All About Motorcycle Number Plate Holders and Their Importance
When it comes to customising your motorcycle, details matter. While the focus often falls on upgrades like exhaust systems, suspension tweaks, or flashy paint jobs, smaller components like the motorcycle number plate holder play a crucial role in the bike’s overall appearance and functionality. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek look, better durability, or enhanced practicality, choosing the right number plate holder can make a surprising difference.
Why Replace the Stock Number Plate Holder?
Factory-fitted number plate holders often prioritize cost efficiency and compliance with local regulations. While they serve their purpose, they’re not always the most attractive or high-quality option. Here’s why many riders choose to replace them:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Stock holders can look bulky or out of place, especially on sportbikes or custom builds. Aftermarket holders, like tail tidies, offer a more minimalist design.
- Durability: Upgraded holders are often made from stronger materials, such as aluminium or stainless steel, which can better withstand the elements.
- Personalisation: Custom holders let riders add a touch of their own style, blending seamlessly with other mods.
- Improved Lighting: Many aftermarket holders include modern LED lights, enhancing visibility and compliance with road safety laws.
Different Types of Number Plate Holders
A motorcycle number plate holder can come in a variety of styles to match the diverse needs of riders. Here are the main types:
1. Tail Tidies
Tail tidies are among the most popular aftermarket options. They replace the bulky factory setup with a slim, minimalist design, often relocating the number plate closer to the bike. This upgrade is particularly popular among sportbike and naked bike riders who want to emphasise the clean lines of their machines.
2. Standard Holders
Standard holders focus on practicality and ease of installation. While they may not be as sleek as tail tidies, they’re functional and often come with extra mounting points for accessories like reflectors or panniers.
3. Custom Holders
Custom number plate holders allow for unique designs tailored to specific motorcycles. These are ideal for riders who want their bikes to stand out or who have highly individualised builds.
4. Off-Road Holders
For adventure and dirt bike riders, off-road holders are built to withstand harsh conditions. They prioritise durability and stability, ensuring the plate remains intact during rigorous rides.
How to Choose the Right Number Plate Holder?
Selecting the right holder depends on your riding style, aesthetic preferences, and practical needs. Here are some considerations:
- Material: Aluminium and stainless steel offer excellent strength and resistance to corrosion, while plastic options are lightweight and budget-friendly.
- Compatibility: Ensure the holder is compatible with your bike’s make and model, especially if you’re mounting additional accessories.
- Lighting Integration: Check whether the holder includes LED lights or provisions for adding your own.
- Ease of Installation: Some holders require modifications, while others are bolt-on solutions.
- Legal Compliance: In Australia, regulations dictate specific angles, sizes, and visibility requirements for number plates. Ensure the holder meets these standards to avoid fines.
Complementary Accessories for Motorcycle Rear Ends
While upgrading your number plate holder, you might want to consider other accessories to enhance the look and performance of your motorcycle’s rear end. These include:
1. Integrated Turn Signals
Modern tail tidies often include mounts for LED turn signals. Swapping out the stock indicators for sleek, compact designs can add a cohesive look to your bike.
2. Rear Fenders
Many aftermarket options include fender eliminator kits, which remove the large stock fender for a cleaner appearance. However, keep in mind that fender removal can lead to more road grime on your bike and gear.
3. Tail Lights
Upgraded tail lights, especially those with LED technology, improve visibility while complementing the streamlined look of a custom holder.
4. Reflectors
Adding reflectors to your setup can enhance safety without detracting from the bike’s aesthetic. Many holders include discreet options for reflector mounting.
Other Motorcycle Accessories to Consider
Customising your number plate holder is just one way to enhance your ride. Here are other popular upgrades that can elevate your bike’s style and performance:
1. Exhaust Systems
An aftermarket exhaust not only improves performance by reducing weight and increasing airflow but also provides a deeper, more aggressive sound.
2. Handlebar Upgrades
From clip-ons for sportbikes to wider bars for cruisers, changing your handlebars can significantly impact comfort and handling.
3. Seats and Seat Covers
A custom seat can improve both style and comfort, especially on long rides.
4. Wheels and Tyres
Upgrading to high-performance tyres or custom rims adds both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, such as improved grip and handling.
5. Engine Guards and Skid Plates
For adventure and off-road riders, these protective accessories are essential for shielding the engine and undercarriage from debris and impact.
Maintenance Tips for Your Number Plate Holder
To keep your number plate holder looking and functioning its best, regular maintenance is key. Here’s what you can do:
- Check for Loosening: Periodically inspect the bolts and brackets to ensure everything remains secure, especially after long rides.
- Clean Regularly: Dirt, mud, and road grime can accumulate over time. Use mild soap and water to clean the holder, and avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the finish.
- Inspect for Damage: Look out for cracks or corrosion, particularly if you ride in harsh weather conditions or on rough terrain.
Conclusion
Upgrading your motorcycle’s number plate holder might seem like a minor change, but it can significantly impact your bike’s look and practicality. Whether you’re going for a sleeker rear end with a tail tidy or prioritising durability for off-road adventures, the right number plate holder is an essential accessory for any rider. Pair it with complementary upgrades like LED turn signals or a fender eliminator to create a cohesive and stylish ride. After all, customisation is all about making your motorcycle uniquely yours.