Rated: Propower X Link Shock Guard

A product the Transmoto team has tried, tested and would recommend to a mate.

If you’re like us, you like to ride your bike in any conditions the bush throws at it. To do this without trashing your bike there are a couple of things we take into consideration when looking for protection parts on our long-term test bikes. Apart from the obvious bits and pieces – handguards, rear disk guards, etc – we like to protect our bike’s rising rate linkage from the elements. Think about it your linkage next time you slide over a big log or ride through a creek. Damaging your linkage while out of the trail could end your ride in an instant. That’s why we’ve been testing a range of linkage guards over the last couple of years to find the best overall package for performance, looks and durability. So far, our favourite is the Australian-made guard from Propower – the X Link Shock Guard.

WHAT IS IT

It’s a machined linkage guard made of anodised billet Aluminium. The X link has been designed as a direct replacement to your stock linkage arm, you simply remove your old standard linkage and install the X Link. Equipped with a set of neatly pre-installed bearings.

WHY WE RATE IT:

PROS…

• Great protection from sharp-edged rocks, logs and sticks.
• It provides a smooth transition between the skid plate and the back wheel to make your bike glide straight over obstacles without getting hung up on the linkage.
• Unlike other guards on the market, this guard isn’t big and bulky. It’s only marginally bigger then the linkage arm you replace it with. It’s the perfect size really.
• The anodised finish gives the bike a little bike of bling if you’re into that or you be like us a run the clean black guard.
• You don’t use any aftermarket bolts and nuts for installation, you simply us the same OEM tackle.
• It’s a good excuse to clean and grease your linkage while you have it apart.
• It’s simple to install; it can be done at home with a socket set and a torque wrench.
• It’s a much cheaper alternative then replacing a damaged rear shock.
• The OEM bearings and seals from Husqvarna fit straight into the guard when it’s time for a service. Note: Pack bearings correctly with grease after installation to ensure a long service life and reduced wear.

CONS…

• The top rail of the guard sits just above the bottom half of your rebound clicker. This isn’t a deal breaker because you can still make adjustments, you just need to come in on a bit of an angle when the clicker is facing up and down.
• It can be a little tricky to line up the bolts, so we recommend getting a mate to give you a helping hand by holding the rear of the bike. This stops the rear shock from pushing through the swingarm.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

This impressive Propower X Link Shock Guard is available in four different colours (black, blue, red, orange) for your KTM (SX/XC), Husqvarna, Beta, or Sherco.
Retailing for an RRP of $299 AUD. To find out more visit propowerinternational.com