Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a crucial piece of gear for your Yamaha Tracer 900: the SW-Motech Crash Bar. If you're anything like me, you love hitting the open road on your Tracer 900, exploring new routes, and pushing your bike to its limits. But let's face it, accidents happen. Whether it's a low-speed tip-over in a parking lot or a more serious spill on the highway, protecting your investment is paramount. That's where a quality crash bar comes in, and the SW-Motech offering is a popular choice for good reason. In this review, we'll break down everything you need to know about this crash bar, from its design and construction to its installation and overall effectiveness.

Why You Need a Crash Bar

Before we get into the specifics of the SW-Motech crash bar, let's talk about why you should consider getting one in the first place. A crash bar, also known as an engine guard, is a protective frame that mounts to your motorcycle's frame. Its primary purpose is to shield vital components like the engine, fairings, and fuel tank in the event of a fall or collision. Think of it as an insurance policy for your bike. Replacing damaged bodywork or engine parts can be incredibly expensive, not to mention the downtime you'll experience while your bike is in the shop. A crash bar can significantly reduce the risk of serious damage, potentially saving you thousands of dollars and keeping you on the road longer.

Beyond the financial aspect, a crash bar can also provide peace of mind. Knowing that your bike is better protected allows you to ride with more confidence, especially on challenging terrain or in congested traffic. It's a small investment that can make a big difference in your overall riding experience. Plus, some crash bars, like the SW-Motech, offer additional mounting points for accessories like auxiliary lights or GoPro cameras, further enhancing their functionality.

Overview of SW-Motech

SW-Motech has built a solid reputation in the motorcycle accessory market for producing high-quality, durable, and well-designed products. They're a German company known for their attention to detail and commitment to engineering excellence. Their product range is extensive, covering everything from luggage systems and navigation mounts to protective gear and ergonomic enhancements. When you buy an SW-Motech product, you can be confident that you're getting something that's been thoroughly tested and designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycle riding. This reputation for quality is a major reason why their crash bars are so popular among Tracer 900 owners.

Design and Build Quality

The SW-Motech crash bar for the Yamaha Tracer 900 is constructed from heavy-duty steel tubing with a black powder-coated finish. The tubing is 22mm in diameter, providing a good balance of strength and weight. The black powder coat not only looks great but also provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring that the crash bar will withstand the elements for years to come. The design is well thought out, following the lines of the Tracer 900 and integrating seamlessly with the bike's overall aesthetics. It doesn't look like an afterthought; it looks like it belongs there.

The crash bar is designed to protect the engine, radiator, and lower fairings in the event of a fall. It extends outwards from the frame, creating a buffer zone that keeps these vulnerable components from contacting the ground. The mounting points are strategically located to distribute impact forces effectively, minimizing the risk of damage to the frame itself. The welds are clean and strong, indicating a high level of craftsmanship. Overall, the SW-Motech crash bar exudes quality and durability, giving you confidence that it will perform as intended when you need it most.

Installation Process

One of the great things about the SW-Motech crash bar is that it's relatively easy to install, even if you're not a professional mechanic. The kit comes with all the necessary hardware and detailed instructions. The instructions are clear and concise, with helpful diagrams that guide you through each step of the process. Typically, the installation involves removing a few bolts from the bike's frame, mounting the crash bar using the provided hardware, and then re-torquing everything to the specified values.

While the installation is straightforward, it's important to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Make sure to use the correct tools and torque settings to avoid damaging the frame or the crash bar itself. If you're not comfortable working on your bike, it's always a good idea to have a professional install the crash bar for you. However, for most riders with basic mechanical skills, the installation should be a manageable DIY project. Allow yourself a couple of hours to complete the job, and you'll be rewarded with added protection and peace of mind.

Protection and Performance

Of course, the most important aspect of any crash bar is its ability to protect your bike in the event of a fall. The SW-Motech crash bar for the Tracer 900 has been tested in real-world conditions and has proven to be highly effective in minimizing damage. In low-speed tip-overs, it typically prevents any damage to the engine, fairings, or radiator. In more serious crashes, it can significantly reduce the extent of the damage, potentially saving you from costly repairs.

The crash bar's robust construction and strategic mounting points play a crucial role in its protective capabilities. The heavy-duty steel tubing can withstand significant impact forces, while the mounting points distribute those forces evenly across the frame, preventing localized stress. The design also ensures that the crash bar doesn't interfere with the bike's handling or ground clearance. You won't even notice it's there until you need it, and when that time comes, you'll be grateful you invested in this essential piece of gear.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the SW-Motech crash bar for the Yamaha Tracer 900:

Pros:

• Excellent protection: Effectively minimizes damage to the engine, fairings, and radiator in the event of a fall.
• Durable construction: Made from heavy-duty steel tubing with a corrosion-resistant powder-coated finish.
• Easy installation: Comes with all the necessary hardware and detailed instructions.
• Sleek design: Integrates seamlessly with the Tracer 900's aesthetics.
• Additional mounting points: Offers mounting options for accessories like auxiliary lights.
• Reputable brand: Manufactured by SW-Motech, a trusted name in the motorcycle accessory market.

Cons:

• Price: It is more expensive than some other crash bars on the market. However, the quality and protection justify the investment.
• Weight: Adds a bit of weight to the bike, but the added protection is worth the trade-off.

Final Verdict

Overall, the SW-Motech crash bar is an excellent investment for any Yamaha Tracer 900 owner who wants to protect their bike from damage. Its robust construction, easy installation, and sleek design make it a top choice in the market. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options, the added protection and peace of mind are well worth the cost. If you're serious about protecting your Tracer 900, the SW-Motech crash bar is a must-have accessory. Ride safe, guys!