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Category: Motorcycles
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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.
article supplied
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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!
article supplied
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In a world of increasing interest rates Suzuki is offering customers the chance to fix for up to four years at just 4.9% APR representative, on either a PCP or HP agreement and with no deposit required.
Available on the range-topping Hayabusa – with its famed 1340cc, torque-laden inline four cylinder engine and electronics suite than includes traction control, launch control, cruise control, cornering ABS, and a bi-directional quickshifter – the V-Strom 650XT middleweight adventure machine, and the bike of the people; the SV650 and its café racer sibling, the SV650X.
The SV650, the bike that spawned the middleweight twins category, with no deposit and on a four-year PCP deal, can be had for just £107.87 per month. At the other end of the spectrum, the third generation Hayabusa can be ridden for £149.00per month over the same period, with a £3,626.88 deposit or trade-in.
Suzuki GB head of motorcycles, Jonathan Martin, said, “We’re acutely aware of the fact that there are challenges being faced at the moment, so, to help our customers we’re providing the opportunity to fix their interest rate for up to four years. The result is a known monthly repayment that’s not going to change, providing certainty and stability. And at 4.9% APR it helps keep those repayments low and manageable, and means you can put a new Suzuki in the garage for less.”
The offer runs until 31 December, 2022.
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FTR lineup adds fresh, vibrant colours, while New FTR Sport, FTR Rally & FTR R Carbon upgrade to 101 mm Round Touchscreen Display with Navigation*
Indian Challenger Elite delivers the ultimate in style & exclusivity; new sapphire blue smoke paint with Black Smoke & Titanium Metallic Smoke combine premium quality with head-turning style
From Scout to Indian Pursuit, the 2023 lineup offers models & styles for any rider; new Indian Motorcycle accessories further expand personalisation options
Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2023 model year lineup, featuring the new FTR Sport and Indian Challenger Elite, along with various model updates and new accessories across the line. In addition, the 2023 lineup features a variety of new colour options, highlighted by vibrant colour schemes for FTR and FTR Sport on newly designed tank covers.
“Fully loaded with models and styles for the widest range of riders, the 2023 lineup is a powerful testament to our team’s relentless effort to build and refine a truly comprehensive product offering over the past nine years,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “This effort has been focused across the line and within each model lineup, as evidenced by the introduction of the FTR Sport – the addition of which creates four unique FTR offerings, each with its own style and personality.”
FTR: An American Original
Headlining the 2023 model year news is the introduction of a new FTR mid-range trim, the FTR Sport. Replacing FTR S, the FTR Sport sits just below the premium FTR R Carbon, but above the FTR and FTR Rally – creating four distinct trim models for riders to choose from.
Designed for riders to cut loose and enjoy the pure sport of motorcycling, the FTR Sport’s bold aesthetics and sporty componentry, including a number plate, chin fairing and seat cowl, take the FTR’s energetic attitude to another level. The FTR Sport touts a new tank panel design and is available in Black Metallic with Indy Red accents or White Lightning with Indy Red and Black Metallic accents. A totally unique take on American V-twin performance with an unmistakable, muscular style, the FTR truly is an American original.
New for 2023, the FTR Sport, FTR Rally and FTR R Carbon are upgraded with a 101 mm round touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND, featuring navigation*. Three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Rain) provide unique performance experiences for varying preferences and riding conditions, while Lean Angle Sensitive Stability Control and ABS provide confident, predictable handling in all conditions.
All four FTR models now offer a new sport exhaust muffler, and a retuned front braking system, which provides a firmer feel. Indian Motorcycle also moved the speedometer up for easier viewing and added a new clutch for improved feel and performance.
The FTR Rally features 19 and 18-inch spoked wheels wrapped with knobby tires and is available in new Black Smoke paint with Desert Earth frame and the iconic Indian Motorcycle Headdress logo emblazoned across the tank.
The FTR R Carbon separates itself as the premium offering with carbon fibre components, premium seat, fully adjustable Öhlins gold front forks and a gold piggyback shock. The iconic Indian Script logo tank panels are exclusive to the FTR R Carbon, which is finished with classy Cloud Silver and Championship Gold pinstriping.
While primary componentry carries over for the entry FTR, the new tank panel design, as seen on FTR Sport, and the addition of bold, vibrant colours, the refreshed FTR further broadens the appeal of the FTR lineup to more riders. The entry FTR is available in Metallic Black, contrasted by Lifted Lime branding with matching rear shock, or Stealth Gray, featuring Orange Burst branding, rear shock and wheels.
For added personalization, Indian Motorcycle is launching nine new FTR accessories. Through a brand partnership with Gilles Tooling, Indian Motorcycle is offering co-branded pieces, including Performance Adjustable Rearsets, and three Billet components: Bar End Weights, an Oil Cap and a Radiator Cap. Performance Adjustable Levers will also be available in spring 2023. In addition, Indian Motorcycle has expanded its carbon fibre offering with three new pieces, including an Exhaust Heat Shield, Frame Guard and a Sprocket Cover. To enhance comfort, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a durable and weather-resistant Comfort+ Seat, which combines comfortable ergonomics with additional padding where needed most.
Indian Challenger Elite: Ultimate in Style & Exclusivity
For riders looking for something more exclusive and elevated from the rest, Indian Motorcycle is offering the 2023 Indian Challenger Elite. With only 150 available in total and less than 50 outside of America, the limited-edition bagger makes a bold statement with its premium Sapphire Blue Smoke Paint with Black Smoke and Titanium Metallic Smoke Accents.
The perfect blend of style, performance and comfort, the Indian Challenger Elite is sure to turn heads on streets and crush miles on open highways. The PowerPlus engine touts a best-in-class 90 kW horsepower and 178 Nm of torque, and its premium amenities and advanced ride-enhancing technology deliver a ride experience that’s second-to-none. Indian Challenger Elite’s long list of premium features include the following: three selectable ride modes, electronically adjustable rear suspension preload from Fox®, Smart Lean Technology, an adaptive LED Headlight, LED driving lights, an adjustable flare windscreen, Select floorboards, heated grips, 165 mm Powerband Audio with Saddlebag Speakers, and a new Precision Cut five-spoke wheel. All-in, whether riding two-up for a weekend adventure or commuting solo, the Indian Challenger Elite delivers the ultimate in style and exclusivity.
2023 LINEUP: A Diverse Range for Any Rider
Touting a wider range of models and options than ever before, the 2023 Indian Motorcycle line offers a model suited for any rider and a host of new upgrades, including:
• All Thunderstroke and PowerPlus models receive a new clutch – improving the overall feel and forgiveness. This new slipper clutch reduces engine drag which provides a smoother down shifting experience and comfortable ride while improving your ability to maintain traction when facing poor road conditions. Lastly, the larger friction zone and decreased lever effort reduces your clutch fatigue, which can be beneficial in urban areas or when riding in traffic.
• Indian Springfield, Chieftain, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster and Indian Pursuit models feature a redesigned LED headlight, which improves reach and spread of light – helping the rider see what lies ahead, while also improving their visibility to other motorists on the road.
• Integrated buttons on the Heated Seats and Heated and Cooled Seats for PowerPlus and heavyweight Thunderstroke models now feature haptics, which allow riders to feel the button’s responsive when wearing gloves.
• Indian Pursuit Premium Package** models now offer Lower Fairing Storage compartments as standard.
Across the line, Indian Motorcycle has introduced an array of new paint colours for international markets, including Sagebrush Smoke for Chief Dark Horse plus Stryker Red Metallic on Roadmaster Limited and Indian Pursuit Dark Horse. Bronze Pearl Metallic is a new colour option on Roadmaster Limited and Indian Springfield models, while Titanium Smoke is introduced to Indian Challenger Dark Horse. For a comprehensive view of the lineup’s new paint options, please visit IndianMotorcycle.media.
For 2023, Indian Motorcycle is introducing an array of functional accessories. First, in partnership with CruzTOOLS®, Indian Motorcycle is launching three accessories, including two tool kits compatible with all models and an axle adapter for FTR models. To add storage to most models, a new All-Weather Vinyl Tail Bag attaches to select passenger seats or luggage racks. In addition, a new Syndicate Heated Seat is available for Indian Challenger models, while a Reduced Reach Kickstand is now available for all Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit models.
For the Chief line, Indian Motorcycle is launching two new bag options. The Chief Fork Bag attaches securely to the front of the handlebars and is perfect for storing smaller items like gloves, glasses, cell phones or water bottles. The new Chief Bobber Saddlebags are water-resistant and add convenient storage without sacrificing style.
For added comfort, Indian Motorcycle is offering Chief riders an upgraded Comfort+ Solo Seat and a two-up Syndicate Seat. The Comfort+ Solo Seat pulls design inspiration from old-school muscle car interiors. The top is plusher than the stock seat and contours to hold the rider securely and comfortably. The new Chief Syndicate Seat complements the bike’s distinct design, while adding comfort and support for both rider and passenger. The Syndicate Seat is made with a durable, weather-resistant black vinyl that won’t fade.
For Chief passengers, Indian Motorcycle is introducing the Low Profile Passenger Backrest, which complements the bike’s style and adds cushioned support to the passenger’s posterior.
Lastly, the new Quick Release Low Profile Trunk is factory engineered to add exceptional style, passenger comfort, and extra storage space to Indian Motorcycle bagger and touring models, while still maintaining a streamlined look. The hinged, lockable lid lifts to the side with the assistance of a gas strut for ease of opening, as well as to stabilise the trunk while open. The trunk bottom is covered with a soft, automotive-quality liner to reduce cargo from moving while riding. The Quick Release Low Profile Trunk’s 46 litre volume easily fits two half helmets, gloves, and a jacket, and with a 10 kg cargo limit is perfect for day trips and small adventures. Quick Release technology lets riders install or remove the trunk quick and easily without tools and no mounting hardware remains on the motorcycle.
For more information on Indian Motorcycle visit IndianMotorcycle.eu and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Suzuki has given its small capacity range a boost with the unveiling of three new 125cc scooters, with the new Address 125, Avenis 125, and Burgman Street 125EX revealed today at Intermot in Cologne, Germany.
All three are engineered to provide comfort, practicality, and outstanding urban performance while also delivering excellent levels of economy and efficiency, but they do so in their own way and with their own style, giving customers the option to enjoy their city, their way.
Engine
The proven Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) engine sits at the heart of all three machines, though the Burgman Street 125EX uses the latest αlpha iteration. The air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant currently powers over five million Suzukis worldwide, and is the forward-looking engine development concept from Suzuki, which results in an outstanding level of environmentally responsible performance, both in terms of low fuel consumption and low emissions.
All three models achieve an impressive 148.67mpg figure and produce just 44g/km of CO2 emissions. At the same time, they still deliver powerful acceleration, with peak horsepower and maximum torque delivered at low rpm.
For the Avenis 125 and Address 125 this is 8.7PS at 6,750rpm and 10Nm at 5,500rpm. The Burgman Street 125EX’s peak power of 8.6PS comes in at 6,500rpm, while peak torque remains the same.
The Burgman Street 125EX, equipped with the SEP-α engine, benefits from extra features which enhance the user experience while at the same time achieving a high levels of fuel economy and quiet operation, including Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS), a new idling stop system, and Suzuki’s new Silent Start System.
A
ddress 125
Inspired by traditional scooter design, the Address 125 boasts classic city style, with curves and attractive body lines punctuated by chrome accents, completed with the classic rounded headlight, which is full LED, as are the position lights and integrated indicators. There’s also a tail-mounted cap, finished in chrome, designed to facilitate easy refuelling and ensure there is no risk of spillages on the floorboard or bags.
The classic style also extends to the clocks, with an analogue speedometer sat atop a digital display. Wrapping around the speedometer is a handy eco indicator, which illuminates green when the Address 125 is being ridden in an economical manner, encouraging fuel efficient riding. Starting is easy with one push of the button enough to start the engine, thanks to Suzuki’s Easy Start System.
21.8 litres of underseat storage give plenty of storage space, plus an upfront storage pocket gives easy access to frequently used items, above which sits a USB charger for smartphones. Dual utility hooks provide extra security for transporting bags or other items. There are also two underseat hooks which can secure helmets when parked, which is made even simpler thanks to centre and side stands coming as standard.
While parked a shutter concealing the ignition key hole provides additional security. To open, an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism is coded to the owner’s key. It also includes a seat opener that eliminates the need to remove the key to access the underseat utility compartment.
With a ready-to-ride weight of 105kg it is easy to handle and highly manoeuvrable. The Address’ underbone frame is built using large-diameter, thin, round tubes, designed to minimise weight while maximising rigidity and also to provide excellent straight-line stability and positive cornering performance.
Stopping power comes from a 190mm diameter disc brake in the front and a 120mm drum brake in the rear, while a combined braking system ensures a stable braking performance by distributing force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated.
The Address 125 rides on a short wheelbase that contributes to ease of manoeuvrability and works in conjunction with the light, slim design to offer easier, more agile handling. The slim design, low seat height and seat shape help make it easy to place both feet on the ground.
Avenis 125
Providing sporty city fun, the Avenis 125 aims to balance performance, style, and practicality; sharp, aggressive looks complement edgy, and dynamic lines, with an upswept tail section and stylish front cowling with floating meter visor. Lighting comes from an aggressive, stacked-lens body-mounted LED headlight, plus vertically-oriented LED position lights add a striking accent to the face.
Distinctive graphics on the sides of the front cowl highlight the scooter’s aggressive attitude, and black metallic-finish emblems add a sophisticated touch.
A sporty two-tone seat with attractive red stitching is firm yet comfortable, with ample padding and a richly textured surface that provides a secure grip when riding. In addition, its carefully crafted shape makes it easy for the rider to put both feet on the ground when stopped, along with cutaway footboards.
A digital instrument panel for the Avenis 125 features a compact LCD screen with a clean and intuitive layout, and it also gets a handy eco indicator light to highlight fuel efficient operation by the rider.
The chassis comprises an underbone frame that contributes to the Avenis 125’s fuel efficiency, excellent straight-line stability, and positive cornering performance. As well as a short wheelbase and semi-soft front suspension settings that provide a smooth and comfortable ride, along with a rear shock that is finely tuned to deliver solid road-holding performance, and agile handling.
Similar to the Address 125, Suzuki’s Combined Brake System supports well-balanced braking by distributing braking force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. Hardware features a 190mm diameter disc brake at the front and a 120mm drum brake at the rear.
Practicality comes from 21.5 litres of underseat storage – with two helmet hooks – dual utility hooks for carrying extra items, an open upfront pocket and one shutable compartment housing a USB charging port. Like the Address 125, a shutter concealing the ignition key hole can be opened quickly, using an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. There’s also a standard fit centre stand a side stand. Riders can also lock the rear brake via a switch on the left lever, when parking.
Burgman Street 125EX
The Burgman Street 125EX is the smart city commuter, tailored to excel and brings a new level of elegant style and performance. It stands out with its fusion of class, style, performance, comfort, practicality, and convenience.
Comfort is taken care of with a long, well-padded seat. Generously proportioned floorboards allow flexibility in foot positioning to maintain a comfortable riding position, while extended footboards up front let the rider extend their legs for greater comfort when cruising.
The look of luxury and sophistication is created with elegant lines and a sense of volume from its striking bodywork to the red stitching on the seat, distinctive lighting and integrated turn signals, and attention to detail.
A clean LCD dash displays information to the rider, including the eco indicator light, as well as an indicator for the Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS).
Like the Avenis, there are 21.5 litres of underseat storage and two helmet hooks, plus two utility hooks for carrying extra items. It also features a closable front compartment with a USB charging port and an additional easy access front storage compartment, next to which is the ignition key slot which can be covered using a magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key.
A longer wheelbase provides impeccable great straight line stability and gives a solid, planted feel and comfortable ride. A firmer suspension setup for the front suspension helps achieve a smooth ride quality, with the spring rate and operation of the front forks optimised for the front wheel weight distribution. Settings for both the forks and rear suspension are finely tuned to the tyres and wheels to achieve a fine balance of stability, road-holding performance, agile handling, and a comfortable ride, even when passing over uneven surfaces.
With a longer wheelbase, strong braking performance is maintained thanks to a larger diameter drum brake, at 130mm. It also gets a combined brake system to modulate braking force between the front and rear wheels when using the left brake lever.
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