When we get a new toy, the main interest is in the fact that it's NEW. A new car, a new bike, a new 'whatever'.... Ever notice your kids when they get something new? Yup, you guessed it. They unwrap the present, play with it like mad for a couple hours, days, sometimes, even months, but, the eventual end is that the 'newness' wears off and it becomes yet another mundane item in our neverending list of 'things". Well, here's an idea for you!
For motorcyclists, this should be a 'no brainer'! Even if you've been riding the same old bike for a couple years, there are lots of things you can do to make it 'feel' like new.... For instance, take a look at the paint. Motorcycles are not big, huge items, like a car. So, you can take your motorcycle to your local paint shop and have the 'entire' bike painted for a mere fraction of what a new one would cost. Now, I'm not talking about doing a complete, custom graphic, multi-zero's in the cost, paint job. I'm talking about changing the color, or adding a graphic, or even adding a pin stripe or two. All of those things will make 'ol faithful look different and therefore, make you feel different about your bike.If you've been toying with the idea of a new motorcycle, think about "renewing" your existing motorcycle first. Motorcycles are one of the most "accessorizable" vehicles out there. You can literally create a whole new bike just by using accessories! The best way to do this is to take a look at your existing bike. What are you trying to do? If you're considering selling your bike for a bigger one, what's the reason for going bigger? Are you looking for more power? Or, are you looking for something a bit more comfy with some storage capability, like a cruiser? If you are wanting that smaller bike to be a bit more comfortable and offer you some more storage, and even if you're just looking to get that feel of a big, comfy, cruiser, there are lot's of things you can try before you go out and spend the money on a new bike.
Let's look at some examples.... We recommend a good accessory dealer for starters, so J&P Cycles - Motorcycle Seats
has some great seating arrangements for H-D here too. Now, please don't think I'm only speaking about H-D here, I only chose the Sporty because it's an easy bike to customze. You can customize ANY bike and I promise I'll cover those a little later. Back to the seating arrangement, start by considering what other items you want to add to your Sporty and make sure that your seat will work with those items. I recommend looking at something very comfortable for both you and your passenger. Back rests are important if you're going to be doing any long distance riding, so be sure to consider that, and there are many seats that have removable backrests that take only seconds to put on and take off. I would consider one of those simply because of the veratility. The example below is taken from Motorcycle Superstore
They have some great choices too! The seat below is a touring seat that can be had for almost any bike and offers you the ability to have a removable driver backrest and is comfy for both the driver and passenger giving you lots of versatility. Add a passenger backrest with a small luggage carrier and you're in business!
Once you've picked out your new seat, let's take a look at adding some other "creature comforts" like storage. Adding some really great saddle bags to your Sporty does two things. Of course, the obvious is that you'll gain some serious storage space. But, adding bags to your bike will give your Sporty that "bigger" cruiser look, which, if you remember is what we're looking for too! I personally prefer soft bags for a Sporty because they have a different, softer look and you can get bigger bags that will expand when you need the room, but, also won't look out of place on your Sporty when they're flattened out and not filled to capacity. Also, if you're looking to get that "new" look on a budget, soft bags will save you money because they don't need to be painted. Hard bags usually need to be painted to match the bike and paint costs money. Going with soft bags will save you the cost of painting and you can use that money to add some additional accessories to help maximize the new "cruiser" look you're going for. J&P Cycles - Motorcycle Saddlebags and Luggage
has some great ideas here and this is just the start. Don't forget, bags come in all styles and shapes. If you're the kind of person that changes their mind often, you might want to go with a "rear bag" that is removable. That way you can have your storage when you need it and lose the baggage when you're just out riding.
There's lots of other things too. Take a look at some of the other accessories available for motorcycles nowadays! There are literally thousands of things to add to your bike to give it and yourself a little lift. Do you like chrome? Even little bits of chrome added here and there can give a bike a 'new' look. Chrome gas caps, fuel shut off knobs, handle bar grip inserts, are just few of the chrome adders that will help dress up an older bike.
Take a look at handle bars too! Handle bars can change the entire look of your bike without a whole lot of work. Make sure that whatever you choose is comfortable to you. With all the different configurations out there, you are sure to be able to find one that fits your body style, the look you're going for, and last, but not least, your budget.
So there you have it! You can take your existing ride and turn it into a whole new experience without having to go through selling it and buying new. Of course, there will come a time when you just want to replace your ride, and that's always an option. But, in these economic times, sometimes just making a few changes can satisfy the craving for something new. And, remember, any options you add to your ride will also add to it's value, so, when it does become time to trade it in or sell it, you can get a return on your investment too!
Happy Motoring!
Larry and Dee
