ALT-1 Motorcycle Customizing
Imagine being able to ride up and people looking and talking about your sweet bike. To most people that is a dream, a high goal to achieve. Most people don't realize that lots of great bikes aren't all that far above the rest. Little things like a new, louder muffler or a new chrome cap can give a new feel or look to your bike a very little cost or trouble.
Lots of motorcycles (and cars) are noticed due to their sound. A shiny new bike only catches your eye if you are looking in the general area. Sound travels in all directions, causing people to notice your bike without them even looking anywhere near you. A new muffler that releases more sound is great. Some bikers don't even have mufflers on to start with, like most choppers for example. A muffler change is mostly for street-style bikes, but before and muffler changes are to be made you need to check your local laws about sound restrictions.
Chrome is a great way to get seen. A simple gas tank cap change can add a little sparkle to your bike. lots of people go all-out, which can be either good or bad. Some people change EVERYTHING to chrome, which can look very tacky on an old or beat-up bike. Belt covers and oil pan are great to start with because they are easy changes and they aren't too over-the-top.
Performance is everything. People can talk big all they want, but being able to put their money where their mouth is can really gain respect amongst other bikers. Performance changes without increasing engine size will increase gas millage (which is good a three dollars the gallon). A bike at 150 horsepower that has a 110 horsepower engine, but has filter and exhaust upgrades is way for efficient than a bike with a 150 horsepower engine. Filter and exhaust is a good place to start. At that point, many bikes are capable of upgrading the spark plug size too and then that increases power even more.
So even though you are trying to get noticed any way possible, you can help yourself out a little too. These are great tips for a new biker that is looking for ways to get noticed. Because you never just want to be part of the crowd, you want to stand out.
