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After all these years of fettling, the one thing I keep learning is that OEM parts are almost always better, and that goes for any brand of motorcycle. Take brake pads: I have seen some improved performance with aftermarket pads, but then increased rotor wear. I understand that the OEM doesn't necessarily make service parts, but they may have a say on specification. I just got OEM pads for my KTM and they are made by Toshiba. Who knew?

In general, I tend to agree, but not always.
If you are rebuilding the engine of an R90, piston ring technology has moved on quite a bit since the early to mid 70's.
I'd get more modern 3-piece oil rings.
There are better shocks available than OEM. Sometimes better springs as well.
Oil filters, I tend to go OEM unless I find a vendor who I believe may have been the supplier. I have no problem using the Mahle filters on my BMWs. Much better than the HiFLo's. I use MANN filters in my wife's Audi, but OEM Honda filters for my Odyssey and Civic.
If you bike has a chain, newer chain technology (O-ring or X-ring) are much better than the original non-sealed chains of the past, and metal technology has moved on as well.

You don't always get what you pay for, but you seldom get more.

What do I know about OEM vs. aftermarket parts?

1 - A Bosch spark plug in a BMW box costs a lot more than a Bosch spark plug in a Bosch box.
2 - A Corbin seat is always better than a OEM seat.
hmmm, I think that's all

gspd wrote: ↑Wed Feb 10, 2021 11:05 pm What do I know about OEM vs. aftermarket parts?

1 - A Bosch spark plug in a BMW box costs a lot more than a Bosch spark plug in a Bosch box.
2 - A Corbin seat is always better than a OEM seat.
hmmm, I think that's all

Yep. But it can be an adventure walking in to the VW parts store and asking for a W6DC. Even if the guy behind the counter is in his 60s and has been doing the job for 40 years. "Oh, they've gone to a different numbering system." When he finally found the right thing, I showed him "W6DC" on the plug itself.

go a airfilter from NAPA box inside was BMW oem filter saved money on that deal