When your motorcycle breaks down, you want to be able to replace the part as quickly as possible. Thankfully, motorcycle parts online are easy to find and affordable.
The best motorcycle parts online will offer you fitment data to help you ensure you’re buying the right part for your bike. This information will save you time and money by ensuring you don’t waste your hard-earned cash on an item that won’t work with your bike.
OEM vs. Aftermarket
When you need to replace a part on your motorcycle, there are two choices that you have. You can purchase an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part or an aftermarket part.
The OEM part is made by the same company as the original part and is sold to you by the motorcycle manufacturer under their brand name. The aftermarket part is produced by a different company that doesn’t make motorcycles, but can still legally produce and sell parts for the same bike.
Generally, an OEM part is better than an aftermarket one because they’re manufactured from higher quality materials that last longer and perform better than non-genuine parts. However, these savings are usually not enough to offset the increased upfront costs and they can be costly to repair.
A good rule of thumb is to opt for an aftermarket part if it’s an upgrade, and an OEM part if it’s just a replacement. Choosing between the two can be tricky, so it’s best to consult with your local dealer or read reviews from fellow riders online.
Fitment Information
When it comes to buying a new motorcycle or parts for your current ride, fitment and compatibility are the name of the game. That’s why reputable online sellers will list fitment data on their product descriptions to help you make an informed decision about which motorcycle part or accessory is best for your needs and budget.
The main reason for this is to save you the trouble of having to return an item that isn’t compatible with your bike. If you have any doubts about the fitment of a new part or accessory, ask the seller to show you the fitment data for your particular model and year.
The best part is that this information is free and readily available on any of the popular parts and accessories websites. The above listed sites are among the most trusted places to shop for replacement motorbike parts and accessories in the U.S. Whether you’re looking for the latest and greatest in air, fuel, electrical, controls or comfort, you’ll find it all online.
Warranty
Choosing OEM motorcycle parts can give you peace of mind that the parts will fit perfectly and function correctly every time. This means that you can rest assured that your bike will perform at its best and look great as well!
Unlike aftermarket parts, OEM motorcycle parts are designed and manufactured by the same company that built your vehicle. They’re designed and tested to meet specific manufacturer standards.
These standards are more rigorous than those found with aftermarket parts. They also make sure that the parts will work properly and won’t damage your bike in the long run.
In short, the warranty on OEM motorcycle parts is a guarantee that you won’t have to pay out of pocket for any repairs if you get them done at an authorized dealership.
Under the FTC’s order, the companies will be prohibited from further violations of the Warranty Act and in Harley-Davidson’s case, the Disclosure Rule. They will also be forced to send and post notices telling customers that their warranties remain in effect even if they use aftermarket parts or patronize independent repairers.
Shipping
When you sell motorcycle parts online, shipping costs can make a big difference. If you don’t offer affordable options, you may lose customers.
Shipping costs can vary by carrier, weight, and size of the part you’re shipping. You also need to take into account the location and season when calculating the cost.
To keep the cost down, pack all your motorcycle parts in a box that is close to their size and material strength. This will help to keep them from being damaged while in transit.
A good rule of thumb is to have several different boxes of various sizes available. This will ensure that your customers aren’t paying too much for shipping.
Another option is to hire a shipping manager, which will save you time and money in the long run. The cost of this service usually pays for itself in a month or two. Using a professional shipping company will also give you peace of mind knowing your bike is going to be shipped safely and efficiently.
