Customize your motorcycles the ‘proper’ way

MANILA: Customization can be seen as one of the most exciting portions of owning a motorcycle. It gives owners a distinct character of who he or she is — many will try to keep their rides’ look clean while others also want theirs to be as loud as possible.

With that, Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Incorporated (MDPPA) gave some relevant tips on how to make your ride stand out while keeping it safe. However, the pieces of advice given only cover minor aesthetic modifications.

Ensure motorcycle condition

Before anything else, be sure that the motorcycle is in optimal condition. Check your brakes, tires, chain, and fluids and if possible have them seen by a qualified mechanic.

This would ensure that the attention that you would earn will be for the right reasons. Per MDDPA, “a well-maintained ride is the best canvas for any personalization project.”

Choose stickers, decals wisely

Installing decals is one of the easiest ways to give your motorcycle a new look, so look for high-quality, weatherproof vinyl stickers that won’t peel off in rain or direct sun. Cheap decals have the tendency to melt or ruin the ride’s paintwork under heat.

Aside from that, make sure that the stickers are not placed over lights, reflectors, or vents to ensure as this could reduce visibility or airflow.

Use heat-resistant, motorcycle-specific paints

Should you want a fresh coat of paint to change your motorcycle’s look, use those that are specifically designed for motorcycles. These are more resilient against ultraviolet rays, gasoline spills, and heat emanating from the engine.

Those who would like to paint their rides themselves for the first time, stick to non-structural parts like fairings or fuel tanks. Frame and engine must be done by professionals to avoid compromising safety.

Wisely match gears to motorcycles

Wearing riding gears adds up not just on style but on safety too. You can get helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots that meet safety standards which also match the graphics or color of your motorcycles. Do not cover the helmet’s ventilation or safety stickers as well.

You can place reflective patches and bright colors also on them to boost visibility, especially at night or during rain.

 

Install crash guards, frame sliders if possible

Crash guards give motorcycles a more rugged look and enhance protection of riders and key parts like engine, tank, or fairings in case of a fall.

Check what is legal

While it is fun to dress up your motorcycles, you must modify them with the bounds of the law.

Some visual changes such as major body kit alterations or flashing lights can result in fines and penalties. “When in doubt, stick to enhancements that don’t change the structural integrity or key safety features of your motorcycle,” the group mentioned.

Further, the MDPPA said that customizing motorcycles and gears should never be done at the cost of safety, function, or the law.

“By choosing the right materials, balancing form with function, and being practical with your aesthetic modifications, you can ride in style without putting yourself or others at risk,” it noted in a statement.

Serving as the country’s most relevant association in the country’s motorcycle industry, its members include:

• Honda
• Kawasaki
• Suzuki
• TVS
• Yamaha

Among the MDPPA’s numerous goals is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders.

One of its most recent initiatives is the Tropang MAALAM (Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino), which aims to promote rider safety through education, awareness, and training.

Also read:

8 tips on buying your first motorcycle

Navigating the financial aspects of owning a motorcycle

8 common mistakes motorcycle owners should avoid

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