There is a fascination among the youth for superbikes and larger-than-life cruiser bikes. The movies extrapolate this fascination to the extent that some get their bikes tuned and modified. These modifications not only are in appearance but also the performance of your vehicle.
With international manufacturers setting up their manufacturing facility in the country, it has become easier to get your hands on a few of the international bike variants. Although, not all, sometimes the Indian tuned variants might feel pale in front of these exquisite models. This is when people resort to modifications.
You can use all your creativity and express your thoughts when you modify your vehicle. But while you take on this task, you need to keep in mind the impact of your modification. The impact can be in the form of regulatory norms or even your two wheeler insurance online premium. Let’s us have a look –
#1 Abide by the law
The foremost thing when you consider modification is whether the law permits it. Any changes to the structure of your bike require prior permission. To explain with an example, in case you want to upgrade your engine that increases the power output, your registration certificate should reflect such changes. Thus, you need to visit the Regional Transport Office and get your registration certificate amended. However, minor aesthetic changes like applying a sticker and the like are permitted without approval. Each state has different regulations regarding the usage of lights, indicators, number plates and horns. You must be aware of such regulation before making any alterations to your vehicle. Any performance modification is perceived as risky and may increase your insurance premium by contributing to an icreased IDV.
#2 Function over aesthetics
Most individuals may appreciate the aesthetics of your bike, but whether they are functional is for you to decide. A bulky and wider tyre might appeal to the eye, but does it impact the performance of your bike? If the answer is yes, you should reconsider your decision of carrying out such modification. Make sure you prefer the functional modification rather than aesthetic modifications. Sometimes aesthetic changes can also impact your premium. For example, fitting carbon fibre parts may require an additional premium to insure them as they would increase the IDV of your vehicle.
#3 Security upgrades
Security upgrades are a proactive measure by the bike owner to secure their bike. Making such security modifications that are approved by a recognised organisation may have a positive impact on your premium. Some insurers offer a concession in your premium for making such security upgrades. However, you must install devices that are certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
#4 Trusted professionals
When you modify your bike, make sure it is handled by trained professionals only. To save a few bucks, do not hand your two-wheeler to any mechanic. Finally, your bike is a machine, and it has certain limitations. Consider these limitations, your budget and discuss your modification plan with your technician. Make sure any modification can be handled by the bike and won’t have a security threat.
#5 Inform your insurance company
Most people miss out on this step when undertaking any modification task. Missing out on informing or wilfully concealing any modification can have an adverse impact at the time of claim. A few alterations increase the value of your bike while a few others decrease. Not disclosing these modifications can be considered as fraudulent and can make your policy null and void.
Finally, do not wait for the two wheeler insurance renewal date to inform about any such modifications. Make sure you take it up on priority as you plan your modification. You can further connect with the insurance company to discuss the policy coverage in case of such changes.In case you purchase insurance online, a two wheeler insurance premium calculator can come handy to check impact of revised Insured Declared Value on your premium.
What did we learn?
