The Most Popular Motorcycle Accessories to Upgrade Your Ride
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by Damien Heenan
5 min reading time
When it comes to personalizing your bike, the right accessories can make all the difference. Whether you're looking to improve comfort, enhance performance, or add some functional upgrades, motorcycle accessories offer endless customization options. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most popular accessories that riders install on their motorcycles.
1. Luggage Solutions: Saddlebags, Tank Bags, and Tail Bags
One of the first things many riders invest in is a solid luggage setup. Whether you're a commuter, a weekend warrior, or a long-distance tourer, having a place to store your essentials is crucial.
Saddlebags: Available in hard or soft styles, these attach to either side of the bike, providing storage for gear, tools, and personal items.
Tank Bags: A convenient, easy-access storage solution that sits on top of the fuel tank—ideal for carrying smaller items like maps, wallets, and phones.
Tail Bags& Top Cases: Mounted on the rear of the bike, these offer additional storage space and can be lockable for added security.
2. Windshields and Fairings
A windshield can make a world of difference, especially for long-distance riders. It reduces wind fatigue, helps with aerodynamics, and even provides some protection from the elements.
Shorty Windshields: Perfect for those who want some wind protection without compromising the bike’s aggressive look.
Touring Windshields: Taller designs that provide maximum wind and weather protection.
Batwing and Full Fairings: Ideal for cruisers and touring bikes, adding a layer of protection while also giving a stylish, custom look.
3. Crash Protection: Engine Guards and Frame Sliders
Nobody wants to think about dropping their bike, but investing in crash protection can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run.
Engine Guards (Crash Bars): Protect the engine and frame in case of a tip-over or low-speed slide.
Frame Sliders: Absorb impact and help prevent costly damage to the bike’s bodywork.
Fork and Swingarm Sliders: Additional protection that keeps critical components from taking direct hits.
4. LED Lighting Upgrades
Upgrading your bike’s lighting isn’t just about style—it’s also about safety. LED lighting offers better visibility, consumes less power, and lasts longer than traditional halogen bulbs.
LED Headlights: Brighter and more efficient, they improve nighttime visibility and make you more noticeable to other drivers.
Auxiliary Lights: Perfect for riders who venture off the beaten path or ride in low-light conditions.
Underglow Kits: Not just for aesthetics, these can increase your bike’s visibility at night.
5. Handlebar Accessories: Phone Mounts and Heated Grips
Handlebars are prime real estate for useful accessories that can make your ride more convenient and comfortable.
Phone Mounts: Essential for navigation, phone mounts keep your device secure and in view without distracting you from the road.
Heated Grips: A must-have for cold-weather riding, keeping your hands warm and reducing discomfort on chilly rides.
Throttle Locks & Cruise Control: Helps reduce hand fatigue on long-distance trips.
6. Exhaust System Upgrades
A new exhaust system is one of the most popular and impactful modifications you can make to a motorcycle.
Slip-On Mufflers: A quick and easy way to upgrade your exhaust sound and aesthetics without replacing the entire system.
Full Exhaust Systems: Designed to improve performance, airflow, and weight reduction.
Baffles & DB Killers: Useful for adjusting sound levels while maintaining a deep, rich tone.
7. Seats and Backrests
A comfortable seat can make a huge difference in how long you can ride without fatigue.
Gel and Memory Foam Seats: Provide better comfort and support for long rides.
Custom Seats: Allow for better styling and personal touches.
Passenger Backrests: Essential for two-up riding comfort.
8. Foot Controls and Pegs
Upgrading your foot controls can improve both comfort and control.
Highway Pegs: Great for stretching out on long rides.
Adjustable Footpegs: Help riders find the perfect riding position.
Floorboards: Provide extra comfort for cruiser-style motorcycles.
9. Security and Anti-Theft Devices
Motorcycle theft is a real concern, so investing in security accessories can give you peace of mind.
Disc Locks with Alarms: Prevents the wheel from moving and emits a loud alarm if tampered with.
GPS Trackers: Allows you to track your bike in real-time in case of theft.
Heavy-Duty Chains and U-Locks: Offers maximum security when parked.
10. Performance Tuners and Air Filters
For those looking to get more power and efficiency out of their bike, performance accessories like tuners and air filters can help.
Fuel Tuners: Optimize your bike’s air-to-fuel ratio for better power delivery and efficiency.
High-Flow Air Filters: Improve airflow to the engine, resulting in a small but noticeable performance gain.
