[Review] Radiator Guards by Bullet Proof Designs

Posted on July 10, 2022

It’s no secret that motorcycle manufacturers cut costs when they’re pumping out so many motorcycles a year. KTM was kind enough to include radiator guards on my new KTM 300 XC-W but they’re a pretty chintzy plastic that won’t really do much when I inevitably impact something. Luckily for me, I picked up a pair of Radiator Guards from Bullet Proof Designs. They add way more protection than the stock plastic guards and it’s way more cost-effective than potentially damaging them and having to replace them down the road. Yes, this protection is a bit of an investment upfront but it will save you money in the long run.

These Radiator Guards are made with 7075 Aluminum and fit in place where the old stock guards were. While these add a ton of protection to your radiator, they won’t add a lot of weight. In fact, these guards add only 3oz per side over the stock guards (bulletproofdesigns.com). The install is super easy and will take you less than 20 minutes. You can get them in an array of colors and if you’ve seen my other Bullet Proof Designs reviews, you’ll know that I went with all black guards and accessories. I really like the clean and finished look of the black, but they will start to show some abuse more so than the plain aluminum guards. I technically shouldn’t have any wear marks on the radiator guards but you never know. At least I know I’ll protect my radiator in the event of wrecking them into something.

Like all of their products, the fit and finish of these guards is, by no surprise, outstanding and I feel like Bullet Proof Designs executes their guards so well. In addition to the Radiator guards, I also have some Foot Pegs, a Rear Disc Guard and Caliper Guard, and a Front Disc Guard by Bullet Proof Designs. And as if you didn’t need another reason to love them, Bullet Proof Designs products are designed and built in the US. Be sure to check out everything we’ve tried from Bullet Proof here.