Installing the AltRider skid plate on a '14 R1200GSA

So let me start by saying that I have no major issues with the BDCW skid plate. It served me well a few months back when I rode AltRider's Taste of Dakar. In fact, I really enjoyed the challenge of installing it myself. I even made a guide about it!

However there were a few things I found weird and due to mild... who am I kidding, severe OCD, I had my mind on 'em all the time. Such is the fact it was using hose-clamps to secure the bracket where the skid plate would be...



See what I mean?

Regardless, even with the hose-clamps, I had no issues like losing it while riding etc. However, while at the Taste of Dakar event, I had the chance to see the AltRider skid plate mounted on a GSA and what can I say... I liked it!

So I violated 2098's toy budget and ordered me one! A few days later...





So here's everything that was shipped. Of course, the instructions were there as well. Yes, this time I did read them. And yes, I was sure I followed them step by step. And let me tell you what: 1 hour and 9 minutes. That's how long it took me. My only complain...



But AltRider was kind enough to have their instructions on their website so I got my iPad with me to the garage and started the installation! Not to mention that I was able to get someone on the phone right away and answered a stupid question I had...



Here's a comparison next to the BDCW one. Nothing much different, right? Well... From this picture you can tell that the BDCW has a little bit taller profile. REGARDLESS, this is NOT a comparison. Not yet, this will come after I test the AltRider one!



So the good folks at AltRider, were kind enough to include a note with what tools I need before I start. Let me tell you: that, was, AWESOME! Having to stop in order to buy those pliers, would have sucked!

So let's start with the first step (that was NOT in the guide)!



Let's loosen up all the lower crash bars of the GSA! Because my friends, the skid plate, is attached on the frame (among other places)...



All of them...



Now we REMOVE this one completely!




We also remove these two!



Thin spacer between the bracket and the frame, using the screw provided.



Thick spacer on the rear one and using the BMW screws.




This is how it will look (LEFT SIDE).

IMPORTANT: DO NOT TIGHTEN THE SCREWS!!! Thank you Kurt!

Now, let's repeat the same steps on the RIGHT side. Yes, I'll show you pictures because OCD that's why! :wink:



Remove these two...



Remove this one...




And loosen up these ones.



Right bracket, front side, thin spacer and screw provided by AltRider.



Thick spacer and OEM screws on the rear right side.






Better view of what you should look at.

Alright, are you ready for this? Because I sure as heck was not...

Let's put the bike on the side stand. Good... Now... Let's remove the center stand! 111

Well, yes... the skid plates goes there!

Using this doohickey, I removed the safety pin (woohoo!!)

Then, I tried to remove the tube, cylinder, mini barrel, whatever...



Yeah, ain't happening.



Did I mention that AltRider made sure I have all the tools required? Well, I'm not sure this is what I was supposed to do with the extension, but it worked!




Rinse and repeat (on the other side). And...



This is why we wear protection people! Let me tell you my goggles saved me!




LOOK MA! NO CENTER STAND! Did I mention the bike needed to be in the side stand? 3

So now, using the screws also provided...



We secure the front side of the skid plate.



Then we put the barrel thingie back through the plate first.



Then we put the safety pin back.



We repeat the same process on the other side. Now, you'll see that in this picture, I... forgot... to put the skid plate before putting the barrel thingie in. So, sue me!



Then we secure the barrel thing with the screws provided. Make sure the thread and head type matches!




Tighten everything back and you're good go!

NOTES:
1. Make sure you tighten back EVERYTHING!!!
2. Use Loctite thread lock where instructed! (not shown in pictures)

Here's the final product!



HEY!!! I want to see YOU trying fitting 4 bikes and a trailer in a one-car garage! Don't look at my mess :shog





So.... people will ask me: "WHY THE HECK DID YOU REMOVE THE BDCW??!"

Well, among other things because I think the AltRider looks more... stylish. Yes, I'm that guy. Maybe, I'll regret it, maybe not. It is a matter of taste people. Both products are superior. Well, I don't know yet about the AltRider one. I'm going to ride the same terrain in 2 weeks. I'll let you know!

Dimitri, out!

Nicely done. You may want to add proper torque values.

Nice job!
Thanks for the effort!
I will put this in the Wethead index.
Gary

Awesome show and tell. I ordered a bash plate and the crash bars and am anxiously waiting for them to arrive. Fortunately, I haven't laid my bike down yet with about 3,700 miles so far, but there were a couple VERY close calls on some gravel.

Got my new crash bars and bash plate installed

Thought I would share pics of the finished product. This was an extremely easy upgrade.

1. What is a BCDW skid plate?

2. With the Altrider plate:

a. Can the oil be drained with the skid plate in place?

b. Can the oil filter be removed with the skid plate in place?

That is all. Those are my two absolute criteria for a skid plate. Otherrwise it is time for the big drill and hole saw.

PGlaves said:

1. What is a BCDW skid plate?

2. With the Altrider plate:

a. Can the oil be drained with the skid plate in place?

b. Can the oil filter be removed with the skid plate in place?

That is all. Those are my two absolute criteria for a skid plate. Otherrwise it is time for the big drill and hole saw.

Click to expand...

1: Black Dog Cycle Works is a brand. The one I installed is Alt rider like the OP.

2. a - yes
2. b - yes

mustangguy said:

1: Black Dog Cycle Works is a brand. The one I installed is Alt rider like the OP.

2. a - yes
2. b - yes

Click to expand...

Thank you.

Installation

Thanks for the write up.. Mine is awaiting installation.