Created Mar 3, 2004 | Updated Mar 10, 2004

Decoding a Harley Davidson VIN Number

The vehicle identification number (VIN) on a motor vehicle is a signpost for where the vehicle is from and what it includes. Information in the vin can be used to verify that all the parts of the vehicle where intended to be on that vehicle. Many times, a vin has been used to tell if a vehicle that is being purchased, has any stolen parts or, for classic vehicles, that all the parts are original.

Mid 1930's to 1969

Example of vin number:
57FLH5719
Location of vin: Engine number is the vin, located on left case.

How to decode:
57FLH5719
Year of motorcycleModel nameProduction number


1970 to 1980

Example of VIN number:
1A77690H4
Location of VIN number: Numbers found on both engine and frame, frame is legal number

How to decode:
1A77690H4
Model code (check here for model codes)Production numbersYear code (check here for year codes)


1981 TO 2000

Example of vin number:
1HD1BFK1XBY012543
Location of vin number: 17 digit VIN on frame; abbreviated VIN on engine

How to decode:
1HD1BFK1XBY012543
Country of Origin Code
Designates a Harley
Weight Code
Model Code(check here for model codes)
Engine Model
Introduction Date
Check Digit
Year Code(check here for year codes
Place of Manufacture
Serial Number

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