Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Welcome

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on pre-1981 VINs and frame numbers for vintage and historic motorcycles. While the standardized 17-digit VIN system was introduced in 1981, many manufacturers continued using older formats for several more years. Our resources are designed to help you accurately identify the manufacturing year of motorcycles using these earlier VIN formats.

Each manufacturer had their own unique system, leading to variations that aren’t always straightforward to decode. While some VIN formats are easily decipherable, others—particularly from Japanese manufacturers—can be more challenging. The content on these pages is compiled from dedicated enthusiasts and clubs across the web, offering insights and decoding tools to assist you in your journey through motorcycle history.

Explore our pages for detailed support in identifying and understanding the VIN and frame numbers from a bygone era of motorcycling. Whether you’re restoring, collecting, or simply curious, you’ll find valuable information tailored to a wide range of classic models.

It’s early days, but we’ve made a start. While these pages were originally put together for our own use, to easily find links and to assist us with our Dating Certificate service, we’ve decided to share them online so everyone can benefit. If you can contribute data, links, or insights, your input would be greatly appreciated. Together, we can expand and refine this resource for motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere.