic 98 bicolor blue/grey
i wanted to sell it in 2004 and i had put it on the market..i didn't want to sell it...result: not sold!
i know now that i didn't want to part with it! i was thinking of getting a more recent model, but none of the customs appealed to me as much..
so I still have it...and it works without a hitch..
often in the street, i turn around on a passing motorcycle, thinking "well? that's not a bad one!" and if i look closely, it's often a VN Classic!!! 06/08/2005 13:27 Rating : 5/5 Respond to swen

jeanclaude Model 1999

hello everyone, I have a vn800 18000km year 2002. I'm very satisfied, apart from a few details (the 42cm windscreen doesn't correspond to the wind deflection projected onto the rider and causes a vibration on the helmet visor (danger for visibility) and the original saddle isn't padded enough despite being 63kg for 1.66m). Personally, I'd recommend the 52cm windscreen and a more padded saddle. Apart from that, I'm very happy with it and wouldn't want to part with it. 05/22/2005 14:15 Rating : 5/5 Respond to jeanclaude

gilou Model 1999

i had a marauder suzuk I have 26 thousand km, a dragstar 650 I made 46 THOUSAND km, a SV1000 suzuk 9000 kms with I have just in buy a 800 DRIFTER I crossed France with, these a motor bike with the behavior road surprising and a comfort hor-pair, the engine and alive and plien with any rpm, and question completion and quality of manufacture there is not photo these KAWA nothing to say
05/16/2005 20:46 Rating : 5/5 Respond to gilou

groovy Model 1999

salut je suis l'heureux proprietaire d'une vn 800c cl de 97 (tres bonne machine) je vous recomande les echappements silvertail (GREAT SOUND) bonne routes a tous groovy 04/26/2005 11:36 Rating : 5/5 Respond to groovy

nitram Model 1999

je suis contant de lire vos commentaires je m'vient tout de m'acheter une VN Classic 2004 neuf
silver je contant de voir que j'ai fait le bon choix. je prend posseion de ma moto demain apres midi 04/05/2005 17:27 Rating : 5/5 Respond to nitram

caf Model 1999

The ideal motorcycle for a woman.
My wife has been riding one for 1 year. The weight distribution and seat height make it ideal for people of small stature.

02/23/2005 12:13 Rating : 5/5 Respond to caf

OLIVE 83 Model 1999

bonjour,j'ai acheté une vn 800 neuve en aout 2004,excellente machine,pas trop pour les routes trop sinueuses,très bien sur autoroute(attention au vent,elle chasse!)ideal sur bonne route national bonne route à tous et bonne bour!!! 01/14/2005 21:30 Rating : 5/5 Respond to OLIVE 83

compet Model 1999

hi I just bought a second hand vn 800 it's a pleasure to drive this custom light bleme with the brake pedal it's a bit far but the driving position is superb I put a windshield and soon steps as well as a personal seat it's blue and gray year 98 17000km Well I'll leave you to more .Christian from st malo 35

Le 17/12/04 je viens de mettre des marches pieds s'est super quelques reglages de pedales et le tour est jouer allez a plus 01/06/2005 18:05 Rating : 5/5 Respond to compet

mad_fox_3 Model 1999

I've just bought a superb second-hand 1997 VN800classic with only 13,000km. Braking is passable, the foot position is a bit far away, but comfort-wise, it's smooth on the road, easy to handle even slowly, the weight isn't noticeable at all, and the torquey seat is a delight. The engine picks up in 5th gear from 40-50km/h, and cornering isn't difficult... In short, I love it... I'm investing in a windscreen and running boards to improve the riding position. V to all! 01/06/2005 18:04 Rating : 5/5 Respond to mad_fox_3

bikerbiker Model 1999

hi all,i bought my 95 vulcan 800vn in 98,the classic came out in 96.i've now got 55000km on it with no mechanical problems,it's an excellent machine.as for looks,i've improved it with a nice personal paint job and some accessories.It's a machine that I'd take to the end of its life, I wouldn't sell it for anything in the world, I'm really happy with it, unfortunately I'm deprived of it for a while, because it's being repaired, I had a nice slide coming out of a roundabout, due to a trail of gas oil left by a camoin with an overfilled tank.Have a good ride and be careful to everyone! 01/06/2005 18:04 Rating : 5/5 Respond to bikerbiker

pretender Model 1999

i've just bought this machine and I can tell you that I'm completely satisfied with it: the vintage look, the torque and the riding pleasure, it's all there. I've been approached several times by Harley owners who thought it was a Harley, and who have praised the beauty of the machine... So for all those who are still hesitating, go for it... 01/06/2005 18:03 Rating : 5/5 Respond to pretender

Pblz29 Model 1999

hi. i have a Vn 800 the technical doc i found it on plansetguides.free.fr/guides/revue_m_yamaha.htm you will find links . pblz 01/06/2005 18:03 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Pblz29

claude Model 1999

hi, I don't have a technical review, but I intend to buy a VN 800. Can you tell me if you're happy with it (handling, recovery, rider and passenger comfort, etc.) and, without prying, the price and year of the machine? 01/06/2005 18:02 Rating : 5/5 Respond to claude

neuneu Model 1999

bonjour j'ai acheté une vn 800 d'occasion et je n'ai pas recu le livre technique pouvez vous me dire ou je peu en avoir un.merci dans l'attente d'une reponse a plus et bonne route. neuneu 01/06/2005 18:02 Rating : 5/5 Respond to neuneu

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FAQ Your frequently asked questions about the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999

What is the power of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: The VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 develops a power of 57 ch (56.20 hp)
What is the torque of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: The maximum torque of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 is 6.20 mkg to 5,500 rpm.
What is the maximum speed of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: The VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 is capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 170 km/h (105.60 mph) on the track.
What is the weight of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: The VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 has a a dry weight of 246 kg (542 lb), a weight when fully loaded of 267 kg (589 lb).
QWhat is the seat height of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: To ensure good accessibility, the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 offers a minimum seat height of 759 mm (29.88 in).
What is the price of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999?: The price of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999 is 7,999€ in France

Motorcycle specifications KawasakiVN 800 DRIFTER 1999 To each his own

presentation of the VN 800 DRIFTER 1999