Things You'll Need:
- Computer with Internet access
- Motorcycle
- Pen (or pencil) and paper
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Step 1
VIN plate on a motorcycleExamine all sides of the steering head of the motorcycle. You'll be looking for a metal plate with lots of information printed or engraved on it.
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Step 2
Write down the 17-digit VIN.
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Step 3
Take a close look at the VIN. The first three numbers are used to identify the manufacturer, so all motorcycles of the same make should have the same first three digits. The next six digits are used by the manufacturer to indicate specific characteristics of the motorcycle, so all motorcycles of the same model and with the same features should the first nine characters of the VINs identical. The last eight digits form an identification number, and are unique to your motorcycle.
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Step 4
Consider looking up the VIN online using a VIN search specific to motorcycles. CARFAX is perhaps the most well-known online VIN search site, but unfortunately you cannot search for the VINs of two-wheeled vehicles using this service. You can find links to some motorcycle-specific VIN searches in the resources section.
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Step 5
Decode your motorcycle's VIN if you do not get accurate results searching the VIN in the previous step. To do this, use the links to online motorcycle VIN decoders listed in the resources section. Coded VINs are unique to motorcycles, scooters and other two-wheeled vehicles, but your motorcycle's VIN may not be coded.
