Motorcycle enthusiasts love to express individual style through customization. American V-Twin motorcycles like Harley-Davidsons are fun to customize, because they can take on so many different looks. Serious riders like to get highest possible performance out of their motorcycle by replacing stock parts with factory or aftermarket parts.

Anyone who says you they don’t care about looking cool on their motorcycle may very well be lying. But, no one wants to ride through aches and pain either. When customizing your motorcycle it is important to choose upgrades that increase comfort, convenience, and performance while giving your bike a unique custom look tailored to your personal style. We put together a list of six categories for simple motorcycle upgrades you can do yourself that will get you ready to rule the road in style.

Motorcycle Lights: increase your visibility with the right motorcycle lighting. Seeing and being seen are among the top priorities when riding your motorcycle. Just like the factory after market pats, companies like J&P Cycles’ incredible selection of motorcycle headlights and license plate mounts and accessories can do just that.

Motorcycle Wheels and wheel packages that will transform the look of your motorcycle is another way to claim your individual taste. I personally have DNA on my Softail but there are many other companies that sell great looking wheels. The cost is always a factor but if you’re patient you can get a great package deal in the middle of the winter.

Motorcycle Luggage: I can remember the days that I carried everything on my shoulders. Whether you’re heading out on a long trip or just a short day ride, you need to take some things with you, Twenty years later, I broke down and added factory hard bags. You can gear up with motorcycle saddlebags and luggage from most after market parts companies and from your motorcycle’s factory as well. If you’re adding saddlebags/hard bags or a tour-pack, make sure to think ahead (especially if you ride alone) of what you could be adding later on: back-rest, removable back-rest, luggage rack, tour pack, fender saddle-back fillers, etc.

Motorcycle Frame & Body: Motorcycle highway bars not only protect your bike from damage if you lay it down, but they also provide you an additional foot position for riding comfort. I always prefer to factory parts however once in a while you find an after market part that the factory does not make. When you are on a long ride, having options for changing your riding stance can increase blood circulation and allow adjustments for a significant increase in comfort. Add some highway bars to feel like you can stretch out on your favorite recliner while riding.

Motorcycle Audio: Accessorize your ride with a motorcycle radio and accessories such as speakers and amps. Video cameras, antennas and sound systems are just a few of the motorcycle audio and electronic components that are offered. You no longer have to ride the Electra-Glide or Goldwing to get those perks. From sound systems, CB radios, garage door openers to speakers and more are available for almost all motorcycle makes and models today. Factory made and after market brands like Cycle Sounds, Hogtunes and Hells Foundry are some just to mention a few.

Motorcycle Dash, Speedometers & Tachometers. If you have an older Softail like me, you often wish you had at least a tachometer. With all we have available today you can push your motorcycle dash accessories to the limit with a new gauge kit. You can almost customize all the aspects of your motorcycle dash from lighting and hardware knobs to tachometers and motorcycle speedometers. With a huge selection of products from the top industry brands, including factory-made and brands like Auto Meter and Dakota Digital, you will find what you need to customize your bike. You can also help you protect your motorcycle speedometer and dash with dash covers and trim.

Motorcycle Custom Exhausts: Nothing like the rumble of a custom exhaust. Adding the deep roar sound of a custom exhaust on your motorcycle is one of the most common things riders do to give their bikes that personalized look and sound. Factory dealers and many after market companies have great exhaust for sale but be cautious. If you are not purchasing from your motorcycle factory directly, do some research, check out the blogs, read the feedbacks, because the last thing you want is siding with your honey and the baffle to fall out ~ it has happened!