A2 Licence Motorcycles: Best Exhaust and Accessories

The A2 Licence in the UK: Two Years That Should Be Enjoyable

The A2 motorcycle licence category restricts riders to bikes producing no more than 35kW (47bhp) and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW/kg. For most riders, this means a two-year period on a restricted or purpose-built A2 bike before progressing to a full licence.

There's a common misconception that A2 bikes are boring, underpowered compromise machines to be endured until the restriction lifts. This is simply wrong. The best A2 bikes — Yamaha MT-03, Honda CB300R, KTM Duke 390, Kawasaki Z400 — are genuinely exciting, capable motorcycles that reward skill and are well-supported by aftermarket accessory manufacturers.

A2 Exhaust Upgrades: What's Legal?

Exhaust upgrades are legal on A2 bikes provided they don't increase power beyond A2 limits and the bike remains roadworthy with a valid MoT. Slip-on exhausts — which replace only the final silencer — do not affect fuelling or engine output and are straightforward to fit and use. They are the recommended option for A2 riders.

Full system exhausts on A2 bikes require more care. A full system without fuelling adjustment on a fuel-injected bike may run lean and cause reliability issues. With a remap, it may push power above A2 limits — which would breach licence conditions. If you want a full system on an A2 bike, seek advice from a specialist who understands the implications.

For most A2 riders, slip-on exhausts are the right choice: straightforward, legal, effective, and good value. Browse the exhaust collection and crash protection range for A2-compatible options.

Popular A2 Bikes and Their Exhaust Options

Yamaha MT-03

The MT-03's parallel-twin has a naturally good sound character that aftermarket exhausts enhance clearly. The under-seat routing of the standard exhaust is worth maintaining — slip-on options that preserve this layout look better than alternatives. Several manufacturers produce MT-03 specific systems with quality construction and appropriate sound levels for road use.

Honda CB300R

The CB300R's single-cylinder engine produces a quieter note than the MT-03. Aftermarket exhausts add considerably more character and better match the neo sports café styling of the bike. Under-seat routing options are available and suit the CB300R's visual design.

KTM Duke 390

The Duke 390 is the most performance-focused A2 option and has a strong aftermarket. Its single-cylinder engine produces a characterful, high-revving note in standard trim, and aftermarket exhausts amplify this significantly. KTM-specific exhaust manufacturers understand the platform well, and quality options are readily available.

Crash Protection: More Important Than the Exhaust

Before any aesthetic or sound upgrade, fit crash protection. A2 riders are statistically more likely to have minor offs than experienced riders — this isn't a criticism, it's the nature of the learning process. Frame sliders, engine case protectors, and hand guards on trail-capable bikes protect against the kind of low-speed incidents that occur more frequently in the early stages of riding.

Find crash protection for your A2 bike in the crash protection collection.

Comfort Upgrades for A2 Bikes

A2 bikes are predominantly used for commuting, weekend riding, and the occasional longer trip. Seat comfort becomes important faster than new riders expect, particularly when commuting daily. A quality seat cover with gel padding makes a genuine difference to the riding experience on any regular-commute bike.

Handlebar positioning is also worth checking early. Many A2 bikes can benefit from minor bar position adjustments — risers or bar-end weights — that reduce wrist and shoulder fatigue on longer rides.

Planning for the Full Licence

One practical consideration for A2 riders is thinking ahead to the full licence upgrade. If you plan to keep the same bike after obtaining a full A licence, accessories investment in crash protection and comfort items is fully transferable. If you plan to change bikes, keep accessory spending modest and focused on necessities.

The upgrades that genuinely improve daily riding — crash protection, comfortable seat, quality exhaust — are worthwhile on any bike for any period of ownership. Invest in those and the two-year A2 period is considerably more enjoyable than the licence category's reputation suggests.

Shop A2 Motorcycle Accessories

Find exhaust upgrades and protection for your A2 bike: exhaust systems and crash protection.