The only part of the VIN you need to determine the year is the 10th digit. The 'A' version (86 and 87) is very different from the 'B' version, and all the 'B's are pretty much alike.

As for your 2WD 10-inch wheels, you can use any 10-inch tires, for the most part. BUT, if you try to go more than a couple of inches wider or narrower than stock, it may be harder to mount the tires. And, going smaller in diameter (24 down to 22) may reduce your ground clearance in an unacceptable way. Going an inch larger in diameter only reduces your torque a bit.

 

I have a Kawasaki bayou KLF300C that had the entire front end chopped off and welded to the rear end of a single seater gocart and I have to replace Parts on the motor and I dont know what the year is because I'm guessing the vin was on part of the frame that was cut off if anyone could help me this would be very helpful it's a 2x4 not a 4x4 thanks

 

If the 10th digit of the VIN is cut off, then your best bet will be to look at the parts diagrams online and compare to what you have. As pointed out above, the decals changed pretty much every year, along with other minor changes in each subgroup, A, B, or C. Your ATV may be new enough to have original tires...have you checked the date stamp on them? You might post a photo or 2.

My KLF300A1 was missing its VIN stamp entirely, so I determined model year this way. Lots of Kawis had weak imprints back in the 80s, it seems.