Are motorcycle frame sliders worth it?
Frame sliders are a common aftermarket purchase for motorcycle riders. But are they really worth the investment? What do they do and how much do they cost? We’ll take a closer look at frame sliders to help you decide if they’re right for you.
What Are Motorcycle Frame Sliders?
Frame sliders are designed to protect your motorcycle in the event of a fall. They mount to the frame of your bike and protrude outwards, acting as a sacrificial barrier between the ground and your motorcycle. In a low-speed fall, the frame slider will make contact with the ground first, absorbing some of the impact and protecting your motorcycle’s frame, fairings, and other components from damage.
Different Kinds Of Motorcycle Frame Sliders
There are two main types of frame sliders: racing and street. Racing frame sliders are designed for track use and offer the most protection. They’re often made from tougher materials like aluminum or steel and can be quite large, making them ideal for high-speed falls. Street frame sliders are designed for everyday riding and are usually smaller and made from softer materials like plastic. This makes them less likely to damage the ground or other objects in a low-speed fall, but they won’t offer as much protection to your motorcycle.
Longer or Shorter Frame Sliders?
Frame sliders come in a variety of lengths, from short to long. Shorter frame sliders offer less protection but are less likely to get caught on objects or the ground during a fall. This can be beneficial if you frequently ride in tight spaces or off-road, where there are more obstacles that could catch on your frame slider. Longer frame sliders offer more protection but are more likely to get caught on objects or the ground. This can be beneficial if you frequently ride at high speeds or on open roads, where there are fewer obstacles that could catch your frame slider.
Cut or No-Cut Sliders
Cut frame sliders require you to drill a hole in your motorcycle’s frame in order to install them. This gives them a more secure connection to the bike, but it also means they’re more permanent and difficult to remove. No-cut frame sliders do not require you to drill a hole in your motorcycle’s frame, making them easier to install and remove. However, they may not be as secure and could come off during a fall.
Frame Sliders For Mud Roads
If you frequently ride on mud roads, frame sliders can help protect your motorcycle from damage. Mud can cause rocks and other debris to fly up and hit your motorcycle, resulting in scratches, dents, or worse. Frame sliders will deflect these objects away from your bike, minimizing the damage.
Frame Mounted Frame Sliders And Fairing Mounted Frame Sliders
There are two main types of frame sliders: frame mounted and fairing mounted. Frame mounted sliders attach directly to the frame of your motorcycle and protrude outwards. Fairing mounted sliders also attach to the frame, but they’re designed to sit behind your fairings and aren’t as visible.
Should You Put Frame Sliders On Your Motorcycle?
Frame sliders are a beneficial addition to any motorcycle, but they’re not required. If you frequently ride on rough roads or in off-road conditions, frame sliders can help protect your motorcycle from damage. And if you’re planning on doing any track riding, racing frame sliders are a must. But if you stick to smoother surfaces and don’t push your bike to its limits, frame sliders may not be necessary.
How Much Do Frame Sliders Cost?
Frame sliders can range in price from around $50 to $200 or more, depending on the quality of the product and the make and model of your motorcycle. Higher-end frame sliders are usually made from stronger materials like titanium or steel, which offer better protection in a fall.
Are Frame Sliders Worth It?
frame sliders are a personal decision. Some riders never install them, while others feel that they’re an essential safety upgrade. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether the peace of mind and extra protection that frame sliders offer is worth the cost. If you’re a cautious rider who likes to play it safe, frame sliders may be a good investment for you. However, if you’re more adventurous and don’t mind taking a few risks on the road, you may decide that frame sliders aren’t necessary.
The Solution To It All
No matter what you decide, be sure to ride safely and always wear a helmet.Frame sliders can help protect your motorcycle in the event of a fall, but they’re not required. If you frequently ride on rough roads or in off-road conditions, frame sliders can help protect your motorcycle from damage. And if you’re planning on doing any track riding, racing frame sliders are a must. But if you stick to smoother surfaces and don’t push your bike to its limits, frame sliders may not be necessary. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether the peace of mind and extra protection that frame sliders offer is worth the cost.
Final Thoughts
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to frame sliders. It’s a personal decision that depends on your riding style and how much you’re willing to spend. But whether you choose to install them or not, always remember to ride safely and wear a helmet.