Bash Plate (Skid Plate)

A bash plate, also called a skid plate or sump guard, is a protective plate fitted under the engine. It shields the crankcase, oil filter, water pump and frame rails from rocks, logs, ruts and hard landings, which could otherwise crack a case and end the ride.

Plates are made from aluminium, which is strong and dissipates heat, from plastic (HDPE), which is light and slides well over logs, or from composites. Enduro and adventure bikes benefit the most; ATVs use similar skid plates under the frame.

Make sure the plate leaves access to the oil drain plug or has a hole for it, and clean out mud and sand regularly, as packed dirt can trap heat and moisture. Check the mounting bolts after heavy hits.