Genuine or Aftermarket? OEM, Pattern and “OEM Quality” Motorcycle Parts Explained
A genuine (OEM) part is the factory part sold under the motorcycle manufacturer's own part number; an aftermarket (pattern) part is made by another manufacturer to the original's dimensions and fitted in its place. “OEM quality” is a claim about quality, not origin; such products are aftermarket parts.
Three different things
| Type | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Genuine (OEM) | Supplied under the motorcycle brand's part number and packaging | Genuine Honda oil filter |
| Original-equipment supplier brand | A factory supplier selling under its own brand | NGK spark plug, DID chain |
| Aftermarket (pattern) | Made by another manufacturer to the original's dimensions | Aftermarket rear variator, pattern fairing |
The second group is often overlooked: many factories buy spark plugs, chains or batteries from specialist makers. That maker's own-brand product is in the same class as the factory part in dimensions and specification.
What do “OEM quality”, “original quality” and “A quality” mean?
These are the supplier's claims about quality; they don't mean the motorcycle brand made the part. On our site, products whose names say “OEM Quality”, “Original Quality”, “Aftermarket” or “Pattern” are marked aftermarket; only products whose names explicitly state a genuine/OEM part are shown as genuine. The part type appears in the “Part type” row of each product's specification table.
Which makes sense for which part?
| Part group | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Brakes (pads, discs, fluid) | Genuine or a recognised brake brand; don't economise on safety parts |
| Consumables (plugs, filters, chains, belts) | Original-equipment supplier brands (NGK, DID, RK, Bando, Mitsuboshi, HifloFiltro) offer a good balance |
| Fairings and bodywork | Aftermarket parts are economical; expect small differences in colour shade and mounting tabs |
| Engine internals (pistons, cranks, valves) | Tolerances are critical; choose genuine or a trusted brand |
| Electrics (stator, regulator, CDI) | Connectors and ratings must match the original exactly |
How to check a part number
- Read the number on the old part; Honda uses three groups such as “15410-KWN-901”.
- Note your motorcycle's model year and VIN; the same model can use different parts in different years.
- Compare the compatible models table and any part number on the product page.
- If unsure, contact us with your VIN and we'll help you find the right part.
Why the price difference?
A genuine part's price includes the motorcycle brand's distribution chain, packaging and stocking costs. Original-equipment supplier brands often offer the same specification for less. Aftermarket prices vary widely, as material and workmanship differ between manufacturers.
Buying aftermarket parts
- Size: compare the sizes and codes on the product page with your old part (belt size, bearing code, seal size).
- Model year: watch the year range on models with a facelift.
- Mounting points: check screw points and tabs on fairings and brackets.
- Electrical connectors: wire count and connector type must match exactly.
Example: three options for the same need
Take the rear brake pads of a 125 cc scooter:
- Genuine pads: come with the motorcycle brand's part number; fit and brake feel are factory standard, and they are the most expensive option.
- Recognised brake brand: same size, made with the brand's own compound; often similar performance for less.
- Aftermarket pads: economical; material quality varies by maker, so for safety parts the manufacturer's reputation matters.
For more on choosing pads, see our brake pad guide.
How to avoid counterfeit parts
- Be wary of “genuine” products far below the market price.
- Check the part number, print quality and holograms/labels on the packaging.
- Buy from sellers who issue invoices and clearly publish their returns and contact details.
- Make sure the part type is stated on the product page; if not, ask the seller.
Frequently asked questions
Can an aftermarket part damage my motorcycle?
A good-quality aftermarket part in the right size replaces the original without issues. Risks usually come from size mismatches and poor materials, so always check the size and compatibility information on the product page.
Is a genuine part always better?
Genuine parts offer an exact fit and factory quality. For consumables, original-equipment supplier brands can deliver the same quality for less.
Where can I see whether a product is genuine or aftermarket?
The specification table on the product page has a “Part type” row. If it's missing, the supplier didn't state the part type; ask us before ordering.
What if a part turns out to be defective?
Your rights under Turkish Consumer Protection Law No. 6502 are reserved for defective goods. See our returns page or contact us for the return and exchange steps.
Is there a warranty difference between genuine and aftermarket parts?
Statutory liability for defective goods applies to every product you buy as a consumer. Beyond that, some manufacturers offer an additional warranty for their products; where one exists it is stated on the product page or packaging.
Motorsiklet Parçası editorial team
Our team of motorcycle parts and maintenance specialists writes these guides from the questions and faults we see every day.
