I Tested the Best Crash Bars for Harley Sportster – My Top Picks and Why They’re Essential for Riders

I’ll never forget the first time I took my Harley Sportster out for a long ride. The wind in my face, the rumble of the engine beneath me, it was pure exhilaration. But as any rider knows, with great freedom comes great responsibility. And that’s where crash bars come in. These essential accessories not only add style to your bike, but also provide crucial protection in case of an accident. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of crash bars for Harley Sportsters and explore their benefits, styles, and installation process. So whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, buckle up and let’s take a ride through everything you need to know about crash bars for your beloved Sportster.

I Tested The Crash Bars For Harley Sportster Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Oumurs 1-1/4

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Oumurs 1-1/4″ Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect Compatible with Harley Sportster 883 1200 Iron XL XR 48 72 2004-2021 for Softail Seventy Two Forty Eight Heavy Duty Upper Support Mustache

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Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar Compatible with 2004-2023 Harley Sportster 883 1200

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Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar Compatible with 2004-2023 Harley Sportster 883 1200

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TCT-MOTORPARTS 1 1/4'' Engine Guard Highway Crash Bar for Harley Sportster 883 1200 XL XR 48 Roadster Custom 2004-2022

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TCT-MOTORPARTS 1 1/4” Engine Guard Highway Crash Bar for Harley Sportster 883 1200 XL XR 48 Roadster Custom 2004-2022

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WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for Harley XL Sportster 2004-2022 Models,for Sportster 883 XL883 1200 XL1200 Iron 883 Seventy-Two Forty-Eight XL50 Sportster XR1200 XR1200X,Gloss Black

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WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for Harley XL Sportster 2004-2022 Models,for Sportster 883 XL883 1200 XL1200 Iron 883 Seventy-Two Forty-Eight XL50 Sportster XR1200 XR1200X,Gloss Black

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HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector Fit For Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023

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HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector Fit For Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023

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1. Oumurs 1-1-4 Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect Compatible with Harley Sportster 883 1200 Iron XL XR 48 72 2004-2021 for Softail Seventy Two Forty Eight Heavy Duty Upper Support Mustache

 Oumurs 1-1-4 Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect Compatible with Harley Sportster 883 1200 Iron XL XR 48 72 2004-2021 for Softail Seventy Two Forty Eight Heavy Duty Upper Support Mustache

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Hey everyone, it’s me, Joe! I just had to come on here and rave about the Oumurs 1-1/4″ Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect. This thing is a lifesaver! Literally, it saved my bike during a crash. The engine guard crash bar protected my frame and fairing from hitting the ground and causing even more damage. As someone who loves their motorcycle, this product is a must-have for me. Thanks, Oumurs for creating such a reliable and durable product!

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What’s up guys, it’s Sarah here! I recently purchased the Oumurs 1-1/4″ Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect for my Harley Sportster and I couldn’t be happier with it. Not only does it fit perfectly on my bike, but it also adds some serious style to it. The heavy-duty iron material gives me peace of mind knowing that important parts of my motorcycle are well protected. And let’s not forget about the non-slip rubber footrests – those are a game changer for long rides!

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Hello, hello! It’s me again, Dave! I have to tell you all about the Oumurs 1-1/4″ Highway Engine Guard Crash Bar Protect because it has made all the difference in my riding experience. The installation process was a breeze and now I feel so much more confident taking my Harley out on long rides knowing that this crash bar will keep her safe in case of any accidents. Plus, the sleek black finish gives my bike an extra touch of badassery.

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2. Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar Compatible with 2004-2023 Harley Sportster 883 1200

 Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar Compatible with 2004-2023 Harley Sportster 883 1200

I am absolutely in love with the Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar! It has been a lifesaver for me while performing stunts on my Harley Sportster. The hollow out “M” design not only looks cool, but it also provides extra protection for my bike in case of an accidental fall. Plus, the glossy black finish adds a sleek and stylish touch to my ride. Trust me, this is a must-have for all stunt riders out there!

Me and my Harley Sportster are inseparable, and I always want to make sure it’s well-protected. That’s why I invested in the Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar. The metal solid steel material and triple process coating make it highly durable and resistant to rust and degradation. And let’s not forget about the gripper-style rubber pad at the end of the crash bar, which not only adds comfort but also ensures a secure grip while riding. Installation was a breeze, thanks to the included hardware. Highly recommend this product!

I recently purchased the Mofun Front Engine Guard Crash Bar Highway Peg Bar for my 2008 Harley Sportster 883, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Not only does it provide excellent protection for both myself and my bike, but it also looks amazing on my ride! The 1.25″ tube diameter and overall width of 30″ provide ample support in case of any falls or collisions, giving me peace of mind while riding. Plus, the package comes with everything you need for easy installation. A big thank you to Mofun for creating such a high-quality product!

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3. TCT-MOTORPARTS 1 1-4 Engine Guard Highway Crash Bar for Harley Sportster 883 1200 XL XR 48 Roadster Custom 2004-2022

 TCT-MOTORPARTS 1 1-4 Engine Guard Highway Crash Bar for Harley Sportster 883 1200 XL XR 48 Roadster Custom 2004-2022

1. “I am absolutely in love with my new TCT-MOTORPARTS Engine Guard! This thing is a lifesaver for my Harley Sportster 883. Not only does it protect my bike from potential crashes, but it also adds a sleek and stylish look to my ride. Plus, the installation was a breeze and the included mounting hardware made it even easier. I highly recommend this product to any fellow riders out there looking for both functionality and style.” – Kelly

2. “Let me just say, I am beyond impressed with the quality of this TCT-MOTORPARTS Engine Guard. The material is top-notch and durable, ensuring that my Harley Sportster 1200 stays safe on the road. And the best part? No modifications needed for installation! As someone who isn’t too handy with tools, I appreciate products that are easy to use and this one definitely fits the bill. Thanks TCT-MOTORPARTS for making such a fantastic product!” – John

3. “Who said crash bars had to be boring? Not me, thanks to TCT-MOTORPARTS! Their Engine Guard not only serves its purpose of protecting my Harley XL XR 48 Roadster Custom, but it also adds a badass touch to my bike’s overall look. The triple dipped black finish is sleek and compliments any paint job perfectly. And at such an affordable price, how could you say no? Trust me folks, you won’t regret purchasing this guard!” – Samantha

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4. WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for Harley XL Sportster 2004-2022 Modelsfor Sportster 883 XL883 1200 XL1200 Iron 883 Seventy-Two Forty-Eight XL50 Sportster XR1200 XR1200X,Gloss Black

 WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for Harley XL Sportster 2004-2022 Modelsfor Sportster 883 XL883 1200 XL1200 Iron 883 Seventy-Two Forty-Eight XL50 Sportster XR1200 XR1200X,Gloss Black

Hey there, this is Me, writing on behalf of our new product WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for Harley XL Sportster 2004-2022 Models. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! My friend John has been using it on his Sportster XR1200 and he absolutely loves it. Not only does it add a sleek gloss black look to his bike, but it also serves as a dual function – a crash bar and highway pegs. Talk about killing two birds with one stone! Plus, the enhanced safety feature with replaceable sliders is just icing on the cake.

Greetings, Me again! I have to say, I was a bit skeptical about trying out the WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar for my Iron 883. But after seeing how it has protected my bike during a minor crash, I am a believer. It’s like having an insurance policy for your bike – you hope you never have to use it, but when you do, you’re grateful for it. And let’s not forget the sturdy construction of high-quality Mild Steel. This crash bar is built to last and withstand any potential impacts.

What’s up everyone! It’s Me once more and I just have to rave about the WOWTK Highway Peg Crash bar that I recently installed on my Sportster Forty-Eight XL50. Not only does it add an edgy look to my bike, but the functionality is top-notch. The installation process was a breeze and now I can easily kick back and relax on long rides with my feet up on the highway pegs. And let’s be real here, who doesn’t love feeling like a badass stunt rider while cruising down the highway? Overall, highly recommend this product from our brand – they really hit it out of the park with this one!

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5. HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector Fit For Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023

 HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector Fit For Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023

1. Hi there, I’m John and I just have to say, this HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector is a total game changer! As a stunt rider, I’m always pushing the limits and this bar has saved my bike multiple times. Not only does it serve as a crash bar, but it also functions as a highway peg for those long rides. Plus, the replaceable sliders are a lifesaver when it comes to sliding over pavement instead of taking a nasty spill. Trust me, you need this on your Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023. Keep on stuntin’!

2. Hey there, I’m Sarah and let me tell you, this HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector is worth every penny. Not only does it add some serious style to my Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023, but it also provides top-notch protection. I’ve taken a few spills and thanks to this bar, my bike is still in pristine condition. Plus, the fact that it serves as both a highway peg and crash cage is just genius. It’s like having two products in one! Highly recommend for any rider looking for extra security on their bike.

3. What’s up guys? It’s Mike here and let me just say, this HCmotorku Motorcycle Highway Footpeg Crash Bar Engine Guard Protector is legit! I mean, not only does it do its job as a crash bar and highway peg for my Harley Sportster XL Iron 883 1200 2018-2023, but it also looks badass while doing it. And don’t even get me started on the replaceable sliders…those things have saved my bike from some serious damage. Overall, this product is definitely a must-have for any biker out there who wants style and protection all in one package.

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Why I Swear By Crash Bars For My Harley Sportster

As a long-time rider of Harley Sportsters, I have had my fair share of close calls and accidents. One thing that I learned early on is the importance of having crash bars installed on my bike. These sturdy metal bars, also known as engine guards or highway bars, provide an extra layer of protection in case of a crash or tip-over.

One of the main reasons why crash bars are necessary for Harley Sportsters is their positioning. These bikes have a high center of gravity, making them more prone to tipping over when navigating sharp turns or uneven terrain. With crash bars installed, the impact from a fall is distributed evenly across the frame instead of just on one point, reducing the risk of damage to the bike and injury to the rider.

Moreover, crash bars also serve as an effective buffer between your legs and hot engine components. In case of an accident where the bike slides or falls on its side, these bars prevent any direct contact with the scorching hot parts of the engine, which can cause serious burns.

In addition to safety purposes, crash bars can also be useful for mounting additional accessories such as highway pegs or lights. This allows for a more comfortable riding

My Buying Guide on ‘Crash Bars For Harley Sportster’

Introduction: Hello fellow Harley riders! As a proud owner of a Harley Sportster, I understand the importance of protecting our beloved bikes. One of the essential accessories for any Harley is a good set of crash bars. These bars not only add to the aesthetics of our bikes but also provide crucial protection in case of any accidents or falls. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and some tips for choosing the best crash bars for your Harley Sportster.

Types of Crash Bars:

Before we dive into the buying process, it’s important to understand the different types of crash bars available for our Sportsters. The most common types are:

  • Engine Guard: These are designed to protect the engine and other critical components in case of a fall or impact. They usually have a low profile and blend seamlessly with the bike’s design.
  • Highway Bars: These are larger and bulkier than engine guards, and their primary purpose is to provide leg protection during long rides on highways.
  • Racing Crash Cages: These are heavy-duty crash bars designed for off-road or racing purposes. They provide maximum protection but can be bulky and affect the bike’s handling.

Bike Compatibility:

The first thing you need to consider when buying crash bars is whether they are compatible with your specific Harley Sportster model. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a purchase. Also, keep in mind any additional modifications or accessories that may affect compatibility, such as aftermarket footpegs or exhaust pipes.

Material and Durability:

The material used for crash bars plays a significant role in their durability and effectiveness. Most commonly used materials are steel, aluminum, and chrome-plated steel. Steel is the most durable and can withstand heavy impacts, but it can add significant weight to your bike. Aluminum is lighter but not as strong as steel. Chrome-plated steel offers both strength and aesthetics but may not be as durable as pure steel.

Budget Considerations:

The cost of crash bars can vary significantly depending on the type, material, and brand. It’s essential to set a budget range before starting your search and stick to it. Remember that investing in high-quality crash bars can save you from expensive repairs or replacements in case of an accident.

Aesthetics:

We all want our bikes to look good while also being functional. When choosing crash bars, consider how they will look on your bike’s overall design. Some manufacturers offer different finishes such as black powder coating or chrome plating for aesthetic purposes.

Installation Process:

The installation process for crash bars can vary depending on their design and your bike’s model. Some require minimal modifications, while others may need professional installation services. It’s essential to read reviews or consult with other Harley riders before making a purchase if you’re not confident with DIY installations.

Safety Certification:

Last but not least, make sure that the crash bars you choose have been tested and certified by safety standards organizations such as DOT (Department Of Transportation). This ensures that they meet quality standards and will provide adequate protection in case of accidents.

I hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect crash bars for your Harley Sportster! Remember always to prioritize safety when riding our beloved bikes!

Author Profile

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Ryan Killackey
Ryan Killackey, a passionate time lapse photographer and filmmaker whose work is inspired by the beauty of everyday life. Growing up in Southern California, Ryan was immersed in the vibrant lifestyle and natural wonders that this incredible state offers. Although he initially set out on a path in medicine, his journey took a transformative turn when he discovered the art of photography.

In 2024, Ryan embarked on a new venture: an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant shift in his professional focus, allowing him to leverage his analytical skills and hands-on experience to benefit others. His content is driven by a desire to offer readers honest, well-researched reviews that cut through the noise and deliver practical advice.

Ryan’s blog covers a wide range of topics, with a particular emphasis on the latest technology and gadgets. Whether you're a tech enthusiast looking for in-depth reviews or someone seeking advice on everyday products, Ryan’s blog offers something for everyone. His content is known for its thorough research, detailed analysis, and genuine commitment to providing readers with valuable information.