Kawasaki VN 1500 Classic - 1999 Specifications and Reviews

The 1999 Kawasaki VN 1500 Classic is a cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with reliable performance. Its 1471cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers smooth, low-end torque ideal for relaxed riding and comfortable highway cruising. Known for its shaft drive, shaft-driven simplicity, and traditional cruiser ergonomics, it appeals to experienced riders valuing dependability over raw power.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year1999
ModelKawasaki VN 1500 Classic

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke102.0 x 90.0 mm (4.0 x 3.5 inches)
Compression8.6:1
Torque112.00
Power64.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1471.00 ccm (89.76 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,660 mm (65.4 inches)
Seat height705 mm (27.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Front percentage of weight43.0
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc313.0 kg (690.0 pounds)
 
 

Kawasaki VN 1500 Classic dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter270 mm (10.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre dimensions150/80-16
Front tyre dimensions130/90-16
Rear suspension travel87 mm (3.4 inches)
Front suspension travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
 
 

Speed and acceleration

60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear18.000 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)5.400 seconds
Top speed164.0 km/h (101.9 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)0.62 litres (0.16 gallons)
Fuel capacity16.00 litres (4.23 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

64 hp
Peak Power
5s
0-60 mph
101.9 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track10%
City45%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring70%
Passenger65%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuited to riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, low-slung cruiser, as the weight and limited cornering clearance demand confident low-speed control.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed boulevard cruising and long, easy highway miles rather than outright speed or sporty handling.
Rider FitThe low 705mm seat height makes it accessible for shorter riders, but the 313kg mass means good upper-body strength and balance are needed at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterA classic American-style V-twin cruiser with strong low-end torque, shaft drive smoothness, and a laid-back, cruiser-through-town character.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or top-tier acceleration.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1999 Kawasaki VN 1500 Classic Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 705mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1999 Kawasaki VN 1500 Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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