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.

1	Stamped V.I.N.
2	V.I.N. label

Figure 1. V.I.N. Locations

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. 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster V.I.N. Breakdown

POSITION	DESCRIPTION	POSSIBLE VALUES
1	Market designation	1=Originally manufactured for sale within the United States 5=Originally manufactured for sale outside of the United States
2	Manufacturer	HD=Harley-Davidson
3	Motorcycle type	1=Heavyweight motorcycle
4	Model	see model V.I.N. table
5	Engine type	M=883c Carbureted P=1203c Carbureted
6	Introduction date	1=Regular 2=Mid-year 3=California/regular 4=Cosmetic changes 5=California/cosmetic changes 6=California/mid-year
7	V.I.N. check digit	Can be 0-9 or X
8	Model year	6=2006
9	Assembly plant	K=Kansas City, MO USA
10	Sequential number	varies

Table 2. 2006 Sportster V.I.N. Model Codes

CODE	MODEL NAME
CA	XL 883 Sportster 883
CJ	XL 883C Sportster 883 Custom
CM	XL 883L Sportster 883 Low
CK	XL 883R Sportster 883R
CL	XL 1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster
CG	XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom
CW	XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low