As is the case with citizens of a particular country, vehicles also have their identification numbers. However, we would like to say that their numbers are somewhat more versatile. At the same time, they have a somewhat different use. What do we want to say by this? While citizens have identification numbers for easier identification, numbers found in vehicles help track them and their particular parts. The umbrella term for these numbers and codes is the VIN.
Not only do these help with tracking these parts, but they also help with various other elements. For instance, they are used to seeing the vehicle’s repair history and have an insight into the process of insurance claims. While these two are not the only important reasons, they offer enough signs to understand their importance.
Another reason is to help track the vehicle when it is stolen or missing.
In this day and age, this process has become significantly easier. The main reason is that it has become digital. The only thing you need to do is to enter the number on a website. If you do not know where to start looking for these sites, we want to make this easier for you. You can check at FAXVIN. Now, we want to talk about VIN in general and provide insight into how to check it for motorcycles.
What Should You Know About VIN?
VIN is a term that can be a little bit misleading. The reason is quite simple: we are not talking about numbers only. We are talking about codes that consist of both numbers and letters. By using these, you can identify your personal and commercial vehicles.
A good example of using these is checking the code of a vehicle you are about to buy. It’s because you can check previous ownership.
By doing that, you will avoid being a part of the unpleasant scenario of purchasing a stolen vehicle. In the case of vehicles, this code serves as a fingerprint. Multiple vehicles can’t share a VIN. Therefore, you will not encounter any problems when buying a used motorcycle.
By using this number, you will have an insight into everything relevant for you to know to avoid any problems in the future.
The parties involved in bike registration will have access to the database. VIN is a concept that emerged back in the fifties in the United States. As you can presume, the industry was completely different.
At one point, the biggest players in the industry decided to find a way to track the car parts. As a result, they decided to create a 17-character-long format we now know as the VIN.
How to Find It?
Now that you know this code, we want to discuss where you can find it. In some cases, you will find the VIN on the steering neck. However, finding it in the bottom of the cylinders is quite common.
So, if you do not find it in the first place, you are about to find it at the bottom of the cylinder. Being aware of both possibilities is crucial since it is quite common. But these are not the only ones.
The other place on a motorcycle where you can find this number is under the tail section. Furthermore, it is inside the left wheel and near the radiator. If you do not find it here, then be sure to pay attention to the frame behind the wheel.
As you can see, there are several possibilities you need to take into consideration. These four possibilities are the only ones bound to be one of them.
How to Decode It?
The next thing we want to talk about is decoding a VIN. What does this mean? It means that you can break it down and interpret it. To do that efficiently, you must find a track-down list focusing on a particular country.
We’ve already stated that this is a procedure made much easier by the appearance of the Internet. However, the user needs to know where to look, which means what site they should use.
You need to use a website where his country of origin numbers appear. The best way to remember these codes is to divide them into three different aspects. The most important thing is to remember the first three digits.
Later, you need to remember the next six digital, and finally, you need to pay attention to the last eight numbers. While this may seem challenging initially, you will see just how you will first memorize these.
The first segment is crucial since it determines the country of origin. You will see that the US companies that manufacture vehicles will use number one or four as the first digital. In the case of Canada, you will see they use the number 2 as the starting number.
The second segment indicates the engine size, model, brand, etc. The final eight digits will indicate some additional data relevant to the vehicle.
Potential Issues
The final thing we want to address is the various problems that can pop up if you do not check VIN before purchasing a used motorcycle. We’ve mentioned that purchasing a stolen motorcycle creates problems for the buyer.
Having problems with legality and authorities can generate countless issues down the road, and they can even result in losing ownership of the motorcycle.
Not to mention that purchasing a motorcycle that does not function properly requires further investments. While investing in a motorcycle is something people do not hesitate about, they do not want to invest in a vehicle they have just purchased. We can categorize these issues as unexpected expenses. We can all agree this is something nobody wants.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, VIN is something that provides numerous benefits and helps avoid numerous problems down the road.
Here, we’ve provided all the most relevant information you need to be aware of regarding this concept. We are certain you will find it useful in the future when you purchase a motorcycle.