Your knuckles are white, gripping the bars as a low-hanging branch whips past your face. Without those sturdy guards, you would have been nursing a bruised hand for the rest of the afternoon.
Choosing the Best Dirt Bike Handguards is the difference between keeping your fingers safe and ending your ride early. It is a simple piece of armor, but it protects your controls and your skin against the trail.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize guards constructed from reinforced aluminum or high-impact plastics to ensure they can withstand direct tree strikes.
- Verify the mounting bracket compatibility with your specific handlebar diameter to avoid installation headaches.
- Look for designs that offer ample clearance for your clutch and brake levers so your operation remains smooth.
- Confirm the hardware kit includes both 7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch inserts to provide versatility for future bike changes.
- Consider the ventilation design of the guards, as solid plastic shields can sometimes block critical airflow during hot summer rides.
| Top All Around Performer |  |
JFG Racing Universal Aluminum Handguards | Extremely universal fitment | Solid aluminum construction | Easy installation process | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Trail Guardian |  |
JFG Racing Standard Aluminum Guards | High degree of compatibility | Robust structural integrity | Minimalist profile | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Heavy Duty Choice |  |
JFG Racing Reinforced Handguards | Strong impact resistance | Wide range of fitment | Stiff aluminum frame | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Versatile Utility Pick |  |
JFG Racing Dual Fit Guards | Fits virtually any bike | Strong aluminum backbone | Quick setup time | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best Aesthetic Upgrade |  |
Baouff Universal Decal Handguards | Comes with custom decals | Fits most bar sizes | Sleek modern design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precision Fit Selection |  |
JFG Racing Multi Fit Guards | Accommodates varied bar diameters | Clean aesthetic lines | Durable construction materials | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Adventure Bike Favorite |  |
AnXin Universal Aluminum Guards | Strong aluminum guard bars | Designed for larger bikes | Sturdy mounting hardware | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Pro Level Engineering |  |
CNC Bracket Dirt Bike Guards | Precision machined brackets | Excellent structural rigidity | Professional mounting system | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Lightweight Racing Option |  |
MCHMFG Universal Racing Handguards | Very low profile | Bright white finish | Simple mounting process | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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JFG Racing Universal Aluminum Handguards
If you want a dependable shield for your controls, this is the first place you should look. It fits almost any bike, provided you have either standard 7/8 inch bars or the thicker 1 1/8 inch tapered style.
The design relies on a solid aluminum bar to deflect impacts away from your clutch and brake levers. One limitation is that the finish may show scratches quickly if you spend a lot of time in tight, rocky trails.
- Brand Name:JFG Racing
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Bar end and clamp
- Included Hardware:Complete mounting kit
- Additional Feature:Impact resistant bar design
- Additional Feature:Fits tapered and standard bars
- Additional Feature:Simple bolt on installation
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JFG Racing Standard Aluminum Guards
This version offers a straightforward approach to protection. It is a smart choice for riders who want to avoid complicated adjustments when moving guards from one bike to another.
The internal reinforcement bar is rigid enough to handle minor tip overs without bending into your controls. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust your lever positioning slightly to clear the mounting brackets.
- Brand Name:JFG Racing
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Dual point mount
- Included Hardware:All necessary bolts
- Additional Feature:Lightweight aluminum build
- Additional Feature:Weather resistant coating
- Additional Feature:Universal bar geometry
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JFG Racing Reinforced Handguards
Riders who prefer aggressive terrain should consider these guards for their extra rigidity. The geometry is optimized to maintain a firm grip on the handlebar ends while providing ample room for your fingers.
These are excellent for keeping your controls intact during low speed drops on technical climbs. A minor drawback is the weight added to your front end, which some riders feel during long days in the saddle.
- Brand Name:JFG Racing
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Bar end mount
- Included Hardware:Mounting brackets included
- Additional Feature:Enhanced lever protection
- Additional Feature:Durable surface finish
- Additional Feature:Secure dual point clamping
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JFG Racing Dual Fit Guards
This model excels at being the go to backup for any garage. Because it accommodates two common bar sizes, you rarely have to worry about finding an adapter when you change machines.
The aluminum spine is the real highlight, offering a firm barrier against brush and debris. Just be aware that the plastic covers may eventually fade if your bike lives in direct sunlight.
- Brand Name:JFG Racing
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Handlebar clamp
- Included Hardware:Hardware pack
- Additional Feature:Universal handlebar support
- Additional Feature:Protective outer shell
- Additional Feature:Vibration dampening design
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Baouff Universal Decal Handguards
If you want your bike to look as sharp as it performs, these guards are a stylish addition. They feature custom decals that give the cockpit a finished, professional look right out of the box.
Beyond the visuals, the protective shell is quite effective at blocking roost and branches. One thing to note is that the decal application requires a steady hand to avoid air bubbles.
- Brand Name:Baouff
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Plastic and aluminum
- Mounting Style:Bar end mount
- Included Hardware:Mounting kit
- Additional Feature:Integrated decal kit
- Additional Feature:Aerodynamic shape
- Additional Feature:Easy to clean surface
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JFG Racing Multi Fit Guards
This model is designed to work with both 22mm and 28mm bars, making it highly adaptable for modern dirt bikes. It balances a slim profile with enough room to keep your fingers protected from trail obstacles.
The mounting hardware is intuitive, which saves you a headache during installation. Just ensure you tighten the bar end inserts fully, as they can loosen over time if not secured with thread locker.
- Brand Name:JFG Racing
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Bar end and clamp
- Included Hardware:Full bolt set
- Additional Feature:Adjustable mounting points
- Additional Feature:Corrosion resistant finish
- Additional Feature:Fits most motocross models
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AnXin Universal Aluminum Guards
These guards are popular among dual sport enthusiasts because they offer broad coverage for larger machines. The construction is beefy enough to protect your hands even when riding through dense forest trails.
The mounting brackets are designed to clear cables and hoses easily, which is a common issue on adventure bikes. Be prepared to spend a little extra time fine tuning the alignment for a perfect fit.
- Brand Name:AnXin
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Style:Dual mount point
- Included Hardware:Mounting bolts
- Additional Feature:Wide coverage area
- Additional Feature:Fits many dual sports
- Additional Feature:Rigid structural support
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CNC Bracket Dirt Bike Guards
The standout feature here is the CNC machined bracket, which offers a higher level of precision than standard stamped steel parts. This provides a tighter, more secure feel when you are navigating rough terrain.
It is a sturdy solution that won't shift during a fall. One small trade off is that the rigid mount requires your handlebar ends to be completely clear of throttle tubes or grip ends.
- Brand Name:Generic
- Handlebar Compatibility:7/8 inch
- Primary Material:Aluminum and CNC alloy
- Mounting Style:Bar end and clamp
- Included Hardware:CNC bracket kit
- Additional Feature:High strength alloy
- Additional Feature:Stable mounting points
- Additional Feature:Impact resistant shell
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MCHMFG Universal Racing Handguards
This set is built for riders who prioritize weight savings without sacrificing essential hand protection. The white finish is quite striking and keeps your bike looking clean even after a muddy day.
The streamlined design ensures you have plenty of room to move your hands while racing. Keep in mind that the lighter material is best suited for racing and light trail duty rather than heavy adventure riding.
- Brand Name:MCHMFG
- Handlebar Compatibility:Universal
- Primary Material:Impact resistant plastic
- Mounting Style:Bar end mount
- Color Options:White
- Additional Feature:Lightweight racing design
- Additional Feature:Easy access to levers
- Additional Feature:Sleek aerodynamic profile