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.

9 Digit VIN for 1980 Sportsters
Sportster Model (first 2 digits)	Serial Number (next 5 digits)	Manufacturer (2nd to last digit)	Model Season (last digit)
3A - XLH 4E - XLS 1C - XR-750	10,000 and up	J - (1980 HD)	0 - (1980)
Example (3A 11790 J0) designates a 1980 XLH 1000, stamped on the engine right case and right side of the steering head on the frame 3)
Example VIN on Frame Reads: 3A 11790 J0 indicating a 1980 XLH, appearing
3A	11790	J	0

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.

• Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2
• Displacement: 60.9 ci / 997.5 cc (1,000 cc advertised)
• Compression Ratio: 9:1
• Bore: 3.188 in / 81 mm
• Stroke: 3.8125 in / 96.8 mm
• 4 Cams
• Oil pump pressure:
  • Minimum: 4-7 psi (idle)
  • Maximum: 10-20 psi (3500 rpm)
  • Normal riding conditions: 4-15 psi
• Fuel System: Keihin “butterfly” carburetor. Click Here to reference the main Ironhead carb page in the Sportsterpedia
• Spark Plugs #4R, #4R5
• Fuel Capacity:
  • XLH, 2.25 gal / 8.517 l ⁴⁾
    Reserve: .25 gal / .946 l
  • XLS, 3.6 gal / 13.627 l
    Reserve: .03 gal / 1.135 l
• Oil Capacity: 4 qts. / 2.83 l (quoted from -85 FSM)
• Transmission Capacity: 1.5 pints / .71 l

What is the Current KBB Value? ⁵⁾

Late 80 XLH ⁶⁾

What is the Current KBB Value? ⁷⁾

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