Is it illegal to modify a motorcycle with a short tail?
3 Answers
Modifying a motorcycle with a short tail is not illegal. Here is a relevant introduction about vehicle modifications: Concept: Modification refers to altering the external appearance, internal design, and mechanical performance of a vehicle originally produced by the manufacturer, based on the owner's needs. It mainly includes two types: body modifications and power modifications. Regulations: Vehicle decoration relates to the safety performance of the vehicle, and modifications can have a greater impact on safety. Before modifying a licensed vehicle, the owner must register and declare the modifications to the vehicle management office. The modification technical report must be reviewed and approved by the vehicle management office before the modifications can proceed. After the modifications are completed, the owner must also complete the modification change procedures at the vehicle management office.
I've been riding motorcycles for over a decade and seen many buddies modify their bikes with short tails—looks super cool and saves space, but it's really not reliable. A few years back, a riding buddy of mine got his tail chopped short, only to be pulled over by the cops for an inspection. They said his rear light position was lowered and the reflectors were removed, which didn’t meet the factory safety standards. He was fined 300 yuan on the spot and got points deducted. In China, motorcycle modifications must be registered. According to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," altering the vehicle's structure without approval is basically illegal. If the photos on the registration certificate don’t match the actual bike, it won’t pass inspection. Even if a modification shop tries to convince you it’s fine, the risks on the road are high—if an accident happens, the insurance company might deny your claim. Gotta say, modding your bike isn’t a big deal, but don’t try to outsmart the law. Riding steady is more fun and safer.
I personally place great emphasis on abiding by laws and regulations. From a legal perspective, motorcycle bobber modifications are usually illegal, as traffic regulations explicitly prohibit unauthorized alterations to key structural components of vehicles. For instance, after shortening the tail, the position of the rear fender and reflectors changes, directly affecting nighttime visibility and safety. If police inspection reveals discrepancies from the registered specifications during vehicle checks, it may result in fines or even impoundment. I always advise checking local policies thoroughly before making any modifications—some areas permit minor changes but require registration. I often remind friends that safety is no trivial matter; no matter how stylish the mods look, compliance is paramount to avoid unnecessary liabilities. It's best to consult professional institutions—don't cut corners only to face bigger troubles later.
