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1978 Sportster

Vehicle Identification

Frame VIN Numbers

Starting in 1970, the only numbers used for the purpose of identification are on the right neck and frame downtube.

  • The frame is stamped with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)identification.
  • There are still other stampings on the different parts of the frame combined with certain features that can be used to date the frame.
    But the only numbers used to identify the entire bike for ownership purposes is the VIN number stamped in the right side neck.
  • In addition to the neck VIN, an identification label is located on the frame giving the VIN and date of manufacture.
    This label was required by law for identification.1)
  • The serial number is the 3rd through the 7th digit. All serial numbers run consecutively regardless of model year. 2)

Click Here to view Ironhead Frame Identification in the Sportsterpedia for more information.
Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia.

Model CodeModel NumberSerial NumberManufacturer IDModel Year
XL or XLH3A10,000 and up (5digits)H (for Harley Davidson)8 (1978)
XLCH4A10,000 and up (5digits)H (for Harley Davidson)8 (1978)
XLA4D10,000 and up (5digits)H (for Harley Davidson)8 (1978)
XLT2G10,000 and up (5digits)H (for Harley Davidson)8 (1978)
XLS4E10,000 and up (5digits)H (for Harley Davidson)8 (1978)
XLCR7F10,000 and up (five digitsH (forHarley Davidson)8 (1978)

Engine Serial Numbers

The engine serial numbers were still stamped in the case but longer used for identification purpose of ownership on 1970-up model Sportsters.

  • The engine VIN is stamped on the right side of the engine crankcase between the cylinders.

Specifications

Models

XLCR 1000 Cafe Racer

What is the Current KBB Value? 3)

1978 XLCR 1000 - Last year in production - click to enlarge.
(Original California model with one state only mufflers.)4)

XLH 1000

What is the Current KBB Value? 5)

XLH 1000 Anniversary

What is the Current KBB Value? 6)

XLCH 1000

What is the Current KBB Value? 7)

  • Dual Sport

Back to Sportster History Index

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