[mappsterr]

2012 250R

I would like some protection but not really happy with the options I have seen. I like the looks of the Works Connection (which has a foam pad included) but I've heard that the aluminum plates can cause the R frame to flex improperly and cause handling issues. And, it makes the engine sound louder. Not sure if this is still the case with the newer frames. Then, there's the less expensive Cycra plastic plate. This sounds like a possible choice but it attaches using zip ties and you have to cut the ties every time you want to clean. It has a hole for the oil drain bolt but not sure if how well it lines up.

Any recommendations? Thoughts?

Thanks.

[crfsonly]

your choices are the following:

1. material
2. coverage
3. cost
4. weight

material
1. aluminum
2. plastic
3. carbon fiber

i've used the WC full coverage plate on my '05 450X and haven't experience any frame issues. the motor is as stiffer or stiffer than any aliuminum skid plate and it's mounted between those same frame rails.

plastic is light and inexpensive but doesn't provide the same protection as the other materials. it also doesn't reflect as much noise as the other materials.

if noise is a concern you can always use sound proofing material used in autos.

coverage
1. glide plate - minimal coverage
2. full coverage

both will protect the rails of the frame and the lower front and bottom of the engine cases. the full coverage will provide protection to the side cases.

cost
carbon fiber and aluminum full coverage plates are the more expensive options.

weight
plastic, carbon fiber and glide plate types weigh less. aluminum full coverage weigh more.

if plastic type is of interest the Acerbis version is excellent. doesn't use zip ties so it's a more substantial mounting.

http://www.crfsonly.com/catalog/product ... ts_id/3802



works connection makes both a standard glide plate and an extended coverage plate. the standard glide plate doesn't reflect as much engine noise at the extended coverage. the new mounting system helps reduce this as well.:

http://www.crfsonly.com/catalog/product ... ts_id/3481



http://www.crfsonly.com/catalog/product ... ts_id/4351



lightspeed glideplate is light and provides excellent coverage. some report the carbon is brittle but others swear it can take any beating without damage.

http://www.crfsonly.com/catalog/product ... ts_id/3763



bottom line is there are tradeoffs with any choice. you just have to decide which tradeoffs you can live with and which ones you can't. some coverage is better than no coverage. damaged frames and engine cases are expensive to replace.

hope this helps.

ken

[mappsterr]

Thanks for the detailed repsonse Ken.

I've seen some images for the WC glide plate with out the holes. Is that because they are bike specific? I would think the holes would make it a little lighter and reduce noise. Does the image you show with the holes have the rubber isolator mounting system and fit the 2012 250r? Supposedly, these rubber mounts solve the frame flex issue (per Dirt Rider)

http://www.dirtrider.com/drtested/141_1 ... index.html

[crfsonly]

yes...the 2012 WC skid plates have their Rubber Isolator Mounting System (RIMS).

ken

[mappsterr]

yes...the 2012 WC skid plates have their Rubber Isolator Mounting System (RIMS).

ken

Thanks

[taylorrep]

I have the Acerbis on my X and have been more than pleased with the application, ease of removal, and overall protection it provides. Just make sure if you order the Acerbis you get the one specified for the 2012, the 2011 does not fit......trust me!


Daniel

[mappsterr]

I do like the Acerbis because of it being light plastic. I had the Hyde racing skid plate on my X and it seemed bullet proof. However, mud would really pack up between the skid plate and the case. I like the look of the slimmer glide plate (like the Works Connection) for the R and hopefully it will be enough protection for the track.

[img][img]http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j342/mappsterr/DSC_0618.jpg[/img][/img]

[Ryan Obert]

i have the moose e-line carbon fiber on 250r. i have never ridin it without the plate because i race hare scrambles and am constantly jumping rocks and logs so i am not sure on noise here. i was unsure of the carbon fibers strength. i have definately knocked it hard more than a couple times and it is holding. no cracks no splintering. they look pretty trick too. i also have the WC full wrap on my 250x which did make a noticeable noise increase due to the fact that it is a solid peice not like the plates for the r. my buddy has the 2010 250r full wrap and it so far has held up great with little noticeable noise increase. keep this in mind that once the aluminum "bends" or "dents" it will remain in place. the carbon fiber however will flex and return to position.

[mxracer76]

Check out Hyderacing.com

I will be getting one soon for my 12 450R