The Kawasaki VN800’s remarkably stable at high speeds and (for a cruiser) relatively frisky around town. Ground clearance is minimal though. The suspension’s a bit saggy on the corners but comfortable in a straight line whilst the brakes are adequate, if a little weedy. The ride’s not as vibey as some bikes in the class.
The Kawasaki VN800's engine boasts an incredibly smooth and consistent delivery of power. Peak torque’s at around 3000rpm but it’s sustained throughout the range for loads of satisfying pulling power. At the higher end, it’ll cruise happily at 80mph: perfect for a cruiser. Very strong.
The Kawasaki VN800 engine’s a superb piece of kit, in it for the long haul and, overall, the bodywork’s made to match it. The paint is rich and gorgeous but decals and logos are of poorer quality plus some of the welding isn’t that great. In other words, it’s not perfect but it’s not half bad, either.
The Kawasaki VN800 was well-priced against its rivals (ranging from Harley-Davidson Sportsters to Suzuki’s Marauder and Intruder). Its reliability means it holds its price well but it’s unlikely to compete with a second-hand Harley: that name on a tank adds value, like it or not. Overall? Average to good. Find a Kawasaki VN800 for sale.
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The Kawasaki VN800 has a very comfortable dual seat and forward pegs give you the look whilst the big, wide bars give you plenty of leverage. The VN has the usual mountains of chrome, fat pipes and tank top instrument panel plus a plethora of outrageous extras you never realised you needed, such as chrome oil filler caps and caliper covers. Lacks the shaft drive of its higher-powered sibling VNs.