Kawasaki KLX300 ADV Lite Build: Installing a Functional Skid Plate!
- Randy Reek, The Great Out There
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
A fast and easy upgrade to the stock KLX300 that adds protection.
I have owned dozens of "adventure" motorcycles. Without exception, NONE were supplied with a quality skid plate! This shouldn't be a surprise. MOST dual sports see only limited use off road.
MOST buyers of these motorcycles enjoy short outings. Most ride around town and occasionally venture onto surrounding gravel roads. Few will ever take multi-day ADVENTURES, especially on demanding offroad routes.
This means that anywhere the brands can save a buck, they WILL! One of the most common examples is a token "bash plate". Such is the case with the Kawasaki KLX300 that is the base for this "ADV Lite" build series. Unlike most "dual sports", at least Kawasaki installs an aluminum plate and not a piece of plastic!
The next installation in this KLX300 ADV Lite build series is an aftermarket skid plate.
The process is fast and easy.
A few bolts are removed to drop the existing plate.
Before you get started, I recommend adding a drop of blue Loctite to all the new bolts provided.
The instructions recommend installing the center bolts first. But these bolts require spacers to hold the plate off the cross member. I found it easier to install the two bolts at the rear of the plate so that the plate could hang in place while I added the center bolts and spacers. I also needed to wrap the bolts with some electrical tape to suspend them while I positioned the plate on the threaded frame tubes.
Also, before tightening these bolts, now is the time to add the thin foam spacers to the frame where the plate will make contact. If the skid plate is tight, you won't need these cushions - but over time grit will fill these gaps and produce some squeaks.
Next, install the brackets around the front frame tubes and install the bolts at the front.
The Good News is that this KLX300 Skid Plate UPGRADE takes only a few minutes.
As shown, the KLX300 "ADV Lite" skid plate extends higher to protect the engine from grit and stones kicked up by the front tire. The side "wings" add protection if/when you drop the bike. And the full bottom plate shields the engine and frame from contacts with rocks.
ADDED benefit: since the skid plate is firmly attached directly to the frame tubes, it provides a solid and flat base for the maintenance stand I use when adjusting and lubricating the chain! Of course, the black anodized skid plate also compliments the goal of this ADV Lite build series that will include all black accessories to offset the in-your-face neon green of the stock KLX300!
I concentrate my motorcycling on gravel roads. The constant "ping" of gravel on the skid plate is a reminder of the damage that would be inflicted on the engine and hoses from this sandblasting. Most of these roads also have plenty of muddy stretches and the occasional low-water crossing. Shielding the engine not only maintains the appearance but makes maintenance easier without layers of baked on mud!
What else have you added as inexpensive UPGRADES to your ADV bike? Please comment below, and Subscribe to receive notice of new update on the KLX300 ADV Lite build series!
