Embarking on the journey of motorcycle modifications can be as exciting as it is daunting. You’re keen to make your bike your own, add some personal flair, or boost its performance. However, without proper knowledge, this process can lead to some common pitfalls. Beginners often make a handful of mistakes that can affect both the look and functionality of their motorcycles. From overdoing cosmetic changes to underestimating maintenance needs, these missteps could turn your customized dream into a garage-bound nightmare. Let’s explore some typical modification misjudgments and how to avoid them, to ensure your bike not only turns heads, but also runs at its best.
1. Installing Bubble Windscreens
If you’re considering installing a bubble wind screen on your motorcycle, it’s worth thinking twice! While they might change up the look of your ride, they don’t really add much extra functionality. Sure, they can offer some wind protection and deflect debris, but they don’t do much more than what good riding gear can already provide. Plus, they can add some extra weight to your bike and create drag, which could affect how it handles and its fuel efficiency.
2. Putting Low Quality Tires
Investing in high-quality tires is essential as they are the only point of contact between your motorcycle and the road, affecting safety and performance.
Putting low-quality tires on your motorcycle is like wearing worn-out shoes for a marathon; they might just get you through but at what cost? Substandard tires can lead to poor traction, greater stopping distances, and an unpredictable ride.
They wear out faster and need replacement sooner, making them more expensive in the long run. Your bike’s handling can be seriously compromised, especially in adverse weather conditions, increasing the likelihood of skidding or accidents. Always opt for reputable brands and models that offer durability and reliable grip for a safer ride.
3. Not Buying Tank Grips
When you’re starting out on your motorcycle journey, tank grips might seem like an unnecessary addition, but they serve crucial practical purposes. By not incorporating them, you’re overlooking a significant aspect of ride control and comfort.
You might think tank grips are purely aesthetic, but they’re actually essential for stabilizing your position while riding. Without them, you’re more likely to slide around on the seat, especially during braking or accelerating, which can lead to a lack of control and increased fatigue. Tank grips give you a more secure connection to your motorcycle, allowing you to maintain better posture and control. It’s not just about keeping your knees from scuffing; it’s about making sure you can maneuver your bike with confidence. Not to mention, they often help protect the tank from scratches and wear over time.
4. Installing Aftermarket Bar Grips
When you add aftermarket bar grips to your motorcycle, you aim to enhance the comfort and control of your ride. However, most of the time adding aftermarket grips doesn’t really make a difference. If your current factory grips are in good shape, you most likely won’t be able to tell the difference.
5. Removing Mirrors
When customizing your motorcycle, you might be tempted to remove the stock mirrors for aesthetic reasons, but this can compromise your safety on the road.
Safety First: Your mirrors are a critical part of your safety gear. Without them, you lose a significant amount of visibility, making it harder to see other vehicles or obstacles around you, especially those that are behind you. Riding without mirrors can lead to hazardous situations because you’re not able to monitor traffic as effectively.
Legal Requirements: In many places, it’s actually illegal to ride a motorcycle without mirrors. You could find yourself getting pulled over and fined, or worse, failing an inspection or being held responsible for any accidents caused by your lack of visibility.
Modding Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of the way your stock mirrors look, consider installing aftermarket mirrors that comply with safety standards rather than removing them entirely. This way, you keep your bike looking fresh while staying safe and legal.
6. Using Tinted Visors At Night
Choosing the right visor for your motorcycle helmet is crucial, especially when it comes to nighttime riding. A tinted visor may be a comfort during the day but can dangerously reduce your vision after dark.
Riding at night with a tinted visor is a common mistake you’ll want to avoid. Darkness considerably reduces visibility, and adding a tinted layer only compounds the issue. Despite the fact that tinted visors are legal in the day, your ability to see clearly at night can be significantly diminished, as the visor will further limit the already low light conditions. It’s advisable to switch to a clear visor after dusk to maintain optimal vision and ensure a safer ride.
7. Aftermarket Exhausts Installation
When you’re eager to enhance your motorcycle’s performance and sound, installing an aftermarket exhaust might seem like a straightforward upgrade. However, it’s crucial to understand the complexities involved to avoid common pitfalls.
Installing an aftermarket exhaust can be a mistake if not done correctly. Compatibility is key; your new exhaust should match your motorcycle’s model and make. Incorrect installation can lead to performance issues, such as reduced engine efficiency or even damage. Moreover, an improperly installed exhaust may result in a failed emissions test, leading to legal headaches. It’s essential to follow a step-by-step guide or seek professional help to ensure the exhaust is installed correctly for optimal performance. Remember, while aftermarket exhausts can enhance your bike, they must be installed with care and knowledge to avoid costly mistakes.
