Exhaust Guards

About Exhaust Guards

Exhaust guards shield the pipe and silencer on an off-road bike from rocks, falls and knocks from other bikes. A dent in an expansion pipe or silencer can change how an engine runs and is hard to fix, so many riders add a guard before the first ride or replace one that has been cracked or worn through. This is a small category, and the listings are mostly for dirt bikes.

Choose by which part you want to cover. A pipe guard covers the exposed side of the pipe, and a silencer guard covers the can. The listings here include guards made for specific bikes, such as KTM, Husqvarna and Gas Gas 250 and 300 models, a four-stroke pipe guard, an OEM-style guard, and aftermarket designs such as the Armadillo in blue or gray.

A guard fits a specific shape, so match it to your pipe and your model's years. Because a guard sits outside the pipe, it does not change exhaust flow, but check that it does not rub the frame, the fork or the rear wheel through full suspension travel, and follow the maker's instructions for mounting.

Brands in this category include Acerbis, Polisport and Moose Offroad. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. To protect other parts of the bike, see Skid Plates, Sliders & Spools, Radiator & Oil Cooler Guards and Fork Guards & Covers, all part of Guards & Protection.

FAQs on pipe and silencer guards

What does a pipe guard protect?

A pipe guard covers the side of an exhaust pipe that is most likely to be hit by a rock, a fall or another bike. It helps prevent dents and creases that can change how an engine runs.

What is the difference between a pipe guard and a silencer guard?

A pipe guard covers the head pipe or expansion chamber, and a silencer guard covers the muffler can at the rear. Check the listing to see which part and which model the guard is made for.

Will a pipe guard fit my dirt bike?

Pipe guards are shaped for a particular pipe, so they list the model and years. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and check that it matches your pipe if you have an aftermarket one.

Does a pipe guard affect engine performance?

A guard sits outside the pipe, so it does not change the flow of exhaust gas. It adds a little weight. Make sure it does not touch moving parts, and follow the instructions for mounting.

Can a dented exhaust pipe be repaired?

A small dent can sometimes be pushed out, but a creased or cracked pipe is usually better replaced. The shape of a two-stroke pipe affects how the engine runs, so a badly dented one can change performance.