Why Dirt Bikes Need Handguards: Protection for Your Hands and More

Handguards are a vital piece of equipment for any dirt biker, offering a shield from various hazards you'll encounter off-road and improving your overall riding experience. Here's a closer look at the benefits of using handguards:

• Impact Protection: A major advantage of handguards is shielding your hands from branches, rocks, and other debris that you might encounter while riding. This can prevent serious injuries like broken fingers, cuts, and bruises.

• Lever Protection: In the unfortunate event of a crash, handguards can safeguard your brake and clutch levers from bending or breaking. This ensures you can maintain control of your bike even after a fall.

• Element Protection: Handguards can deflect wind, rain, and mud, keeping your hands warm and dry in harsh weather conditions. This allows for better grip and control on the handlebars.

• Reduced Hand Fatigue: Large handguards can deflect windblast, reducing fatigue in your hands during long rides.

• Reduced Handlebar Vibration: Some handguards, particularly those with a larger design or built-in dampeners, can help reduce handlebar vibration caused by the engine or rough terrain, leading to less hand fatigue and numbness.

Circuit Equipment PM033-219 Handguard Sx Bicomp: A Specific Option

One particular handguard model to consider is the Circuit Equipment PM033-219 Handguard Sx Bicomp. Without specific product information, it's difficult to say for sure if it reduces vibration. However, features to look for in a handguard that might help with vibration include:

• Large Shield Size: A larger shield can absorb more vibration compared to a smaller, more low-profile design.
• Dampening Materials: Some handguards incorporate rubber or gel inserts at the mounting points to help dampen vibration.

General Handguard Installation Tips:

While specific installation instructions will vary depending on the make and model of your handguards and dirt bike, here's a general guideline to follow:

1. Gather your tools: You'll typically need common tools like Allen wrenches, socket wrenches, and a torque wrench. Refer to your handguard's manual for specific requirements.

2. Remove existing handguards (if applicable): Most dirt bikes won't have stock handguards, but if you're replacing older ones, follow the removal instructions carefully.

3. Prepare the handlebar: Clean and dry the handlebar area where the handguards will be mounted.

4. Assemble the handguards (if needed): Some handguards come pre-assembled, while others may require you to attach the shield to the mounting bracket.

5. Mount the handguards: Following the instructions, secure the handguard brackets to the handlebar using the appropriate hardware. Tighten the screws or bolts to the specified torque using a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening.

6. Adjust the handguards: Once mounted, most handguards allow for some level of adjustability. Position them for optimal comfort and hand protection, ensuring they don't interfere with handlebar controls.

7. Double-check everything: Before hitting the trails, make sure all the handguard mounts are securely fastened and there's no looseness.

Remember: Always refer to the instructions that come with your specific handguards for detailed installation steps.

By incorporating handguards into your dirt bike gear, you're making a wise investment in protecting your hands, enhancing control on the trails, and potentially reducing handlebar vibration for a more comfortable ride.