Bike modifications are often widely discussed in the UK, especially in an age where there’s an increased legislative focus on reducing carbon emissions across the board.
Most recently, the Department for Transport (DfT) has clarified its positions on the anti-tampering proposals discussed in a meeting with the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), clarifying that bike modifications which increase a vehicle’s emissions (such as those impacting exhaust systems) are outlawed going forward.
But how common are bike modifications in the UK, and how will government intervention impact this practice in the future?
What is a Bike Modification?
In general terms, bike modifications remain relatively popular in the UK, with this type of change officially described as “anything that has been made to the bike outside of the manufacturer’s standard specification”.
This creates a broad definition for bike modifications, with both cosmetic adjustments and changes to the vehicle’s exhaust system included in this description.
Interestingly, modifications are something that your insure needs to be aware of ahead of time, so that they can provide adequate and bespoke insurance coverage to their clients.
Of course, this will impact the cost of your motorbike insurance in some instances, so you may also want to discuss modifications ahead of time in the name of sound financial planning.
What are the Most Popular Bike Modifications?
While some modifications may not need to be declared as they pertain to disability changes or bar ends, the majority of changes are categorised as being either cosmetic or performance-related by nature.
Popular cosmetic modifications include fitting a rear hugger (which protects the engine from road debris) and belly pans, while screen changes can also adapt the appearance of a bike and reduce buffeting on behalf of the rider.
Common performance-enhancing modifications are changes that improve speed, stopping times or lead to superior handling, so will typically include adjustments that are made to the engine, brakes or suspension.
Exhaust system changes would also fit in this category, with many of these having a direct impact on emissions and carbon output.
Of course, this type of modification may be outlawed by the DfTs so-called “Future of Transport” review, as part of the government’s drive to achieve net zero by 2030.
In fact, this may ultimately outlaw any modifications that see owners look to tamper with an engine-related system or its parts, delivering a blow to the industry and the thousands of riders who look to make performance-related changes to their vehicles.
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