When to Customize, When to Think Twice: Motorcycle Modifications That Could Affect Your Insurance

If you ride a motorcycle, chances are you’ve thought about making changes to it. Whether you want more power, better comfort, or just something that looks cool, modifying your bike is part of the fun. But here’s what many riders don’t realize: some modifications can affect your motorcycle insurance coverage and even void your policy if you’re not careful.

At Riders Plus Insurance, we help motorcyclists across Ontario get the right protection at the best rates. We also know how much riders love to customize their bikes. That’s why we want to make sure you understand which mods insurers care about, what’s safe to do, and what could cause problems later.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know about motorcycle modifications and insurance in Ontario.

Why Motorcycle Modifications Matter to Insurers

Insurance companies look at your motorcycle as a risk. They want to know how likely it is to be in an accident, how much it costs to repair or replace, and whether it meets safety standards.

When you change your bike, especially in ways that affect performance, handling, or value, you change that risk profile. Some changes are fine. Others? Not so much.

Think of it like this: if your bike handles differently, goes faster, or costs more than when you first got insured, your insurer needs to know. Otherwise, they might not cover you the way you expect.

Acceptable Modifications Include:

Some changes are generally okay with insurers, especially those that don’t alter how your bike performs or how risky it is to ride.

These common modifications usually won’t cause issues:

• Minor custom paint jobs or decals
• Aftermarket exhaust systems (as long as they meet noise laws)
• Handlebar upgrades (if they follow provincial rules)
• Custom seats or mirrors
• Frame sliders
• Windshields or fairings
• Saddlebags or luggage racks
• Foot pegs and footrests
• Aftermarket air filters
• LED lights and phone mounts
• Non-OEM tires made for motorcycles

You still need to report these changes to your broker. But most of the time, they won’t affect your rate or coverage.

Unacceptable Modifications Include:

Some changes cross the line from customization to risk. These are the kinds of mods that can void your insurance or make it harder to get coverage.

Avoid doing these without talking to your broker first:

• Engine swaps or performance tuning that boosts speed significantly
• Extended forks or altered frame geometry (like choppers)
• Turbochargers, superchargers, or nitrous oxide systems
• Use of car engines or car parts on a motorcycle
• Any fuel system changes that don’t match the original design
• Excessive custom paint jobs valued over $5,000 or 20% of the bike’s value (whichever is less)
• Custom-built gas tanks, fenders, or frames
• Use of automobile tires instead of motorcycle-rated ones
• Modifications that violate provincial safety laws
• Changes that cost more than half of the original MSRP

If your bike has any of these features, it may no longer qualify under a standard motorcycle insurance policy.

What to Do If You Modify Your Motorbike

You don’t have to stop customizing your bike, just do it the smart way.

Here’s what to do before and after making changes:

• Talk to your broker first: Call Riders Plus Insurance at 1-877-251-4504 or use our Instant Online Quote Tool to discuss your planned mods.
• Keep records of all upgrades: Save receipts, photos, and documentation of each modification. This helps in case of a claim.
• Use certified mechanics: For structural or mechanical changes, always use a licensed mechanic or have your work inspected by a certified Motor Vehicle Inspection Station.
• Check local laws: Some municipalities restrict loud exhausts or other modifications due to noise bylaws.
• Consider specialized coverage: For heavily customized bikes, we can help you explore enhanced coverage options.

What Happens If You Don’t Report Mods?

Hiding modifications from your insurer might seem harmless until something goes wrong.

Here’s what could happen:

• Your claim gets denied: If your bike was modified and you didn’t tell your insurer, they may refuse to pay for repairs or replacement.
• Policy cancellation: You could lose your coverage completely if the insurer finds out about unreported changes.
• Underpayment: Even if your claim is accepted, you might not get enough to cover your investment.
• Legal trouble: If your bike doesn’t meet provincial standards, you could face fines or impoundment.

The bottom line: hiding mods is not worth the risk.

Customizing your motorcycle is one of the best parts of being a rider. It lets you make your bike truly yours. But it’s important to do it the right way, especially when it comes to insurance.

By staying honest and working closely with your broker, you protect your investment and keep riding with confidence.

At Riders Plus Insurance, we’ve been helping Ontario riders get the right coverage since 1998. We understand modified bikes, and we’ll help you find the right policy for your unique build.

📞 Call us today at 1-877-251-4504 or click here for Instant Online Quotes.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.