How to Lookup a Motorcycle’s VIN Number

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Your Motorcycle VIN code reveals all you need to know about the bike, from previous owners to past accidents. Read this article to learn more.

Every bike owner, buyer, or enthusiast needs to understand their motorcycle’s VIN, which stands for the Vehicle Identification Number. 

With a motorcycle VIN lookup, you can learn some pertinent information about the bike, including how many owners it had, if it got into any accidents, whether it has undergone repairs, or whether it was stolen.

This 17-character composition of the code is the key to confirming the condition and worth of your bike. Whether you are purchasing a second-hand motorcycle or simply looking for some information about the one you have, you should learn how to find and decode the VIN, mostly so as not to be exploited.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you step by step through finding your motorcycle’s VIN number as well as its significance and relevance in the long term. Keep reading!

What is a Motorcycle VIN Number?

A motorcycle VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) refers to a unique 17-character code issued for motorcycles manufactured after 1981. This number is very important for several reasons, the most important being that it encodes critical information which you can recover after a motorcycle VIN number check.

Each section of the VIN reveals specific details, and these include

• World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): The first three characters indicate the manufacturer and the country of origin.

• Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS): Characteristics from four through nine give the specifics of the model, engine type, and other elements of considerable importance.

• Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS): The last eight characters, whose tenth character is the model year, the eleventh is the code for its manufacturing plant, and the last six forms are the unique serial number.

This code is helpful in tracking a bike’s records, confirming the motorcycle’s legitimacy, and establishing if it has previously been reported stolen or damaged beyond reasonable repair.

Why is the Motorcycle VIN Important?

Why should you or anyone else look up motorcycle by VIN? It seems like another random string of numbers only mechanics and the manufacturer need, right?

Actually, there are several reasons to care about your bike’s VIN number, but here are three solid reasons:

Vehicle History

The VIN of the motorcycle can provide information about owner transfers, damages sustained in the case of accidents, and whether it had ever been in repairs or stolen. This information will help you avoid unfortunate circumstances when buying a used motorbike.

Verification

This number shows that the motorbike has not been altered in any way or form. It is a protection against buying stolen vehicles and aids in confirming their originality. This is especially crucial when it comes to owning vintage or expensive bikes.

Value Assessment

Knowing your VIN code motorcycle enables one to check how valuable it is. You can compare similar models and ascertain the damage and all the other factors that might affect its worth. It is critical for both the buyer and seller to make the transaction fair and legal.

How to Locate Your Motorcycle’s VIN

The first step in recovering the history of your motorcycle and validating its originality is locating the motorcycle’s VIN. There are usually a few key places on your bike to check motorcycle vin:

Here’s where to look:

• Neck: One of the most common places is the steering neck. Look at the section of the frame which is close to the handlebar region. You may need to rotate the handlebars to one side in order to have a clear view of the VIN.

• Engine: The engine sometimes has the VIN. It can be found at the base or on the side of the engine, where it is stamped into the metal. 

• Frame: Another common location is on the frame. This could be above the seat, at the bottom bracket, or in the side parts of the frame.

Important Tip: Always refer to your motorcycle’s owner manual for the specific location of electrical parts. If the VIN is missing or doesn’t match the document, it’s a red flag that usually means theft or extreme repairs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Look Up a Motorcycle’s VIN Number

Without further ado, here is a step-by-step guide to do a VIN verification motorcycle with ease:

Step 1: Locate the VIN 

First, locate the VIN on your motorcycle. The steering neck, engine, and frame are common locations. Check for a readable and clear VIN. If you are unable to see it, you can refer to the owner’s manual for specific tips.

Step 2: Access a Free VIN Check Service

Some websites allow motorcycle VIN lookup free through a legitimate database, which contains details such as accident history, previous owner information, or if the vehicle was reported stolen. Those looking for websites can do so on ClearVin.

Step 3: Use A Motorcycle VIN Decoder

You can find an online VIN decoder tool that will assist you in figuring out what each of the characters in the VIN number means. Each stage discloses a lot of specifications concerning your motorcycle, such as the manufacturer, model, engine type, and the year it was produced. You may find such easy tools on websites like ClearVin.

Step 4: Consider Professional VIN Check Services 

You can opt for paid VIN check services for you to receive a much more detailed report about the motorcycle. Certain website such as ClearVin offers comprehensive reports where you can also easily find out more details, such as any recall news relating to the motorbike and what liens it may have.

Step 5: Review the Report Carefully 

After obtaining the report, be on the lookout for any red flags. Identify any anomalies that might indicate fraud, such as mismatching VINs or altered numbers. Also, check for accident history, whether it was reported stolen, and other problems that could affect the bike’s value.

Step 6: Consult with a Professional Mechanic 

Unless the report is clear and perfect, seek the help of a mechanic to assess the motorcycle value by VIN. They would be able to answer questions regarding the motorcycle’s condition and whether pursuing it is worth the effort.

Step 7: Verify with the DMV 

As a precaution, you may also confirm the VIN with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They would have database records of the VIN and would, therefore, be able to determine if it had previously been stolen or had been linked with any legal matters.

If you follow the above steps, you will have all the necessary information to do a motorcycle VIN number research and decide whether your motorcycle is worth the purchase. It’s an effective way to validate your purchase and also secure your peace of mind during future rides.

Does the VIN Number and Motor Number Match on Motorcycles?

For motorcycles, the VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, and engine (motor) number are not the same. They are two different identifiers with different functions.

A motorcycle VIN is a cluster consisting of 17 characters that contains comprehensive information about a motorcycle including the manufacturer, model, and production period; this number is essential for tracking the motorcycle in history, verifying its authenticity, and checking if the motorcycle has been previously stolen or damaged in an accident.

On the other hand, the motor number is used to refer specifically to the motorcycle’s engine. In many cases, the motor number is used to get the origin and history of the engine but this number lacks the extended capabilities of the VIN. 

Keep in mind that the VIN and motor number aren’t the same because they identify two different things about the motorcycle.

Nevertheless, when buying a motorcycle, it is essential to check both numbers to ensure that they are consistent and that the engine was not swapped without the proper paperwork being completed.

This acts as protection from possible fraud and raises your trust in the acquired motorcycle.

Conclusion

Knowing how to look up a motorcycle’s VIN number is crucial for bike owners, especially buyers. This ensures they don’t get scammed and are getting their money’s worth. However, we recommend avoiding trades that seem sketchy and buying from a car auction platform like AutoBidMaster.

AutoBidMaster offers access to a vast collection of used auction vehicles, from motorcycles to trucks. All vehicles come with accurate details that you can verify yourself for more confidence in your purchase.

Visit AutoBidMaster and pick the vehicle you desire to use today!

FAQs About Motorcycle VIN Numbers

What is a Motorcycle VIN Check? 

A motorcycle VIN check is a process that provides useful information about the events of a motorcycle, such as accidents, change of owners and reports that it was stolen. It helps in verifying the authenticity and conditions of the motorcycle before purchase.

Are VIN and Motor Numbers the Same on Motorcycles?

No, the VIN and motor numbers differ from each other. While the VIN gives information about the whole motorcycle, the motor number relates only to the engine. All should be checked for consistency.

How To Do A Motorcycle Vin Number Lookup? 

You can assess a motorcycle using its VIN, either through online tools or professional services. Detailed reports can be retrieved when the VIN is entered on such websites as ClearVin, NMVTIS, etc.

Can I Get a Free Motorcycle VIN Check? 

Yes, a few places on the Internet have basic free motorcycle vin check. You can start with platforms like ClearVin and NMVTIS.

How to Decode a Motorcycle VIN?

To decode a motorcycle VIN number, use an online motorcycle vin decoder. Websites such as ClearVin offer this service, which anyone can easily use.