Pros and Cons: OEM vs. Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts in Treasure Coast, FL

Whenever you need work done on your motorcycle that involves a part replacement, you’ve got to make a choice that could have a large amount of bearing on the future of your bike: OEM or aftermarket? Making the decision to buy an original manufacturer replacement part versus a modified, aftermarket component could dramatically impact the way you deal with situations concerning repairs in the future.

First, it’s essential to get to the bottom of what exactly your two choices are. Take a look at a quick breakdown of OEM versus aftermarket motorcycle parts in Treasure Coast, FL:

• OEM parts are replacement components that are identical to what’s stock on your bike—hence the name “original equipment manufacturer.”
• Aftermarket parts are not sourced from your bike’s manufacturer, but instead made by a third party company. They will likely function the same or better than an original part, with the benefit of offering you options that stock OEM parts can’t.

Sounds like an easy choice, right? If you just want a run-of-the-mill replacement, you choose OEM; if you want to modify your vehicle, you go with aftermarket. But the solution isn’t always this simple and in fact, has ramifications beyond the part you choose in the end.

First things first: warranties. OEM motorcycle parts in Treasure Coast, FL aren’t going to void your warranty because they’re identical to the parts you’re relying on in the first place! Sticking an OEM in as a replacement won’t affect your warranty coverage at all. Aftermarket on the other hand, will likely void your warranty! Because you’re putting something “untested” in your bike, which deviates from the stock, your warranty is not obligated to cover you should something else go wrong—after all, you could’ve just gotten OEM part!

While OEM options may trump the decision if you’re someone concerned about warranty coverage, aftermarket parts will certainly appeal to you if you’re looking to save a quick buck in the short term. Many aftermarket motorcycle parts in Treasure Coast, FL cost a fraction of what an OEM part does and in fact, many top OEM brands are a good deal less than their OEM counterparts. With OEM, you’re paying for a higher upfront price to keep your warranty intact and get the same standardization as you would right off the assembly line.

Finally, performance is always a hot button topic when considering part replacements. As mentioned briefly above, aftermarket parts are tremendously appealing because of their advanced specifications—aftermarket brands push the limits of your bike’s performance and often, this equates to more enjoyment of your bike. With OEM, you get what you get: stock performance that’s reliable—no more, no less. If you’re knowledgeable, aftermarket can trump an OEM part… however if you’re in the mindset of playing it safe, OEM is a must-have.

The next time you need a new part of your bike and are faced with the decision to choose a stock versus aftermarket replacement option, consider carefully the route you want to take. It’s more than just an immediate decision—it’s one with lasting ramifications!