UPGRADES, UPDATES AND TWEAKS

Many of us associate customisation with cut down bobbers and outrageous raked out choppers, but it doesn’t have to be all about aesthetics. There are numerous things, big and small, that you can do to make your bike that bit better.

Never changed a single part on your bike? Don’t know where to start? Well this basic guide to customisation should help to show you that it’s high time you got with the programme and started to put your own stamp on your pride and joy.

The big manufacturers are all in on it, with Yamaha, Ducati, Triumph, Harley Davidson, Indian and more all offering an absolute mass of aftermarket parts and accessories to help you create your dream bike – but you don’t have to spend a fortune to change your motorcycle for the better. There’s a handful of simple, straightforward and costeffective ways to make your mark and create a machine that’s perfect for you.

Tyres

Now this might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at the difference a fresh set of rubber can have. You’ll be changing them at some point anyway, but instead of replacing the outgoing pair with the same old tyres, why not upgrade and fit some that’ll help to improve your bike’s handling.

There’s a huge amount of choice available on the market today, with tyres fit for every purpose. If you’re after the perfect balance between road performance and longevity, it’s sport touring tyres that you need. Thinking about hitting some trails for a bit of light off-road? You’ll want a pair of dual-sport tyres that balance road and dirt performance. It’s definitely worth sticking to the big names in the game though. That means Pirelli, Metzeler, Michelin, Continental, Avon, Dunlop, Mitas and so on. You’ll pay more, sure, but you’re going to get good-quality tyres that are tried, tested and are up to the job.

Crash protection

Often the preserve of trackday addicts and sportbike fans, crash bungs are an invaluable addition if you ever drop your bike on the Tarmac. Available in a variety of designs and fitment options, they help to keep your bike away from the ground should the worst happen and you end up taking a tumble. Relatively inexpensive, these clever bits of kit can save you a lot of money as they help to prevent (or minimise) damage to your motorcycle and mitigate the need for subsequent costly repairs.

Engine protection

Commonly seen on off-road oriented bikes that are more likely to get dropped while tackling tricky terrain, engine protection does what it says on the tin: helping to stop your bike’s motor get damaged in the event of an accident. Pretty simple really. It’s a useful addition to any bike – the engine is often the most expensive part of your motorcycle and repairing one can be a huge undertaking – so why not fit some protection and help to keep it that bit safer.

Suspension

This is a big one, and it won’t be a cheap job, but an upgraded suspension system can make a massive difference to how your bike rides. It could help to improve comfort, reduce the seat height and, most importantly, sharpen up handling. There’s a range of specialists out there who’ll be able to hook you up with the best set up, and most will even dial in the settings to suit you – but you can also fit new springs yourself.

Depending on your budget you can go for seriously trick brand new units from some of the biggest names in the game, but if cash is a bit tight you could head down to make use of some older parts which are in plentiful supply on auction sites, at autojumbles and in breakers yards.

Here at MoreBikes we’re big fans of two British brands – K-Tech and Hagon – and would definitely recommend them as a first port of call if you’ve got a decent budget and you’re after top service and support.

Windshields

This one isn’t for everyone, but if you’re covering big miles then a windshield is going to make a big difference to your comfort. A properly fitted windshield can redirect air around you and the bike – which is invaluable when you’re doing long miles at sustained high speeds.

Exhausts

Looking for a meatier sound and even a bit of a performance boost? Then it’s time to think about an aftermarket exhaust. There’s a mass of companies out there that can help you get you the power and sound you crave – but remember, the exhausts on today's high-performance bikes are finely tuned and surprisingly complex. They’re not designed as an afterthought, so if you’re going to fit a new exhaust system, do your research and do it properly.

Luggage

One of the easiest things you can do to improve the functionality of your bike is the addition of some luggage. Depending on what set up you go for, it can offer space to pack enough stuff for a week away or offer enough room to carry a few essentials with you at all times. There’s a massive amount of choice – from lightweight saddlebags and rollbags, through to tankbags, topboxes and sturdy side panniers. For the average rider who’s not going to be living off the bike for an extended period of time, a tank bag is a top choice. It utilises the empty space over the top of a bike’s fuel tank cleverly with room for your phone, wallet, keys and even a camera. You can even get one with a transparent pouch to tuck a road map in.