Kawasaki VN 1500
€2,650
199327,000 km
Hoogeveen
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AI
Kawasaki
VN 1500
Cruiser · 1,470 cc · 64 hp
For sale now27 motorcycles
- Price range
- €2,240 – €7,660
- Avg. mileage
- 41,500 km
- Typical year
- 1998
This text was partly made with AI and may contain errors.
Market insight
What should you pay for a VN 1500?
Log in for the full market analysisSee typical prices, price changes and important differences.
What is a typical asking price?
Choose the model year and mileage for a price guide.
Finding comparable motorcycles…
Based on asking prices, not sale prices. Trim, condition, maintenance and warranty still matter.
Price trend-16%
Based on price data from 6 of the past 12 months.
Used prices are trending down: the typical asking price is €625 lower than in June 2026.
Model family
Compare 3 variantsVN 1500 at a glance
Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.
Specifications
3 variants- Displacement
- 1,470 cc
- Power
- 64 hp · 47 kW
- Torque
- 115 Nm
- Weight
- 310 kg
- Seat height
- 700 mm
- Fuel capacity
- 17 l
- Top speed
- 175 km/h
- Production
- 1987 – 2008
- Category
- Cruiser
Comparable models
Also worth considering
Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the VN 1500.
Model years
Generations and editions
3 variantsFeatures and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.
Years2002–2008
VN1500 Mean Streak (2002-2008)
EditionThe Mean Streak is the power cruiser with an upside-down fork, twin front discs and sportier engine tuning. Lower bars and visible sports brakes clearly separate it from Classic and Nomad.
1,470 cc · 72 hp · 2 cyl.
Years1999–2005
Nomad / Drifter touring variants (1999-2005)
EditionNomad adds hard luggage, a screen and passenger comfort; Drifter uses deep Indian-style fenders and a classic solo profile. Both are heavier than the base VN and should be identified by the explicit trim name.
1,470 cc · 64 hp · 2 cyl.
Years1987–1999
VN1500 / Vulcan 88 (1987-1999)
EditionThe original VN1500 has the early 1,470 cc V-twin, shaft drive and comparatively slim cruiser body. It is lighter and less heavily equipped than Classic, Nomad and Drifter versions.
1,470 cc · 64 hp · 2 cyl.
About this model
About the Kawasaki VN 1500
The Kawasaki VN1500 (Vulcan 1500) is a large V-twin cruiser introduced in 1987 as Kawasaki's answer to Harley-Davidson's dominance in the cruiser segment. The air-cooled 1470cc V-twin delivers broad torque in a low, wide riding profile. During its production run until 2008, several variants appeared: Classic, Classic Tourer, Nomad, Drifter and Mean Streak, each with distinct styling and accessories. The Drifter variant deliberately referenced classic Indian motorcycle styling.
The VN1500 appeals to riders who want the grandeur of an American V-twin with Japanese reliability. Its low 700 mm seat height is accessible. It performs best on straight roads and motorways; the 310 kg weight makes city manoeuvring challenging. As an affordable used cruiser it is very popular. It competes with the Honda GL1500 Gold Wing in the large touring and classic V-twin segment.
- Category
- Cruiser
- Production
- 1987 – 2008
- Power
- 64 hp
- Weight
- 310 kg
Before you buy
What to check before buying
Check the primary chain and carburettor synchronisation; the V-twin runs rough with dirty carbs or poor tuning.
Inspect the primary drive cover for oil seeping around the chain cover gasket, a commonly reported issue at higher mileages.
Test the electrical system for corrosion at connectors and alarm modules; many owners have added custom wiring.
Check the tyres for uneven wear caused by the bike's weight and riding habits.
Inspect the front forks for oil leaks and check the steering head bearings for play; the weight places heavy load during low-speed manoeuvres.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about the Kawasaki VN 1500
What does a used Kawasaki VN 1500 cost?
A used Kawasaki VN 1500 costs €3,350 on average. Most cost €2,240 to €7,660. This is based on 27 motorcycles for sale now.
How many used Kawasaki VN 1500 are for sale?
MotorMonitor now compares 27 used Kawasaki VN 1500 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.
What year and mileage does an average used Kawasaki VN 1500 have?
The average used Kawasaki VN 1500 is from 1998 and has done about 41,500 km.
How much horsepower does the Kawasaki VN 1500 have?
The Kawasaki VN 1500 produces between 63 and 71 hp, depending on model year and version.
How much does the Kawasaki VN 1500 weigh?
The Kawasaki VN 1500 weighs between 263 and 337 kg, depending on model year and version.
What is the top speed of the Kawasaki VN 1500?
The top speed of the Kawasaki VN 1500 is between 165 and 185 km/h, depending on model year and version.
What is the seat height of the Kawasaki VN 1500?
The seat height of the Kawasaki VN 1500 is about 720 mm.