[Review] Xtrem Skid Plate on a ’22 KTM 300 XCW by AXP

Before trying an AXP skid plate, I will admit that I was skeptical of the idea. After giving the Xtrem Skid Plate by AXP a try on my new KTM 300, I am now a lifelong fan. Not only is the high density polyethylene (8mm thick) material lighter than aluminum, it’s also quiet, extremely easy to install, and looks really good.

I’ve always had an aluminum skid plate on most of my motorcycles, with the exception of running a carbon fiber one for a bit that eventually wore through in high wear areas and had to be replaced by an aluminum ski plate. The amazing benefit of the AXP over an aluminum skid plate is that it’s not only lighter (2.2 pounds total weight), it’s also quieter. I’ve always noticed a ton of noise and vibration through the aluminum skid plates I’ve had in the past but didn’t really think there was any alternative. I wear ear plugs when I ride and would still notice the noise. With the Xtrem Skid Plate, there is no additional and unnecessary noise.

As you can see, the coverage is awesome with the Xtrem Skid Plate and everything that needs to be protected, is. Another benefit I’ve noticed over an aluminum skid plate is that if you hit a rock hard enough with an aluminum skid plate, the aluminum could actually bend/dent your moto parts. While technically the same thing could happen with the high density polyethylene, I feel as though it absorbs more of the impact rather than transferring it to your motorcycle. I have been very surprised by how strong the high density polyethylene is and it has withstood some rocky abuse. 

I don’t know what it is about skid plates but they never seem to really fit all that well. They typically call for a little persuasion while being installed but installing the Xtrem Skid Plate was a piece of cake. And it actually only has two bolts going into the frame of the bike. Check out the video to see how the skid plate is held in place, but it makes for a solid fit and an easy install. The bolts on the bottom of the skid plate (which hold the J pieces in place that fit around the frame) are all flush with the skid plate itself so there’s no catching them on rocks or logs. 

The Xtrem Skid Plate is also available in orange and they have skid plates for different makes and models. We’d be really excited to try these on the adventure bikes and save a ton of weight. We’ll be sure to comment with any surprising updates in the future but right now we’re really into the concept of AXP’s skid plates and can’t wait to see how it looks in a few thousand miles. I also added AXP’s Chain Guide and Swing Arm Guard on the 300 so be sure to check out that review as well. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to click the MOTOS tab we have on our website. Whether you ride dirt or adventure bikes, we have tested a lot of gear that will be of use to you. We appreciate the support!

*We received this gear for free in exchange for a review, however, it’s important to know that all thoughts are our own.