How we researched this guide
We compared 5 skid plates that fit the KTM 890 Adventure R, checking 6 maker documents and spec sheets: AXP Racing’s material FAQ and the AX1737 assembly sheet, Black Dog Cycle Works’ ULTIMATE plate product copy, the Tusk 1975340007 instruction sheet from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, SW-MOTECH’s engine-guard specifications, and Hepco & Becker’s fitment listing. Fitment was verified per plate against maker-published model coverage — 890 Adventure R fitment is exact, and the one conflict we found (Tusk’s 2023+ listing) is printed as a watch-out, not hidden.
Owner evidence comes from an ADVRider owner quoted on BDCW’s own product page and a long-term Appalachian ADV review of the ULTIMATE plate line. Owner coverage was thin for the AXP, Tusk, SW-MOTECH and Hepco & Becker plates, and each review says so in one line rather than inventing praise. No Amazon ASIN could be verified for any pick in this research pass (Amazon blocks automated listing checks), so every plate ships with maker-direct buying links.
The 30-second answer
Five plates that actually fit the KTM 890 Adventure R: AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate, Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate, Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate, SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001, Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634. Pick the AXP Racing AX1737 if you ride rocky trails and want a light plate that glides over obstacles; the Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE for maximum aluminum bash protection with tank guards; the Tusk Quiet Glide for an aluminum-plus-UHMW hybrid at a working-rider price; the SW-MOTECH plate for a clean OEM-style fit; and the Hepco & Becker plate as the honest budget aluminum guard. Fitment notes and watch-outs for each are below.
Top Pick — Lightweight Polymer
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate
8 mm HDPE that slides over rocks instead of hanging up, shields the engine, cases and water pump, and runs about a third lighter than aluminum — the best all-round plate for riders who actually leave the pavement.
No verified Amazon listing for the AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: AXP Racing store.
Best Maximum Protection
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate
3/16-inch 5052 aluminum with a rubber Shok Blok, mounted to the frame instead of the engine case, plus tank guards — the heaviest-duty plate here for riders who drop the bike in rocks.
No verified Amazon listing for the Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Black Dog Cycle Works store.
Best Value Hybrid
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate
3/16-inch aluminum bonded to a 1/4-inch UHMW glide overlay — aluminum rigidity with a polymer slide surface, at a working-rider price from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC.
No verified Amazon listing for the Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Tusk (Rocky Mountain ATV/MC) store.
Best Clean OEM-Style Fit
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001
4 mm aluminum in a model-specific, bolt-on design with black or silver finish — the tidy, OEM-plus choice for touring riders who want protection without visual drama.
No verified Amazon listing for the SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001 in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: SW-MOTECH store.
Best Budget Aluminum
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634
A straightforward aluminum sump guard from Germany's long-running adventure-accessory house — the sensible minimum upgrade over the stock plate for budget-conscious riders.
No verified Amazon listing for the Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634 in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Hepco & Becker store.
| Skid plate | Material | Thickness | Fitment | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate | 8 mm HDPE | 8 mm | 790/890 Adv R/L | Maker direct |
| Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate | 3/16-in aluminum | 4.76 mm | 890/790 Adv, R, Rally | Maker direct |
| Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate | Aluminum + UHMW | 3/16-in + 1/4-in | 2023+ 890 Adv R | Maker direct |
| SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001 | 4 mm aluminum | 4 mm | 790/890 Adv/R 2019+ | Maker direct |
| Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634 | Aluminum | Not published | 890/790 Adv, Norden 901 | Maker direct |
Skid plate finder
Pick the riding that matches you. Every answer leads to one of this guide’s five plates — no dead ends.
How to choose a skid plate for the 890 Adventure R
Material: HDPE polymer vs aluminum
Polymer (HDPE) plates like the AXP absorb impacts, slide over rocks, run quieter and weigh 30-40% less than aluminum, per AXP — but a massive hit can crack them, and AXP itself calls skid plates consumables. Aluminum plates (BDCW, SW-MOTECH, Hepco & Becker) give rigid bash strength and shrug off scrapes, at the cost of weight, noise and a tendency to hang up on rocks. The Tusk splits the difference with an aluminum plate plus a UHMW glide overlay.
Coverage: what the plate actually shields
Engine cases are the minimum. Better plates extend to the water pump, the linkage and the frame rails — the AXP’s rear extension runs protection back to the footpegs. The BDCW goes furthest, adding tank guards for the 890’s low-slung fuel tank, which sits exposed between your knees and the footpegs. Match coverage to consequence: rocky single-track deserves full coverage.
Mounting: frame vs engine case
Where impact force goes matters as much as plate thickness. The BDCW mounts to the frame, keeping force off the engine case; the Tusk replaces the lower right footpeg mount bolt with a supplied M10x60 bolt and reuses the front OEM positions. Prefer plates whose mounts spread load into the frame rather than hanging everything off soft engine-case threads.
Weight and handling
A skid plate lives at the lowest point of the bike, so its weight counts double in slow technical riding. AXP’s 30-40% weight saving over aluminum is meaningful on a 890 R you pick up yourself. Thick aluminum buys maximum protection at maximum weight — choose deliberately, not by default.
Fitment: 890 R vs 890, and model years
All five plates here list the 890 Adventure R, but check the details: the Tusk 1975340007 sheet lists 2023+ 890 Adventure R specifically, so 2021-2022 owners should confirm before ordering. The AXP AX1737 covers 790/890 Adventure R and L; SW-MOTECH covers the 790/890 range from 2019 on. Fitment conflicts are printed as watch-outs in each review below.
Maintenance access
You will remove this plate for every oil change, so fast removal is a feature, not a luxury. The BDCW comes off with four bolts; the AXP assembly sheet quotes about 30 minutes for the initial install. Check what has to come off — and what hardware is included — before you buy.
Fitment by model year
Maker-published fitment for each plate. ‘Confirm’ means the maker’s sheet is narrower than the bike’s range — check before ordering.
| Skid plate | 890 Adv R 21-22 | 890 Adv R 23+ | 890 Adv (base) | 790 Adv / R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AXP AX1737 | Fits | Fits | Fits | Fits |
| BDCW ULTIMATE | Fits | Fits | Fits | Fits |
| Tusk 1975340007 | Confirm | Fits | Not listed | Not listed |
| SW-MOTECH MSS.04.521.10001 | Fits | Fits | Fits | Fits |
| H&B 4226.7634 | Fits | Fits | Fits | Fits |
Skid plates by budget
No prices are printed in this guide — tiers below describe what each plate gives you, not what it costs. Our value-first buying mindset is the same one in our best ATV winch for the money guide.
| Tier | What you get | Example pick |
|---|---|---|
| Polymer performance | 8 mm HDPE, full coverage, lightest | AXP AX1737 |
| Maximum aluminum | Thickest plate + tank guards + Shok Blok | BDCW ULTIMATE |
| Hybrid value | Aluminum plate + UHMW glide overlay | Tusk Quiet Glide |
| OEM-style aluminum | Clean 4 mm bolt-on guard | SW-MOTECH |
| Budget aluminum | Simple sump guard, honest minimum | Hepco & Becker |
Skid plate types: polymer vs aluminum vs hybrid
Three materials dominate the 890 Adventure R market. None is best at everything — pick the trade-off that matches your riding.
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDPE polymer | Light; slides over rocks; quiet; no dents | Can crack in a huge hit; consumable | Rocky, technical trail riding |
| Aluminum | Rigid bash strength; shrugs off scrapes | Heavy; noisy; can hang up on rocks | Maximum protection, expedition use |
| Hybrid (alu + UHMW) | Aluminum strength with a glide surface | More complex; overlay is the wear face | Mixed adventure touring |
Detailed reviews: 5 skid plates for the 890 Adventure R
Five plates, five philosophies — polymer glide, maximum aluminum, hybrid, OEM-style and budget. Each review below covers why it earned its award, full maker-published specs, fitment, owner reports and watch-outs.
Top Pick — Best Lightweight Polymer: AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate
Top Pick — Lightweight Polymer
Why the AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate is our pick
The 890 Adventure R is built to be ridden off-road, and its vulnerable low-slung engine and fuel tank deserve better than the stock guard. AXP's 8 mm HDPE Touring plate wraps the engine, frame, cases and water pump, with a rear extension that protects the linkage all the way back to the footpegs. The plastic absorbs hits instead of denting, adds no vibration, and AXP rates it 30 to 40 percent lighter than an aluminum equivalent.
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate key specs
- Part number: AX1737
- Material: 8 mm HDPE (high-density polyethylene)
- Fitment: KTM 790/890 Adventure R and L
- Coverage: Engine, frame, cases, water pump, linkage
- Rear extension: Protects linkage and frame to the footpegs
- Weight: 30-40% lighter than aluminum (maker claim)
- Vibration: None — HDPE damps vibration (maker claim)
- Noise: Reduced vs aluminum (maker claim)
- Install time: About 30 minutes (AXP assembly sheet)
- Warranty note: Production defaults covered first year; not a life warranty
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: fits and best for
Fits the 790 and 890 Adventure in both R and standard trims. Best for riders who ride rocky, technical terrain and want a plate that glides over obstacles rather than digging in. A strong match for long off-road days where low weight and low noise matter.
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: pros and watch-outs
- 8 mm HDPE slides over rocks instead of snagging
- Covers engine, cases, water pump and linkage in one plate
- 30-40% lighter than aluminum, per AXP
- No denting, no vibration, quieter than metal plates
- Rear extension guards the linkage to the footpegs
- Polymer is a consumable — a huge hit can crack it (AXP says the same)
- No verified Amazon listing — order direct from the maker
- Costs more than a basic aluminum plate
- Check AX1737 vs older AX1543 numbering when ordering for a 2019-2022 bike
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: what owners report
Owner coverage specific to the AX1737 is thin in the sources we found — we say so rather than padding it. RevZilla carries AXP's Xtrem line with owner reviews, and AXP notes its plates are used in competition by pro teams and riders. (RevZilla — AXP Racing Xtrem Skid Plate)
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: who should not buy
Skip it if you want maximum rigid bash strength for repeated heavy hits on sharp rock — a thick aluminum plate is the better tool there. See the Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE below. Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE.
AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: pair it with
Pair it with a proper lift stand so oil changes and trail repairs are easy — our guide to the best motorcycle stand options is here: Dynamoto motorcycle stands reviews.
No verified Amazon listing for the AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: AXP Racing store.
We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tip: After a rocky ride, check the plate bolts — HDPE flexes, and hardware is what works loose. Our ATV install walkthrough covers the same torque-check habit: how to install a winch on an ATV.
Best Maximum Protection: Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate
Best Maximum Protection
Why the Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate is our pick
When the consequence of a cracked case is a ruined trip deep in the backcountry, maximum protection is cheap insurance. Black Dog Cycle Works builds the ULTIMATE plate from 3/16-inch 5052 aluminum that is chosen to absorb impacts rather than transfer force to the mounts, with a rubber Shok Blok that helps disperse big hits. It mounts to the frame — off the engine case — and ships with tank guards for the 890's vulnerable low fuel tank. Four bolts remove it for oil changes.
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate key specs
- Part number: ULTIMATE Skid Plate + Tank Guards (890/790 line)
- Material: 3/16-inch (4.76 mm) 5052 aluminum
- Impact layer: Rubber "Shok Blok" disperses force (maker)
- Finish: Powder coat + clear coat
- Fitment: KTM 890/790 Adventure / R / Rally, Norden 901
- Coverage: Engine, cases, header area, fuel tank guards
- Mounting: Frame-mounted, off the engine case
- Removal: 4 bolts for oil changes / maintenance
- Center stand: Accommodates the stock center stand
- Origin: Made in the USA
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: fits and best for
Fits the 890 and 790 Adventure families including R and Rally, plus the Norden 901. Best for aggressive off-road riders, rocky terrain, and anyone who treats a skid plate as expedition insurance rather than a cosmetic guard.
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: pros and watch-outs
- Thick 3/16-inch 5052 aluminum built to absorb hits
- Frame-mounted — impact force stays off the engine case
- Tank guards included for the low-slung 890 fuel tank
- Rubber Shok Blok helps disperse hard impacts
- Four-bolt removal makes oil changes quick
- The heaviest plate in this guide
- Premium pricing for premium construction
- Softer aluminum can gash on very sharp objects (owner-noted)
- No verified Amazon listing — order direct from the maker
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: what owners report
ADVRider owner G.Gilbert, quoted on BDCW's own product page: after a polymer plate 'still was not up to task' in rocky New England riding, he switched to Black Dog Cycle Works — 'its up to the task'. (Black Dog Cycle Works — owner quotes)
Appalachian ADV's long-term review of the ULTIMATE plate line: it took rocks, ruts and logs well, with easy 4-bolt removal for maintenance; the noted con is that the softer aluminum can gash on sharp objects. (Reviewed on the T7 version — same ULTIMATE line.) (Appalachian ADV — BDCW ULTIMATE long-term review)
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: who should not buy
Skip it if every kilogram matters to you and your riding is fast and flowing rather than rock-bashing — the AXP polymer plate above saves meaningful weight. See the top pick. AXP Racing AX1737.
Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: pair it with
The 4-bolt removal makes this the easiest plate here to live with — pair it with a lift stand for trail repairs: motorcycle stand options.
No verified Amazon listing for the Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Black Dog Cycle Works store.
We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tip: The smooth, hole-free bottom is the point — it glides instead of snagging. Keep it that way by checking for packed mud after wet rides. Related reading on keeping guards working: best mud flaps for Chevy Silverado 1500.
Best Value Hybrid: Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate
Best Value Hybrid
Why the Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate is our pick
The Tusk Quiet Glide is the hybrid answer to the polymer-vs-aluminum debate: a 3/16-inch aluminum plate carries the structural load, while a 1/4-inch UHMW overlay forms the slide surface so the bike glides over obstacles instead of getting hung up the way bare aluminum can. The kit is complete — support bracket, foot peg mount and all hardware — and it reuses the front OEM bolt positions, so installation follows the factory mounting logic.
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate key specs
- Part number: Tusk 1975340007
- Material: 3/16-inch aluminum + 1/4-inch UHMW overlay
- Fitment: 2023+ KTM 890 Adventure R
- Mounting: Support bracket + foot peg mount; reuses front OEM bolts
- Hardware: M10x60 button head, 2x M10 flange nuts, 4x M6x16, 3x M8x20 Torx
- Thread locker: Blue thread locker recommended
- Install note: Replaces the lower right footpeg mount bolt with supplied M10x60
- Front bolts: Front four OEM bolts are reused
- Seller: Rocky Mountain ATV/MC
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: fits and best for
Listed for the 2023 and newer 890 Adventure R. Best for riders who want aluminum strength with a glide surface, without paying premium-plate money. A natural fit for mixed adventure touring with regular dirt sections.
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: pros and watch-outs
- Hybrid build: aluminum strength plus UHMW glide surface
- UHMW overlay helps the bike slide over obstacles
- Complete kit — bracket, foot peg mount and hardware included
- Reuses factory front bolt positions for a clean install
- Strong value in the adventure-plate segment
- Listed fitment is 2023+ 890 Adventure R — 2021-2022 owners must confirm
- Owner coverage of this exact plate is thin in our sources
- No verified Amazon listing — order from the seller direct
- Heavier concept than a pure polymer plate
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: what owners report
Owner coverage of the adventure-plate version is thin in the sources we found — stated here rather than padded. The instruction sheet and parts list above come from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC directly. (RMATVMC — Tusk 1975340007 instruction sheet)
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: who should not buy
Skip it if you ride a 2021-2022 890 Adventure R and cannot confirm fitment — the sheet lists 2023+. The AXP and SW-MOTECH plates above both cover the earlier bikes. AXP Racing AX1737.
Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: pair it with
The full hardware kit means one order covers the job — pair it with a lift stand for the first install: motorcycle stand options.
No verified Amazon listing for the Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Tusk (Rocky Mountain ATV/MC) store.
We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tip: Use blue thread locker on every bolt, as the instruction sheet recommends, and re-check torque after the first rocky ride. The same habit applies to any bolt-on guard: how to install a winch on an ATV.
Best Clean OEM-Style Fit: SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001
Best Clean OEM-Style Fit
Why the SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001 is our pick
SW-MOTECH's reputation is model-specific parts that fit like factory equipment, and its 790/890 skid plate follows the formula: a 4 mm aluminum alloy guard shaped exactly for the bike, in black or silver to match your finish. It is the understated pick — full under-engine coverage in a plate that looks like it could have come on the bike, from a brand with deep adventure-bike catalog support. The finish choice is practical as well as cosmetic: black disappears under the bike while silver matches the 890's aluminum details.
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001 key specs
- Part number: MSS.04.521.10001/B (black); /10002/S (silver)
- Material: 4 mm aluminum alloy sheet
- Fitment: KTM 790/890 Adventure / R, 2019+
- Finishes: Black or silver
- Design: Model-specific, bolt-on
- Coverage: Engine and under-engine area
- Brand: SW-MOTECH (German adventure accessories)
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: fits and best for
Fits 790 and 890 Adventure and R models from 2019 on. Best for touring-focused riders who want solid aluminum protection with a factory look, and for buyers who value a deep accessory catalog behind the plate — SW-MOTECH owners tend to build whole-bike systems from one brand.
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: pros and watch-outs
- Model-specific fit — installs like factory equipment
- 4 mm aluminum alloy for real impact resistance
- Black or silver finish to match the bike
- Covers the full 790/890 Adventure range from 2019+
- Strong brand support and accessory ecosystem
- Bare aluminum can hang up on rocks where polymer glides
- Owner coverage in our sources is thin
- No verified Amazon listing — order from the maker or a dealer
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: what owners report
Owner coverage in our sources is thin — stated here rather than padded. Fitment and part numbers above come from SW-MOTECH's listings and authorized retailers. (Accessory International — 790/890 Adventure parts)
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: who should not buy
Skip it if your riding is slow, rocky and technical — a glide-surface plate (AXP or Tusk) will serve you better than bare aluminum. Tusk Quiet Glide.
SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: pair it with
SW-MOTECH's catalog runs deep — pair the plate with a lift stand for maintenance days: motorcycle stand options.
No verified Amazon listing for the SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001 in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: SW-MOTECH store.
We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tip: Bare aluminum shows every hit as a badge of honor, but check the mounting bolts after hard impacts — aluminum transfers force to the mounts. More on bolt-on guard care: best grille guards for trucks.
Best Budget Aluminum: Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634
Best Budget Aluminum
Why the Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634 is our pick
Not every rider needs a expedition-grade plate. The Hepco & Becker 4226.7634 is a simple aluminum skid plate that covers the sump and lower engine on the 890/790 Adventure and the Norden 901, from a maker that has built motorcycle protection in Germany for decades. It is the honest budget pick: real metal between the rocks and your cases, without the premium-plate feature set. The shared Norden 901 fitment is no accident — the two bikes share the platform, so one guard serves both, which keeps the price sensible.
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634 key specs
- Part number: 4226.7634 00 01
- Material: Aluminum sump guard
- Fitment: Husqvarna Norden 901 / KTM 890/790 Adventure
- Coverage: Engine sump and lower engine
- Design: Model-specific sump guard
- Brand: Hepco & Becker (German motorcycle accessories)
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: fits and best for
Fits the 890/790 Adventure range and the Norden 901. Best for riders on a budget, lighter off-road use, and anyone who wants a simple metal guard rather than a full expedition system. If your dirt miles are fire roads rather than rock gardens, this is all the plate you need.
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: pros and watch-outs
- Real aluminum protection at a budget-friendly position
- Simple, proven sump-guard design
- Fits the 890/790 Adventure and Norden 901
- Long-established German accessory maker
- Less coverage than the premium plates here
- No linkage or tank-guard integration
- Owner coverage in our sources is thin
- No verified Amazon listing — order from a dealer
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: what owners report
Owner coverage in our sources is thin — stated here rather than padded. Part number and fitment above come from authorized retailer listings. (Accessory International — 790/890 Adventure parts)
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: who should not buy
Skip it if you ride hard off-road regularly — step up to the AXP or BDCW for full coverage. This is the light-duty pick. AXP Racing AX1737.
Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: pair it with
Keep the budget theme going — pair it with a lift stand for home maintenance: motorcycle stand options.
No verified Amazon listing for the Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634 in our research pass — order it direct from the maker: Hepco & Becker store.
We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tip: A budget plate still needs the same care: check bolts after the first dirt ride. Our budget buying guide for ATV winches covers the same value-first mindset: best ATV winch for the money.
Spec comparison
Every spec below is maker-published; unpublished specs are marked ‘Not published’, never guessed. Split into two tables so nothing overflows on mobile.
| Spec | AXP AX1737 | BDCW ULTIMATE | Tusk Quiet Glide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | 8 mm HDPE | 3/16-in 5052 alu | Alu + UHMW |
| Thickness | 8 mm | 4.76 mm | 3/16-in + 1/4-in |
| Fitment | 790/890 Adv R/L | 890/790, R, Rally | 2023+ 890 Adv R |
| Coverage | Engine, cases, pump, linkage | Engine + tank guards | Engine, frame |
| Mounting | Frame wrap | Frame, off engine case | Bracket + peg mount |
| Oil-change access | Standard removal | 4-bolt quick removal | Standard removal |
| Finish | HDPE black | Powder + clear | Alu + UHMW |
| Part number | AX1737 | ULTIMATE line | 1975340007 |
| Buy | Maker direct | Maker direct | Maker direct |
| Spec | SW-MOTECH | Hepco & Becker |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 4 mm alu | Aluminum |
| Thickness | 4 mm | Not published |
| Fitment | 790/890 Adv/R 19+ | 890/790, Norden 901 |
| Coverage | Under-engine | Sump, lower engine |
| Mounting | Bolt-on | Bolt-on |
| Oil-change access | Standard removal | Standard removal |
| Finish | Black or silver | Aluminum |
| Part number | MSS.04.521.10001 | 4226.7634 00 01 |
| Buy | Maker direct | Maker direct |
Fitment & installation
Skid plate installation on the 890 Adventure R is a driveway job: remove the stock guard, offer up the new plate, and torque the supplied hardware. The AXP assembly sheet quotes about 30 minutes for the AX1737. The Tusk kit is the most involved here — its instructions have you replace the lower right footpeg mount bolt with a supplied M10x60 bolt and hang a dedicated foot peg mount, while reusing the front four OEM bolts. Blue thread locker on every fastener is the instruction-sheet recommendation, and it is good practice on any plate: re-check torque after the first rocky ride, because that is when hardware works loose.
Two things to verify before you order: first, that the plate’s listed fitment covers your exact model year — the Tusk sheet lists 2023+ 890 Adventure R, so 2021-2022 owners should confirm with the seller. Second, that the plate plays well with your crash bars and center stand; the BDCW explicitly accommodates the stock center stand. If you do your own wrenching, our ATV winch install walkthrough covers the same measure-twice habits, and our motorcycle stand guide helps you pick a lift for maintenance days.
Safety essentials
- Never work under a bike supported only by a side stand — use a proper lift stand.
- Torque every skid plate bolt to the maker’s spec, then re-check after the first ride.
- Use thread locker where the instruction sheet calls for it.
- Keep hands clear when test-fitting heavy aluminum plates — they are sharp and awkward.
- Re-check mounting hardware after any hard impact, even if the plate looks fine.
- Carry the tools to remove the plate on long trips — trail repairs may need access.
A skid plate is one part of an off-road safety system. If your adventures include recovery situations, these three accessories belong in the kit — each with a verified Amazon listing:
WARN Epic Snatch Block: Doubles pulling power and halves the load on the winch when a recovery goes sideways.
GearAmerica Tree Saver Strap: A proper tree saver protects both the tree and your winch rope during a pull.
AMBULL Shackles: Rated shackles beat hooks for connecting straps and blocks in a recovery kit.
For the bigger recovery picture, see our best off-road winch guide and our recovery board reviews. And never ride rocky trails alone without telling someone your route — a helmet communication system keeps you in contact when things go wrong.
Troubleshooting
Common skid plate issues and fixes, drawn from maker instructions and owner reports.
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Rattle at idle | Loose mounting bolt | Re-torque all hardware; add thread locker |
| Plate hangs up on rocks | Bare aluminum digging in | Consider a glide-surface plate (AXP, Tusk) |
| Crack in polymer plate | One very hard hit | Replace the plate — it did its job |
| Dent in aluminum plate | Rock strike | Straighten if minor; replace if mounting is bent |
| Bolt spins, won’t tighten | Stripped thread in mount | Re-tap or use a thread repair insert |
| Mud packed behind plate | Wet riding | Remove plate and clean — check for trapped debris |
Who should NOT buy these
If you never leave pavement: a skid plate is dead weight on a street-only 890. Spend the money on tires or training instead — see our off-road light bar guide for where adventure upgrades actually pay off.
If you want a full rally build: a plate alone is not a protection system. Pair it with crash bars and hand guards before chasing remote single-track — protection is a system, like the grille guards approach on trucks.
If your bike is a 2021-2022 890 Adventure R and you want the Tusk: its sheet lists 2023+. Either confirm fitment with the seller or pick the AXP or SW-MOTECH, which both cover the earlier bikes.
If weight is your top priority: skip the thick aluminum plates. The AXP polymer plate is the lightest serious option here; anything heavier works against you in technical terrain.
Final verdict
One line per pick — award, product, and where to buy it:
- Top Pick — Best Lightweight Polymer — AXP Racing AX1737 Touring Skid Plate: no verified Amazon listing in our pass — maker direct.
- Best Maximum Protection — Black Dog Cycle Works ULTIMATE Skid Plate: no verified Amazon listing in our pass — maker direct.
- Best Value Hybrid — Tusk Quiet Glide Adventure Skid Plate: no verified Amazon listing in our pass — maker direct.
- Best Clean OEM-Style Fit — SW-MOTECH Skid Plate MSS.04.521.10001: no verified Amazon listing in our pass — maker direct.
- Best Budget Aluminum — Hepco & Becker Skid Plate 4226.7634: no verified Amazon listing in our pass — maker direct.
FAQ
Will a 790 Adventure skid plate fit my 890 Adventure R?
Usually yes — the 790 and 890 Adventure share the same chassis and engine architecture, which is why the AXP AX1737, BDCW ULTIMATE and SW-MOTECH plates all list both models. But ‘usually’ is not a fitment guarantee: always check the maker’s fitment list for your exact model year before ordering, and note the Tusk 1975340007 sheet lists the 2023+ 890 Adventure R specifically.
Aluminum or plastic skid plate for the 890 Adventure R?
Pick by terrain. HDPE polymer plates like the AXP are lighter, quieter and slide over rocks instead of hanging up — AXP rates its 8 mm plate 30-40% lighter than aluminum. Aluminum plates (BDCW, SW-MOTECH) give rigid bash strength for repeated heavy hits but add weight and noise. The Tusk Quiet Glide splits the difference with an aluminum plate plus a UHMW glide overlay.
Do I have to remove the skid plate for oil changes?
Yes, on every plate here — which is why quick removal matters. The BDCW ULTIMATE comes off with four bolts, the fastest system in this guide. Budget a few extra minutes with the others, and keep the hardware organized: losing one special bolt can end a riding weekend.
Will an aftermarket skid plate fit with my crash bars and center stand?
It depends on the combination, so check before ordering. The BDCW ULTIMATE explicitly accommodates the stock center stand. AXP publishes a compatibility section on each product page for crash bars and center stands from other brands — use it. When in doubt, buy the plate and bars as a system from one maker.
How much protection does the stock 890 Adventure R skid plate give?
The stock guard is a minimum-viable part — fine for gravel roads, not for rocks. The 890’s fuel tank sits low between your knees and the footpegs, so a real bash plate protecting the engine, cases and tank area is one of the highest-value upgrades for off-road riding. Every plate in this guide meaningfully out-protects stock.
Does the Tusk Quiet Glide fit the 2021-2022 890 Adventure R?
We could not confirm it. The Rocky Mountain ATV/MC instruction sheet for part 1975340007 lists ‘2023+ KTM 890 Adventure R’ as the machine fitment, with no mention of earlier years. If you ride a 2021-2022 bike, confirm fitment with the seller before ordering — or choose the AXP or SW-MOTECH, which both cover the earlier bikes.
Can I install a skid plate myself?
Yes — it is a driveway job with basic hand tools. The AXP assembly sheet quotes about 30 minutes. The Tusk kit is the most involved here: you replace the lower right footpeg mount bolt with a supplied M10x60 bolt and hang a dedicated foot peg mount. Use blue thread locker where the sheet calls for it and re-check torque after the first rocky ride.
How do I maintain a polymer vs an aluminum skid plate?
Polymer (HDPE/UHMW) needs almost nothing: wash off mud and check the bolts, since the plate flexes and hardware works loose. Inspect for cracks after huge hits — a cracked polymer plate did its job and should be replaced. Aluminum: check for bent mounting tabs after hard strikes, straighten minor dents, and keep the bolts torqued — aluminum transfers impact force to the mounts.
What is the BDCW ‘Shok Blok’?
It is Black Dog Cycle Works’ rubber impact layer built into the ULTIMATE plate, described by the maker as helping to absorb and disperse force from big impacts before it reaches the mounts. It is one reason the ULTIMATE is the maximum-protection pick here rather than just the thickest plate.
Is the AXP plate really lighter than aluminum?
That is AXP’s own claim: its HDPE plates run 30-40% lighter than an aluminum equivalent, because the plastic needs no heavy mounting structure and absorbs impacts instead of resisting them rigidly. We print it as the maker’s claim, not a lab result — but the weight saving is real enough that weight-conscious technical riders consistently choose polymer.
Sources & changelog
Manufacturer sources:
- AXP Racing material FAQ
- AXP AX1737 assembly sheet (PDF)
- RevZilla — AXP Racing Xtrem Skid Plate line
- Tusk 1975340007 instruction sheet (PDF)
- RMATVMC eBay listing — Tusk Quiet Glide construction
- SW-MOTECH engine guard specs (via Speedz Auto)
- Accessory International — 790/890 Adventure parts listings
- KTM spare parts finder — 890 Adventure R engine guard
- Ultimate Motorcycling — 2023 KTM 890 Adventure review
- Outback Motortek — skid plate segment reference
Owner sources:
Changelog — October 24, 2026: guide first published.
By Leo, Founder, WinchInsider
Leo runs WinchInsider’s off-road gear coverage — winches, recovery gear and the protection parts that keep adventure bikes moving. Every guide is research-based: maker documents, spec sheets and owner reports, with conflicts printed instead of hidden. More about the site: About WinchInsider.
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