Can we customize my motorcycle? Personalization and approval

Modify your motorcycle? With all the accessories and equipment that props manufacturers and builders hang under our noses all year round, it's not easy to resist. We are always tempted to modify and personalize our bike. And for various reasons: to make it more fashionable, comfortable, elegant, safe, etc.

But did you know that “these changes” can get you in trouble? In addition to the fact that the police can fine you for not meeting a permit, the insurance company can also deny you coverage in the event of an accident for the same reason.

Is it allowed to modify your motorcycle? What does the law say? And the insurers? And what are you risking?

Motorcycle modification - what does the law say?

The law is not very clear about this, but a priori to the question: can you modify your motorcycle? From a legal point of view, the answer is "no" if the changes were made after homologation and therefore were not registered. The law requires that a motorcycle in circulation must comply in all respects with the standards set by the European Union, in other words, its homologation. In other words, from the moment of registration, if you make any changes after it, you must report them. In this case, you will be considered "guilty in the eyes of the law."

Article R322-8 of the Road Code. states:

“Any conversion of a vehicle subject to registration and already registered, whether it be a significant conversion or any other conversion that may change the characteristics indicated on the registration certificate, requires a change to the latter. To do this, the owner must send a declaration, accompanied by a certificate of registration of the vehicle, to the prefect of the office of his choice, within a month following the conversion of the vehicle. The owner keeps the completed tear-off coupon, if it exists. ”

Which modifications are allowed and which are prohibited?

And here the law does not give any precision when it speaks of "significant transformation." But we have the right to think that we are talking about any "mechanical" change.

Can you change your motorcycle mechanically?

During homologation, your motorcycle is registered with all the parts and equipment that make up it, as well as everything that characterizes it:

• The engine and its power
• The type of transmission
• Turn signal type
• Mirror type
• Exhaust type
• Braking system
• Wheels
• Etc.

After the motorcycle has passed the exam and has been graded "Conforming" ECR (European Community Type Approval), everything that concerns it and has been approved will be recorded in the vehicle registration document. Therefore, its characteristics cannot be changed, because they must correspond to what is written in this document.

Can you change your bike aesthetically?

Thus, everything related to the motorcycle that is not recorded in the registration document can be changed. But it is true that the list is not long because they mainly concern the look of your motorcycle... In particular, you can change without fear:

• Motorcycle color
• Engine protection
• Seat cover
• Upper body

Small parts such as turn signals or mirrors are generally prohibited. However, law enforcement agencies often turn a blind eye to the fact that the new elements are functional and effective.

Can you modify your motorcycle using approved parts?

You might think so, but it really depends on what part or accessory you want to install. Indeed, there is homologation and homologation. Part may be homologated, but not for your motorcycle. Before buying a spare part "Discharged and approved" Accordingly, to personalize your motorcycle, you must ask yourself the following two questions:

• Does this part comply with the European standard?
• Does this part match your motorcycle homologation?

In other words, you cannot replace an item if the replacement is not the same as indicated on your registration card. So be very careful when suggesting approved mufflers because you won't even be able to install them without drawing the wrath of the authorities.

What are the risks if you modify your motorcycle?

Be careful, the risks are real and you may pay for your costly actions. Because not only will you be able to turn your back on the law, but on top of that, insurers will also be able to turn their backs on you when you need it most.

Fines up to EUR 30

If you are caught on a motorcycle that has been modified and no longer matches what was recorded, you risk a 4th degree fine.

If you are caught selling a modified motorcycle you could be fined up to € 7500 plus 6 months in prison.

If you are caught selling a modified motorcycle through a professional, you could be fined up to € 30 plus 000 years in prison.

Refusal of insurers in case of an accident

By changing your insurance, you also run the risk of losing your motorcycle insurance warranties. In the event of an accident, your insurers may refuse to pay you compensation if you made changes to your motorcycle and did not report it between the signing of the contract and the time of the accident. The risks are even higher if the accident is related to modifications what did you bring.

Can we customize my motorcycle?

You can modify your bike as long as you stay within reason. The story does not get the attention of the police and always contributes to safety (for insurers). As a last resort, if you really want to make significant changes, after making the changes, declare them... But don't forget what this means: you will need to go through homologation with RCE.