Hey there, adventure riders! If you're anything like me, you love pushing your Tiger 900 to its limits, exploring rugged terrains, and embarking on epic journeys. But with great adventure comes the potential for mishaps, and that's where SW-Motech crash bars come into play. These aren't just accessories; they're a crucial investment in protecting your bike and ensuring your adventures don't end prematurely due to avoidable damage.

Why Invest in Crash Bars for Your Tiger 900?

Let's face it, accidents happen. Whether it's a low-speed drop in a rocky patch or a more significant spill on the asphalt, the consequences can be costly. The vulnerable parts of your Tiger 900, like the engine, fuel tank, and fairings, are all at risk. Repairing or replacing these components can quickly add up, not to mention the downtime that keeps you off the road. Crash bars act as a robust shield, absorbing the impact and distributing the force away from these critical areas. Think of them as an insurance policy for your motorcycle, providing peace of mind and saving you from potential financial headaches down the line.

Beyond the financial aspect, consider the safety implications. A damaged bike can leave you stranded in a remote location, potentially putting you in a dangerous situation. Crash bars help minimize the damage, allowing you to potentially ride your bike to safety or at least make the recovery process easier. Plus, they can provide additional mounting points for accessories like auxiliary lights or highway pegs, further enhancing your riding experience.

SW-Motech: A Name You Can Trust

When it comes to motorcycle protection, SW-Motech is a name that commands respect. Renowned for their quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and rigorous testing, SW-Motech has earned the trust of riders worldwide. Their crash bars are specifically engineered for each motorcycle model, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum protection. They use high-strength steel tubing, meticulously welded and finished with a durable powder coating, to withstand the harshest conditions. But with so many choices, why should you choose SW-Motech for your Tiger 900?

Superior Materials and Construction

SW-Motech crash bars are constructed from heavy-duty steel, providing exceptional strength and impact resistance. The precisely bent tubing follows the lines of your Tiger 900, creating a visually appealing and structurally sound protective cage. The welds are clean and strong, ensuring the bars can withstand significant forces without failing. The powder-coated finish not only looks great but also provides excellent corrosion resistance, protecting the bars from rust and the elements.

Bike-Specific Design and Fit

One of the key advantages of SW-Motech crash bars is their bike-specific design. They are not generic, one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, they are meticulously engineered to fit the unique contours of your Tiger 900. This ensures a snug and secure fit, maximizing protection without interfering with the bike's components or rider ergonomics. The bars are designed to integrate seamlessly with the bike's existing mounting points, making installation relatively straightforward.

Rigorous Testing and Quality Assurance

SW-Motech doesn't just rely on simulations and calculations; they put their crash bars through rigorous real-world testing. They subject them to a variety of impact scenarios to ensure they perform as expected in a crash. This commitment to quality and performance is what sets SW-Motech apart from the competition. You can ride with confidence knowing that your crash bars have been thoroughly tested and proven to provide reliable protection.

Features and Benefits of SW-Motech Crash Bars for Tiger 900

So, what exactly do SW-Motech crash bars bring to the table for your Tiger 900? Let's dive into the specific features and benefits that make them a worthwhile investment.

Enhanced Protection for Vital Components

The primary function of crash bars is, of course, to protect your bike's vital components in the event of a fall. SW-Motech crash bars are strategically designed to shield the engine, fuel tank, radiator, and fairings from impact. By absorbing the force of the crash, they minimize the risk of serious damage, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repairs.

Added Mounting Points for Accessories

Beyond their protective function, SW-Motech crash bars also provide convenient mounting points for accessories. You can easily attach auxiliary lights to improve visibility in low-light conditions, or install highway pegs for added comfort on long rides. The bars can also be used to mount GPS units, cameras, or other accessories, expanding the functionality of your Tiger 900.

Durable Construction and Corrosion Resistance

As mentioned earlier, SW-Motech crash bars are built to last. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures they can withstand the rigors of off-road riding and the elements. The powder-coated finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, protecting the bars from rust and maintaining their appearance for years to come. This means you can rely on them to perform flawlessly, even in harsh conditions.

Easy Installation

SW-Motech crash bars are designed for easy installation, with no cutting, drilling, or welding required. They come with all the necessary hardware and detailed instructions, allowing you to install them yourself in your garage. However, if you're not comfortable working on your bike, it's always best to have them installed by a qualified mechanic. The process is generally straightforward and should only take a few hours.

Sleek Design and Integration

While protection is the primary concern, SW-Motech also pays attention to aesthetics. Their crash bars are designed to complement the look of your Tiger 900, not detract from it. The sleek lines and black powder-coated finish integrate seamlessly with the bike's design, giving it a rugged and adventurous appearance. You don't have to sacrifice style for protection; with SW-Motech crash bars, you can have both.

Choosing the Right SW-Motech Crash Bars for Your Tiger 900 Model

The Tiger 900 lineup includes several models, such as the base, GT, GT Pro, Rally, and Rally Pro. It's important to choose the correct SW-Motech crash bars specifically designed for your particular model. While some bars may fit multiple models, others are unique to specific versions due to differences in frame design or accessory mounting points. Always double-check the product description to ensure compatibility before making a purchase. Also consider your riding style.

Riding Style

Consider where you do most of your driving and how you like to ride. Some crash bars are more suited to off-road environments. Others are more suited to street environments. Make sure that the crash bars are more suited to your individual style and needs.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Okay, you've got your SW-Motech crash bars, and you're ready to install them. Here are a few tips and considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful installation:

• Read the Instructions Carefully: This may seem obvious, but it's crucial to thoroughly read and understand the installation instructions before you start. Familiarize yourself with the steps, torque specifications, and any special tools required.
• Gather Your Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand before you begin. This may include sockets, wrenches, Allen keys, a torque wrench, and a rubber mallet. Having the right tools will make the job much easier and prevent you from damaging your bike or the crash bars.
• Protect Your Bike: Before you start working, cover any exposed parts of your bike with a soft cloth or protective film to prevent scratches or damage. This is especially important around the mounting points.
• Torque Specifications: Pay close attention to the torque specifications provided in the instructions. Overtightening bolts can damage the threads, while undertightening can cause the bars to loosen over time. Use a torque wrench to ensure the bolts are tightened to the correct specification.
• Test Fit: Before you tighten all the bolts, do a test fit to make sure the bars align properly and don't interfere with any of the bike's components. Make any necessary adjustments before tightening everything down.
• Seek Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with any part of the installation process, don't hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Maintaining Your SW-Motech Crash Bars

Once your SW-Motech crash bars are installed, it's important to maintain them properly to ensure they continue to provide optimal protection. Here are a few maintenance tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your crash bars regularly with soap and water to remove dirt, mud, and grime. This will help prevent corrosion and keep them looking their best.
• Inspect for Damage: Periodically inspect your crash bars for any signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or rust. If you notice any damage, address it immediately to prevent further deterioration.
• Touch-Up Paint: If the powder-coated finish gets scratched or chipped, use touch-up paint to prevent rust and maintain the appearance of the bars.
• Tighten Bolts: Periodically check the bolts to ensure they are still properly tightened. Vibration from riding can cause them to loosen over time. Use a torque wrench to tighten them to the correct specification.

Are SW-Motech Crash Bars Worth the Investment?

So, are SW-Motech crash bars worth the investment for your Tiger 900? In my opinion, absolutely. They provide a crucial layer of protection for your bike's vital components, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repairs. They also offer added mounting points for accessories, enhance the bike's appearance, and provide peace of mind on your adventures. While the initial cost may seem significant, the long-term benefits far outweigh the expense.

Conclusion

Ultimately, investing in SW-Motech crash bars for your Tiger 900 is a smart decision for any rider who values protection, performance, and peace of mind. With their superior construction, bike-specific design, and rigorous testing, SW-Motech crash bars are a reliable and effective way to safeguard your bike and enhance your riding experience. So, gear up, get protected, and get ready to conquer any adventure that comes your way!