Harleys are among the most modified motorcycles in the world, and have a vast, dedicated aftermarket. There are all sorts of options available for just about every model, including an extensive selection of parts and accessories available through the Harley-Davidson dealer network. What’s great about that is the fact that pretty much anything bought through the dealer will keep your warranty intact.
Unlike other manufacturers that discourage modifications, Harley-Davidson almost actively encourages them, almost to a fault. It can be pretty easy to confuse great marketing for a great product, and dealer-approved options can be a little on the pricey side. The upgrades featured here will all add to the overall experience, but each motorcycle needs to be tailored to the individual rider, so it is important to decide what fits your needs best.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Harley-Davidson. Whereas, the opinions are our own. The upgrades are listed in no particular order.
Passenger Seat
Price Range: $200 – $300
For most riders, a passenger seat is quite simply essential. Unfortunately, some Harley-Davidson cruisers simply don’t come with one. There are some aftermarket options out there, but we feel choosing one of the options listed on the official site will be the best bet here. While being a “lone wolf” might seem appealing at first, there will come a time when your significant other wants to go for a ride, or a buddy asks for a lift.
Pros
- Added convenience
- Easy upgrade
Cons
- Changes the appearance of the bike
- Adds weight – albeit an insignificant amount
Saddlebags
Price Range: $100 – $1,000
This one is especially subjective. There are some aftermarket bags that will cost even less than $100, but putting anything in those bags might not be a risk worth taking. Getting the expensive bags from the dealer also seems like a waste to us, because, at the end of the day, there are just so many great aftermarket options out there from a wide selection of trusted brands.
Pros
- Added convenience
- Easy and affordable upgrade
Cons
- Changes the appearance of the bike
- Adds wind resistance on the highway
Windshield
Price Range: $100 – $500
Getting something sold by the dealer will guarantee easy fitment, but there are several great options out there from established brands like Puig and MRA. We would not recommend any of the cheaper options made in China and sold online. Fitment can be one issue, but this is also something that can become a pretty dangerous projectile if it breaks on the highway.
Pros
- Reduces buffeting
- Reduces fatigue
Cons
- Fitment isn’t always straightforward
- Some generic designs look a little awkward on certain models
Tires
Price Range: $400 – $500
A good set of tires can truly transform a motorcycle. If the bike is new, this might not be as transformative, but manufacturers – Harley included – don’t always fit the best rubber. Every tire from every manufacturer is a little different, and you will need to do your research here to find out what suits you and your riding style. Sporty tires tend to grip more, but will wear out faster, and other dedicated cruiser tires will last longer, but won’t inspire as much confidence in the corners.
Pros
- Improved feedback
- Better grip or longer lasting
Cons
- Every tire is a compromise
- The wrong tires can make your bike worse
Washable Air Filter
Price Range: $50 – $700
Washable or performance filters increase airflow, improve filtration, and last the lifetime of the vehicle. This is a must-have upgrade for anyone looking to keep their bike for a long time, and one of the few performance upgrades that make an immediate impact on a modern, fuel-injected motorcycle. K&N has a tie-up with Harley, and makes the Screamin’ Eagle filters, but there are several other established manufacturers out there that do an equally good job. You can take it a step further by changing the entire intake, but this will be more expensive and may require a tune.
Pros
- Improved performance and fuel economy
- Lasts a lifetime as long as you wash it correctly
Cons
- Can easily get damaged over time
- It is an extra maintenance item
Exhaust System
Price Range: $500 – $2,000
Harleys are generally pretty loud bikes, so you should approach this one with caution. If you live in a neighborhood or state that takes noise levels seriously, you need to do your due diligence here. Vance & Hines focuses on Harley exhausts and has a wide selection of high-quality offerings. A simple slip-on might be the better bet for most riders, but if you want a full system, you will also need an ECU remap, or a fuel-controller to go along with the exhaust.
Pros
- Easy to install in most cases
- If done in conjunction with an air filter and a remap, you will gain a few horses
Cons
- Some full systems are obnoxiously loud
- Some exhausts are not street legal
Screamin’ Eagle Stage III Kit
Price Range: $2,000 – $3,000
If you want to go all-in on performance, then it is well worth considering one of the many Screamin’ Eagle kits. Something like this will either need to be done by the dealer or a professional mechanic, unless you are a confident amateur mechanic. The kits range in price for every model, but our value-based pick would be a stage III kit. It offers a big performance bump for the price.
Pros
- Up to 39% more power
- Street legal
Cons
- If the dealer does the work, it will get pricey
- If you do the work, there is a chance that you will void the warranty
Suspension Setup
Price Range: Free – $2,000
On one end of the spectrum, we have the basic setup of your stock components. Simply getting the controls in the right place – simple to adjust – and setting the sag can make a world of difference. To set the sag, you need to sit on the bike with your gear, and the forks should compress by around 1.5 inches and the rear shock should compress around an inch. All you need to do is adjust the preload one way or the other to get it onto spec. If you still find that the suspension is not performing to your liking, it might be time to consider taking the bike to a suspension specialist, or fitting an aftermarket rear shock/shocks. That can get a little expensive, but it is worth considering if the bike is not handling well.
Pros
- Once set up correctly, your motorcycle will handle way better
- Free upgrade
Cons
- If you take it out of spec, the bike can become dangerous to ride
- Expensive if you take it to a dedicated suspension shop and end up changing the rear shock/shocks
Semi-Sintered Brake Pads
Price Range: $100 – $150
For those of you who think high-performance brake pads are only for sports bikes, think again. Harleys are, for the most part, heavy bikes, and improving the stopping power will improve the overall riding experience. Simply upgrading to semi-sintered pads can make a big difference. Just double check before you buy anything because some new models are equipped with Brembo brakes and might already have high-performance pads.
Pros
- Improved brake feel
- Longer lasting
Cons
- More expensive
- The service life of the rotors will be reduced
Full Service
Price Range: $200 – $300
Arguably the least sexy upgrade, but the most important one. It might seem bizarre to some, but there are those who will prioritize the next performance mod before spending money on a basic oil change. Sticking to your maintenance interval is key, and shouldn’t ever be overlooked in favor of an “upgrade” that won’t make a shred of difference if the bike is not running right in the first place.
Pros
- Makes your bike feel new
- Added peace of mind