Kawasaki VN 2000 test

Intro: NOBODY IS WORRIED

In the growing segment of custom motor bikes, the tendency has been orientated towards engines with unimaginable power.
Kawasaki, already very present in this segment crowns its VN range with the 2000, with a new 2 litre engine.
No you’re not dreaming. This is the largest twin-cylinder motor ever built for a standard production motorcycle.

Esthetique: MASSIVE

The lines and the dimensions of the VN want to be impressive and imposing, and they are. After having rode this machine we can confirm that it turned more than one head and is a fantasy machine for the majority of today’s bikers. The hooding of the lights is entirely chrome, sheltering 3 lens shaped lights and a complex surface. The front casing confirms an American tendency just like the concise but sufficient instrument panel. We would have nevertheless liked a tachometer. The key is removable once the contact switch is activated. Large rear view mirrors, large handles and levers complete the command post. At the rear an oversized light accompanies a large metallic mud flap.

Motorization: ENERMOUS

The centre piece is, of course, the water cooled, 52° twin-cylinder engine, which is not indicated on the cylinder block. The five-speed gearbox transmits the power to the rear wheel via a studded belt. The only thing capable of resisting the power of some 100 horsepower. The 4-valve cylinder head is actuated by push rods and rocker arms. The twin catalytic silencer allows the machine to breath, resulting in a virile but extremely civic sonority. The VN’s vital stats are: 2055cc’s, 103 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 17 kilos of torque for a dry weight of 340 kilograms, certainly nothing to sneeze at !

On the road: BORN TO BE WILD

The first metres aboard the VN are taken rather prudently. With the rider aboard this Kawasaki weighs in at more than 400 kilograms, which needs to be kept in mind. As soon as you set off you’ll find how surprisingly well it rides. A lower centre of gravity, generally well balanced, and a large handlebar to facilitate handling. Stringing corners together quickly becomes a mere formality thanks, in part, to a reasonable ground clearance for a bike of this size. On the more challenging twisty bits, the VN delivers a well measured power. It is loads of fun relying on the engine’s torque in either third or fourth gear. The suspension absorbs the imperfections of the road in smooth comfort. The large soft seat keeps the rider nice and comfortable. With the slightest twist of the accelerator, the engine delivers handfuls of power in complete smoothness and never violent. The two-armed gear selector allows effort free gear changing and protects the boots from unwanted scuff marks. With a little bit of practice, you come to really enjoy its mega acceleration and start to appreciate fully the VN 2000. For pleasure cruising, riders of all levels can handle the VN 2000, even for the more lazy riders amongst us. The video that you are viewing was shot in front of imposing landscapes and country road that went on forever, placing you in a décor similar to that of traversing the west of the United States. Nevertheless, before setting of on an out of the ordinary adventure, you’ll first have to come up with the asking price of 17 000 Euros. A respectable sum, for sure, but one that is totally justified by the excellence that is the VN. And frankly speaking, when wants to purchase one of today’s largest cruiser bikes, sacrifices, sometimes, must be made.