As an owner of a motorcycle, you are likely already equipped with all the knowledge required to keep it fully maintained, clean, and functioning efficiently. That means you know full well that each part plays an integral role in pursuing a well-functioning motorcycle.
Among these highly crucial parts of a motorcycle are its crash bars. A motorcycle crash bar is a component of protective gear that mounts to the motorcycle’s frame. The idea is to possess a metal bar that protrudes past the motorcycle in various designs. The bar will stop the bike from completely tipping over and offer some protection against the rider being pinned below the vehicle. The bar is made to protect the bike’s engine, fuel tank, and rider, preventing damage to the bike and enhancing rider safety.
Crash bars, also known as highway bars, engine guards, and freeway bars, are often chrome-plated stainless steel. They typically consist of two parts mounted on each part of the bike and are attached to the lower frame.
Now that we’ve recognized the sheer importance of crash bars, finding the best ones for your prized possession is integral. After all, we understand that you want the ultimate best for your motorcycle. However, extensively searching these can be a tedious and time-consuming task. Therefore, we’ve made the process easier for you by meticulously searching for the best motorcycle crash bars on the market. Let’s look into them, shall we?
The Best Motorcycle Crash Bars
1) SW-MOTECH Crash Bars
The SW-MOTECH crashbars are made of heavy-duty mild steel tubing to offer the best possible protection, while still looking good. They’re mounted at high-strength frame points to keep them secure, and all components are powdercoated to protect against corrosion.
The SW-MOTECH crash bars are designed to provide maximum protection for your motorcycle in the event of a crash. They are made from heavy-duty mild steel and treated for corrosion resistance. The powder-coated black finish gives them a stylish look while also providing an extra layer of protection. The strong frame connections ensure that the bars will stay in place during a crash, providing the ultimate protection for your motorcycle.
Shop here: SW-MOTECH Crash Bars
2) AltRider Upper Crash Assembly
Some collisions require more than a standard set of crash bars. You’ll quickly learn how readily a large ADV bike may pitch its wheels upward if you find yourself slipping or missing your balance on an off-camber corner. Upper Crash Bars continue where (bottom) Crash Bars end off while also adding to the overall strength of the crash safety system.
AltRider Upper Crash Bars offer protection for the radiator, bodywork, and other cool components by bolting directly to (bottom) AltRider Crash Bars. Upper Crash Bars are made in the USA using mandrel-bent tubing made of stainless steel, hand-laid TIG welds, and laser coping for 5 axis to the same tough standards as other AltRider crash safety items.
The AltRider Upper Crash Assembly comes with various features that distinguish it from its competitors. These include:
- 100% American-designed and produced.
- Using a laser coping with 5 axes, precisely fit.
- TIG hand welding for added strength and durability.
- Prevents corrosion and rust through the usage of stainless steel in the construction.
- Mounting hardware made of stainless steel is supplied.
Shop here: AltRider Upper Crash Bars
3) AltRider Crash Bar and Skid Plate System
ADV bikes run at excessively high speeds and are high-mass vehicles; therefore, riding off-road could endanger the engine casings, delicate bodywork, and other parts. AltRider’s crash bar and skid plate designs aim to provide as much protection as possible without interfering with the rider or restricting mobility. Because crash bars are sturdy tubing of stainless steel, a crash may scratch the paint but won’t produce any rust to affect their strength or appearance.
The bottom of a motorbike needs the most robust protection because it is more likely to be struck by curbs, pebbles, trash, and almost anything else. With the maximum coverage available on the market and minimal weight added to your bike, AltRider’s skid plates are lightweight aluminum. The moderately tapered and rib-cage-like shape protects the engine vitals without limiting the rider’s movement or control.
The bike is shielded from dirt. The front tire may kick up thanks to complete shielding from front to back. The AltRider Skid Plate includes carefully positioned cut-outs to provide an optimal flow of air and thermal management without impacting protection, in contrast to a complete skid plate that would boil up the heat.
The AltRider Crash Bar and Skid Plate System come with an array of features, including:
- 100% American-designed and produced
- A crash bar made of sturdy tubing with stainless steel
- Lightweight aluminum skid plate with 5-axis laser cutting and hand TIG welding joints.
- Keeps cornering space free.
- Powder-coated anchoring brackets made of steel
- Engineered trim for heat dispersion
- complete covering without putting on too much weight
- Hardware that resists corrosion
Shop here: AltRider Crash Bar and Skid Plate System
4) Lindby Twinbar Highway Bars For Harley
Due to their dual purpose as an engine guard and a place to rest your poor, worn-out platform shoes on such lengthy outings, twin bars got their title. Anyone who has traveled great distances on a bike understands that maneuvering around frequently allows you to log big mileage. This is possible with the Twinbar, which also serves the dual purpose of protecting your engine.
The Lindby Twinbar Highway Bars also offer a range of distinct features, including:
- With the rider’s pleasure in consideration, the unique Twinbar combined engine guard with freeway pegs was designed.
- It is mounted with triple chrome, causing its design to be sleek, made of one-and-a-quarter-inch OD tubing, with flip-down pedals that let riders change their riding stances.
- Simple installation using the provided hardware
- There are other replacement parts available.
Shop here: Lindby Twinbar Highway Bars For Harley
5) AltRider Reinforcement Crash Bars BMW R1200GS / Adventure 2013-2018
If you ride your BMW R1200GS like it was meant to be ridden, you should consider reinforcing your OEM crash bars. The stock BMW R1200GS crash bars may look great on the showroom floor, but they may not be enough if you ride your bike on tougher terrain. AltRider makes reinforcement crash bars for the BMW R1200GS/Adventure that will help protect your bike in case of a fall.
The AltRider Reinforcement Crash Bars for BMW R1200GS / Adventure are designed to help protect your motorcycle in the event of a crash. It has been documented that the OEM bars’ hard rubber pad can punch a hole in the cylinder header, which is why AltRider has produced a Reinforcement Bar to brace against impact and strengthen the entire crash bars structure. The Altrider design directs force in an almost straight line to the frame of the motorcycle, with no unnecessary bends or flimsy band clamps to bend under load. This makes it one of the strongest and most reliable options on the market, giving you peace of mind in knowing that your motorcycle is protected in the event of an accident.
The AltRider Reinforcement Crash Bars for BMW R1200GS and Adventure motorcycles are made from 1 inch (25.4 mm) diameter stainless steel tubing. The bars are heat-treated and CNC-machined for strength and durability, and include a through bolt for mounting to the OEM bars. The bars are mounted with full-wrap 2-part high-strength alloy industrial clamps for a secure fit.
Shop here: AltRider Reinforcement Crash Bars BMW R1200GS / Adventure 2013-2018
6) BMW Engine Protection Bars
When you ride a BMW motorcycle, you’re already experiencing one of the finest machines on two wheels. But when you add a few genuine BMW parts, you can elevate your riding experience to a whole new level. By customizing your bike’s comfort, performance and protection, you can make it reflect your own personal style. And with BMW accessories, you can enjoy the ride even more. Life is full of twists and turns, but outfitting your BMW motorcycle with the right parts will help you navigate them with ease.
The BMW Engine Protection Bars feature a durable anodized finish that protects your engine, frame and fuel tank. They’re easy to install and include all the necessary hardware.
Shop here: BMW Engine Protection Bars
7) R&G Adventure Bars Kawaski Vulcan S 2015-2022
R&G Adventure Bars protect your motorcycle from damage in the event of a crash. They are designed specifically for your Kawasaki Vulcan S and bolt on easily, with no permanent modifications required.
The R&G Adventure Bars Kawaski Vulcan S are the perfect way to protect your bike while you’re on the go. These bars are made from 1 inch steel tube construction and are powder coated for durability. They’re also bike specific and include instructions and mounting hardware for easy installation.
Shop here: R&G Adventure Bars Kawaski Vulcan S 2015-2022
8) R&G Racing Adventure Bars
R&G Racing Adventure Crash Bars are the perfect addition to your motorcycle if you’re someone who likes to explore uncharted territory. They provide essential protection in the event of a crash, and their bike-specific contour design offers excellent protection for your vulnerable components. There’s no need to worry about your safety on the trail when you have R&G Adventure Bars on your side.
Our R&G Racing Adventure Crash Bars are the perfect solution for protecting your motorcycle on those treacherous off-road adventures. Made from steel tubing with a powder coated finish, these crash bars are built to last. All necessary hardware and instructions are included, so you can rest assured that your motorcycle is safe and protected.
Shop here: R&G Racing Adventure Bars
9) AltRider Crash Bar And Skid Plate System BMW R1200GS 2013-2018
The R 1200 GS Water Cooled is a well-known and popular ADV bike. At over 500 pounds, it’s also a bike that can generate a lot of force in a crash. That’s why the AltRider Crash Bar and Skid Plate System is perfect for protecting your liquid cooled R 1200 GS. With this system in place, you can rest assured that your bike will be well-protected in the event of a crash.
The AltRider Crash Bar And Skid Plate System for BMW R1200GS is designed to distribute force evenly throughout the entire structure, protecting your water boxer motor in the event of a crash. The system includes two stainless steel brackets that attach to the frame of the motorcycle, each with two M 12 Torx bolts to prevent twisting on impact. The brackets serve as mounting points for the crash bars and skid plate, which are also included in the system.
If you’re looking for a complete protection system for your BMW R1200GS, look no further than the AltRider crash bars and skid plate. The crash bars are made from tough 1.25″ stainless steel tubing and provide full coverage for the cylinder head and engine in the event of a fall. And the skid plate is made from 3/16″ thick steel for unbeatable durability. Choose from shot peen satin or powder coat black finish to match your bike.
Shop here: AltRider Crash Bar And Skid Plate System BMW R1200GS 2013-2018
10) Puig Lower Crash Bars BMW R1200GS 2014-2018
Puig Lower Crash Bars are designed to provide excellent protection for your engine, fairings, gas tank, and radiator in the event of a fall. As any Adventure or Trail rider knows, it’s not a question of if you’ll go down, but when. So it’s important to be prepared with Puig Lower Crash Bars.
Looking for a way to protect your BMW R1200GS? Check out our Puig Lower Crash Bars! Made of 25mm steel tubes, these crash bars are designed specifically for your bike to provide a precise fit. They’re finished with a durable black powder coat and include all necessary hardware and instructions. Plus, they’re easy to install with no modifications required. If you’re looking for even more protection, be sure to check out our optional Puig Upper Crash Bars (sold separately).
Shop here: Puig Lower Crash Bars BMW R1200GS 2014-2018
Frequently Asked Questions about Crash Bars
Are motorcycle crash bars worth it?
Crash bars aren’t really just for crashes. They obviously serve as protection for the bike, but also for the rider in the event of a crash, or even as a support for the bike and rider to lean on if stuck in the dirt. Some manufacturers even install crash bars to serve as a guard for the radiator so that it doesn’t get damaged in a crash. If you’re looking for crash bars that are worth it, find some that offer real protection and quality, and those that will actually last a long time. If you have any specific questions about crash bars, feel free to ask in the comments below!
What is the purpose of crash bars on a motorcycle?
Crash bars are used to protect the parts of the bike that are most likely to be struck when another vehicle crashes into a motorcycle. For instance, the crash bars on a motorcycle will be positioned right in front of the bike’s tank, which is where the impact of a crash will most likely hit. This helps protect the gas tank, which is a dangerous and expensive piece of equipment to replace.
How much is a motorcycle crash bar?
The cost of a motorcycle crash bar varies from brand to brand, but you can choose for the one that is built with high quality material, and it would cost you about $400-$500. You can find these bar models online as well, and they usually charge a little less than the retail price.
How to install a crash bar?
Conclusion
There’s no mystery that crash bars are integral in protecting you and your bike. The bar stops the motorcycle from completely tumbling onto its side in the case of an accident or collision. By doing this, the motorcycle can avoid pinning the rider and passengers underneath.
The bar can shield the car’s engine, fuel tank, and other internal parts. That’s why choosing the right crash bars for your precious is crucial to ensure the efficiency of your motorcycle.
