Instantly recognisable by their sheer presence and the distinct rumble of the big V-twin engines, Harleys are a world apart from anything else in the biking scene. Their popularity has lasted well over a century and across multiple generations of riders. And the range of customisation options, the largest of any motorcycle manufacturer, epitomises what the brand stands for: freedom and individuality.
Harley-Davidson owners are spoiled for choice when adding a personal touch to their bikes. The company enjoys brand recognition and a following like no other brand. And an aftermarket that lets you customise your bike any way you like. While parts and accessories do tend to be on the pricier side of things, you don’t have to shell out huge amounts of cash to stand out. Here’s a comprehensive list of five inexpensive yet practical and stylish Harley Davidson accessories, most of which you can pick up for 50 pounds or less.
Fender Bibs
If you’re switching from riding two up to solo, then a fender bib takes the place of the pillion seat and covers up any scratches or marks when it’s removed. All Harley owners want a clean-looking bike, and tending to the rear fender with bespoke Harley Davidson fender bibs is one way to get that done.
Fender bibs come in a few distinct shapes and various designs. The tapered and standard “U” shapes are the most common. The first is geared toward Harleys with thinner fenders (say the Softail variants like the Blackline or Slim), while standard and heftier varieties look and fit better on the bigger cruiser and tourer models, including the Street and Road Glides and the Road King.
When shopping for your next Harley rear fender fib, consider materials, workmanship and sizes. The parts are visually an extension of the seat, so often optioned in vinyl, leather and synthetic leather, or a combination of all three materials. Sections that hug the fenders are usually made of felt to protect from scratches and scuffing and reduce vibrations.
Custom-fit Harley fender bibs also include pre-punched rear fender and rider seat holes and supplied corrosion-resistant zinc screws and washers for a neat and secure fit. Ensure that the size you choose matches the length and bolt placement reserved for the pillion seat (this is pretty much a done deal in most bibs). Widths usually average between 5 and 6 inches for most Halry models, but you can choose to go wider or narrower to get the look you want.
Lastly, think of details. Plain, piped, embossed, studded and Harley Davidson fender bibs in various styles and stitching patterns are all sold. All are compatible with the stock Harley and most aftermarket seats.
Air Filters
To maintain engine performance, periodically inspect the condition of the air filter. Most stock Harley air filters are washable and reusable, but if yours has seen extensive mileage, shows evident signs of wear, or dust just won’t come out, it’s time for a new one.
While designs and shapes differ according to model and the engine, most air filters seen in Harleys are of the cotton gauze or oiled bath type. Newer fuel-injected bikes benefit from the better airflow of cotton gauze filters. These can open up the engine, bring more character to the sound, and have better filtration that traps most road and airborne contaminants.
One thing to remember is that while filters and filter elements are some of the cheaper replacement parts, they’re the first line of defence that keeps the engine running as it should. Observe regular maintenance intervals (usually 5000 miles) and clean connecting parts like the air box and throttle body for crisp acceleration.
Fuel Caps
Like most Harley parts, fuel caps do double duty. They prevent dust, mud, water and debris from getting in the fuel tank and damaging the engine. And they’re a style element and an extension of the bike aesthetic. Harleys can have single or dual caps, but there’s not much in the stock black variants to get excited about.
If you’re looking for ways to upgrade the looks of your Harley, choose from the multitude of chrome, engraved, matte black, satin, gloss, mesh, serrated or custom caps. Besides designs, materials are another factor that dictates prices. Choose from billet aluminium, anodised or polished steel, or a combination of durable and rust-free materials that work in different road and weather conditions.
Regarding where and how the caps fit the tank, left side caps are non-vented, while the right caps are vented to prevent the buildup of pressure inside the tank. All can be screw-in or pop-up and come with or without locks.
Harley Bike Covers
To keep all that chrome, leather and paintwork protected, get yourself a decent bike cover. Covers prevent dust, grease, rusting, scratches, dents and intentional and unintentional damage, and shield the seats, tanks, controls, switchgear and wiring. Choose between full covers if you want to protect more of the bike or half covers that do much of the same, but are easier to move around and take up less space.
Also, consider how and where the cover will be used. Indoor covers are ideal for garaged bikes and are breathable but still prevent dust buildup, while outdoor variants are both breathable and waterproof. Go for stretch materials (polyester and lycra mix) for a tighter fit, or a non-stretch polypropylene material and save some cash for other goodies. Both materials though have a soft-touch backing, so are easy on the paint.
Bike Gloves
Gloves protect the hands from falls and accidents, prevent vibrations and numbness in longer rides, keep you warm in cold and wet weather and improve control and grip. They’re an essential clothing item in any ride.
They come in varying materials and designs. Leather is a popular choice, as well as mesh and synthetic fibres, or a combination of materials in varying parts to improve mobility, comfort (with padding) and breathability and keep the hands firmly on the bars. Choose from gloves extending to the wrists or fingerless gloves for shorter rides, or go with gauntlet designs for added protection and comfort when touring.
All bike parts, accessories and clothing gear are sold in dedicated touring shops catering to bigger bikes. Prices start as low as 30 pounds for filters, covers and fuel caps, and average 50 quid for fully-featured gloves and fender bibs.