The last 6 digits of your motorcycle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), is known as the chassis number. You need to be able to locate the VIN to know what the chassis number is.
There’s a slight possibility that you will need to check a few spots on the bike for this number, as it can be located in different places. Generally speaking, with the vast majority of motorcycles, the VIN is found to the right of the headstock tube. Usually on the part of the frame that the forks go through, underneath the throttle. The VIN will be stamped deep into the frame.
What’s the purpose of the VIN?
Essentially the Vehicle Identification Number serves as a fingerprint for the vehicle, as no two vehicles will have the same number. In terms of your motorcycle, the unique 17 character number, which is made up of digits and capital letters, allows you to accurately check its age.
The VIN also displays the bike’s unique features, specifications and manufacturer, and can also be used to track recalls, registrations, warranty claims, thefts and insurance coverage.
The importance of the VIN
Unfortunately, there are motorcycle sellers out there who will claim that the bike they are selling is much newer than it actually is. Checking the VIN can be hugely important for determining the true age of the bike you’re buying. Plus, the VIN is also the safest way of establishing the true identity of the motorcycle, and verifying whether the used bike is suspect or not.
Vehicle manufacturers and registration agencies carry databases of Vehicle Identification Numbers, so that they can accurately identify and validate a particular vehicle, simply by entering the number. If you find yourself buying a second hand motorcycle, you can use of the many companies who offer VIN number checking services.
If any irregularities come up when checking the number, you can instantly know that there’s something not right with the vehicle. When you don’t have access, for whatever reason, to your motorcycle, or to one you’re thinking of buying; you can check the paperwork for the VIN.
There are several different pieces of paperwork that should include the number, including:
- Title.
- Registration card.
- Owner’s manual.
- Insurance documents.
When you know the number, be sure to write it down and keep it safe in your records for easy access next time you need it. You could either keep it in a physical file, save it to your computer or even email it yourself.
