Motorcycle conversions - to register modifications to the bike or not?

Are you striving for perfection with your motorcycle? To achieve this, you can make various modifications to your bike. To help you on your way to your dream bike, we have compiled the most important information for you in this article.

At a glance: The most popular conversion measures

Taste is a very personal matter and, as we all know, there's no arguing about it. This is especially true when it comes to the individual touch of the motorcycle. But everyone agrees that there are three main pillars when converting bikes. If your own machine is to be upgraded, the focus is on appearance, functionality and, of course, performance. The following tuning measures are at the top of the popularity scale:

• Ergonomics: Do you enjoy riding longer tours and want to cover them comfortably and without stress? Then a wide handlebar and a well-padded seat can ensure more comfort on every ride.
• Luggage: While we're on the subject of comfort and ergonomics, you shouldn't forget about carrying luggage. It is a real challenge on a two-wheeler. It is therefore not surprising that luggage systems and the associated fastening systems are an absolute must for many touring riders when it comes to tuning.
• Headlight conversion: LED lighting has long been standard on new bikes. However, if you own an older model, you don't have to do without a headlight conversion. You can find suitable products for your motorcycle in our lighting category.
• Tires and rims: Sometimes you just need a little more. Really "fat tires" and matching rims are often fitted to give the motorcycle its very own look.
• Converting the exhaust system: In our exhaust category, you will find everything you need to give your bike the perfect sound and top design.
• Rear conversion: These measures give your motorcycle a completely new look. Café racer, chopper or with an aggressive streetfighter look, the conversions significantly change the appearance of the bike and are subject to registration.

Motorcycle conversion: Is anything you like allowed?

Who hasn't seen them, individually converted/rebuilt choppers from well-known customizing workshops, painted in an unusual way and with great design elements. The result is machines that are far too good to ride. However, the conversion of series machines suitable for everyday use is also very popular. From bobbers and flat trackers to scramblers and café racers, everything is tuned and modified until the bikes suit your taste. Much, but not everything is allowed.

If you are planning to modify your bike, it can be helpful to talk to the responsible expert from TÜV, Dekra etc. in advance to avoid any pitfalls in this project and to obtain all the necessary certificates and test certificates. You can find helpful information about motorcycle conversions here.

Expert opinions, regulations and test certificates

If you want to replace the original parts of the bike with stylish accessories, you should only use products that comply with the applicable regulations and have the necessary certificates. If you use motorcycle parts that are not permitted or tested, this may result in the operating license being invalidated. This means that the authorization to ride this specific motorcycle on the road expires. This is equivalent to riding without a license. If gross negligence or intent can be proven, there is also a risk of loss of insurance cover.

This also includes significant modifications to safety-relevant assemblies. These include, among others

• Steering
• Tires
• Brakes
• Chassis
• Frame

The frame - converting the backbone of your motorcycle

As a hobby mechanic, it is generally not a good idea to do any tuning work on the frame yourself. If it is no longer in its original delivery condition when inspected by the TÜV, if deformations are visible or if there are traces of welding or drill holes in unintended places, the operating license looks bad. This also applies if material has been removed from the weld seams during polishing.

To ensure driving stability, you should leave cutting and welding work to experienced professionals in specialist workshops. You will also need a parts certificate for approval in accordance with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).

Lever, grips and handlebar conversion: How to get the hang of tuning

If the handlebars are changed or completely replaced with a new model as part of the motorcycle conversion, you should observe the following points to avoid unpleasant surprises at the next MOT visit.

The following applies when converting handlebars, grips and levers: it is possible to replace them. However, the parts must have a test certificate. This is at least an ABE, i.e. a general operating permit for vehicle parts. For more complex conversion measures, a parts certificate may also be required. This is issued by the TÜV inspector and must be submitted to the registration office for entry in the vehicle documents.

What do you have to pay attention to when converting and tuning?

After the conversion, the steering of your motorcycle must still function perfectly. The handlebars move freely, nothing is pinched. The steering stop is adjusted if necessary. Don't forget: The steering lock must still be fully functional afterwards.

When converting the handlebars, make sure they are the right width. If the handlebars are too narrow, the gripping surface may be too small and the risk of an accident increases.

New levers and grips: But only with ABE please

Our range offers you a wide selection of high-quality conversion and spare parts. Our products are ABE-certified and can be used without any problems. A wide variety of handles and levers are also available in the general accessories trade. Caution is advised with cheap offers for levers from the Internet. Often they hardly differ externally from the products of well-known manufacturers. However, they do not have an ABE. If you install them, the operating license for your bike will expire.

Our tip against cold hands: Heated grips do not require an ABE or expert opinion.

Modern design and great sound with a new exhaust system

A popular measure for motorcycle tuning is changing the exhaust system or replacing the muffler. If you choose an exhaust system from a renowned manufacturer such as Bodis or LeoVince, you can be sure that it has ECE approval or a corresponding ABE.

Important: A new exhaust system, a new sports exhaust etc. from the aftermarket usually has an E-mark with a number stamped on it. This means that this product has a type approval in accordance with European law.

What to do if no documents are available?

If you built the exhaust system yourself or if it is already very old, it is possible that there are no documents for the exhaust system in question. Does it still meet the legal requirements? If so, you can usually have it registered by individual approval.

Higher, shorter, steeper - the rear conversion on the motorcycle

The rear of the motorcycle is part of the frame. If you make changes to it, regardless of whether you weld something to it or remove something, your vehicle's operating license will expire. It is therefore essential that you go to the TÜV to have these modifications approved.

Now you can't just go to any test center. The approval must be carried out by a motorcycle expert. This also applies to the rear conversion.

From headlight conversions to sports exhausts:

TecBike is your partner for tuning: from headlight conversions to new sports exhausts. You'll find everything you need to customize your bike in our range. Do you have any questions about our products or need help choosing? We are here for you!