14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki VN-15 - 1987 Specifications and Reviews
The 1987 Kawasaki VN-15 is a mid-size touring cruiser powered by a 1470cc liquid-cooled V-twin producing 70 horsepower. Designed for riders seeking accessible cruiser styling with practical touring capability, it delivers smooth low-end torque through a shaft-drive transmission. Best known for combining comfortable highway cruising with manageable weight and affordable ownership, the VN-15 established Kawasaki's foothold in the cruiser market.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 1987 |
| Model | Kawasaki VN-15 |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 4-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches) |
| Compression | 9.0:1 |
| Power | 70.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1470.00 ccm (89.70 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 284.0 kg (626.1 pounds) |
Kawasaki VN-15 dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/90-15 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-19 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 179.0 km/h (111.2 mph) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 16.00 litres (4.23 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
70 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph
111.2 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City45%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring68%
Passenger65%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, low-slung V-twin cruiser at low speeds and in traffic. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and highway touring rather than outright speed or sharp handling. |
| Rider Fit | The substantial 284 kg weight and low seat height demand confident low-speed balance but reward you with a stable, planted feel once moving. |
| Character | A classic big-bore Japanese cruiser with V-twin torque, shaft drive smoothness, and laid-back custom styling. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders wanting agile cornering performance, off-road capability, or sportbike-level acceleration. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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