Where's my VIN?

[EggsBenedict]

Hello! I'm new to the forum and also just bought my first motorcycle. It's a fixer upper. I want to get some parts for it but I'd like to first confirm the year/ make/ model. I found the sticker behind the front forks but it only has a "shorty" VIN. It's supposed to be a 1980 Yamaha 400 Special. Any other way to get the VIN or at least confirm what I have? Any help would be awesome and thank you in advance.

 

[xschris]

The motor will have it and it should also be stamped into the neck. Most pre 82/83 have "short" vin numbers. Post some pics of the bike we love pics.

 

[MoonClipper]

Elaborating a bit on what Chris said: before 1981 standardized vin's we're not a thing, many manufacturers had their own idea of how vin's should look, as a result many vin's before 1981 are shorter than what they are in modern times.

1981 and on they standardized the vin's to the 17 digit vin's you are use to seeing. If your motor is original you can cross reference your vin, but you should realize that if the motor has been swapped then the vin could be different. Use the one on the neck, that's the one the DMV goes off of in most stages.

 

[BjornBror]

I just acquired one for a parts bike, but there's nothing wrong with it and can be ridden. Is there a way to check the 9 digit vin on my 400 Special, and see if its stolen? TIA

 

[BjornBror]

The motor will have it and it should also be stamped into the neck. Most pre 82/83 have "short" vin numbers. Post some pics of the bike we love pics.

My 400 Special has matching numbers on the neck and the engine. How can I check the 9 digit vin to see if its stolen? I got it as a parts bike, but there's nothing wrong with it and can be ridden now. Do you have a link or source to check my 9 digit vin? Thanks

 

[CaptChrome]

Do you have a link or source to check my 9 digit vin?

There is no easy source to check a VIN that I know of. Your best bet is to ask your state's motor vehicle agency and see what they can do for you. They have more ability to check data across other jurisdictions and may have a method for doing this. But, don't get your hopes up too high as turning a no title bike into a legal rider is not so easy these days.

 

[tstidham]

You can also stop in to your local police department and ask if they can check it.