There is certainly no shortage of riders that have had to endure the plight of picking their motorbike off the ground and realising yes, the damage is as bad as expected.

If that scenario does not sound familiar, it may now be something you are now seeking to avoid and in lighter news, it can be. Motorcycle frame sliders can form a vital defence and here is why they should be considered:

What Are Motorcycle Frame Sliders?

One of many types of crash protection, motorcycle frame sliders act as one of the first points of contact with the ground should a drop, fall or slide occur. Through that role, they fit to the centre of each side of the motorbike to protect vital yet vulnerable components, such as the chassis and engine.

Why Do I Need Frame Sliders?

To protect the chassis and engine, frame sliders will absorb the impact should the motorcycle find itself on the wrong side of a drop, fall or slide, bearing the brunt so integral components do not have to.

Although frame sliders are likely to sustain damage themselves, the positive is they are less valuable and more readily replaceable than the parts they are designed to defend. While it is advisable to replace damaged frame sliders, they will allow you to carry on post-ground contact while a direct blow to the engine may just put paid to your journey.

Frame sliders are particularly useful for racing bikes being put through their paces on a track when there is a higher possibility of slides.

What Makes Great Frame Sliders?

Whilst it is difficult to put a price on motorbike protection and some riders may be apprehensive of the price offered by the better-known manufacturers, it is advisable to avoid the cheaper options.

Bike-specific frame sliders are designed and tested for specific motorcycle models and result in a more flush, integrated fit. Whereas, there is no way of knowing exactly how cheap frame sliders will fit and they may sit too far away from the mounting point. That would mean they rely on the strength of their bracket when making contact with the ground.

In general, frame sliders are black as standard and that may offer a clean look but it does not really enhance aesthetics. Thankfully, the likes of Puig frame sliders are available with a variety of coloured inserts, allowing them to be tailored to the bike’s appearance.

How To Install Frame Sliders

Frame sliders are one of the most straightforward forms of motorcycle crash protection when you come to the fitment process. They are delivered as a collection of numbered components that can be fitted to existing mounting locations one by one.

A set of frame sliders that is worth its salt and from a reputable manufacturer will come with detailed, visual instructions to aid with installation and outline the order in which the components should be positioned.