I put most of my faith in motorcycle publications, since they seemed to be the most reputable sources of information. They often tested the products in a quasi-scientific manner, sometimes side-by-side with stock components and competitor's offerings. They also tried out the products using professional testers, who were accustomed to riding a multitude of different bikes. These individuals felt things on a motorcycle which I could not. To them, a huge gain in power was all relative.
Over time I came to realize that no aftermarket product will make me a better rider. Only I can make myself better. But there is still a place for aftermarket products in my riding budget - a rather large place, to be sure. The money I spend buying nice little gadgets for my bike falls almost exclusively into three categories: Safety, protection and comfort, usually in that order. Examples:
- Scotts steering damper - I've lost track of the times my front wheel hit something sketchy and I couldn't believe I was still on two wheels. This device, or one like it, will be on every dirt bike I own.
- Pipe and radiator guards - these protect two of the most vulnerable components on a two-stroke dirt bike. I have smashed pipes and destroyed radiators. Guards save money and keep you on the ride or in the race.
- Seats - based on my experience with certain KTM and Beta models, it's no fun to sit on a concrete seat. Sure, I could just stand up more, but what fun is that? Any product which helps me not have to think about something annoying is good by me.
If I do buy a hyped-up product, it's usually out of necessity and the price is right. For example, riding in a national forest requires a spark arrestor. During my Colorado trips to national forests, I sometimes brought bikes which didn't come from the manufacturer equipped with a spark arrestor, so I'd buy a big name aftermarket muffler. I never felt a hint of power increase claimed by the manufacturers, but I was legal.
In my world, it's function over hype. I don't see that changing anytime soon.
