presentation of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000
the end of the century was marked by the custom craze and nostalgia. At Kawa, we had a nose for detail and made different choices that paid off. The result was the superb W 650, a clone of the Bonneville 650 of the 60s, and the Drifter. Also available in an 800 cm3 version, these machines are not, as usual, inspired by Harleys, but this time by the now-defunct Indian. Characteristically long-skirted over the wheels, this style stands out in the category, although it's not exactly cheerful. Different and eye-catching, the Drifter relies on more than just its silhouette to seduce. Its fuel-injected 1500 V-twin delivers decent power, at least for this type of custom motorization. 64 efficient but smoothly distilled horsepower, backed up by an excellent gearbox. The Kawa's performance is assured, but its feel is somewhat lacking. Easy to handle and comfortable, although the handlebars are too curved, the 1500 Drifter offers good roadholding, as long as you stay on good roads. We couldn't conclude without dwelling a little on this custom's braking, which is excellent despite being equipped with a single disc per wheel. If you want to stand out from the crowd, the Drifter is a must.
M.B
manufacturer's photos
Key facts Kawasaki VN 1500 DRIFTER (2000) : What you need to know before you buy
Highlights
- Roadholding
- Transmission
- Easy to handle
Weak points
- Handlebars too curved
- Suspensions
Prices
| Basic version | |
|---|---|
|
12,295€
|
Performance
- Max speed : 165 km/h (102.50 mph)
- Average fuel consumption : 8.30 liters/100km (0.28 mpg)
-
Estimated range
: 229 km (142 miles)
Calculated range until tank is empty, not verified.
Specifications Kawasaki VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000
- Chassis
- Frame : double steel cradle
- Fuel capacity : 19 liters (5.02 US gallons)
- Seat height : 730 mm (28.74 in)
- Length : 2,545 mm (100.20 in)
- Width : 980 mm (38.58 in)
- Min height : 1,115 mm (43.90 in)
- Wheelbase : 1,655 mm (65.16 in)
- Dry weight : 292 kg (644 lb)
- Weight when fully loaded : 324 kg (714 lb)
- Front axle
- Telehydraulic fork Ø 41 mm, Wheel travel : 150 mm (5.91 in)
- Braking 1 disc Ø 300 mm (11.81 in), 2-piston caliper
- Front tire : 130 / 90 - 16 → Order this type of tire
- Transmission
- 5 stage gearbox
- Secondary cardan shaft
- Rear axle
- 2 lateral shock absorbers, Wheel travel : 100 mm (3.94 in)
- Braking 1 disc Ø 270 mm (10.63 in), 2-piston caliper
- Rear tire : 150 / 80 - 16 → Order this type of tire
- Motor
- two-cylinder en V , 4 strokes
- Injection Ø 36 mm
- Cooling system : liquid
- 1 ACT
- 4 valves per cylinder
- 1,470 cc
- 64 ch (63.10 hp) to 4,700 rpm
- 11.40 mkg to 3,000 rpm
- Power-to-weight ratio : 4.63 kg/ch
- Weight / torque ratio : 25.61 kg/mkg
- Compression : 9 : 1
- Practical information
Gallery
Used
Compare the VN 1500 DRIFTER to its competitors
Acceleration
Fuel consumption
Range
Torque
Power
Power-to-Weight ratio
Torque-to-Weight ratio
Speed
FAQ Your frequently asked questions about the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000
- What is the power of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
-
The VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 develops a power of 64 ch (63.10 hp)
- What is the torque of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
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The maximum torque of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 is 11.40 mkg to 3,000 rpm.
- What is the maximum speed of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
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The VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 is capable of reaching a top speed of 165 km/h (102.50 mph) on the track.
- What is the weight of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
-
The VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 has a a dry weight of 292 kg (644 lb), a weight when fully loaded of 324 kg (714 lb).
- What is the fuel consumption of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
-
Average fuel consumption is estimated at 8.30 l/100km (0.28 mpg) according to the WMTC cycle.
- QWhat is the seat height of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
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To ensure good accessibility, the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 offers a minimum seat height of 730 mm (28.74 in).
- What is the price of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000?
-
The price of the VN 1500 DRIFTER 2000 is 12,295€ in France
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Bikers' reviews Leave a review - 9 reviews
i've had one for over 5 years and I don't want to sell it
i drove it at 6000 klm
it has 45,000 and works like a charm
merci kawa
a plus Rating : 4/5 Respond to jac
Arrived cool as a cucumber, with just a little discomfort on the inside of the elbow from maintaining acceleration. Braking of mine on wet ground catastrophic (equipped with Harley tires and I have however a very soft braking) Rating : 4/5 Respond to FAB
However, the VN 1700 classic is still available new. Rating : 5/5 Respond to Nioume