Motorcyle Modify Motorcycles Modifying Bikes
How to modify a motorcycle? That is a very broad question. The first thing that you need to ask yourself is what is your end goal? Do you just want the bike to look different, or cooler? Maybe you have a need for speed and want to build a motorcycle that will go 200 mph. This is the very first step. Once you have answered this question, then you can start to ask yourself the multitude that will follow.
I myself, do not have that need for speed that many enthusiasts have. I am rebuilding a 1985 Honda Nighthawk. It has a 450 cc motor that thundered off the assembly line in 1985 with just under 50 horsepower. As you may have guessed, this will not be a race bike. I am modifying it to resemble a 1940s era military bike. Because of this, most of what I will tell you will have to do with changing the way that the motorcycle looks instead of making it faster.
Since you are modifying your bike, each person will have a different idea of what it should look like. That is the great part about it. You can truly have a one of a kind motorcycle. Because of that very reason, this is not a step by step instruction manual. That being said, there are some rules that you absolutely must follow.
Remember, by it's very nature, a motorcycle is a dangerous vehicle to operate. When you are doing your modifications, don't make it more dangerous. Even if it may look really cool or stylish to have that tiny little tail light on the back, it will make it much harder for other motorists to see you (especially at night).
Make sure that you know your own limitations. If a particular modification is above your head, pay someone who has the expertise to do it. As an example, I do not know anything about the engineering that goes into the design of the front fork assembly. If I want that changed, I take it to a qualified shop. The fenders on the other hand don't pose a huge safety issue. These I made to look the way that I wanted them to look. They still serve their purpose (keeping rain and mud from splashing me) yet they have my particular touch to them.
Another thing to keep in mind is the laws in the state you live (or are going to ride in). As an example of this, most states require you to have a headlight on anytime you are riding the bike.
Basically, modifying your motorcycle can be very easily summed up (although not nearly as easy to do). It is a learning experience. You will make mistakes (I have had to redesign my rear fender 4 different times). Learn from them. Ask others questions. Most people that are building a bike love to talk about it. You can get ideas on how to fix a problem as well help when you need it. Keep your bike safe and street legal. If you can't ride it, then why build it? Don't mess with important mechanical parts of the bike if you aren't knowledgeable in that area.
Other than those few rules, prepare to have fun. Lose your temper. Threaten to give up. Try again and again, and finally be able to look at what you have built with pride. Nothing beats the feeling at a stoplight when everyone in the car next to you is checking out the bike that you built.
