Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
If there's anything the new generation 2025+ KTM 390 Adventure R needs it's a substantial skid plate. The stock skid plate is more of a roost guard with minimal real impact protection. So, when we signed up for the KTM Adventure Rider Rally's Extreme Adventure Challenge, we knew we had to level up. A skid plate is an absolute must for adventure riding off-road. Thanks to Black Dog Cycle Works, we got our KTM 390 Adventure R protected with their heavy duty solution.
Even better, we had the man himself, Kurt Forget, install it for us at the event (sorry about the rainstorm and bloody knuckles Kurt!). Kurt gives us the rundown on install, including tips and tricks to make it an easy install for your bike.
This skid plate saved our bike, for sure. You can even hear it working all day long as rocks and logs deflect of it - the signature Black Dog Gong!
Notes:
- This is a prototype skid plate. The final production unit has four bolts holding the front of the plate to the upper mount under the radiator. This is mentioned in the video but we thought you should know.
- This skid plate isolates the engine, using direct frame mounts and not attaching to fragile engine points.
- Kurt includes an impact-bumper under the skid plate to resist direct hits.
- The instructions are very complete with all torque specs included.
- Black Dog Cycle Works upgrades crucial stock hardware (included) to ensure their skid plate remains solid.
- Don't forget to heat the footpeg bolts if they won't budge. Don't strip them out. Use heat and patience to work the factory thread locker loose - and don't be surprised if each peg is inconsistent.
thanks to @blackdogcycleworks1941! You can check out their KTM 390 Adventure R products here:
blackdogcw.com/collections/ktm-390-adv-r-2025
If there's anything the new generation 2025+ KTM 390 Adventure R needs it's a substantial skid plate. The stock skid plate is more of a roost guard with minimal real impact protection. So, when we signed up for the KTM Adventure Rider Rally's Extreme Adventure Challenge, we knew we had to level up. A skid plate is an absolute must for adventure riding off-road. Thanks to Black Dog Cycle Works, we got our KTM 390 Adventure R protected with their heavy duty solution.
Even better, we had the man himself, Kurt Forget, install it for us at the event (sorry about the rainstorm and bloody knuckles Kurt!). Kurt gives us the rundown on install, including tips and tricks to make it an easy install for your bike.
This skid plate saved our bike, for sure. You can even hear it working all day long as rocks and logs deflect of it - the signature Black Dog Gong!
Notes:
- This is a prototype skid plate. The final production unit has four bolts holding the front of the plate to the upper mount under the radiator. This is mentioned in the video but we thought you should know.
- This skid plate isolates the engine, using direct frame mounts and not attaching to fragile engine points.
- Kurt includes an impact-bumper under the skid plate to resist direct hits.
- The instructions are very complete with all torque specs included.
- Black Dog Cycle Works upgrades crucial stock hardware (included) to ensure their skid plate remains solid.
- Don't forget to heat the footpeg bolts if they won't budge. Don't strip them out. Use heat and patience to work the factory thread locker loose - and don't be surprised if each peg is inconsistent.
thanks to @blackdogcycleworks1941! You can check out their KTM 390 Adventure R products here:
blackdogcw.com/collections/ktm-390-adv-r-2025
