Question 1

How do I decode my Honda ATV VIN?

Accepted Answer

Honda ATV VINs are 17 characters long. Position 1–3 identify the manufacturer (JH2 for Honda), position 4–8 encode the model and engine, position 10 encodes the model year (A=1980, B=1981... Y=2000, 1=2001... continuing alphanumerically), and positions 12–17 are the serial number. Use the Honda ES Shift Kit free VIN decoder tool to identify your exact model and year automatically.

Question 2

Where is the VIN on a Honda ATV?

Accepted Answer

Honda ATV VINs are stamped in two places: on the frame rail on the left side near the front wheel, or on the middle front frame support (it may be hidden by your winch). The VIN is also printed on your title, registration card, or insurance documents. The frame stamp is always 17 characters and is the authoritative VIN.

Question 3

What does the 10th digit of a Honda ATV VIN mean?

Accepted Answer

The 10th character of a Honda ATV VIN encodes the model year. The sequence runs: A=1980, B=1981, ... Y=2000, 1=2001, 2=2002, 3=2003 ... 9=2009, A=2010, B=2011, and so on. The Honda ES Shift Kit VIN decoder reads this character automatically to identify your exact model year.

Question 4

Can I use the VIN to find out which ES Shift Kit fits my Honda ATV?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Enter your 17-character VIN into the Honda ES Shift Kit VIN decoder and it will identify your exact model — Recon 250, Rancher 350/420, or Foreman 450/500 — along with the model year, then link you directly to the correct ES Shift Kit for that bike.

Question 5

Does the Honda VIN decoder work for ATVs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Honda ES Shift Kit VIN decoder is purpose-built for Honda ATVs — specifically the Recon 250, Rancher 350, Rancher 420, Foreman 450, and Foreman 500. It decodes the WMI, model code, and model year digit to identify your exact trim and compatible ES Shift Bypass Kit.

Honda ATV VIN Decoder

Where Is My VIN?

Frame Neck

Title & Registration

Model Year Tip

Know Your Model? Find Your Kit.