Best Motorcycle Spark Plugs (2021)

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Maintaining your motorcycle’s spark isn’t just done by giving it a good wash and fresh fluids every so often, it’s also down to keeping its spark plugs carbon-free and sparking away. These minuscule parts are some of the most important items in your engine, and keeping them in tip-top condition is paramount to having a healthy motorcycle. But which spark plug is the best? Which is right for your motorcycle? Well, fellow riders, we’ve put together the following list to help you get on your way.

However, what I want to impart to you is that spark plug sizes and types may differ from motorcycle to motorcycle, and it’s vitally important that you check your motorcycle’s manual to ensure you purchase the right spark plug for your application. Do your homework, then come back here!

Summary List

Our Methodology

We’ve been working on our motorcycles for decades at this point. And we’ve changed our fair share of spark plugs. We used that institutional knowledge and experience and threw it into this buying guide.

Best Motorcycle Spark Plug Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall

NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs

Best Value

E3 Spark Plug Powersports

Best OEM Replacement

NGK Spark Plugs – Standard

Honorable Mention

Accel U-Groove Spark Plugs For Harley Big Twin / Sportster

Honorable Mention

Pulstar Spark Plug

Our Verdict

I’ll say this again, but the best spark plug for your motorcycle is going to be the one that fits your motorcycle’s engine and fits within your price bracket. That said, if your motorcycle takes NGK’s Iridium spark plugs, then you’ll be super happy. If you want something a little more inexpensive, E3’s powersport spark plugs will do the job.

Buying Guide for Motorcycle Spark Plugs

Here’s everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Key Features

Ground Electrode Type

A spark plug can have two or more ground electrodes surrounding the central electrode. The ground electrode is the probe-like structure that protrudes from the threads. The most common type is a single and double electrode. More electrodes means that you can extend the life of the spark plug since you can rely on the second ground electrode when one burns out. However, it compromises the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Threads

The number of threads on the spark plug determines its level of reach into the combustion chamber. If the threads are few, you won’t get good combustion since the spark plug can’t project into the chamber. If there are too many, and the spark plug is longer than usual, it may get damaged by the pistons when the engine is running or the fuel will ignite sooner than expected. To get the right size, choose the one that’s the same size as your motorcycle’s original spark plug.

Heat Range

This is the speed at which the spark plug can transfer heat from the firing tip to the cooling system. It can be used to tell the amount of time that a spark plug can withstand heat combustion before it gets damaged. The heat range is typically displayed in numerical figures in your owner’s manual. Most motorcycle spark plugs have a heat range of 900 to 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Types of Motorcycle Spark Plugs

Copper

Copper-tipped spark plugs are the most common and standard form of spark plug. Copper is one of the best conductors of electricity, and are typically inexpensive.

Single Platinum

Single platinum plugs are more expensive than copper despite the fact that they are less conductive than the latter. That’s because they tend to last longer since the metal does not erode or wear out as easily as copper.

Double Platinum

Double platinum spark plugs have double plates of platinum on the tip. They can, therefore, last longer and perform better than the single-platinum versions. They are also more expensive.

Iridium

Iridium has great conductivity and is also highly resistant to corrosion at high temperatures. Like those temperatures you’d find in an internal combustion engine. These are the most expensive spark plugs out there, though.

Motorcycle Spark Plug Pricing

Our advice? The average consumer doesn’t need to spend more than $25 for a set of plugs.

FAQs

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: How hard is it to gap a spark plug to the correct size?

A: Pretty easy, as there’s a simple tool you can pick up and use for less than $5.

Q: How often should I change my motorcycle’s spark plugs?

A: This varies depending on how often you ride your bike, the distance you cover, and the age of your motorcycle. Regardless of your riding habits, it’s important to inspect your spark plugs on a regular basis.

Q: Does the material of the spark plug matter?

A: Spark plugs ignite sparks, and different metals do so at different levels. Spark plugs can have platinum or copper cores, and even be nickel-plated.