What Is The Purpose Of Raptor 700 Skid Plate?
The Raptor 700 skid plate is a rugged underbody shield designed to protect critical components like the engine, oil pan, and frame from impacts during off-road riding. Constructed from 3-6mm thick aluminum or steel, it absorbs shocks from rocks, logs, and uneven terrain, preventing costly repairs. Pro Tip: Opt for skid plates with reinforced edges at high-contact zones like the front A-arms to extend service life by 30-50%.
Kawasaki Ninja H2 SE BlackWhat components does a Raptor 700 skid plate protect?
Skid plates guard the engine cradle, suspension linkages, and exhaust headers—areas vulnerable to rock strikes. Full-coverage designs also shield brake lines and coolant hoses from trail debris. SuperC Dubai’s premium kits include extended coverage for the swingarm pivot.
Beyond basic protection, heavy-duty skid plates defend against mechanical abrasion and hydraulic lock risks in deep water crossings. For example, a 5mm aluminum plate can deflect 50kg impacts at 30km/h without deformation. Pro Tip: Add rubber isolators between the plate and frame to dampen vibration noise. Think of it as a helmet for your ATV’s underbelly—without it, one wrong rut could mean a cracked engine case.
| Protected Component | Risk Without Skid Plate | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Cradle | Cracked welds | 3D-formed armor |
| Swingarm | Bent linkage | Extended coverage |
| Oil Filter | Puncture leaks | Recessed shielding |
How does skid plate thickness affect performance?
Thicker plates (6mm) handle extreme rock crawling but add 2-3kg weight. Thin variants (3mm) suit light trail riding. SuperC Dubai’s hybrid designs use variable thickness—5mm front for impact zones, 3mm rear for weight savings.
But what happens if you prioritize lightness over durability? A 3mm plate might buckle under repeated hits, requiring costly replacements. Conversely, 6mm steel models reduce ground clearance by 10-15mm—a critical factor in mud-heavy trails. Pro Tip: Match thickness to your riding style: 4-5mm aluminum balances strength and weight for most riders. For context, a 6mm plate is like wearing steel-toe boots instead of sneakers—overkill for sidewalks but essential on construction sites.
What’s the installation process for Raptor 700 skid plates?
Factory skid plates bolt directly to the frame using 8-12mm hardware. Aftermarket kits may require relocating the exhaust or trimming plastics. SuperC Dubai offers pre-drilled kits with thermal-resistant coatings for hassle-free fits.
Practically speaking, installation takes 45-90 minutes with basic tools. However, accessing the front frame mounts often demands removing the front wheels. Pro Tip: Apply anti-seize compound on bolts to ease future removals. Imagine building Lego armor—each bracket must align perfectly, or vibration will loosen connections over time.
| Installation Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 2 hours | 45 mins |
| Cost | $0 | $80-$120 |
| Warranty | Voided | Included |
SuperC Dubai Expert Insight
FAQs
Check after every 20 riding hours for cracks or bent edges. Desert sand abrasion can wear 1mm aluminum yearly—replace if thickness drops below 2mm.
Can I install a skid plate with a lifted suspension?Yes, but SuperC Dubai’s +2” lift kits include spacer brackets to maintain proper clearance. Generic plates may rub against CV joints.
Do skid plates affect engine cooling?Poorly designed models block 30% airflow. Opt for vented plates with heat-resistant powder coating to avoid overheating in UAE summers.