See Figure 1. The full 17 digit serial or Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.) is stamped on the steering head and on a label located on the right front frame down tube.
An abbreviated V.I.N. is stamped on the left side crankcase at the base of the rear cylinder.
NOTE
Always give the full 17 digit Vehicle Identification Number when ordering parts or making any inquiry about your motorcycle.
Figure 1. V.I.N. Stamping Location
| 1 | Market designation (1 character) |
| 2 | Manufacturer (2 characters) |
| 3 | Motorcycle type (1 character) |
| 4 | Model (2 characters) |
| 5 | Engine type (1 character) |
| 6 | Introduction date (1 character) |
| 7 | V.I.N. check digit (1 character) |
| 8 | Model year (1 character) |
| 9 | Assembly plant (1 character) |
| 10 | Sequential number (6 characters) |
Figure 2. Typical Harley-Davidson Vehicle Identification Number
Table 1. 2005 Harley-Davidson General V.I.N. Breakdown
POSITION | DESCRIPTION | POSSIBLE VALUES |
|---|---|---|
1 | Market designation | 1=Domestic 5=International |
2 | Manufacturer | HD=Harley-Davidson |
3 | Motorcycle type | 1=Heavyweight motorcycle |
4 | Model | see model V.I.N. table |
5 | Engine type | Y=Carbureted B=Fuel injected |
6 | Introduction date | 1=Regular 2=Mid-year 3=California |
7 | V.I.N. check digit | Can be 0-9 or X |
8 | Model year | 5=2005 |
9 | Assembly plant | Y=York, PA K=Kansas City, MO |
10 | Sequential number | varies |
Table 2. 2005 Sportster V.I.N. Model Codes
CODE | MODEL NAME |
|---|---|
CA | XL883 |
CJ | XL883C Custom |
CM | XL883 Low |
CK | XL883R |
CL | XL1200R Roadster |
CG | XL1200C Custom |