Personalizing your motorcycle’s look is one of the most exciting parts of being a rider. Whether you’re adding a personal touch or just making your ride look cooler, visual customization lets you stand out on the road. When doing this however, it’s also important that you don’t compromise safety or the longevity of your vehicle. Here’s how you can do all of that, Tropang MAALAM style!
Before we continue, please know that this article will focus on minor aesthetic modifications only. If you’re planning to customize your bike’s parts for performance, it’s best to get in touch with your after-sales agent. With that out of the way, below are a few tips to consider if you’re thinking about customizing your bike’s look!
Check your motorcycle’s condition
Before jumping into visual customization, make sure your motorcycle is in optimal condition. Have your brakes, tires, chain, and fluids checked by a qualified mechanic. A well-maintained ride is the best canvas for any personalization project.
Choose stickers and decals wisely
Adding decals is one of the easiest ways to personalize your motorcycle’s look. Opt for high-quality, weatherproof vinyl stickers that won’t peel off in rain or direct sun. Avoid placing stickers over lights, reflectors, or vents, as this could reduce visibility or airflow.
Tip: Avoid cheap decals that may melt or damage your paintwork under heat. Test a small patch first if unsure.
Use heat-resistant and motorcycle-specific paint
A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change your bike’s look, but use products specifically designed for motorcycles. These are more resistant to UV rays, gasoline spills, and heat from the engine. For DIY projects, stick to non-structural parts like fairings or fuel tanks. Leave engine or frame painting to professionals to avoid safety issues.
Match your riding gear to your bike smartly
You can express your style through your gear, too, but don’t compromise on protection. Choose helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots that meet safety standards. Also, many gear brands offer custom colors or graphic designs without sacrificing safety ratings, while reflective patches and bright colors also boost visibility, especially at night or during rain.
You can customize your helmet with approved vinyl wraps or decals but avoid placing anything over ventilation or safety stickers.
Use crash guards and frame sliders that look good and protect well
Crash guards don’t have to look bulky. There are sleek, powder-coated options that blend well with a customized aesthetic. Just ensure they’re from reputable brands and properly installed to protect key parts like your engine, tank, or fairings in case of a fall.
Know what’s legal and what’s not
Lastly, always check with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before major modifications. Some visual changes, like drastic body kit alterations or flashing lights, can result in fines or registration problems. When in doubt, stick to enhancements that don’t change the structural integrity or key safety features of your motorcycle.
Customizing your motorcycle and gear visually should reflect your personality, but never at the cost of safety, function, or the law. By choosing the right materials, balancing form with function, and being practical with your aesthetic modifications, you can ride in style without putting yourself or others at risk.
About MDPPA
The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) is the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. MDPPA members include leading motorcycle manufacturers: Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and TVS. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders.
One of the most recent initiatives of MDPPA is the Tropang MAALAM (Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino) campaign, which aims to promote rider safety through education, awareness, and training.
To learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA, visit https://mdppa.site/.
