CNC Machining Custom Motorcycle Parts: An Explanation

It is hard to balance the center of gravity in motorcycles and other two-wheelers. So customization of various parts is essential, such as cylinder heads, camshafts, gears, sprockets, and gas tanks. You can notice the custom motorcycle parts in racing, dirt, and electric bikes. Additionally, customization is equally applicable to replacement and complex parts of regular motorbikes. 

The higher-axis CNC machines ( 4, 5, 6, or even higher axes) allow access to larger workpiece areas and directions. They can make complex motorcycle parts with high accuracy and consistency. Therefore, manufacturers use CNC machining for different custom parts.

Furthermore, we will discuss the machining processes used for machining motorcycle parts, benefits, and examples of some custom parts. 

CNC Machining Methods Used for Custom Motorcycle Parts

Different motorcycle parts 

CNC machining processes CNC Milling, Turning, Drilling, Turn-milling,  Laser Cutting, and EDM are used in machining motorcycle parts. Which method to choose depends on the shape complexity, geometrical features, and design specifications.

CNC Milling 

Milling is suitable for flat asymmetrical shapes with complex contours. A rotating cutter removes the material from the workpiece surface fed from the opposite direction. Meanwhile, the CNC-controlled spindle allows tools to move across the workpiece to craft complex features. Some examples of custom CNC-milled motorcycle parts are handlebars, triple clamps, engine covers, and brake levers. 

CNC Turning 

Turning operations are suitable for cylindrical (both solid and hollow) motorcycle components like axle spacers, wheel hubs, fork tubes, and pistons. In CNC turning, the tool removes the material from rotating work to produce these axially symmetrical parts. Additionally, turning can also process hard materials like titanium alloys and tool steel. 

CNC Turn-Mill 

Turn-Mill combines the capability of turning and milling in a single machine setup, which significantly increases the capability of making complex features. This precision machining process can make custom motorcycle parts like brake discs and swing arms. 

CNC Drilling 

CNC drilling is used to create precise through and blind holes on parts like engine blocks, brake discs, frame components, and wheel hubs. The different shapes and sizes of the drill bits are available you can choose according to your design. 

Assembly features 

CNC Laser Cutting 

Laser cutting uses a concentrated laser beam at a high temperature( can be 1000 ° +) that precisely melts the workpiece to make various intricate parts. For example, transmission gears, engine components, and custom sprockets.

Examples of Custom CNC Machined Motorcycle Parts

Custom Motorcycle Handlebars

A handlebar defines the position of riding in a motorcycle. It allows the rider to dictate the directions like shifts and corners,  and balance the center of gravity. Additionally, handlebars directly influence the comfort level and front appearance.  All of these reasons make the handlebar one of the critical motorcycle components. Therefore, there are several types of handlebars that motorbike manufacturers can choose from, according to their requirements. 

Custom motorcycle handlebars and accessories 

Often, high-performance and specialized motorbikes require custom motorcycle handlebars. They are created with CNC machining processes. The table below outlines different types of custom motorcycle handlebars and what CNC machining processes are used to make them.

Materials 

• Aluminum 6061 and 7075
• Chrome-Moly (4130) Steel
• Stainless Steel 304 and 316

Custom Motorcycles Front Fork Connecting Plate

Custom Motorcycle Gas Tanks

Whether developing a new bike or optimizing the running one, custom gas tanks ( also known as fuel tanks) are essential parts. Using a custom-fit gas tank not only ensures performance but also the safety. 

CNC machined gas tank for motorcycle 

The complex shapes of custom motorcycle tanks require advanced CNC machining and post-processing treatments. Typically, laser cutting, CNC milling, bending, TIG welding, and polishing are used for this.

Materials 

• Aluminum 5052 and 6061
• Mild Steel 1018
• Stainless Steel 304 and 316
• Titanium Grade 2 and Grade 5

Custom Motorcycle Wheels

The wheels are associated with the load handling and aesthetic appeal of the motorcycle. So, their customization helps to enhance the performance and appearance. 

Custom motorcycle wheel 

Wheel manufacturing involves CNC turning for the initial roughing of the workpiece, milling for spokes & rim details, drilling holes for assembly, tapping, and surface finishing processes. Wheels can be polished for a smooth texture, followed by anodizing or coating.

Materials

• Aircraft grade aluminum 6061-T6
• Cast iron
• Magnesium alloys
• Carbon-fiber composites 

Benefits of Using Custom CNC Motorcycle Parts

Custom motorcycle parts 

• Complex Geometries: The higher axes CNC machines can craft intricate features like undercuts, deep holes, grooves, etc, allowing for high customization. 
• Precision: You can produce custom motorcycle parts with a tolerance low of 0.0003 inches. 
• Production Speed: The CNC control and automated processes significantly increase the machining speed, which is beneficial for rapid prototypes of custom motorcycle parts. 
• Performance: The use of custom-fit parts optimizes the performance of motorcycles as each custom part is made for its optimal functionality.
• Research and Development: The fast speed and accuracy of CNC machining make it suitable for manufacturing various parts for R&D purposes. 

• Custom Finishes: The CNC machined surface can be polished, coated, and dyed for custom texture and color. 

Read more: Top 9 CNC Machining Manufacturers in The World

Surface Finishing Techniques for CNC Motorcycle Parts

Surface texture and colors are two important aspects of appearance customization in motorcycles. The CNC machined parts often contain machining mars and micro-irregularities. But, they can be finished into desired texture, matte, gloss, smooth, and as-mirror finish. Mechanical abrasive grinding and polishing are two common techniques used for this. 

Furthermore, anodizing, electrostatic painting, powder coating, and other surface finishing techniques are available for the custom appearance of motorcycle parts. 

The table below shows the common finishing techniques and their uses; 

Summing Up 

The CNC machining processes offer high customization for motorcycle parts as CNC machines allow for higher axes movement, design flexibility, and accuracy. You can use custom motorcycle parts like handlebars, fuel tanks, wheels, and engine parts to enhance performance and achieve unique appearances. 

ProleanTech is a leading manufacturing company in  CNC machining China domain, working on diverse OEM projects.  Our CNC machining service uses advanced 3,4, and 5-axis CNC machines to produce the CNC motorcycle parts from your designs. Our engineers closely work with clients to understand their unique requirements. Then, our CAM team and operators execute the processes to manufacture parts with utmost accuracy. 

FAQs 

Can CNC make custom parts for a chopper motorcycle project? 

Yes, CNC machining produces precise, custom parts for chopper motorcycles. Eg. intricate wheels, frames, and handlebars.

Are custom CNC motorcycle parts more expensive than die casting?

Typically,  motorcycle parts are more expensive than die-casting. However, it is cost-effective for prototypes and small batch CNC machining. 

Can I use custom tooling for the CNC machining of motorcycle parts?

Yes, you can use custom CNC tooling to achieve specific designs or meet unique requirements. Custom tools are designed to match the exact specifications of complex shapes and detailed features.