Yep Jim, I'm pretty sure Rich's explanation about a motorcycle's year of manufacture and how it's shown on the registration determines this issue in most states.

However, I think the D.O.T. mandated lighted turn signals on all motorcycles a few years before 1977. I think the actual year was 1973.

Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)