A factory designs radiator guards with mostly cosmetics in mind. Let’s face it, they want to catch the buyers eye with a smooth flowing design. These designs, while making a bike look really cool, offer very little in side and bottom impact protection. They also tend to limit airflow, which can lead to overheating problems. Anyone who is a serious rider knows that the flimsy plastic dirt bike radiator guards are usually one of the first items a rider removes from their bike. This creates a problem, as it leaves one of the most vital parts of your bike exposed and easily damaged. After market, radiator guards can solve this problem.
After market dirt bike radiator guards come in many different styles and designs. The main quality to look for, in a motorcycle radiator guard, is air flow. Many designs limit the way air flows through your radiator, just like the factory radiator guards. This will lead to overheating and waisted money. The second thing to look for is impact protection. A well designed guard will offer excellent side impact protection. Most good designs will include rear bracing to enhance side impact protection and fold back strength. The final thing to look for is the cosmetics. While after market designs are made to protect your radiator, they can still look good. Many companies offer anodizing in different colors to match your bike. Some bike radiator guards have personalized logos and such for a truly custom look. A quality designed and produced after market product can protect your bike and make it look good also.
Some companies market their products as racing radiator guards. This is usually just a sales pitch. Any company that sells something as racing quality and standard quality is one that should be avoided. Look for companies that design and use their own products. A biker will know what his bike needs more than a salesman will. Find a manufacturer that tests their designs and makes their own products. This will insure that you get a quality product that will protect your radiator and provide you with a long life of use.
