Whether you’re new to motorcycle customization or you’ve been doing it for years, you’re reading this because the number of customization options is downright overwhelming. From the wheels, to the frame, to the handlebars, to the dirt bike riding gear, you can trick out your bike anyway that you please. You may be tempted to dive right in, but before you do, it’s important that you devise a strategy, otherwise you risk making your bike look like MC Hammer in his heyday. MC Hammer may have been able to pull off clashing colors, materials and shapes but unless you want your bike to stand out in all the wrong ways, you should carefully consider your options before getting to work.
Aftermarket vs. OEM Bike Parts
One of the first decisions you must make is, do you want to go with a timeless style or do you want to create a one-of-a-kind machine. Both options have their merits, but you should never mix the styles. If you have an older classic, you should work with OEM motorcycle parts to retain its value. However, if you have a newer bike or a chopper, have fun with the aftermarket accessories. Aftermarket parts are often more durable, which may be ideal if you plan to use your machine more for play than for show.
Frame Style
Motorcycle frames come in a variety of styles, shapes and materials, but regardless of which you choose, they all serve one essential purpose: to unite all the essential components of your bike, including the wheels, suspension,
seats, fuel tank and handlebars. Which frame style you ultimately choose — backbone, single cradle, double cradle, perimeter, trellis or monocoque — depends on how much negative space you want to achieve. The more negative space a frame has, the lighter it appears, whereas less negative space results in the exact opposite. The best way to envision what this means is to compare a café racer with a Harley Cruiser.
Body
Once you decide on a frame, it’s time to decide what type of body you want your bike to have. Do you want your frame and the bike’s components to be visible, or do you want to hide it all with a beefy body? Though bodywork is becoming more intricate these days, meaning bike owners have more options, how much and what type of body you prefer all boils down to whether you want to achieve a rawer, unspooled look or a sleek, modern appeal.
Accessories
Once you have your frame and body built up, it’s time for the fun stuff. It’s easy to customize a bike with unassuming accessories such as fenders, Honda CB750 OEM parts online, seats, wheels, spokes, saddlebags and more. However, because this is the fun part, it’s easy to go overboard (Remember MC Hammer?). The best way to avoid making your bike look like a kid’s coloring book is to add accessories one at a time. Start with the fenders or the fairings, then slowly add a saddlebag, luggage mount, seats and stickers.
Customizing is half the fun of owning a motorcycle. Once you have your ideal frame and body fixed up, you can always add and subtract parts to your heart’s content. To get started, shop for motorcycle OEM bike parts today.
Pinstripe Magazine Staff
Online Men’s Lifestyle Magazine on Gear, Grooming, Girls, Gadgets
