Riding your motorcycle is all about freedom and thrill, but it comes with risks—both for you and your bike. That’s where motorcycle crash protection comes in. These specially designed parts aim to minimize damage during a crash, saving you from expensive repairs and helping keep your bike in one piece.
But does motorcycle crash protection actually work? In this blog, we’ll explore the key types of crash protection, how they function, and their effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Whether you’re a track rider, an off-road adventurer, or a road warrior, we’ll help you understand how to choose the right protection for your bike and riding style.
What Is Motorcycle Crash Protection?
Crash protection refers to aftermarket or factory-installed components that act as a buffer during accidents. These parts absorb or deflect impact forces, reducing the severity of damage to critical motorcycle components like the engine, frame, or suspension. Examples include frame sliders, crash bars, axle sliders, skid plates, and hand guards.
At its core, crash protection is not designed to prevent accidents but to mitigate the physical and financial consequences of a crash, providing peace of mind to riders.
Now to the uninitiated, the bike above might just look like a standard bike (albeit with a couple stickers) but it’s covered in crash protection parts, from engine covers, bar end sliders, fairing protection and more. It’s designed to look as minimalist as possible but while doing the most it can to protect as much as possible.
Why Crash Protection Matters
Investing in crash protection has several advantages, making it an essential consideration for any rider:
Reducing Repair Costs
Motorcycle parts, especially critical components like the engine, suspension, and bodywork, can be incredibly expensive to repair or replace. Crash protection components act as sacrificial barriers, absorbing impact forces that might otherwise damage these vital areas. For example:
Frame sliders protect the bodywork and engine in a low-side crash, potentially saving thousands in repairs.
Skid plates guard against rocks and debris for off-road bikes, protecting the underside of the engine.
Protecting Critical Motorcycle Components
Certain parts of a motorcycle are more prone to damage during an accident, such as the engine casing, handlebars, and footpegs. Crash protection like axle sliders or engine guards can shield these areas, ensuring that the bike remains functional or repairable after an incident.
Improving Rider Safety
While crash protection is primarily about safeguarding the motorcycle, it can also indirectly benefit the rider. For instance:
- Hand guards can prevent injury by shielding the rider’s hands from debris or impact.
- Engine guards or crash bars can help stabilize the bike during a slide, reducing the risk of the motorcycle pinning the rider.
Enhancing Peace of Mind
Knowing that your bike is equipped with robust crash protection allows riders to focus more on enjoying the ride and less on the potential financial fallout of a mishap.
Does Crash Protection Actually Work?
Yes, crash protection is highly effective in reducing the damage caused by many types of motorcycle accidents. While it cannot completely eliminate the risk of harm to you or your bike, it can significantly reduce repair costs, protect critical motorcycle components, and in some cases, prevent injuries. The effectiveness of crash protection depends on factors such as the type of crash, the quality of the equipment, and how well it’s installed.
Does Crash Protection Work in All Situations?
Crash protection devices are not a one-size-fits-all solution, as not all bikes are built (or look) the same. Their effectiveness varies depending on the type of crash and the circumstances surrounding it. Here’s a breakdown:
Low-Side Crashes
In a low-side crash, where the bike slides on its side after losing traction, crash protection like frame sliders, engine guards, and axle sliders can be incredibly effective. These components absorb much of the impact, preventing direct contact between the pavement and critical parts like the engine, fairings, and suspension.
Effectiveness: High, especially for minimizing cosmetic and mechanical damage.
High-Side Crashes
High-side crashes, where the rider is thrown from the bike due to a sudden loss of traction followed by a violent recovery, are more severe. While crash protection can still help reduce damage to the motorcycle, the violent forces involved often mean that some damage is unavoidable.
Effectiveness: Moderate, as the bike may tumble, impacting areas that crash protection might not cover.
Stationary Tip-Overs
In situations where the bike tips over while stationary or at very low speed, crash protection such as frame sliders, engine guards, and crash bars can prevent significant damage to the bike.
Effectiveness: Very high for protecting components like the handlebars, tank, and engine casing.
Off-Road Scenarios
For adventure and dirt bikes, crash protection like skid plates, hand guards, and crash bars is critical. These devices shield the bike from impacts with rocks, tree roots, and other obstacles.
Effectiveness: High, particularly for protecting the engine, radiator, and underside components.
Limitations of Crash Protection
While crash protection is a valuable tool, it’s essential to recognise its limitations:
Damage Mitigation, Not Elimination
Crash protection is designed to minimize damage, not prevent it entirely. In high-speed crashes or severe accidents, the bike may still sustain significant harm.
Improper Installation Risks
Incorrectly installed crash protection can reduce effectiveness or even cause additional damage during a crash. For instance, improperly secured frame sliders could snap off and create leverage points, worsening the damage.
Crash Variables
Every crash is unique. Variables such as the speed, angle of impact, and terrain affect how well crash protection performs. For example, on rough terrain, a frame slider might dig into the ground, increasing the risk of the bike flipping.
Not a Substitute for Safety Gear
Crash protection is for the bike, not the rider. It should always be used in conjunction with proper riding gear and safe riding practices.
Testimonials and Real-World Examples
We deal with and talk to hundreds of bikers every month, whether that be in our Wrexham showroom, in our fitting centre, over the phone or via email. We have asked and gathered some of their opinions on crash protection, so it’s not just us making stuff up.
Low-Side Slide on a Sports Bike
John shared his experience of a low-side crash on a race track at 60 mph. Thanks to high-quality frame sliders and axle sliders, his Triumph Daytona 675 sustained only minor cosmetic damage to the sliders and fairings, while the engine and suspension remained intact. The total repair cost was under £500, a fraction of what it could have been without crash protection. However, he got lucky the bike didn’t dig into the grass and start tumbling head over heels, the repair bill would have been much higher if it did!
Adventure Bike on Rocky Trails
Chelsea, an adventure rider described a fall she had on a rocky trail during an off-road expedition. The skid plate of her Honda Africa Twin absorbed the impact, protecting the oil pan from puncture, while crash bars prevented damage to the radiator and engine. Without these components, she might have been stranded in a remote area.
Stationary Tip-Over in a Car Park
Mike, an owner of a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 cruiser owner, recounted how their bike tipped over in a parking lot due to uneven pavement. The crash bars took the brunt of the impact, leaving the handlebars, tank, and engine casing untouched. Without crash bars, the bars might have been scuffed and dented, and don’t even think about what might have happened to the paintwork…
High-Side Crash on a Commuter Bike
In a high-side crash on wet roads, James Honda CBF 500cc commuter bike tumbled across the pavement. While the bike still suffered significant damage, the axle sliders and engine guards reduced the severity, preserving the swingarm and engine casing. James noted that the protection saved them from some repairs but the emotional damage outweighed everything else.
The Pros and Cons of Crash Protection
While we have noted the benefits crash protection offers, it’s essential to acknowledge some potential drawbacks:
Pros:
- Reduction in any repair costs that might arise.
- Enhanced protection for critical components.
- Indirect rider safety improvements.
- Increased bike resale value due to preserved condition.
Cons:
- Initial cost of high-quality components can be expensive.
- Improper installation can reduce effectiveness or cause unintended damage.
- Some crash protection components, like frame sliders, may worsen damage in rare cases, such as catching on uneven surfaces during a slide.
Types of Crash Protection: Effectiveness, Use Cases, and Why You Need Them
Crash protection comes in various forms, each designed to protect specific parts of your motorcycle. Understanding their effectiveness and appropriate use can help you make informed decisions about which components are best suited for your bike and riding style.
Effectiveness Summary
| Crash Protection Type | Effectiveness | Best Use Cases |
| Toe/Chain Guards | High (Safety) | Track riding; urban safety. |
| Fork Protectors | High | Track, road, and adventure riding. |
| Bar End Sliders | Moderate to High | Road, urban, and track riding. |
| Engine Cases & Covers | Very High | Track, road, and adventure riding. |
| Cotton Reels & Spindle Sliders | High | Track, road riding; maintenance aid. |
After more info on each? Keep reading…
1. Toe/Chain Guards
Effectiveness: High for rider safety and chain protection in specific scenarios.
What They Are
Toe or chain guards are small components installed near the rear sprocket and chain to shield the rider’s foot and prevent it from being drawn into the chain in the event of a crash.
Why and Where to Use Them
Track Riding: Often required in track racing for safety compliance. They reduce the risk of serious injury during high-speed accidents.
Urban or Road Riding: Less common but still useful for added safety in certain conditions, such as for bikes with exposed chains.
Advantages
Protects the rider from severe injuries.
Prevents damage to the chain and sprockets during minor crashes.
2. Fork Protectors
Effectiveness: High for preserving front suspension and brake components in crashes or slides.
What They Are
Fork protectors are small sliders mounted on the lower end of the front forks. They act as a buffer during a slide or low-side crash, preventing direct contact between the ground and the forks or front axle.
Why and Where to Use Them
Track and Road Riding: Commonly used by sportbike riders to prevent costly damage to forks and brake components.
Adventure Riding: Useful when encountering rough terrain or potential impacts with rocks and other debris.
Advantages
Protects expensive front suspension parts and brake calipers.
Helps maintain bike stability after a slide by preventing uneven wear or damage.
3. Bar End Sliders
Effectiveness: Moderate to high, depending on the severity of the crash.
What They Are
Bar end sliders are small caps installed at the ends of handlebars. They absorb impact forces and prevent damage to the handlebars, grips, and levers during a crash or tip-over.
Why and Where to Use Them
Road and Urban Riding: Effective in low-speed tip-overs or minor accidents, especially in tight spaces like parking lots.
Track Riding: Protects controls from being damaged or bent in a slide.
Advantages
Prevents costly replacement of handlebars and controls.
Reduces vibrations while riding, providing additional comfort.
Limitations
Less effective in severe crashes where the handlebars may still take significant damage.
4. Engine Cases & Covers
Effectiveness: Very high for protecting critical engine components.
What They Are
Engine case covers or protectors are shields that fit over the motorcycle’s engine casing. They prevent cracks, punctures, and oil leaks caused by impacts or abrasion during a crash.
Why and Where to Use Them
Track Riding: Essential for high-performance bikes to protect the engine during high-speed slides.
Adventure Riding: Protects the engine against rocks and debris on rugged terrain.
Road Riding: Useful in low-speed accidents where the engine casing is at risk of scraping against the ground.
Advantages
Prevents catastrophic engine damage that could render the bike inoperable.
Reduces the risk of oil spills, which can cause further hazards.
Limitations
Can add slight weight to the bike.
Requires precise fitment for maximum effectiveness.
5. Cotton Reels & Spindle Sliders
Effectiveness: High for protecting swingarms, rear axles, and suspension components.
What They Are
Cotton reels (also called bobbins) and spindle sliders are mounted on the rear axle or swingarm. They serve dual purposes: crash protection and compatibility with paddock stands for maintenance.
Why and Where to Use Them
Track and Road Riding: Protects swingarms and rear axles during a slide.
Maintenance: Enables the use of paddock stands for easier chain adjustment and wheel maintenance.
Advantages
Prevents costly damage to swingarms and rear suspension components.
Increases convenience for regular maintenance.
Limitations
May not be as effective in high-speed crashes where the swingarm is exposed to severe impacts.
Okay, now you know about the different types available, which is best for you? We have listed which is best for each type of bike, or if you are only taking part in a certain type of activity, we have also listed the best crash protection for each (main) type of riding.
Crash Protection for Different Motorcycles
The type and style of motorcycle influence the kind of crash protection that’s most effective:
Sport Bikes
Focus on frame sliders, axle sliders, and swingarm spools.
Protects delicate fairings and high-performance suspension components.
Cruisers
Engine guards and crash bars are essential, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Helps reduce tip-over damage to wide handlebars and foot controls.
Adventure and Off-Road Bikes
Skid plates and hand guards are crucial for protecting against rough terrain.
Engine guards shield against falls on uneven surfaces.
Commuter and Touring Bikes
Frame sliders and crash bars prevent damage in urban traffic or when parking on uneven surfaces.
Luggage guards can protect panniers or saddlebags in a fall.
However, before jumping in and buying some crash protection, you should consider compatibility.
Compatibility with Your Specific Motorcycle Model
Crash protection must be compatible with your bike to ensure proper fitment and functionality. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Model-Specific Design
Many crash protection components are designed specifically for certain makes and models. For example, frame sliders for a Yamaha R6 won’t fit a Suzuki GSX-R1000.
Always check compatibility charts or product descriptions provided by the manufacturer.
Installation Requirements
Some components require drilling or modifications to the bike, while others use existing mounting points. Ensure you’re comfortable with the installation process or factor in professional installation costs.
Aftermarket Accessories
If your bike has aftermarket parts (e.g., fairings, exhaust systems), confirm that the crash protection will not interfere with these additions. For example, certain skid plates may not fit bikes with aftermarket exhausts.
Integrated Aesthetics
Choose crash protection that complements your bike’s design. High-quality manufacturers often offer sleek, low-profile options that blend seamlessly with your motorcycle’s aesthetics.
Crash Protection for Different Types of Riding
If you know you’re only going to be doing a certain type of riding, then focus your effort (and funds) on crash protection designed to mitigate any issues which might present themselves in that setting. For example skid plates aren’t as necessary on a track bike as they are on an adventure bike.
1. Track Riding
Track riding demands high-performance crash protection to safeguard against frequent, high-speed crashes or low-sides. Key considerations include:
Frame Sliders: Protect the bodywork and engine during low-side crashes, the most common type on the track.
Axle Sliders: Prevent damage to the front and rear axles, forks, and swingarm during a slide.
Case Covers: Add an extra layer of protection to the engine casing, which can be vulnerable in track incidents.
Why It’s Unique:
Track crashes often involve sliding at high speeds on smooth surfaces, making abrasion-resistant crash protection crucial. Additionally, track riders frequently push their bikes to the limit, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
2. Adventure Riding
Adventure and off-road riding expose motorcycles to unique hazards, such as rocks, tree roots, and uneven terrain. Essential crash protection includes:
Skid Plates: Protect the underside of the bike, including the engine, oil pan, and exhaust, from impacts with rocks and debris.
Crash Bars (Engine Guards): Shield the engine and radiator from damage during falls or tip-overs on uneven surfaces.
Hand Guards: Prevent damage to levers and protect the rider’s hands from impact and debris.
Why It’s Unique:
Adventure bikes often encounter slow-speed falls on rugged terrain, where the bike’s underside and engine are at high risk. Crash protection for adventure riding prioritizes durability and resilience against rough conditions.
3. Road Riding
Road riding involves a mix of urban commuting, touring, and spirited rides on highways or twisty roads. Common crash protection needs include:
Frame Sliders: Minimize damage in low-speed tip-overs or urban accidents.
Crash Bars: Provide additional protection for bikes with wide handlebars, fairings, or saddlebags.
Swingarm Spools and Axle Sliders: Useful for protecting critical suspension components during minor slides.
Why It’s Unique:
Road riders face diverse risks, from stationary tip-overs in parking lots to low-speed crashes in city traffic. Protection often balances aesthetics with functionality, as riders may want crash protection that blends seamlessly with their bike’s appearance.
Budget vs. Quality: Finding the Right Balance
Finally, when investing in crash protection, you will face a trade-off between budget and quality. Here’s what to consider:
Budget Options
Pros:
Affordable and accessible, making it easier for riders on a tight budget to add basic protection.
Ideal for casual riders or those with older motorcycles where cost is a significant factor.
Cons:
Often made of lower-quality materials, such as cheaper plastics or lower-grade metals, which may fail under stress.
Less precise engineering, potentially leading to compatibility or installation issues.
High-Quality Options
Pros:
Manufactured from premium materials like Delrin or billet aluminum for maximum durability and performance.
Engineered specifically for each bike model, ensuring a perfect fit and better protection.
Tested extensively, often with real-world or lab-based crash simulations, to guarantee effectiveness.
Cons:
Higher upfront costs, which may be prohibitive for some riders.
Can be overkill for riders who don’t engage in high-risk riding activities.
Recommendation:
Invest in the best-quality crash protection you can afford, especially for critical components like frame sliders or skid plates. While budget options can work for casual riders, high-quality components often pay for themselves by preventing expensive repairs.
Do we recommend getting crash protection?
Yes! We recommend getting good-quality crash protection that’s made to fit your specific bike for the best results. Make sure it’s installed properly, either follow the instructions carefully or come down to our fitting centre and have a professional do it to keep everything secure and working right.
Enjoyed this? Read more on the Demon Tweeks blog:
- Motorcycle Brakes: The Ultimate Guide
- Understanding Motorcycle Tyre Markings
- Step By Step Guide: How to Change a Motorcycle Tyre
Where To Next?
Looking for the latest motorcycle parts and accessories? Check out our wide range from top brands.
Come and visit us at our store, showroom and fitting centre in Wrexham.
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