Part of the appeal of riding a motorcycle is making it your own. From upgraded exhaust systems to custom paint jobs and LED light kits, personalizing your ride can be as rewarding as the ride itself. But not all modifications are legal — or safe as a personal injury lawyer knows all too well. Depending on where you live, certain customizations could get you pulled over, fined, or worse, compromise your ability to collect damages if you’re ever involved in a crash.
Modifications And Their Legality
One of the most common upgrades is the exhaust system. Riders often want louder pipes for the sound, performance, or visibility they offer. But many states and municipalities have noise ordinances that limit how loud a bike can be. Some require your exhaust system to have an EPA compliance stamp, and removing the stock muffler may violate both federal and local regulations. While a growling engine might help alert other drivers to your presence, it can also lead to tickets or required inspections if it exceeds legal limits.
Lighting is another area where riders run into trouble. LED accent lighting, underglow kits, and strobe effects are popular with motorcycle enthusiasts, but laws vary. Some states allow decorative lighting only when the bike is parked, not while it’s in motion. Others ban colors like red and blue that mimic emergency vehicles. In some areas, flashing or rotating lights are illegal altogether. The key is to ensure your lights are functional, properly mounted, and not distracting to other drivers.
Handlebars are another customization that can become a legal issue. “Ape hangers,” the high-rise handlebars that extend above a rider’s shoulders, are iconic in biker culture. However, many states limit how high your handlebars can go, often measured relative to the rider’s shoulders or a specific number of inches above the seat. Exceeding these limits can result in a ticket or failed safety inspection.
Modifications to turn signals, brake lights, or mirrors can also backfire as our friends at Hayhurst Law PLLC can explain. Some riders prefer a minimalist look and remove or downsize these features. But visibility is crucial on a motorcycle, and altering or eliminating federally required equipment can make you more vulnerable on the road, and liable in a collision. It may also void your insurance coverage if your bike doesn’t meet safety standards at the time of an accident.
Even performance upgrades like engine tuning, aftermarket air filters, or fuel system mods can cross the line. While they might improve speed or throttle response, these changes can make your bike non-compliant with emissions standards. States with strict air quality laws, such as California, may impose fines or deny registration for bikes that don’t pass emissions testing.
Before making any modification, check your state’s vehicle code and consult with a knowledgeable mechanic or dealer. If you’re part of a riding group, ask other members what’s legal in your area. Customizing your motorcycle should be fun, not a legal headache. A little research upfront can help you ride with style, safety, and confidence, without risking fines or liability down the road. If you find yourself in trouble due to modifications, contact an attorney near you for help.