One of the simplest upgrades you can make to your KTM 790/890 is handguards and we highly recommend the Ultra Probend CRM Handguards by Cycra. Not only are they well built, but they’re also made for abuse and plastic parts can easily be interchanged when necessary. If you plan on heading off-road, the chintzy plastic guards that came stock on the bike need to go STAT.
First of all, these handguards went on easier than any other handguards we’ve installed in the past. They didn’t even require a quick bend in the vice before being installed which is impressive. They go on easily but they fit really well. The Ultras are designed to allow for extra space for your cables and hoses to run without interference. You can also adjust your levers without interference, and the guards clear everything on the 790 and 890. Even more importantly, they stay in place when hit with force. They’ll protect your levers without damaging other important parts on the handlebars.
CRM means Center Reach Mount and we feel as though this is the way to go, especially for bigger bikes. The Center Reach Mount clamp provides both clearance and a solid mount point to secure the handguards to the bars. There are also several points of adjustment, again lending to the fact that these fit easily the first time. They’re slated also to fit a wide range of bars.
The Ultras are built with a 6061 aluminum machined bar which gives it the strength it needs without adding unnecessary weight. One of my favorite features of these handguards (and consistent too, with most Cycra handguards), is that you can easily replace the plastic covers when they get chewed up. The bar and mount are going to withstand the abuse but you can get them looking new with cheap new plastics. It’s probably about time I do this on my dirt bike but let’s hope it’s a few years before I need to exchange plastics on my Adventure Bike.
These handguards are 110% for function and protection but it does help that they look pretty bad ass too. In my opinion, these Cycras are the best looking handguards out there for the 790/890. They make me look fast and I need all the help I can get. If you’re interested in purchasing a pair of Cycras, doing so using our provided link supports us as we get a small kickback from your purchase. 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.