ATV Parts and Accessories

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OEM Parts and Accessories or Aftermarket, How Do I Know What's Best For My Motorcycle?

The number of motorcycle & ATV parts and accessories available on the market today is staggering.   With all the different products from OEM manufacturers and aftermarket providers, how do I know what parts to buy, and where to buy them?

Before you shop it's important to understand the difference between OEM parts and aftermarket parts.  OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer.  This refers to the company that originally manufactured the product.  These include Japanese brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, Polaris, Kawasaki and Honda as well US and European brands like Harley Davidson, Ducati, BMW and Triumph. When referring to motorcycle parts, OEM designates a replacement part made by the original manufacturer of the bike.  Aftermarket refers to products produced in the secondary market.  These products are not produced by the original equipment manufacturer, and they do not carry an OEM warranty.

Which product should I choose?  Typically repairs are best completed with OEM parts.  These products typically carry a better warranty than aftermarket parts, and in general the fitment is superior on OEM products.  However, there are aftermarket upgrades available that can enhance your motorcycle's performance as well as your personal riding experience.  These products vary from spark plugs, air filters, tires, suspension components and electronics to features like gel seats and frame protectors.  There are many quality brands available today.  It is best to research the brands or ask your dealer for assistance.  Typically your local dealer will have a good idea as to what products are well made and which ones to avoid. 

How do I shop for OEM parts and accessories?   OEM parts are available exclusively through franchised motorcycle dealers.  They can be purchased at retail stores throughout the country or on the web.  If you decide to shop on the web for OEM parts, you will have to familiarize yourself with and OEM parts fiche.  The parts fiche or parts finder is a schematic of each individual bike by part and broken down to nuts, bolts and even washers.  If you have never used a fiche, you can typically get assistance from the dealer who operates the website.  Since only authorized franchised dealers have access to the schematics, they are your best source for help. 

There are a lot of websites to choose from, how do I pick one?  There are a lot of websites.  There are many reputable sites to choose from, and some you certainly want to avoid including some e-bay sellers..  Typically it is pretty easy to create a vendor relationship with the major aftermarket suppliers.  Some require a store front, and others just have a minimum order.  It is hard to know whether you're shopping with a real company or simply purchasing a product from a guy working part time from his garage.  This is why we recommend you shop with a franchised dealer.  There are many benefit to purchasing your parts, accessories and gear through an authorized dealer.  First, franchised dealers are held to a higher standard.  They are backed by the manufacturers they sell.  They are also regulated by the state they operate within, specifically by the DMV (department of motor vehicles) and State Attorney General's Office.  They are required to hold bonds, and if they do not fulfill your order, there is a means for recourse.  In addition to this, franchised dealers are the only place you can purchase the OEM parts and OEM accessories for your motorcycle or ATV; and since they have access to all the same aftermarket accessories and gear that the independents have, why not do all your shopping in one place.

About the Author

About Interstate Cycle, Inc: Interstate Cycle is recognized as one of the fastest growing motorcycle parts, accessory and vehicle dealerships in the country. Interstate Cycle is a franchise dealer offering Yamaha, Suzuki and Polaris ATVs, personal watercraft, scooters, and motorcycles. For more information, please visit InterstateCycle.com and MotorsportMonster.com.