Illegal Motorcycle Performance Mods

We all know that half the fun of owning a motorcycle is deciding on a style that matches who you are. With dozens of makes on the market, it can be exciting to purchase a bike that stands out from the rest, as practically all motorcycle components are customizable. That being said, regardless of your intention, motorcycle modifications must always be performed within reason.

What exactly does that mean? Motorcycle modifications can be an appealing prospect, but a number of projects will get your bike seized by the police or Regional Transport Office. Looking for some legal modifications to make your bike yours? Our service department would love to help! Meanwhile, welcome to Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson’s top 10 illegal motorcycle mods that you should avoid for overall safety and compliance.

1. Illegal Motorcycle Exhaust (Too Loud)

Plenty of riders find joy in making motorcycles as loud as possible, but doing so is a quick way to receive a ticket. When you modify your exhaust to make it louder, you’re manipulating the bike’s emissions system. Making an exhaust louder often breaks noise ordinance and releases harmful emissions into the environment.

This mod is illegal and occurs far too often. Do yourself a favor and get a free flow exhaust to save the planet from air pollution.

2. Music/Speakers

Installing your own music or entertainment system on a bike is a terrible decision. In most cases, motorcycles are loud by nature, so adding music to that equation will shift your focus and ensure distractions. What’s more, sound systems make it hard for riders to hear changes with gear shifting and oncoming traffic.

Listening to some tunes may result in your bike getting seized.

3. Swapped Out Engines

A motorcycle’s chassis is engineered to hold a specific engine shape and weight. Swapping out an engine for more power alters the entire condition of the bike to react differently than what the manufacturer had in mind. Motorcycles are designed with specifications, so always try to repair or recover an engine before jumping to the solution of changing it out.

4. Different Color Lights

Drivers and riders on the road understand a vehicle’s lights based on their color and shade. For example, red lights are a sign of slowing down. While changing out lights on your bike can contribute to a certain aesthetic, this practice is extremely dangerous.

Changing the lights on a motorcycle will confuse motorists around you and result in your bike getting taken away.

5. Removed Reflectors

Removing reflectors from a bike makes it difficult for other motorists to see you at night. Riders try to argue that removing reflectors makes a bike look sleek, but these components serve a purpose. The devices help to reflect headlights of other vehicles behind you. This modification might work during the day, but you’ll surely get a ticket by nightfall.

6. Added/Removed Wheels

It’s always crucial not to venture away from what’s on your vehicle registration. Adding an extra wheel to a motorcycle creates a “trike-bike” that no longer identifies with the information on your certificate. Modifications that involve adding or removing wheels alter the performance of the motorcycle and are completely illegal.

7. Removed Side Mirrors

As a rider, you need to be able to view your blind spots to avoid potential danger. Removing side mirrors is an illegal motorcycle modification related to your ability to see other vehicles.

Side mirrors are not a fashion statement. These tools prevent you from constantly looking over your shoulder, which can lead to injury or even fatalities.

8. Chassis Mods

Cutting, welding or altering the shape of a bike’s chassis is illegal. This part of your bike is responsible for handling adjustments from your engine, suspension, wheels and brakes. Changing the chassis in any way will disrupt the reliability of the bike as you take it on the road.

Leave your bike’s chassis alone for the optimum riding experience.

9. Color Changes

Cosmetic motorcycle mods are relatively simple, but these projects become tricky with legal documentation. It’s best to stick to the color that’s listed on your registration certificate. In the event that you get pulled over, there may be a discrepancy if the bike’s color is different from its description on paper.

10. Alternate Fuel Options

Limited options exist regarding alternate fuel kits for two-wheel vehicles. If you’re looking to ride an electric motorcycle, remember that it’s best to purchase one that’s stock. Unauthorized fuel kits carry the potential to explode or catch fire if they’re not in the hands of a professional.

New and Used Bike Inventory at Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson

If you’re looking to ride in style, why not check out a Harley-Davidson? Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson has a vast collection of new and used bikes for your next adventure. Stop by our location today, and be sure to schedule a test ride!