How to Install a Fender Eliminator Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Riding a motorcycle is more than just transportation—it’s an extension of your personality, a statement of freedom and individuality. For many riders, the factory setup just doesn’t cut it. One of the most popular modifications for sportbikes, cruisers, and naked motorcycles is installing a motorcycle fender eliminator kit.

If you’ve ever looked at your bike’s bulky rear fender and thought, this thing has to go, you’re not alone. That oversized plastic fender may serve a purpose—keeping road debris and water spray under control—but it does nothing for the aesthetics of your motorcycle. Replacing it with a sleek fender eliminator kit instantly transforms the tail section, giving your bike a more aggressive, race-inspired look.

But beyond just looks, installing a motorcycle fender eliminator kit can also improve aerodynamics, reduce unnecessary weight, and in some cases, upgrade your lighting system with modern LED components. If you’re ready to ditch that factory fender and give your bike the cleaner tail it deserves, follow this detailed guide to get the job done right.

Why Install a Motorcycle Fender Eliminator Kit?

The stock rear fender isn’t designed with aesthetics in mind. Motorcycle manufacturers add them mainly to comply with regulations regarding license plate placement and road spray protection. But for riders who value sleek design and minimalism, that massive plastic appendage is an eyesore.

Installing a motorcycle fender eliminator kit instantly refines the tail section, making it look lighter and more streamlined. It also removes unnecessary weight, which can subtly improve handling. Most kits come with an integrated license plate bracket and, in many cases, LED taillights and turn signals, enhancing visibility while keeping the design sharp.

What You’ll Need for Installation

Before diving into the process, make sure you have the right tools. While some motorcycle fender eliminator kits offer a direct bolt-on fit, others may require minor modifications. Either way, having the proper tools on hand will make installation much smoother.

You’ll need:

• Socket wrench set – Most factory fenders are held in place by bolts that require a socket wrench for removal.
• Allen keys – Some aftermarket kits use hex bolts instead of standard screws.
• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers – For removing screws and prying off plastic covers.
• Wire strippers and electrical connectors – If your fender eliminator kit includes new LED lights, you may need to splice wires.
• Pliers and zip ties – Useful for securing excess wiring neatly under the seat.

Once you have everything ready, park your bike on a level surface, preferably on a rear stand to keep it stable during installation.

Step 1: Remove the Stock Fender

The first step is getting rid of that oversized factory fender. This process varies depending on the make and model of your bike, but generally follows the same pattern.

Start by removing the seat to access the wiring connected to the taillight and turn signals. Most motorcycles have a wiring harness under the seat that connects the rear lights to the bike’s electrical system. Carefully disconnect the wires, making sure to note which ones control the brake light, turn signals, and plate light.

Next, locate the bolts holding the fender in place. These are usually found underneath the rear subframe. Use a socket wrench to remove them, supporting the fender with your other hand to prevent it from dropping unexpectedly. Once the bolts are out, carefully pull the fender away from the bike, making sure no wires are still attached.

At this point, your motorcycle’s tail section will look much cleaner already. But before moving forward, take a moment to inspect the mounting area and clean off any dirt or debris left behind by the old fender.

Step 2: Prepare the Fender Eliminator Kit

With the stock fender removed, it’s time to install the new motorcycle fender eliminator kit. Before bolting it on, take a look at the components included in your kit. Most will have a license plate bracket, mounting hardware, and sometimes an LED taillight assembly.

If your kit includes new lights, test them before installation to ensure they work properly. Connect the wiring temporarily to your motorcycle’s electrical system and turn on the ignition to check that the brake light, turn signals, and license plate light function as expected. It’s much easier to troubleshoot wiring issues now than after everything is bolted in place.

Step 3: Mount the Fender Eliminator Bracket

Align the fender eliminator bracket with the factory mounting points where the stock fender was attached. Most motorcycle fender eliminator kits are designed for a direct bolt-on installation, so the holes should line up perfectly.

Insert the mounting bolts and tighten them with your socket wrench, making sure the bracket sits flush against the frame. Over-tightening can strip the threads or damage the bracket, so apply just enough torque to keep it securely in place without overtightening.

If your kit includes an adjustable license plate bracket, now is the time to position it for the best angle. Some riders prefer a tucked-in look, while others angle the plate slightly for better visibility. Just make sure it complies with local laws regarding plate positioning.

Step 4: Wiring the Taillight and Turn Signals

Now comes the trickiest part—connecting the new lighting system. If your motorcycle fender eliminator kit includes pre-wired LED lights, installation is as simple as plugging them into your bike’s existing connectors.

However, if the connectors don’t match, you’ll need to splice the wires manually. Strip the ends of each wire and use electrical connectors or heat shrink tubing to attach them securely. Match the wires based on their function—typically, red is for the brake light, black is for ground, and yellow or orange controls the turn signals.

After making the connections, turn on your bike’s ignition and test the lights. Activate the brake lever and turn signals to confirm everything functions properly. If something isn’t working, check your connections and make sure no wires are crossed.

Step 5: Securing the License Plate

With the wiring complete, attach the license plate to the new bracket. Most motorcycle fender eliminator kits include mounting hardware for the plate, but if yours doesn’t, you can use standard license plate bolts.

Once the plate is secured, step back and inspect the entire setup. Check that the plate is clearly visible and that all components are mounted firmly. If necessary, use zip ties to tidy up any excess wiring and keep everything tucked away neatly under the seat.

Step 6: Final Checks and Cleanup

Before taking your bike out for a test ride, do one last inspection. Ensure all bolts are tightened properly, wires are securely connected, and nothing is loose or hanging. If everything looks good, put the seat back on and fire up the engine.

Take a short ride around your neighborhood to test the new setup. Pay attention to any unusual rattling sounds or flickering lights—these could indicate loose components that need tightening.

Conclusion

Installing a motorcycle fender eliminator kit is one of the easiest and most rewarding modifications you can make to your bike. Not only does it improve the overall look by removing the bulky factory fender, but it also enhances the tail section’s aerodynamics and reduces unnecessary weight.

With a bit of time, patience, and the right tools, you can achieve a professional-looking installation on your own. And if you’re ready to upgrade your ride, check out the latest motorcycle fender eliminator kits available at Aliwheels to find the perfect fit for your bike.

Ditch the stock fender, clean up your tail section, and hit the road with a sleek new look that turns heads wherever you rid