If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the fender eliminator at some point. It’s a popular modification among motorcycle owners, but many are still unsure about its true purpose. So, what is a fender eliminator? Simply put, it’s a mod that removes or replaces the stock rear fender, giving your bike a cleaner and more stylish look. The main purpose of a fender eliminator is not just aesthetic; it also has practical functions, such as making the bike lighter and reducing excess weight.
For many, this modification provides several benefits, like better handling and enhanced appearance. As motorcycle owners seek to personalize their rides, the fender eliminator continues to be a top choice for those looking to give their bike a sleek and sharp look while improving its overall performance. After delving deeper into this topic, it’s easy to see why this mod has become so popular in the world of motorcycle culture.
What is a Fender Eliminator?
A fender eliminator, sometimes called a tail tidy or license plate holder, is a popular motorcycle accessory. Its main function is to remove or replace the bulky, factory-installed rear fender, which typically holds the license plate, turn signals, and even rear reflectors. The primary goal of a fender eliminator is to streamline the appearance of your bike, giving the tail end a cleaner, more sportier look. It’s a simple mod that not only enhances the motorcycle’s style but also contributes to reducing unnecessary weight.
Functions of a Fender Eliminator
Improved Aesthetics: One of the main functions of a fender eliminator is to improve the visual appeal of a motorcycle. By removing the bulky rear fender, the bike achieves a sleeker, more attractive look. It often gives the rear end a sportier feel, similar to the styling of racing motorcycles, making it visually striking and modern.
Reduced Weight: Factory-installed rear fenders are often heavy and made from bulky materials. Replacing these with a fender eliminator offers a significant weight reduction, which can enhance performance, improve agility, and provide better handling for the motorcycle.
License Plate Relocation: A fender eliminator typically includes a license plate holder, allowing you to relocate the license plate to a more discreet, aesthetically pleasing position. This can be under the tail or on the side of the bike, while also preventing the plate from obstructing the airflow to the rear tire, improving the bike’s aerodynamics.
Enhanced Visibility: Some fender eliminators come with LED turn signals and brake lights integrated into the design. These lights are often brighter and more noticeable than the stock signals, which enhances visibility and safety on the road, making it easier for other drivers to spot your bike, especially at night.
Customization: One of the biggest advantages of fender eliminators is their ability to offer customization. They come in various designs and materials, allowing motorcycle owners to personalize their rear ends. Whether you prefer a minimalistic look or something more elaborate and artistic, there’s a fender eliminator design that suits your preferences.
Related: How Much is it to Wrap a Motorcycle?
Benefits of Installing a Fender Eliminator
A Sleeker Look: One of the primary benefits of installing a fender eliminator is the improved aesthetics it brings to your motorcycle. It provides a cleaner, more stylish appearance, which is often appreciated by riders looking for a more modern and sharp look for their bike.
Weight Reduction: Removing unnecessary weight from the rear of a motorcycle can improve its overall performance. This weight reduction enhances acceleration and handling, giving the bike a more agile feel and better overall control.
Safety: Some fender eliminators come with integrated LED lights, which significantly improve visibility. This makes the motorcycle more noticeable to other road users, especially when signaling turns or braking, contributing to greater safety on the road.
Personalization: Fender eliminators allow riders to express their personal style and unique personality. With a variety of designs and finishes, this simple modification can make a significant difference in the overall look of the bike, allowing for a more customized appearance.
Compliance with Local Laws: In some regions, there are regulations regarding the position of license plates and turn signals. Fender eliminators can help riders meet these local laws while still maintaining a customized appearance, blending functionality with style.
Related: Top Motorcycle Clubs
What do they come with?
The contents of a fender eliminator kit largely depend on the manufacturer and the make or model of your motorcycle. For example, New Rage Cycles offers a complete package, which includes LED turn signals, a brake light, and a mounting bracket. Additionally, their kit features a license plate bracket with an integrated LED light, providing both functionality and enhanced visibility.
Do they have different options?
Yes, fender eliminators come with different options to suit various bikes. You can choose between a standard version or a tucked version, which simply refers to the location of the license plate bracket. Additionally, there are US version and EU version options, where the main difference is the color of the turn signals. For some bikes, you also have the option to add a dual load equalizer to adjust the flash rate of the turn signals, offering more control over their appearance and functionality.
Are they easy to install?
When it comes to installing a fender eliminator, it’s often a straightforward process, especially if you choose one labeled as plug and play. Many fender eliminators, particularly those from NRC, are designed for easy installation, meaning you can simply follow the description and connect the components without any complicated modifications.
Related: Top 50 Best Motorcycle Routes in USA
Are they legal?
Before installing a fender eliminator, it’s important to check the local laws in your area, as there may be specific laws regarding the display of license plates on motorcycles. Some regions have strict guidelines on where and how the plate should be mounted, so always make sure you’re complying with these regulations to avoid any issues. It’s better to double-check before you install one to ensure everything is legal.
Bottom line
A fender eliminator is a popular modification in the world of motorcycle customization, designed to improve the appearance of the rear end of your bike. By streamlining the design, reducing weight, and enhancing visibility, this modification offers a blend of style, performance, and safety. It’s not just about aesthetics—a fender eliminator provides personalization for your two-wheeler, making it a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts who want both function and flair. Whether you’re looking to improve your bike’s look or its overall performance, this addition delivers multiple benefits.
Related: How to Clean Motorcycle Brakes
Related: How to Wrap a Bike for Christmas
