I just purchased and installed an "Uptite" skidplate and a muffler guard on my 2010 TE250. Every thing was pretty straight forward. So I thought I'd share a few photos. I have a link to some more if they interest anyone. I took the bike for a small spin and found no rattles which was nice. My only thought is that the left side of the skid plate should stick out a bit more as seen here. It would be nice if this guard went back a bit farther. Next time I take the bike for a ride we'll see if I burn a pair of riding pants, That will tell all. However it does go farther back and is much thicker metal. Oh, and don't forget to "loc-tite" the bolts. Here is a link to some more photos of the guards. http://helibuf.com/pictures/TE250/uptite-Guards/ Doug
I have the same two pieces on my 08, and I love them so far. I don't think I burned my pants this past weekend, but I need to double check. I don't think the bolts need loctite - I think I remember reading a thread about the tension of the plate being enough to keep them tight without needing loctite. Anyway, don't you need to remove the plate to change the oil? (I haven't had the priveledge of doing so on my bike yet. Still new to me)
I've tried the exhaust guard on my old 07 510 and my new 450 and I have to say I have at least 30hrs until they both broke off. I like Up-tites products alot, however the exhaust guard is not worth it for ME. I believe the exhaust shield catches my leg and starts a stress fracture that will run up on the bend until it breaks off. I am 0-2 on his shield, however his other products like the skidplate and LED light seem to survive my riding style.
Would be a good idea to run a length of safety wire through the holes and around the muffler to keep it from snagging and pulling away stressing it. Bike get hammered on the trail, got to do what you got to do to make them last.
I have been using the skid plate on my 09 310 and is rock solid. It does need to be removed for oil changes. It's a good idea to strip your bike down frequently anyway to inspect for potential issues. I have an awesome brand (burn) on my left leg from the stock heat shield. You can still see the exact Allen bolt head 3 months later. Yes, it hurt like a SOB! Never work on your bike an "test it out" with shorts on.
Don't forget to flip the stock mid pipe guard by the O2 sensor. Put the longer part towards the rear. This will stop some burning. When I flipped mine the little fiber washers were toast so I shimmed it up with some washers. I made sure there was no contact between the pipe and guard other then the screw posts.
