Having a stock bike, for some, is just simply not enough. What that is for most riders is the sense of uniqueness. This inherently leads them to find new ways to innovate and modify their two-wheeled toys. However, the barriers to completing these changes (like many things) involve the budget.
Some of the “dream parts” and desired bike mods can have an intimidating price tag, especially when the rider in question has spent most of their funds on purchasing the bike itself. What motorcyclists need is a set of affordable, well-built, and beneficial upgrades that will not only increase performance but looks and zest as well. In this regard, here is a list of 10 cheap motorcycle modifications that are sure to turn some heads.
Tank Pads
Compared to some of the other potential bike mods, tank pads are more for visual aesthetics rather than performance. Tank pads are almost sticker-like, where the rider places these decals onto the fuel tank of their motorcycle. The primary objective of tank pads is to limit the amount of contact between the rider’s clothing and the painted fuel tank. When motorcyclists constantly lean forward and backward on their bikes, the various zippers and metal pieces of their gear may chip away the paint and add ugly scratches.
This benefit, alone, is outstanding. However, these tank pads also come in various shapes and designs which can be used to just about any style of motorcycle. Pads are, arguably, one of the most common modifications that one can do. And for good reason: They look amazing and offer a valuable service.
Paddock Stand Bobbins
With or without a stand, every motorcycle needs to be jacked up every now and again, e.g. to relieve the load on the tires when put into winter storage and to place the motorcycle in an upright position. Or if chain maintenance, service work, and repairs are necessary.
You can jack up the rear wheel with this type of stand. It is therefore a suitable choice for chain maintenance and removing the rear wheel, but not for removing the swingarm. Besides, they are a stylish accessory that tells a lot about one’s style.
Radiator Guard
Riding is about being free and enjoying the road. All it takes is one single pebble to change that. Whether it’s a rock slung by the rider in front of you, or even a piece of debris thrown at your radiator from your own front tire. The slightest damage to your delicate radiator can cause overheating and catastrophic failure.
The best way to protect your bike with a radiator guard that has a rigid design to keep small rocks and debris out, but will still allow the perfect amount of airflow.
Toe Chain Guard
The importance of a motorcycle chain guard is undeniable. The chain guard protects a rider in many ways from many undesirable problems. The chain guard keeps you safe and makes the riding enjoyable.
Firstly, the motorcycle chain guard makes your bike look better. Secondly, the motorcycle chain guard protects a rider’s clothes, especially pants, from dirt and grease. Forget pants – you get your foot too close to the chain in case of a crash – not lookin’ so good in sandals anymore.
Exhaust Hanger
Ok – this one is style only but we are talking about enhancing one of your bikes best feature – the exhaust. Especially when you drop some serious cash for it. Don’t you want to show it off properly?
Exhaust Protector
The same goes for this part – except this one, besides looking good, actually protects your exhaust from scratches and falls.
Airbox Filter
For some reason we want more out of a bike we can barely control as is, but either for budget reasons or because of that little voice that reminds us that we don’t know much about mechanics, we tend to start small.
A filter can add a deep, throaty sound to your bike and even boost its performance. Bonus point – it keeps dirt and bugs out of the filter and engine.
