Generally, the modification to enhance performance, comfort, or aesthetics is seen on a motorcycle in India.
However, India’s tough traffic and motor vehicle laws draw boundaries on what all can and cannot be done. Understanding these is important to stay safe from fines and penalties or maybe worse confiscation of your bike.
We have identified some of those modifications that are quite legally allowed in India and discussed personalization of the motorcycle while abiding by law in the following section of this blog:.
Why Follow Legal Guidelines for Modifications?
Vehicle modifications in India are governed under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988.
Any modification done to a vehicle that is not in accord with the specification by the manufacturer and the RC is considered illegal, except in cases where such modification is deeded as approved by the RTO.
The reason being, unregulated modification would result in compromising the road safety, increasing pollution, and breach of insurance policy rules.
Now, let’s begin with the kind of modifications permitted and talk about what is permissible to customize.
Legal Modifications in India
1. Aesthetic Modifications (with Restrictions)
Aesthetic changes are the most common type of bike customization. While not all cosmetic changes are allowed, some modifications can be legally carried out without violating regulations.
Vinyl Wraps and Paint Jobs:
The change of color in the motorcycle is legitimate, provided an approval from RTO and updating in the RC gets done.
The chosen color should be not similar to the shades used in any emergency vehicle like ambulances or police bikes.
Custom Seats:
The structure of the seat or its padding can be modified for comfort reasons, but only if such alteration does not affect the structural integrity of the bike.
Headlamps and Indicators Replacement of stock Headlights with additional high-beam LED, HID lights permissible provided their beam intensity is along specifications laid down in ARAI.
Flash light or coloured one is not acceptable.
2. Exhaust Systems (Compliant with Noise and Emission Standards)
Aftermarket exhaust systems are common upgrades for riders looking to improve their bike’s sound or performance.
These, however, need to meet the government-mandated noise and emission limits.
Example:
Noise for motorcycles should not exceed eighty decibels.
The exhaust shall be of Bharat Stage (BS) emission norms.
3. Tires and rims
Upgrading tyres and rims is allowed, but only if the new parts are according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
For instance, wider tyres are allowed provided they do not obstruct the bike’s suspension or handling.
4. Limited Engine Modifications
Performance enhancement to the engine is broadly not permitted, but minor tuning is allowed, such as upgrading the air filter or spark plugs.
Any major modification that enhances the engine capacity or alters its configuration needs RTO approval.
5. Safety Accessories
Adding safety features to your bicycle is always recommended and completely within the law. These include:
- Crash guards
- Reflective tapes
- Anti-theft locks
- Mobile holders that can charge
6. Custom decals and stickers
Additional decorations such as decals and stickers can be used to enhance the bike’s appearance. However, no symbols or text that might be misleading should be used, such as logos of government organizations.
Illegal Modifications in India
It’s equally important to understand what modifications are not allowed in order to be compliant with the law:
1. Structural Changes
Any alteration in the chassis or frame of the bike is illegal without approval from the RTO.
This includes:
- Changes to the length, width, or height of the bike Installing extended swingarms
- Change the frame to make the bike a chopper.Any alteration in the chassis or frame of the bike is illegal without approval from the RTO. This includes:
- Changes to the length, width, or height of the bike
- Installing extended swingarms
- Change the frame to make the bike a chopper.
2. Loud Aftermarket Exhausts
Though aftermarket exhausts are permissible, too loudly sounding and noise emitting ones beyond permissible limits are considered strictly illegal.
The policemen may seize the bikes that produces disruptive noise or disturbing noise of excessive decibels.
3. Overly bright lighting
Neo lights, under glow lights, and multi-colored headlamps are illegal because they are a distraction to others on the road and create a potential for safety hazards.
4. Engine Swaps
It is illegal, unless explicitly certified by the RTO, to replace the engine with a more powerful one or change its fuel type.
5. Changing Registration Plate Number Plates
Unusual fonts, color, or type of designs on personal number plates is illegal. A plate should be in prescribed format.
6. Use of banned horns
They also ban the use of multi-tone horns or air horns due to noise pollution.
Recommended Legal Changes to Make to Your Bike
1. Improved Suspension System
Better shock absorbers can upgrade the ride quality and comfort of your bike; however, actual legal standards must not be violated.
Make sure that your bike’s suspension system will be similar to what exact specifications are.
2. Improved Braking System
Installing higher-quality brake pads or upgrading to a disc brake system is not only legal but also desirable for safety if one’s bike model allows it.
3. Touring Accessories
If you love long rides, you can legally add the following touring accessories:
- Saddle bags or panniers
- Windshields
- Auxiliary lights (within permissible intensity)
4. Custom Handlebar Grips and Mirrors
Changing handlebars or grips to suit your comfort is permissible. Similarly, upgrading to broader or anti-glare mirrors is encouraged.
5. Performance Air Filters
Replacing the stock air filter with a high-performance one would serve to increase engine efficiency without changing emissions to keep it at legal bounds.
Steps to Get Approval for Modifications
If you intend to make a major modification that would require RTO approval, then follow the given steps:
Submit an application:
File an application with the local RTO detailing the proposed modifications.
Inspection:
The RTO inspects the modified bike to check whether safety and emission-related standards are not violated.
Updated RC:
The changes, when accepted, are reflected in the Registration Certificate.
Penalties for Illegal Modifications:
Violations of modification laws carry some serious penalties, including: Fines: ₹1000 to ₹ 5000, depending upon the violation.
Confiscation:
The vehicle may be impounded until restored to its original condition.
Insurance Issues:
Final Thoughts
Changing up your bike will make it unique and let you truly make your bicycle experience even greater. However, there are certainly ways to legally protect yourself while you’re working on any given modification on a motorcycle: focus on approved alterations only, not aesthetic or performance improvements at the cost of safety, and of course, staying compliant.
Ride safe, ride smart!