Mounting Barkbusters Bars with aftermarket Skid Plate on Norden 901

[glaciergearhead1022]

Hey, I just snagged a used Norden 901 that already has a cool aluminum skid plate. I'm thinking about adding Barkbusters crash bars. Does anyone know if Variant 3 or 4 will fit with the skid plate as is, or will I need to tweak things?

 

[Strapingmyself]

There are plenty of variable here and a lot of maybes, but I'd lean more towards the Variant 4 because there's a bit more clearance, but it doesn't mean the 3 won't fit. It's also important if there are any additional modifications which could push the decision either way.

 

[Valour10]

Isn't it crazy how we drop thousands on adventure bikes like the Norden 901, then spend even more figuring out if basic protection gear will even fit together? Shouldn't compatibility be the bare minimum at this price?

 

[NordenXX]

Hey, I just snagged a used Norden 901 that already has a cool aluminum skid plate. I'm thinking about adding Barkbusters crash bars. Does anyone know if Variant 3 or 4 will fit with the skid plate as is, or will I need to tweak things?

I would agree with @Strapingmyself that it really depends on which specific aluminum skid plate you have.
Most of the popular aftermarket plates, like the AXP, SW-Motech, or Powerparts, are pretty well-designed to work with crash bars.
However, the Barkbusters fitment can be a bit tight, especially around the lower mounting points.
From what I've also seen, the Variant 4 with the engine-side mount generally has fewer clearance issues with a variety of skid plates than the Variant 3.
The 3's lower mounts can sometimes clash with the forward edges of some plates.
I'd recommend taking a look at your specific skid plate and see how much room you have around the engine case and the lower frame mounts!

 

[Biden.T]

I've seen a few guys run the aluminum skid with Variant 3s and it clears fine, but 4s can get tight around the plate depending on the brand. Worst case you might need to shim or trim a bit, but it's been done without major hassle.