Decoding VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)? Explained in Detail
his article is about the uniqueness and meaning of the different characters in a VIN. It begins with a brief description of the importance of a VIN and what it means and then decodes and explains the meaning of the 17 different characters.
The way that we have our unique identification numbers in different identity cards is the same system followed by cars, bikes and other vehicles for singular identification. All bikes come with a unique 17 digit number or the VIN that is unique to every single model. In this article, we are going to explain everything about the VIN and how it adds to the uniqueness of your personal bike.
What is a VIN of a Bike?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of a bike is a 17 digit number that is found on all bikes produced globally. It is printed into specific areas of your bike and gives your bike a unique identity. This method has been followed by all automobile companies since 1981 for identifying each of the bikes manufactured by them. The VIN is not a random number series but contains coded information in each of its characters, that explains the particularities of one particular bike.
Decoding the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
Since the different characters in the VIN all represent some sort of information, we are going to explain what each of the digits means and refer to. Let’s find out from the pointers below:
First Character Position -
The First Character Position of a VIN refers to the country where your bike was manufactured. It is usually a couple of digits or alphabets or a combination of both. For example, bikes manufactured in India have a first character position of MA-ME or MZ.
First Three Characters -
The first three characters of a VIN are also referred to as the World Manufacturing Index or WMI and it carries information about the manufacturing company. In some cases, the three characters only denote the manufacturer while in some cases it can also denote the division or sector of the manufacturer from which the bike was made.
Fourth to Ninth Characters -
These are known as the bike Description Section or the VDS. All the characters are related to data such as bike type, model, body type and engine type. In some cases it is also explained by using 8 characters. The ninth character denotes the security code or the month in which the bike was manufactured.
Tenth Character Position -
The tenth character position represents the year in which the bike was manufactured, usually denoted by an alphabet.
Eleventh Character Position -
This character or digit refers to the factory site or manufacturing plant of the particular bike.
Twelfth to Seventeenth Character Position -
These last six positions of the VIN are the assigned serial numbers of each bike that is unique to every particular bike, bike, scooter or motorcycle. It is the most crucial part of the VIN for identifying your bike.
Take Away
VIN is the most essential information about your bike as it contributes to your bike’s individual, unique identity. When you have decided to buy one, you should check the variety of the bike by looking at the bike manufacturing company’s database with the help of the VIN. In the same manner, it is also necessary to have bike insurance as guaranteed financial support against wear and tear or unforeseen accidents. Being aware of the importance of VIN and insurance will aid you to be confident about the year in which the model was launched.
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
