Are you looking to buy a used motorcycle? If so, you’ll need to locate the motorcycle vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN number is located in two places on motorcycles, on the engine case and on the frame. Motorcycles from 1970 and later only have a frame tag. Motorcycles made during or after 1981 have a VIN that is made up of 17 characters. Prior to 1981, the motorcycle VIN usually ran 11-17 characters. Modern day VINs consist of 17 characters that do not include the letters I, O, or Q.

When buying any used vehicle, especially when buying a used motorcycle, it should be standard procedure to check the history of the vehicle. Previous owners aren’t always forthcoming about a motorcycle’s past. Has it been in an accident? Has it been recalled? Is it stolen or salvaged? VIN numbers are documented in all accident reports, stolen vehicle reports, recall reports, and any records that are available to the public. Or, you could want to provide the VIN number to your insurance company for a quote before purchasing. Some states also require an inspection by a law enforcement agency approved department before you can register a used motorcycle.

In addition to telling you about a vehicle's history, motorcycle VIN numbers function as a security device. When a vehicle is stolen, the VIN number is recorded in the report. Many times, a motorcycle's parts are sold separately. When a frame VIN doesn’t match the engine VIN, chances are the bike is either stolen or built from stolen parts. Usually reputable builders are on top of keeping the VIN number accurate. The VIN holds the history of the vehicle, it is the equivalent of a Social Security number for us.