Motorcycle sales are at a high, with yearly sales figures so far up 10% from 2021. But if you're looking to upgrade or replace parts on your new motorcycle, you'll have the choice between OEM and aftermarket parts. Finding the right OEM accessories can be a difficult task, especially with so many products out there.

But you'll need to keep in mind that although a product may say it's compatible with a motorcycle or certain types of bikes, you'll want to buy from a reputable store. Keep reading to find out which accessories can take your motorcycle to the next level. 

What Does OEM Mean? 

For those new to riding motorcycles or just now taking the time to outfit your ride with some quality accessories, you might be unfamiliar with what an OEM accessory is. OEM is an acronym for 'original equipment manufacturer,' which means that the part or accessory is made by the company that manufactured the bike itself. 

Aftermarket parts, however, are designed by companies of varying degrees of reputability. Along with this, since some aftermarket parts are cheaply made, the manufacturers may lack an understanding of motorcycles' particularities since they're meant to fit 'universally' as opposed to just one or a few models. 

Official parts are also more likely to come with a warranty, which can protect you if it doesn't work as advertised. Aftermarket parts however are generally up to your or your mechanic's know-how, which can lead to trouble if the part doesn't work as advertised. 

So What Are the Best OEM Accessories? 

Although there are likely plenty of OEM accessories for your motorcycle available, the best are the ones you'll get the most usage out of or improve the performance of the bike in some way. And you can use them for repairs as well, so you'll know you're getting a part that fits your motorcycle. 

1. Air Filter

Just like with a car, an air filter helps the engine performance and efficiency. OEM air filters are generally made of paper and are designed with pleats to increase surface area and allow for more dirt to be trapped before it needs to be replaced. Although these aren't reusable like some aftermarket filters, they cost less upfront. 

2. Luggage Racks

Many motorcycles come without luggage racks, which can be an issue if you want to go out on longer rides or use yours as a daily vehicle. A way to get around this is by ordering an OEM rack.

Since motorcycles come in a variety of sizes and may have specific locations where you'll be able to install a rack, the best way to make sure it fits yours is to go with an OEM rather than an aftermarket one. And since they're from the original manufacturer, they're more likely to be of high quality and less likely to break off at an inopportune time. 

3. Suspension

Since motorcycles come with a standard suspension for each model that doesn't work for every height, using OEM parts to modify the suspension can be a great way to optimize your utilization. Since these will work with your particular bike you won't need to worry about modifying the part to fit or hoping it will withstand the weight. 

Repairing or swapping your suspension parts out will also generally improve ride quality and handling. And if you're using your motorcycle for racing or other high-performance activities, you'll know that the suspension is designed for that specific type of riding and your bike. 

4. Stand

Another way you can customize your bike is by ordering an OEM part for the stand. Not only will this help lift the bike farther up off the ground to keep it sturdier, but it makes it easier to perform any maintenance on the chain as well as mount it.

These have to be fitted for the motorcycle depending on the size and weight. And an OEM stand will also hold up better than an aftermarket stand so it'll be safer and last you longer. 

5. Exhaust

Unless you truly know what you're doing and the limitations and requirements of your motorcycle, it's best to go with an OEM part for a new exhaust. Before you decide to upgrade, however, you should get in the groove of riding your motorcycle and understand whether or not you need to replace the exhaust. 

If you choose to, an OEM part will not only be able to fit the manufacturers' specifications regarding output and how it works in tandem with the engine, but you'll be able to follow any emissions and noise guidelines if your region has them as well.

6. Speedometer

Of the replacement parts you may need, one of the most important is your speedometer. Whether you drop the bike and the gauge is broken or worse, your ECU is faulty, a replacement or upgraded speedometer can not only give you more information on the status of your bike but give you an accurate reading of your speed.

But you'll need to be mindful when swapping out this part as the number of miles on the motorcycle is stored within the speedometer. But there are services to set your new speedometer to match the miles on your previous one.

Get the Most Out of Your Upgrade

Overall, there are a lot of options available for the best OEM accessories depending on your needs and the motorcycle you have. But with all of this in mind, you'll be able to make a more informed decision about the type that you may need and why you should buy them over aftermarket parts. 

United Sports is your one-stop shop for all of your motorcycle, ATV, and side-by-side parts and accessories with five locations across Kentucky. Visit one of our locations or contact us today to find an OEM part that fits your motorcycle and upgrade your ride.