When a bike is first purchased, it will be registered with the Department of motor vehicles (DMV). One of the requirements for registration is a vehicle identification number. 

Just like a car, a motorcycle, dirt bike, or ATV also comes with a 17-digit VIN consisting of letters and numbers. A bike with less than 17 digits VIN would have been built before 1981, a time when car and motorcycle manufacturers were allowed to use whatever string of numbers they deemed fit as the VIN of their vehicles.  

The VIN of a bike tells you the story of the motorcycle. By examining a motorcycle's VIN, you can get information on the manufacturer of the bike, the model, year, and history of the motorbike. 

A motorcycle VIN provides all the relevant information about the bike since it was manufactured. This post will show you how to look up the VIN of a motorcycle. 

Benefits of a VIN

A vehicle identification number has been a helpful tool in finding stolen vehicles. If your motorcycle is stolen, the vehicle Identification number on it will make it harder for the thief to sell it. 

As soon as you report the theft, the police will link that theft report to the motorcycle's history through the VIN, thus alerting the police to be on the lookout while warning off innocent potential buyers of the stolen bike.

Furthermore, a VIN informs prospective buyers of previous titles under which the motorcycle has been held. 

If the bike has been involved in an accident or was previously damaged, the VIN will show a record of this as long as the owner reported the incident.

VIN also helps in reducing uncertainty when buying parts for your motorcycle. If you do not know the correct parts to use, you can look up the motorcycle’s details with a free online VIN lookup tool. This VIN will show the details of the bike so that you can buy the right parts for it. 

Some sellers will sell you a piece of worthless scrap with a fault. They will package it off to conceal its flaws until you make payment and take your purchase home to discover that you bought a bad motorcycle. 

In order to prevent the frustration of losing money, it is best to use a free motorcycle VIN check service on the spot before you think of paying for a motorcycle. 

A motorcycle’s VIN will tell you the history of the bike, where it has been, what it has been used for, what it used to look like, who it has been with, and how long it has been used. 

A VIN check tool is the first tool to arm yourself with when you want to buy a used motorcycle. If you fail to run a VIN check first, you may spend the rest of the bike’s lifespan trying to fix it, or worse, you could end up with a criminal charge of facilitating theft if the motorcycle turns out to have been stolen.

Where to find the VIN on a motorcycle   

Motorcycle manufacturers place the VIN on different parts of the bike. Some are kept in plain sight, while some are hidden. 

Check the frame under the shifter if you have trouble finding the VIN on your motorbike. Also, check around the plastic hood and the left side of the frame beside the engine. Look at the frame under the tail section. Check around the neck of the steering, inside the wheels, or by the radiator. These are some spots where you can find a VIN on a motorcycle. 

How to decode a motorcycle VIN 

A vehicle’s VIN may seem like a jumble of numbers and alphabets, but it is no ordinary mix of numbers. It is a unique set of numbers that can only belong to one vehicle at a time.

The VIN of any vehicle is made up of the numbers one to nine and the alphabets A to Z. The only alphabets missing are O, Q, and I, because they can be mistaken for other digits.

A motorcycle’s VIN is divided into three parts. The first segment of the VIN, consisting of three characters, contains information on the manufacturer’s identity. 

The next segment contains information about the motorcycle itself. This section is made up of five characters that describe the motorcycle's components. This part talks about the engine, motorcycle model, engine type, and any other information the manufacturer wants to represent.

The third section contains the motorcycle's security code or serial number. 

If you want to buy a motorcycle, you can look up the VIN using EpicVin. This VIN lookup tool is a free online service that will help you check the VIN on your motorcycle for free. 

Visit the EpicVin website and look up any VIN. On the site, input the VIN in the search query and initiate a search. You will receive a report of the car's history in less than a minute.

Don’t take a bad deal

Whether buying a new bike, or a pre-owned one, you should first check the VIN. A seller can package an already used, damaged, or stolen bike to be sold at a high price. 

Don’t take the salesperson's word for it. Do your research. If you find that the VIN on the body of the motorcycle is different from the VIN on the paperwork, this is a sign that the seller may have something else up their sleeves.

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Two of British motorcycling’s biggest beasts, including a king of the jungle, are set to entertain the fans at the first major classic bike event of 2023.

Carl Fogarty and James Whitham will take centre stage at the Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic over the weekend of January 7/8 at Newark Showground, and with each man never shy to say what they think, there will be plenty of opinions, memories and racing insights of both modern day and ‘back in the day’ racing.

Blackburn’s Fogarty - four-time World Superbike Champ, multiple TT Champ, lap record holder, Endurance World Champion, Grand Prix campaigner and also winner of the 14^th series of TV show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of here! – is well known for his straight-talking style.

And it’ll be a battle of the roses as Huddersfield’s James Whitham is another man well known for sharing his views. The TV commentator was very much a fans’ favourite on track, winner of multiple British championships, from 80cc up to superbikes. He was twice voted MCN’s Man of the Year in the 1990s. 

Keeping order, but adding his own opinions too, will be will be Steve Plater, himself a multiple winner at events including the North West 200, British Superbikes, Supersport, a Senior TT winner and undefeated at the Macau Grand Prix with victories in 2006 and 2007. A presenter on ITV4, he is also team manager of the TAS Racing-run Synetiq BMW Motorrad squad.

It’s a weekend not to b e missed, and you can join these three champions across the weekend talking all things bikes.

To get your tickets visit newarkclassicbikeshow.com for more information. Tickets can be bought in advance for £12 (a saving of £2 on the gate). Parking is free and kids (under 16) also get in for nothing.

For many, college is one of the most exciting periods of one’s life. Constantly meeting new people, encountering new ways of thinking, perhaps moving to a new city or even country. The pace of life during this period is famous for being fast, dynamic, and action-packed. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that when it comes time to review options for personal transport that many students are drawn to the idea of purchasing a motorcycle.

Motorcycles are famous for their speed, agility, and style, and can make the perfect companion for a student’s college years. But, like with any big purchasing decision, there’s plenty to consider before handing over any cheque. When it comes to owning a motorcycle, there are many pros and cons to consider. One of the main points worthy of consideration in the process and cost of obtaining motorcycle insurance - something that most students will be dealing with for the first time. To help with such an important step in the motorcycle buying process, we’ve put together a quick and helpful guide to thinking over purchasing a motorcycle and obtaining the best student insurance for your college years!  

Prepping for the purchase 

While the specific cost of motorcycle insurance will always vary according to the specifications of the driver and vehicle involved, as well as the legislation of the state in which they’re registering, all insurance comes with a price tag. Many students wondering how much is motorcycle insurance will first have to address their finances before deciding what kind of insurance policy to take out.

Some students may fear that with all the homework and assignments, their busy college schedules may prevent them from working or saving enough to afford the cost of owning a bike. But, if prepared for in advance, it’s more than possible to put aside adequate funds without any detriment to your studies. Using online services that offer assignment help is a great way to uphold high standards of academic work while freeing up time to help work or save. To make use of these time-saving measures, you can get help from Edubirdie and cut down on the hours you spend at the writing desk. Balancing the time you spend doing assignments and working means that you can comfortably ride to class on the back of your dream bike with peace of mind! 

Pros of owning a motorcycle 

-        Price: Motorcycles can thankfully be bought at very inexpensive price points, and generally don’t cost that much to upkeep. Buying second hand or refurbished models can drive costs down even further, far below the price tag that one would find if searching to buy a car. What’s more, bikes tend to squeeze out a much more efficient mileage than other types of vehicles, up to 60mpg for smaller models!

-        Dynamism: Bikes are, of course, much smaller and more agile than a car, making them a great choice for university students who have to navigate the often narrow streets of college towns in the UK. The nightmare of searching and often paying for parking becomes a thing of the past with a motorcycle, as their small frames mean you can park almost anywhere.

-        Lifespan: Owing to their low cost, buying a cheap second-hand motorcycle can be an investment for your student years that doesn’t need to drag on afterwards. Many students opt to spend relatively little on a starter bike for their student years and then decide afterwards whether or not to upgrade. 

Bike insurance requirements 

Before considering motorcycle insurance costs, it’s important to research what the specific requirements your area may impose when it comes to being insured. Most places will require drivers to purchase liability insurance, which is used to pay out damage or injury costs that may be inflicted on other drivers and vehicles.

On top of basic liability insurance, some places will also require drivers to have certain insurance additions that cover third party damage or medical expenses. As this varies greatly from place to place, it’s important to get to grips with the requirements specific to your local legislation.

Types of insurance 

Most insurance companies will offer drivers the chance to tailor-make their insurance policy to their specific needs. Driving insurance often refers to the basic liability coverage that pays out any damage a driver incurs on others, and collision insurance - meaning coverage for damage incurred as part of a road accident.

Comprehensive insurance is a broader policy that also offers coverage for damages or losses as incurred off the road or through any means other than hitting another vehicle, such as damage, theft, or animal collision.

Students looking for cheap motorcycle insurance may be tempted to go for the bare minimum coverage required, but this can be a risky choice in case of major damages or medical costs. Use insurance comparison sites and ask for student quotes to see if companies offer more expansive coverage within your price range. 

Tip: Student discounts! 

Many insurance companies will offer specially tailored policy plans to students that come at a discounted price.

Keeping all this in mind, you can begin your research into buying your student motorcycle and the right insurance for you. In no time, you too can safely enjoy the thrill of riding up to class in full-throttle style! 

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A symbolic procession of 5986 motorbikes took to the M60 around Stockport on Remembrance Sunday to create a Ring of Red, with bikers paying their respects to the Armed Forces both past and present.

Ring of Red M60 chose Greater Manchester veterans charity, Veterans into Logistics as their charity of the year with donations and merchandise sales going towards training and mentoring veterans into new careers as HGV drivers.

Veterans into Logistics Founder, Darren Wright led the ride out in a truck dedicated to his friend and former soldier Jamie Doyle, who served 22 years in the Royal Artillery but was tragically found dead at home, being unable to cope less than 12 months after leaving the British Army.

Jamie’s mum, Jayne, and daughter Ellie sat with Darren in the truck, keeping Jamie’s memory alive.

The weather was perfect, and bikers wore red to create a poignant visual display, emulating a poppy, as they respectfully joined the M60. It took an hour and 17 minutes for marshals to stagger all the bikes off the forecourt and the camaraderie was on point throughout the day. The Last Post played as the bikers took to the motorway on gleaming bikes adorned with flags and poppies, followed by military vehicles.

The roar of the bikes was immense and the cacophony of engines revving and horns honking was spectacular as crowds congregated on the motorway bridges to wave and cheer on the thousands and thousands of bikers.

Veterans into Logistics Founder, Darren Wright said: “It was deeply moving and very special to lead the Ring of Red M60 Ride of Respect. It meant a lot for me to show Jayne and Ellie the love and appreciation felt for veterans and all those who have fallen, including Jamie.

“It was overwhelming to be part of and I would like to thank organiser Netty Kiely and her team for choosing Veterans into Logistics as their charity of the year.

“Our mission is to reduce poverty and homelessness for veterans and the vulnerable by training and supporting them into new careers as HGV drivers. We know they still have so much to offer future employers after leaving the military and we upskill them and help them find secure and sustainable employment.”  

Veterans into Logistics Trustee and Biker, Heidi Chapman, who rides a Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, said: “It was an honour to ride behind Darren Wright and the Veterans into Logistics truck, named in the memory of Jamie Doyle.

“It was a truly special day to lead over 5800 bikers around the M60, symbolising all that the poppy and Remembrance Day stand for.”

Ring of Red M60 event organiser, Netty Kiely said: “Thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Ring of Red Remembrance Ride and showing their respect. It's been our pleasure to support Veterans into Logistics this year.

“I couldn't have done this without my committee, volunteers and all the staff at Moto Birch Services.

“It was overwhelming to see so many, at one point queuing past junction 19 trying to get into the services. We had them waiting in the carpark side due to running out of lanes, then when the first five lanes left, we filled them again!

“It was incredible to have our highest turn out yet – with 5986 bikes! Roll on next year!”

Netty and her team now have a well-earned two weeks off before planning and preparation starts for next year’s Ride of Respect which will be the ten-year anniversary.

With numbers increasing year on year, if anyone can make 2023’s event even more incredible, then Netty can!  

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Veterans into Logistics, are a non-profit organisation formed to provide training and support to change the lives of ex-forces, individuals with convictions and any other vulnerable people who need help to gain HGV licences and support into paid employment. 

|Ther mission is to reduce unemployment and homelessness amongst the ex-military community by creating a pathway for veterans into the transport and logistics industry. 

• World Champion Francesco Bagnaia's Desmosedici GP22 MotoGP, together with Alvaro Bautista's Panigale V4 R Superbike and the MotoE "V21L" are the stars of the Racing area
• The explosion of energy of the new generation Ducati Scrambler colours the stand along with the entire Ducati 2023 range
• Two new Ducati products make their world premiere at EICMA: the new livery of the DesertX inspired by the Audi RS Q e-tron and a new version of the Futa e-road bicycle
• World Champion Francesco Bagnaia and Enea Bastianini will be the protagonists of a series of Meet&Greet sessions on Thursday (10:30 am and 2:00 pm) along with other Ducati riders who will speak on the following days

Milan (Italy), 9 November 2022 - Just a few days after the incredible emotions experienced in Valencia and on the strength of the triple World Title won in MotoGP (Riders' title, Constructors' title and Team’s title), Ducati presents itself as World Champion with all its new products for 2023 at the opening of the 79th edition of EICMA.

A concentration of Made in Italy emotions for Ducatisti and all motorcycle enthusiasts: Bagnaia's Desmosedici GP, Bautista's Panigale V4 R and all the new models starring in the seven episodes of the Ducati World Première are finally shown to the public live.

EICMA, organised at the Milano-Rho Fair, kicks off with the two days reserved for press and operators and will open its doors to the public from 10 November to 13 November. The Bologna-based manufacturer is ready to welcome all enthusiasts to Hall 15, Stand N10  with its 2023 range.

The heart of the Ducati stand is the explosion of colours of the "Next Gen Freedom" Ducati Scrambler. The new generation of Ducati Scrambler with the three models Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift was presented on the eve of EICMA in the seventh and final episode of the Ducati World Première web series 2023 (here is the link to the episode). This new generation confirms the simplicity and the authenticity that have always represented essential values for all Ducati Scrambler enthusiasts, becoming more contemporary, colourful and endowed with an even more lively personality. Air-cooled Desmodue twin-cylinder engine, trellis frame, wide handlebars, low centre of gravity and riding fun are enhanced by evolved electronics and a more modern styling in lines and concepts.

Ducati offers great travellers the new Multistrada V4 Rally, designed for long journeys and capable of satisfying even the most demanding motorcyclists searching for new roads alone or with a passenger.
For enthusiasts of the 21" front wheel, the DesertX comes as an EICMA première with the new "RR22" livery, inspired by the Audi RS Q e-tron that raced in the last Dakar (more images of the bike are available at this link). Shown to the public for the first time as a concept during the International Press Launch in Sardinia on the DesertX ridden by Danilo Petrucci, from November it will join the Matt Star White Silk colour scheme in Ducati dealerships.

The new  Panigale V4 R is the spearhead of the Ducati superbike family. A synthesis of style, performance and technological sophistication, it sets new benchmarks with its 16,500 rpm and 240.5 hp*. The components of the Desmosedici Stradale R such as the "gun drilled" connecting rods and the pistons with DLC-treated shell are on display at the stand next to the bike.
The new Ducati Streetfighter family is represented by the V2 model in Storm Green livery, the V4 S Grey Nero and the new, numbered, V4 SP2, which combines the "Fight Formula" with the SP specification, making it even more effective in sport riding and specifically on track.

With its refined styling and muscular, elegant lines, the new Diavel V4 shows off all its strong personality, enhanced in the accessorized version by the black calipers and carbon parts from Ducati Performance catalogue. The Monster SP, thanks to its excellent components, is ready to offer the maximum fun and completes the Monster range.

The area dedicated to Ducati E-Bikes displays the MIG-S, the TK-01RR and the AXS version of the e-Road Ducati Futa in the Matt Carbon/GP Red livery, the other Ducati première at EICMA 2022 (more images are available at this link ). Equipped with the SRAM RIVAL eTAP AXS groupset with wireless 2x12-speed electronic gearing, AXS connectivity and the possibility of integrating an optional power meter, this version adds to the range of pedal-assist bikes, making it even richer.

A new special area in the stand is for Ducati Unica, the program dedicated to the most passionate Ducatisti who, in collaboration with the Centro Stile Ducati, have the opportunity to create true unique pieces like the one on display at EICMA 2022.

The Ducati stand could not do without the World Champion's bike, the Desmosedici GP with which Francesco Bagnaia won the title last Sunday in Valencia, straight from the last MotoGP round. Next is the Panigale V4 R on which Alvaro Bautista is ready to play his first “match point” in Indonesia next weekend. After being given its world preview by more than 80,000 fans at WDW 2022, the V21L prototype , the bike with which the Bologna-based manufacturer will participate in next year's FIM MotoE™ World Cup as single supplier, also makes its public debut.

During EICMA, there will be several opportunities to meet the Ducati riders. First up will be newly-crowned MotoGP World Champion Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia, who will be at the stand on Thursday, November 10 at 10:30 am. In the afternoon it will be the turn of Enea Bastianini, who will be at the stand from 2:00 pm.
Two moments will also be dedicated to Ducati Talk. On Friday, November 11 at 11:00 am the theme will be “Ducatiste: different styles, one passion”. Chiara Lovato (@lovatochiara), Mariaelena Caizzi (@mariaelena_caizzi), Bianca Maria Malogioglio (@iambiancam) and Stefania De Micheli (@stefidem) will talk about their experiences riding the bikes from Borgo Panigale.
On Saturday, November 12 at 12:30 pm, it will be the turn of rider and YouTuber Luca Salvadori, the protagonist of a meeting themed “Content creating while racing”.

All the contents from EICMA Fair are available on Ducati Media House.