To enhance their riding experience and ensure safety, there are several upgrades that every beginner rider should consider. In this article, we will explore the ten best motorcycle upgrades tailored for beginners in India.
1. Helmet Upgrade
Importance of a Quality Helmet
A high-quality, properly fitting helmet is the most essential upgrade for any motorcycle rider, especially for beginners. It provides crucial protection for the head and can be a lifesaver in case of accidents.
Key Features to Look for
When choosing a helmet, beginners should opt for helmets with certifications like ISI and DOT. Additionally, helmets with good ventilation, comfortable padding, and a clear visor are highly recommended.
2. Seat
One of the first things you should consider upgrading is your seat. A good seat can make a huge difference in your riding comfort, especially on long journeys. You should look for a seat that has the right padding and contours for your body shape and riding style. You can also add a backrest for extra support and comfort for yourself or your passenger.
There are many options available for seat upgrades, depending on your budget and preference. You can choose from different materials, such as leather, vinyl or gel, and different designs, such as solo, dual or custom. Some of the popular brands for seat upgrades in India are Saddlemen, Mustang, Corbin and Le Pera.
Watch this video by Yammie on 5 Mods Every Beginner Motorcyclist should have
3. Windshield
Another important upgrade for your motorcycle is a windshield. A windshield can protect you from wind, rain, bugs and other road debris that can affect your vision and comfort. A windshield can also reduce drag and improve your fuel efficiency by directing airflow around you and your bike.
Not all motorcycles come with a windshield, and some models have windshields that are too small or too high to be effective.
You should look for a windshield that is properly sized for your bike and your height so that it does not block your sight or create turbulence. You can also choose from different styles, such as fixed, detachable or adjustable, and different shapes, such as round, rectangular or curved.
Some of the popular brands for windshield upgrades in India are Memphis Shades, National Cycle, Puig and Givi.
4. Tires
One of the most essential upgrades for your motorcycle is a set of tires. Tires are the only part of your bike that touches the ground, and they can affect your bike’s performance, handling, comfort and safety. By upgrading to a set of aftermarket tires, you can improve your bike’s grip, traction, stability and responsiveness.
You should look for tires that match your bike’s specifications and your riding style. You should also consider the terrain, weather and road conditions that you encounter most often. You can choose from different types of tires, such as touring, sport, cruiser, off-road or dual-sport.
Some of the popular brands for tire upgrades in India are Michelin, Ceat, MRF and Bridgestone.
5. Lights
Another useful upgrade for your motorcycle is a set of lights. Lights can improve your bike’s visibility, appearance and safety.. By upgrading to a set of aftermarket lights, you can improve your bike’s brightness, range, color and style.
Lights come in different types, such as headlights, taillight, turn signals, brake light and fog light. You should look for lights that are compatible with your bike’s electrical system and wiring.
You should also consider the legal limits of brightness and color in your area before choosing lights. You can choose from different types of lights, such as halogen, LED or HID.
Some of the popular brands for light upgrades in India are Philips, Osram, Auxbeam and Cyclops.
6. Exhaust
One of the most noticeable upgrades for your motorcycle is an exhaust system. An exhaust system can enhance your bike’s performance, sound and appearance. A stock exhaust system is usually designed to meet emission and noise regulations, which can limit your bike’s power and torque.
By upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust system, you can improve your bike’s airflow, reduce its weight and increase its horsepower and torque.
An exhaust system can also change the sound of your bike, making it louder or quieter, depending on your preference. You should also consider the legal limits of noise levels in your area before choosing an exhaust system.
An exhaust system can also improve the look of your bike, giving it a more aggressive or sleek appearance. You can choose from different types of exhaust systems, such as slip-on, full or 2-into-1, and different finishes, such as chrome, black or carbon fiber.
Some of the popular brands for exhaust system upgrades in India are Akrapovic, Vance & Hines, Yoshimura and Leo Vince.
7. Handlebars
Another important upgrade for your motorcycle is a set of handlebars. Handlebars are the main point of contact between you and your bike, and they can affect your riding comfort, control and posture. A stock set of handlebars is usually designed to suit a general range of riders and conditions, but they may not suit your specific needs and preferences
Some of the popular brands for handlebar upgrades in India are Renthal, Biltwell, ProTaper and Drag Specialties.
8. Suspension
Another crucial upgrade for your motorcycle is a suspension system. A suspension system consists of two main components: the front forks and the rear shocks. A suspension system can affect your bike’s handling, stability, comfort and safety.
A suspension system can also help you improve your bike’s stability by absorbing bumps and vibrations on uneven roads. A suspension system can also help you improve your bike’s comfort by providing a smoother ride and reducing fatigue.
You can choose from different types of suspension systems, such as conventional, inverted or cartridge forks for the front, and twin-tube, mono-tube or gas-charged shocks for the rear.
9. Engine Guards
The Need for Engine Guards
Engine guards shield the motorcycle’s engine and other critical components from damage during accidental drops.
Material and Design
Opt for engine guards made from durable materials like steel or aluminum for maximum protection.
10. Luggage
Another handy upgrade for your motorcycle is a set of luggage. Luggage can help you carry your essentials, such as tools, clothes, documents and gadgets, on long rides or trips. A stock set of luggage is usually limited in space and functionality, but they may be enough for your basic needs. By upgrading to a set of aftermarket luggage, you can increase your bike’s storage capacity, convenience and security.
Luggage comes in different types, such as saddlebags, tank bags, tail bags or top cases. You should look for luggage that fits your bike’s size and shape, and does not interfere with your riding comfort or safety.
Some of the popular brands for luggage upgrades in India are Studds, Axor, and Saddlemen.
Conclusion
As a beginner motorcyclist in India, upgrading your motorcycle with these ten essential enhancements can significantly enhance your riding experience while prioritizing safety and style. Remember to invest in high-quality safety gear and make sure your chosen upgrades suit your riding style and preferences.
FAQs
- Do I need to buy an expensive helmet for adequate protection? While high-quality helmets may be more expensive, they offer better protection and comfort, making them a worthwhile investment for your safety.
- Can I install the upgraded exhaust system on my own? It is advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation and avoid any technical issues.
- Are all-season tires suitable for off-road riding? All-season tires are versatile and perform well on various road surfaces, but for extensive off-road riding, specialized tires might be more suitable.
- Do riding jackets come with armor for added protection? Yes, many riding jackets come with built-in armor on the elbows, shoulders, and back to provide additional protection.
- Can I use regular gloves for motorcycle riding? Motorcycle-specific gloves offer better protection and grip compared to regular gloves, making them a safer choice for riding.
