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⁾

In 1981, the full VIN was expanded to include country of origin, maker, bike weight, engine displacement, introduction date, a check digit and which factory made it ²⁾.

• This new nationwide system is designed to provide improved theft protection and more specific vehicle information to HD and government agencies.
• 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.³⁾

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.

17 Digit VIN for 1981-1985 Models
Origin	Make	Weight Class	Model	Engine Size	Intro Date / Special Models	VIN Check Digit	Model Year	Assembly Plant	Serial Number
1 = Made in USA	HD = Harley Davidson	1 = 1000cc	CA = XLH 1000 CB = XLS 1000	H = 1000cc	1 = Regular 2 = Mid Year	Can be 0 - 9 or X	B = 1981	Y = York, PA	6 Digits (varies)
Example: (1HD1CAH16BY112016) designates a 1981 XLH 1000, stamped on the steering head with a sticker VIN on the right front frame downtube. The abbreviated VIN appears on engine right case (CAHB 112016) 4)
Example VIN on Frame Reads
1	HD	1	CA	H	1	6	B	Y	112016
Example Abbreviated VIN on Case Reads
			CA	H			B		112016

The engine numbers changed and are no longer stamped the same as the frame. This change is part of the new 17 digit VIN system.
The serial number is stamped on the case, right side, between the cylinders but is not used for identification purpose of ownership.

• An abbreviated version of the 17 digit VIN is stamped into the engine case. It's the exact same as the frame numbers but certain designations were left out.
  (including country of origin, maker, bike weight, intro date, check digit and plant of origin)

• 5 sided solenoid on the starter (Nippon), ⁵⁾
• No kicker, ⁶⁾
• Low mounted rear master cylinder, ⁷⁾
• Left side shift, ⁸⁾
• Gear rotor oil pump, ⁹⁾
• One-way, Foo Foo valve built into the cam cover, standard wet clutch and (no transfer valve?)¹⁰⁾

What is the Current KBB Value? ¹¹⁾

1981 XLH 1000 Mods include tank decal, sissy bar, and highway pegs.12)

What is the Current KBB Value? ¹³⁾

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