THE TRANSFORMATION

STYLING
The most important thing to be kept in mind is that the modifications should not be at the cost of performance. If the physics behind the fixing of components like tyres,handle bars,shockers are not adhered to properly,the end result will only be a massive bill.
The foremost thing to be considered is the power to weight ratio of the bike. A 1350-cc Kawasaki Ninja or a 1000-cc Yamaha R1 is designed to be a hyper/super sports bike. A lot of engineering goes behind to ensure that the frame is able to withstand the weight of the heavy engine,the aerodynamic fairing,extra wide radial tyres,among others. The bike is also engineered to withstand vibrations along with the heavy load and still attain a top speed of 300 kmph.

Similar is the case for a Honda Gold Wing or a Harley Davidson. A robust frame takes the weight of the 1700 cc-2000cc engine which powers the bike to its peak performance. As such,care should be taken to see that the addition of all extra weight on a lithe frame of a 150 or a 200 cc bike does not wear down the engine over a period of time. It is always advisable to go for fibre-glass fairings (for sports bike look) to reduce the drag co-efficient and enhance the longevity of the engine,as also for safety reasons. Comstar alloy wheels are light weight and look sporty. One can also go for a lightweight exhaust.

Another important factor is the stability of the machine. In no way should modification affect the bike’s centre of gravity. Fancy or big tanks should be carefully fitted so that they don’t affect the riding posture. Handle bars and shockers also need to be taken care of. A short handlebar may look stylish,but will create problems while manoeuvring. Similarly,a long handlebar coupled with a long shock absorber for a cruiser look may prove cumbersome in city traffic.
Cruiser customisation of the bike will involve changing the positioning of the rear brake pedal and the gear lever mechanism,in addition to lowering the seating position for the couch like posture. But,for safety reasons,it is important to keep the braking leverage and the gear changing ratio intact.
Last,but not the least,comes the paint job and the sticker work. Depending on what one plans to incorporate in the bike,the cost can be as little as Rs 5,000 or go up to a whopping Rs 80,000.

MOTOCROSS AND OFF-ROAD
Modification of the bike for motocross and rallies is always customised in accordance with the rider’s height,weight and body structure. The golden rule one should follow is that the core frame should be sturdy enough to take the rigours of off-roading. This is attained by strengthening the T-point,the engine L-Bar and the swing arm assembly.

WEIGHT REDUCTION: Expensive items like instrument console,headlights and indicators should be removed. Even stock items like mudguards,wheels and brakes can be replaced. But these should not in any way affect the functionality,strength or reliability of the component.

SUSPENSION: A longer travel will help maintain speed over undulating terrain but will affect the geometry of the bike and,consequently,handling. As such,improving suspension at the cost of handling will be of no use. One can even go for inverted WSD front forks and Monoshock rear suspension,but this will require modification of the front set-up and the swingarm. Wheel braces can also be fixed to the front suspension to reduce flex (bend or breakage),if one doesn’t go for heavy duty imported rally front shocks.

BRAKES: Most Indian bikes come with factory-fitted front discs,which along with proper engine braking helps a lot while negotiating sharp corners or for abrupt stops. Rear discs can also be installed,but it is important to go for a branded one.

HANDLE: Technically,this simple bar is the lifeline for any rider,whether he is riding a commuter bike,a cruiser,supersports or a dirt-bike. A wider handle is best suited for off-roading. Branded bars like Renthal will cost something around Rs 2,000.

TYRES/RIMS: These are the only points of contact with the road and care should be taken to choose the one best suited for your requirement. The choices are aplenty—complete knobby tyres are best suited for motocross track,while Enduro tyres can be used for off-road rallies. The Secura Sport is a good all-round tyre for the front. Ideally,go for a 21” front and 18” rear wheel. This will provide adequate ground clearance as also keep the centre of gravity low,but always choose a set of wheels in accordance to your height,weight and ability to control the bike. One can also go for aluminium or alloy rims over the stock iron ones.

TANK/SEAT: Seating position is very important while negotiating corners. One should sit as close as possible to the front wheel to avoid wash out at the corners. A perfectly designed seat and a tank should allow the rider to hold the bike between the legs for better control and stability.

GPS UNIT: This comes very handy while going out for multiple day off-road rallies which include both transport and special stages.

PROTECTORS: A hand guard can be optional,but a sump guard is a must,as it will save your bike sump from sharp rocks which can tear the oil pan to pieces,draining the engine oil within minutes and bringing your rally to a halt. It is better to get one custom-made for your bike to protect the clutch and exhaust pipe as well.