Safety might not be the sexiest topic at bike night, but it beats explaining to your insurance company why your “upgrade” turned into a highway projectile. Anyone who’s watched a cheap accessory fail at 70 mph knows that feeling—equal parts terror and regret. The motorcycle aftermarket is packed with gear that looks the part but skips the engineering homework. Some accessories promise performance or style but deliver catastrophic failure instead. Time to separate the smart upgrades from the death traps.
7. Tank Bags
Cheap magnetic tank bags can detach at speed, turning your ride into a dangerous projectile scenario.
Ever wonder if that tank bag is really stuck on there? Magnetic tank bags under $30 are disasters waiting to happen. Like when you are leaning into a curve, when a crosswind lifts your budget bag, transforming it into a missile aimed at traffic. Magnets lose strength with vibration and temperature changes—physics doesn’t care about your bargain hunting.
Quality matters here more than Instagram aesthetics. A poorly secured tank bag becomes a projectile that can interfere with steering or visibility. Skip the bargain bin specials and invest in well-reviewed mounting systems with proven track records.
6. Aftermarket Levers
Non-OEM brake and clutch levers can cause hydraulic system failures and dangerous lockups.
Generic brake levers for $20 sound tempting until you realize they might not fit your master cylinder properly. A poorly designed lever can block hydraulic relief valves, causing brake drag or sudden lockup mid-turn. That’s the kind of surprise that turns a scenic ride into an emergency room visit.
Quality levers cost closer to $100 but include proper engineering for your specific bike model. Your braking system isn’t the place to experiment with mystery manufacturers. Stick with reputable brands that understand the critical tolerances required for safe hydraulic operation.
5. Throttle Locks and Mechanical Cruise Control
Older throttle locks can stick open, creating runaway acceleration scenarios that require immediate reaction.
Mechanical throttle locks from bygone eras can stick open when you least expect it. Suddenly you’re wrestling with runaway acceleration instead of enjoying a relaxing cruise. It’s less “highway comfort” and more “highway terror”—definitely not the vibe anyone ordered for their Sunday ride.
Modern electronic cruise control systems around $225 offer safer alternatives with automatic disengagement features. These systems monitor multiple inputs and can shut down instantly if something goes wrong. The upgrade costs more but eliminates the white-knuckle moments that come with primitive mechanical solutions.
4. Brake Light and Headlight Modulators
Flashing modulators increase visibility but must comply with specific state regulations to remain legal.
Brake light modulators pulse like a disco to grab drivers’ attention, potentially reducing rear-end collisions. Headlight modulators promise similar visibility benefits during daylight hours. Both accessories can genuinely improve your chances of being seen in traffic—a critical safety advantage for any rider.
However, modulator legality varies dramatically by state. Some jurisdictions restrict flashing frequencies, usage times, or ban them entirely. Using illegal lighting modifications can result in tickets and unwanted police attention. Check your local regulations before installation to avoid legal complications down the road.
3. Removing Factory Reflectors
Ditching stock reflectors reduces nighttime visibility and violates equipment laws in many jurisdictions.
Those factory reflectors might clash with your bike’s aesthetic, but they serve a crucial safety function. Removing them, especially side reflectors, is illegal in many places and reduces your visibility to other drivers at night. Motorcycles are already harder to spot—don’t make the problem worse for aesthetic reasons.
Aftermarket companies offer stylish alternatives that maintain legal compliance while improving your bike’s appearance. The goal is looking good without becoming invisible to drivers who already struggle to see motorcycles in traffic.
2. Aftermarket Handlebars
Improperly installed or substandard handlebars can fail catastrophically, causing complete loss of steering control.
Handlebars that snap mid-turn aren’t just inconvenient—they’re potentially fatal. Bars not torqued to manufacturer specifications or made from questionable materials can fail without warning. Every mounting point represents a potential failure zone that demands proper installation and quality components.
Installation matters as much as the parts themselves. Torque specifications exist for good reasons, and ignoring them turns your handlebars into a ticking time bomb. Source components from reputable manufacturers and follow installation procedures exactly—your steering system isn’t the place for creative interpretation.
1. Windshields and Material Choice
Acrylic windshields are more prone to cracking and shattering compared to impact-resistant polycarbonate alternatives.
Material choice matters more than most riders realize when selecting windshields. Acrylic screens crack easily when struck by road debris, potentially creating dangerous visibility issues at highway speeds. Anyone who’s been sandblasted by gravel trucks understands how quickly windshield damage can escalate.
Polycarbonate windshields offer superior impact resistance, though they cost more upfront. The investment pays dividends when debris strikes—polycarbonate flexes instead of shattering. Choose windshields with proper coatings and proven durability ratings rather than the cheapest option available.
The bottom line? Your motorcycle accessories should enhance the ride, not end it prematurely. Quality components from reputable manufacturers might cost more initially, but they’re cheaper than hospital bills or legal fees. Ride smart, buy smart, and keep the shiny side up where it belongs.
