by
mohit bohra
| Mar 20, 2025
Updated on - 20 Jan 2026
If you’ve ever tried renewing your bike insurance, filing a claim or even getting your vehicle serviced, you’ve probably been asked for your engine number. It’s a small detail that many riders overlook; until they actually need it.
Knowing where to find the engine number on your bike can save you time and stress during paperwork, warranty claims or when dealing with authorities. It’s also essential for accurate registration and insurance verification.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly where to locate your bike’s engine number and why it’s such an important identifier for your two-wheeler.
What is bike engine number?
A bike engine number is a unique alphanumeric code assigned by the manufacturer to identify a specific engine. It helps trace the engine’s origin, manufacturing details and production records.
This number is usually engraved on the engine casing and consists of letters and digits that indicate details like the engine series and production plant.
For riders, the engine number is essential when registering the vehicle, buying or renewing bike insurance or verifying authenticity when purchasing a second-hand bike.
How to find the engine number of your bike?
To find the engine number of your bike, start by checking the following general areas. The code is mentioned on the frame or the engine itself. Typically, a bike's engine number can be found on the side of the engine casing, usually in a small, engraved or stamped number.
If you still cannot find it, refer to your bike's owner's manual for assistance. Most of the time, it is included in a diagram that shows its location. You can also refer to the VIN plate. Most bikes also have the engine number inscribed under the seat or on the frame near the seat post. Removing the seat may help you find it.
Dirt and grime can often obscure the engine number. If you still cannot read it, you may seek the help of a mechanic or dealership.
How to read and interpret bike engine number?
Each bike manufacturer follows a unique pattern for its engine number, combining letters and digits to represent details like the plant code, year of manufacture and serial number. Here’s how to read and interpret the code of some major Indian brands:
Hero MotoCorp
- Format: Usually looks like HE16L012345678.
- “HE” shows the plant and engine series.
- “16” indicates the year of manufacture (2016).
- “L” represents the month (December).
- The remaining digits form the serial number.
Bajaj Auto
- Format: Commonly JBKA014902345.
- “J” shows the manufacturing plant (Akurdi).
- “BKA” indicates the engine family or model.
- The final digits form the serial number.
TVS Motor Company
- Format: Similar to K20A000000000.
- Early letters show the plant and engine variant.
- Numbers like “20” denote the year (2020).
- Last digits identify the engine uniquely.
Royal Enfield
- Format: Often E000000000 for newer models.
- “E” stands for the manufacturing plant.
- The remaining numbers are the unique engine serial code.
- Older models may have varying formats requiring brand-specific decoding.
Yamaha
- Format: Typically YJ00E000000.
- “YJ” marks Yamaha India and the plant location.
- “E” indicates the engine type.
- Final digits show the serial sequence.
Generally, the last set of numbers always represents your engine’s unique serial code, regardless of the brand.
Using the engine number for registration and bike insurance
Your bike’s engine number plays the main role in both registration and insurance processes for accurate identification and record-keeping.
● For Bike Registration
When registering a new bike, you must provide the engine number along with the chassis number at your local Regional Transport Office (RTO). These details are stamped directly on the bike and help verify the vehicle’s authenticity. Once verified, the RTO issues a unique registration number linked to your bike’s specific engine and chassis, officially recognising it for road use.
● For Bike Insurance
The engine number is essential when buying or renewing insurance. Insurers use it, along with registration and chassis details, to create a policy specific to your vehicle. This ensures accurate coverage in case of theft, damage or claims. You can check your two-wheeler insurance status on your insurer’s website or the government’s VAHAN portal using your registration number. For offline help, visit the nearest RTO or insurer’s branch.
Both the engine and chassis numbers are permanent identifiers. While the registration number may change after resale or relocation, the engine number remains constant, making it vital for ownership verification and claim processing.
What to do if the engine number is illegible or tampered
If your bike’s engine number is unreadable or tampered with, you should take immediate action to avoid legal or insurance-related issues.
Start by visiting an authorised service centre or dealership for your bike’s brand. They can inspect the number and provide a verification or damage report. If the number is partially visible, they may help re-engrave or re-stamp it.
If the engine number is completely missing or unclear, report it to your local police station and file an FIR. This report serves as proof that the damage wasn’t intentional. Next, submit the FIR and your vehicle documents to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for inspection.
After verification, the RTO may issue a new engine number or officially endorse the existing one. Keeping these records up to date ensures your registration and bike insurance remain valid, helping you avoid problems during claims or renewals.
Conclusion
Your bike’s engine number is more than just a set of digits; it’s proof of your vehicle’s identity and authenticity. Knowing where to find it and keeping it legible can save you from unnecessary stress during registration, resale or insurance claims.
Just as keeping your documents in order helps you ride worry free, having a two wheeler insurance policy protects you from financial setbacks due to theft, damage or accidents. Before you hit the road, take a moment to secure peace of mind. Fill out the form on this page to get personalised bike insurance advice that fits your needs.
FAQs
1. Can I find my bike’s engine number online without physically checking the vehicle?
Yes, you can find it on the VAHAN portal by entering your bike’s registration number. The portal displays registered details like engine and chassis numbers as per RTO records.
2. What should I do if my bike’s engine number doesn’t match the one on my RC or insurance?
You should immediately contact your local RTO and insurer to correct the records. Discrepancies can lead to claim rejection or ownership verification issues during resale.
3. Does repainting or servicing affect the engine number on my bike?
No, repainting or regular servicing won’t change or remove the engine number. However, ensure it remains visible and legible, as tampering or corrosion can make verification difficult.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.