--- In
DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, "Chadwick, Ken"
wrote:
> the only competition I found was from SW-MOTECH. You can find them
here.
> They don't look as sturdy, and heard as much on the forums, but you
can run
> the stock skid plate with them if there's any reason you wanted to
do so.
>
I own an '08, and I'm trying to find out the answer to this very
question. I agree that I too have "heard as much on the forums" but
none of the comments have been from people who own the product. The
web site picture does look far less industrial, some might say
agricultural, product than that sold by Happy Trails. But it is over
an inch steel bar, and does not have the somewhat crude multiple
piece center brace. It also looks like it would offer better lower
engine protection and might help strengthen the subframe attachment.
Additionally, I think it looks far better on the newly restyled
plastic.
However, as with other reports I've seen, my opinion is based solely
on conjecture and speculation, formed from scant pictorial evidence.
I know that SW-MOTECH made crash bars for pre '08 bikes, and I've
heard their similar products for BMW's are of good quality. What I
don't know is whether, and in what specific ways, they are inferior
to the H-T model. Does anyone have specific evidence that the SW-
MOTECH product is a poor choice for someone looking for off-road
protection for my tank and radiator?
As always, thanks for the combined wisdom of the group. Thanks.
Ken