Motorcycle Frame Sliders

To cut or not to cut? That is the question. At least the big question that causes the most confusion when choosing a sport bike frame slider. First, you need to decide what your priority is - ease of install? Aesthetics? Maximum protection? To start, use the “Shop your Ride” bike selector to find what options are out there for your bike. If you ride a late model sport bike, you will most likely see both “cut kits” and “no cut kits,” referring to whether or not you have to drill, cut or otherwise modify bodywork for installation.

Seems like a no brainer, right? Why would I cut my plastics if there’s another option. Well, if you are taking your bike to the track and want the best protection for critical components, you might want to reconsider. No cut kits often sacrifice ideal frame slider location or strongest possible mounting points to avoid bodywork interference, and may involve brackets to offset to location of the slider, which are inherently weaker than mounting directly to these ideally located fasteners (motor mounts, etc).

In other words, what you save in install time and bodywork modification up front, you may lose bigger if the bike takes a tumble. Taking a holesaw or dremel to your pristine plastics may seem like sacrilege, but if you weigh it against cracked engine cases, sheared bolts or a tweaked frame, it can tip the scales for some riders. If you have a really nice new bike and you want to take it to the track, you may want to consider removing your factory plastics and reserving them for the street. Get yourself some dedicated fiberglass track bodywork and modify that all you need for your track setup. Fiber is more pliable and repairable than plastic, and if you are serious about tracking your bike but also concerned about resale, you will appreciate the foresight when it comes time for a different bike!

If you're not sure what frame slider is right for you, don't hesitate to ask a Gear Geek at (877) 792-9455.