When hitting the trails on your off-road motorcycle, the thrill of adventure is always front and centre. But with that excitement comes the reality of rugged terrain, unpredictable obstacles, and the inevitable dings and scrapes to your bike’s underside. Rocks, branches, and debris can wreak havoc on the lower part of your bike, so it’s crucial to safeguard this vulnerable area. That’s where a high-quality bash plate comes in, acting as your ride’s shield against the elements. Let’s explore how to choose the right bash plate to keep your off-road adventures smooth and your bike protected.

What to Consider when Buying Bash Plates

Material

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a bash plate for your off-road motorcycle is the material it’s made from. A top contender is lightweight and durable motorbike safety gear made from aluminium. Because this is a softer metal, the plates tend to be thicker, providing ample protection while still helping to keep your bike’s weight in check. This can be particularly appealing if you’re focused on maintaining agility and performance on rough terrain.

Mild steel motorcycle protective gear is another option that offers solid protection at an affordable price. It’s usually around 3-4mm thick, which provides decent coverage, but it can be prone to rust if exposed to the elements for too long. If you’re looking for something with a bit more resistance to corrosion, stainless steel might be the way to go. It has the same thickness and strength as mild steel but with the bonus of being highly resistant to rust. Stainless steel plates offer long-term durability, especially in harsher conditions.

Choosing the right material depends on your priorities – whether it’s keeping the weight down, managing costs, or ensuring rust resistance. Selecting durable, high-quality off-road protective gear is just as crucial for your motorcycle as choosing a good helmet for yourself. Just like your helmet shields your head from impact, a well-made bash plate protects the underside of your bike from the rough and unpredictable terrain you’ll face off-road. Without proper protection, rocks, debris, and other obstacles can cause serious damage to your engine and other vital components.

Activity

Another important factor to think about is the type of riding you plan on doing. Bash plates are essential motorbike safety gear for off-road adventures, where rocks, tree roots, and debris can cause serious damage to the underside. If you’re frequently tackling rough terrain, a bash plate is a must-have. However, if your motorcycle rarely sees any off-road action, the extra weight and maintenance might not be worth it. For riders who stick to smoother paths, the need for heavy-duty protection is minimal, so it’s all about matching the accessory to your riding habits and the environment you’ll be exploring.

Compatibility

When choosing protective gear for riding, ensuring it’s the right fit for your specific model is crucial. Not all bash plates are created equal, and with so many different makes and models, it’s important to double-check that the one you’re considering is designed to fit your bike. A poorly fitting plate can cause more harm than good, either by leaving critical areas exposed or by affecting the bike’s performance. So, before making your purchase, take the time to verify that the product is compatible with your ride, ensuring a snug fit and optimal protection.

Price

Price is always an important factor to keep in mind when shopping for off road protective gear. Depending on the material and quality, the cost can vary significantly. High-end stainless-steel options can be more of an investment, sometimes costing several hundred dollars for a single plate, and even more for a complete set. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, aluminium and mild steel options tend to be less expensive, though they may not offer the same long-term durability. It’s important to buy from a reputable brand with a solid track record, ensuring that your investment not only fits your bike but also provides the protection you need.

What Are the Benefits of Bash Plates?

Before you head out on your next off-road adventure, one of the best things you can do for your motorcycle is to install a bash plate. The rough terrain and unpredictable obstacles you’ll encounter can cause serious damage to the underside of your bike. Investing in this type of off road protective gear is a simple and cost-effective way to avoid pricey repairs or even a tow from a remote area. Here are a few key benefits of installing a bash plate on your motorcycle:

• Protection: Off-road riding can be brutal on your bike, and a bash plate acts as a shield for its most critical components. Without one, vital parts like the engine, transmission, and fuel tank can suffer damage from rocks, tree roots, or debris. Even though some bikes come with factory-installed protection, it’s often not designed to handle the real impacts you’ll experience while off-roading;
• Saving money: The cost of repairing or replacing damaged components can be enormous, especially if you end up stuck somewhere remote. A bash plate can save you from the financial headache of expensive repairs or the cost of towing your bike out of a difficult location;
• Increased confidence: Knowing your bike is well-protected allows you to ride with more confidence. You’ll be able to take on more challenging terrain without worrying about damaging your vehicle’s underbody. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails or steep inclines, a bash plate ensures you can enjoy your adventure without hesitation.