Applications and Product Solutions for Motorcycles
Graepel manufactures custom sheet metal parts and perforated sheet metal components for various functional areas of motorcycles. These include engine and underbody protection panels to guard against stone chips and ground contact, luggage racks and carriers as lightweight, load-bearing structural components, as well as exhaust covers and perforated sheet metal elements for areas subject to high thermal stress. In addition, we supply radiator and ventilation grilles that protect sensitive components and support reliable cooling.
All components are designed for low weight, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance, and are precisely integrated into the respective vehicle architecture.
Metal exhaust system for guiding, dampening, and venting combustion gases; reduces noise and heat load.
Graepel ventilation grilles provide optimal cooling performance and protection in vehicles and machinery, with up to 80% open area.
Graepel ventilation grilles provide optimal cooling performance and protection in vehicles and machinery, with up to 80% open area.
Why Graepel is the ideal partner for motorcycle manufacturers
Graepel is a specialist in sheet metal processing with extensive expertise in forming technology and perforation. Our strength lies in the precise and cost-effective series production of sophisticated sheet metal parts and perforated sheet components for high-stress applications in motorcycles.
By getting involved early in the component development process, we evaluate manufacturability, material selection, and forming processes from a manufacturing perspective. The goal is a solution that meets technical requirements, can be produced reliably, and runs economically in series production. From initial coordination through to series production, Graepel supports projects closely and reliably.
“To me, motorcycles represent pure dynamism, cutting-edge technology, and a unique riding experience. It is this combination that makes the industry so exciting to me: it’s about developing components that are not only robust and precision-engineered, but also highlight the design and individual character of a motorcycle.
With high standards for quality, manufacturing expertise, and execution, we support projects from the initial idea all the way to the production-ready component. This is how we create solutions that uniquely combine technical function, design excellence, and emotion.”
Oliver Heinemann
Sales Manager, Graepel
FAQ
When it comes to motorcycle exhaust systems, the focus is on three materials that differ fundamentally in terms of weight, temperature resistance, appearance, and price: Stainless steel (1.4301 / 1.4571) is the standard material—durable, corrosion-resistant, easy to weld, and cost-effective. It is suitable for all temperature ranges up to approx. 900 °C and is the most commonly used material in series production. Titanium (Grade 2 / Grade 5) offers up to a 40% weight reduction compared to stainless steel while maintaining comparable strength and produces the characteristic blue discoloration that is highly valued in the premium and racing sectors. Temperature resistance up to 600 °C (Grade 2) or 300 °C (Grade 5). Carbon is used for mufflers and heat shields, but it is not a metal and therefore not part of our core expertise. We manufacture exhaust components from stainless steel and titanium—from custom-made parts to series production.
We are a specialized supplier of body panels, side covers, underbody panels, fuel tank covers, and sheet metal components for motorcycle manufacturing—serving OEMs, small-batch manufacturers, and custom projects. Solid sheet metal made of steel, stainless steel, and aluminum offers significantly higher temperature resistance, better stone chip resistance, and an authentic, high-quality metal look compared to plastic fairings. We manufacture according to customer drawings, 3D data, or samples—from prototypes to series production. Coating options: KTL + powder coating, liquid paint, and, upon request, brushed stainless steel or anodized aluminum.
We manufacture custom metal components, specialty parts, and production assemblies for motorcycle series—in steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. We support the entire process: concept development, prototyping, and production ramp-up. Our vertical integration enables us to produce visible parts with A-grade surfaces, gap dimensions according to drawings, and reproducible quality for limited editions. We have experience meeting the requirements of boutique manufacturers, custom brands, and OEM special series.
We supply visible parts, covers, heat shields, and decorative elements made of metal for motorcycles, featuring A- and B-grade surface finishes and reproducible gap dimensions according to customer drawings. Heat shields are manufactured from stainless steel or aluminum; decorative elements are available in brushed or polished stainless steel or anodized aluminum. Visible parts undergo a complete surface and dimensional inspection prior to delivery. Initial sampling and approval process according to customer specifications.
Yes – we support motorcycle manufacturers and development teams starting from the early design phase in the development of sheet metal parts that combine lightweight construction, stability, and design aesthetics. Our engineering team assists with material selection (steel, stainless steel, aluminum), design for maximum rigidity with minimum weight, and surface finishes for visible parts. We work with 3D CAD data and can quickly produce and deliver prototypes thanks to our in-house tooling department. We guide you all the way through to series production. A particular strength: components where design and manufacturability must align from the very beginning.
In the premium and luxury motorcycle segment, we are the partner of choice for high-quality metal components where material quality, surface perfection, and manufacturing precision leave no room for compromise. Our portfolio for exclusive motorcycle projects includes: exhaust system components. We collaborate with OEM production departments—discreetly, precisely, and with the commitment that every part speaks for itself.
For motorcycle metal parts requiring a high-quality finish, we offer the following surface treatments: brushed or polished stainless steel, anodized aluminum (natural, black, or colored), KTL primer with powder coating (matte/gloss/textured), high-temperature paint (up to 550 °C) for heat shields<s>,</s> and controlled titanium heat treatment<s>. </s>All visible parts undergo a final inspection according to customer specifications (gloss level, surface roughness, color value). Samples and color swatches are provided in advance for approval. For complex surface concepts, we recommend early involvement in the design process.
