Decode Your ATV or Motorcycle Model Year in Seconds Using the VIN's 10th Digit
Whether you're hunting for parts for your dirt bike, checking recalls on a used quad, verifying a Craigslist deal on a sport ATV, or confirming the year of that classic trail bike in the garage, the model year is crucial information. Luckily, your ATV or motorcycle tells you exactly what year it is—right on the frame.
The secret? The 10th digit of the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This single character instantly reveals the model year, thanks to a standardized code used by manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Polaris, Can-Am, Suzuki, and more.
Where to Find the VIN on Your ATV or Motorcycle
VIN locations vary slightly by brand and model, but they're almost always stamped directly into the frame (not just on a sticker, which can fade or peel).
Common spots on motorcycles:
- Stamped on the steering neck (right behind the front forks/headstock area—often the easiest to spot by turning the handlebars and looking down).
- Sometimes on the frame rail near the engine or under the seat.
Common spots on ATVs/Quads:
- Front left wheel well (very common on Polaris, Yamaha, and many others).
- Rear frame rail or near the back left/right wheel well.
- Under the seat on the frame, or on a cross tube between the front downtubes (Honda often uses this spot).
- Occasionally in the front fender area or side rail—squat down and look closely; dirt and grime often hide it.
Quick tip: Clean the area with a rag if needed, or use a flashlight/phone light. The VIN is usually punched/stamped into metal, so it won't wash off.
Why the 10th Digit Works for ATVs & Motorcycles
Since 1981, the U.S. standard (followed by most major manufacturers worldwide) requires a 17-digit VIN for motorcycles, ATVs, scooters, and similar vehicles. The 10th character is reserved specifically for the model year, using a repeating 30-year cycle of letters and numbers (skipping confusing ones like I, O, Q, U, Z, and 0 in that position).
This system applies equally to street bikes, dirt bikes, sport quads, utility ATVs, and side-by-sides.
Complete 10th Digit Model Year Chart (1980–2030+)
Match the 10th character in your VIN to find the model year:
1980–2009
- A → 1980
- B → 1981
- C → 1982
- D → 1983
- E → 1984
- F → 1985
- G → 1986
- H → 1987
- J → 1988
- K → 1989
- L → 1990
- M → 1991
- N → 1992
- P → 1993
- R → 1994
- S → 1995
- T → 1996
- V → 1997
- W → 1998
- X → 1999
- Y → 2000
- 1 → 2001
- 2 → 2002
- 3 → 2003
- 4 → 2004
- 5 → 2005
- 6 → 2006
- 7 → 2007
- 8 → 2008
- 9 → 2009
2010–2030
- A → 2010
- B → 2011
- C → 2012
- D → 2013
- E → 2014
- F → 2015
- G → 2016
- H → 2017
- J → 2018
- K → 2019
- L → 2020
- M → 2021
- N → 2022
- P → 2023
- R → 2024
- S → 2025
- T → 2026 (current models being built/sold)
- V → 2027
- W → 2028
- X → 2029
- Y → 2030
Examples in the real world:
- 10th digit = T → 2026 model (many new dirt bikes and sport ATVs right now)
- 10th digit = R → 2024 model
- 10th digit = L → 2020 model (common on used trail quads and adventure bikes)
Pro Tips for ATV & Motorcycle Owners
- Model Year vs. Build Date — A "2026" model might have rolled off the line in late 2025. The 10th digit always shows the model year.
- 30-Year Repeat — Codes cycle every 30 years (e.g., "A" = 1980 or 2010). For older machines, the bike's overall style usually makes it obvious which era it is.
- Pre-1981 Bikes/Quads — No universal standard existed; year info might be on a separate plate or only in paperwork.
- Why This Matters for Riders — Correct year means right carb jets, suspension parts, plastics, tires, brakes, or electrical components. It also helps spot odometer rollback scams or title issues on used buys.
Next time you're eyeing a used YZ, Raptor, Foreman, CRF, or Outlander, grab the VIN first and decode it yourself in under 10 seconds. It's one of the smartest moves any rider or quad owner can make before they purchase the vehicle or order parts for it!