7 Great Motorcycle Modifications To Make

Your new motorcycle may seem perfect as it is, considering that it’s fresh from the factory with all its original parts and features. However, the truth is that there are several ways you can make your bike function better without spending a lot of money or expending too much effort. Some modifications aren’t necessary, but others can make your riding experience a great deal more enjoyable.

Biggs Harley-Davidson, located in San Marcos, is your southern California motorcycle dealer. Here are seven of the best motorcycle modifications you can easily make to improve your bike’s performance, appearance and comfort.

1. Custom Windshield

While your helmet’s face mask can protect you from wind and bugs and rain, it’s always nice to have more protection. The manufacturer may have put a windshield on your bike, but it’s better to get one that’s custom fitted and properly aligned. Swap out your stock windshield for a better fitting windshield that’s suited to your particular type of motorcycle. You can even customize aspects like the shape, height and whether the windshield has a tint or not.

2. Better Tires

The tires on your new motorcycle are not going to be the highest quality tires possible, because that’s not an area where the manufacturer wants to spend a lot of money. 

3. Battery Tender

A bike that’s been in storage for a while is a bike that’s likely to have a dead battery. If your battery runs down too many times, it may not hold a charge and you’ll have to replace it well before its time. Buying a battery tender will keep your bike’s battery topped up and ready to go. Hook up cables to the battery and plug in your tender when the bike is put into storage over winter or if you don’t plan to ride for a while. This practical modification will save you a bundle in terms of new battery costs.

4. Flush-Mount Signal Lights

Factory-installed turn signals stick out awkwardly from your bike and can impact its aesthetic. Not only that, but turn signals that stick out too far can be a real danger in a crash. You can have custom turn signals installed that will lay flush with your bike. These lights are often much brighter LED lights, which will help you to stay visible to other motorists in dark riding conditions, too.

5. Frame Sliders

You don’t want your bike to skid across the ground if you crash or it falls over. An easy modification to make is a pair of frame sliders on either side that jut out from your bike and prevent its fairings from touching the ground. Don’t get the cheap plastic kind, either; go for something strong and durable that will protect your bike properly.

6. Fender Eliminator Kit

Bulky fenders that come from the factory are unattractive and ruin the sleek lines of your motorcycle. However, you need to make sure that you’re installing the right type of fender that properly relocates the tail light. A good fender eliminator kit relocates all of your lights so that your bike is compliant with local laws. If you really want to make sure things are done correctly, then have a professional mechanic install your fender eliminator kit.

7. Motorcycle Stand

Keeping your motorcycle off the ground is important, and if you’re just leaning your bike against a wall or using the factory-made stand, you may find that it’s inclined to slip down and get scuffed up. Investing in a better motorcycle stand will help to protect your bike and keep it upright while it’s parked or stored. 

If your bike is smaller, get a rear stand for it. Rear stands are sturdy and lift up your bike to make it easier to mount, start, maintain and even wash. Bigger motorcycles like a touring bike will require a front-wheel stand instead to keep them upright and steady.

Making even one of these modifications will significantly improve your bike, and there are always more ways you can personalize your ride. Looking for a new bike to customize? Browse our website to take a look at our fine selection of new and used motorcycles for sale at our dealership in San Marcos, CA. Biggs Harley-Davidson proudly serves the greater San Diego metropolitan area as well as the city of Oceanside, CA.