Motorcycle Crash Protection Buying Guide: What Should You Choose?

No rider ever plans to drop their motorcycle, but accidents can happen—whether it's a slow-speed parking mishap, an unexpected slide on a wet road, or an unfortunate track incident. Investing in quality crash protection can help minimise damage to your bike and potentially save you thousands in repair costs.

With so many options available, here's a guide to the most common types of motorcycle crash protection and how they work.

Frame Sliders

Frame sliders (also known as crash protectors or crash mushrooms) are one of the most popular upgrades for sports bikes and naked bikes. They mount directly to the motorcycle's frame and are designed to absorb impact while helping keep expensive bodywork away from the ground during a slide.

Brands like Evotech Performance, Puig, and R&G Racing are renowned for producing model-specific frame sliders that offer excellent protection without compromising your bike's appearance.

Engine Case Covers

Engine case covers provide an additional layer of defence for your engine's most vulnerable components. Manufactured from durable materials such as aluminium or high-strength composite polymers, they're particularly popular with track riders where protecting engine cases is often a requirement.

Bonamici Racing produces premium CNC-machined engine protection that's trusted by racers around the world, while R&G Racing offers robust, lightweight engine case covers for a huge range of motorcycles.

Crash Bars

Adventure and touring motorcycles often benefit from crash bars, which create a protective framework around the engine and bodywork. They're designed to absorb impacts during low-speed falls and can also provide mounting points for auxiliary lights and luggage.

SW-MOTECH is widely recognised for producing strong, precision-engineered crash bars that integrate seamlessly with the motorcycle while maintaining ground clearance and accessibility for servicing.

Fork, Swingarm and Axle Protectors

Don't overlook the smaller details. Front fork protectors, rear axle sliders and swingarm protectors help safeguard suspension components and wheels in the event of a fall. They're inexpensive upgrades that can prevent surprisingly costly damage.

Many manufacturers, including Evotech Performance, Puig, and R&G Racing, offer complete protection packages tailored to specific motorcycle models.

Which Protection Is Right for You?

The ideal setup depends on your riding style.

• Road riders often choose frame sliders and axle protectors for discreet everyday protection.

• Track riders typically add engine case covers alongside frame sliders for maximum protection.

• Adventure riders usually benefit from crash bars, handguards and engine guards to protect against falls on uneven terrain.

Protect Your Investment

A quality motorcycle is a significant investment, and the right crash protection can help keep it looking—and performing—its best.

At Hurtle Gear, we stock premium crash protection from trusted brands including Evotech Performance, Puig, Bonamici Racing, R&G Racing, and SW-MOTECH. Whether you're preparing for your next track day, weekend ride or adventure tour, we've got the protection to help keep your motorcycle safe.