7 Things to Consider Before Choosing Harley-Davidson® Parts and Accessories

Owning a Harley-Davidson® bike means becoming a part of a group that shares the same passion for the open road. This passion is often expressed through the customization of your motorcycle to make it a reflection of your personality. There are many ways to customize your ride, such as by adding new handlebars or changing the seat. Others would also turn to more complex upgrades, such as engine or exhaust system upgrades.
Whether you’re looking for a performance upgrade, visual enhancement, or both, there are a lot of things to take into consideration when purchasing Harley-Davidson® parts and accessories. Here are our 7 important things to consider when you’re looking to add that personal touch to your ride:

Do Your Research 
Before purchasing Harley-Davidson® parts or accessories, it is important to research what options are available in terms of fit and performance. Look up customer reviews and testimonials to get a better view of how the item works from a different user’s perspective. Product information from manufacturer websites can also give you great insight. 

Consider Quality 
When selecting aftermarket products or OEM components, be sure to consider quality first. Look around for available parts from licensed Harley-Davidson® dealers in your area, that way you’re sure to get authentic and top-quality products as they are set to follow protocols and standards set by Harley-Davidson®. You can also ask around from fellow riders and motorcycle enthusiasts to get their recommendations on where to get the best items. 

Understand Your Needs 
Before buying any part or accessory, take the time to consider what you need. Do you want to enhance your bike’s performance or just improve its looks? Are you looking to customize necessities to your ride such as brakes and suspension, or looking for a luxury upgrade such as chrome detailing? Knowing exactly what you want from your upgrade helps you get a better outcome from your purchase. 

Look Around 
Don't just settle for the first part or accessory you find; make sure to shop around to get the best deal. Look around online to see varying prices and availability to help you make your decision. It also helps to take a look at how fellow Harley-Davidson® owners are adding their own personal touch to their bikes. 

Check Compatibility 
Not every Harley-Davidson® part and accessory is made to fit every model, so be sure to check compatibility before making a purchase. Know your bike model, year, and even Vehicle Identity Number (VIN) to make sure you’re looking for the appropriate parts for your ride. It is also important to note that some upgrades may void your Harley-Davidson® warranty, so be sure to check your ride’s terms and conditions before making those upgrades. Customizing responsibly will help you ensure that all your parts are working seamlessly to keep your bike in excellent condition.

Seek Expert Advice
Consulting with expert Harley-Davidson® mechanics or service staff can go a long way. Speaking with a professional can offer you valuable insight into the parts and accessories that best suit your needs. They can also guide you towards best practices for installation and maintenance of your parts.

Enjoy the Process
Above all else, make sure to have fun while looking for parts and accessories for your ride! Remember that you are building your dream ride, so enjoy the process from creating your vision to actually finding the right parts and accessories to suit your taste. 

Choosing Harley-Davidson® parts and accessories requires careful consideration. Keep these 7 tips in mind during your next upgrade and you’ll be sure to find the right products. Our team of experts at Harley-Davidson® of Waco would be more than happy to help you customize your ride. Don't hesitate to visit us in-store or browse through our website, our team is available at the ready to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the purchasing process.