The "P" in the LS650P stands for "pullback". As in the type of handle bars. Earlier models were LS650F for the flat bar that they had on them. The year letter designation is in refrence to the VIN#.

Nice to know when your ordering parts that go on the handlebars. Last week I ordered a throttle cable and ended up with the shorter one.

Will keep this in the back of my head from here on out.

steelwolf wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:09:

The letter just gives reference to the VIN#. It's not nessecerily part of it. the VIN# will give you all sorts of info. Year, model, frame production plant, assembly plant, paint color, emissions control options, all sorts of stuff. Even the type of seat, handle bars and carb that came factory on the bike. Without the factory "Service Manual" none of these numbers would mean anything to anyone.

As for ordering parts, I've never had to give a letter designation to order anything. Just tell 'em the year and they know the letter that corresponds to it.