V-Strom Winter Warmers

Although the V-Strom has very good handguards, and mine has heated grips fitted, I was still experiencing my fingers and thumb freezing in sub 5degC temperatures.  This is becuase your fingers when wrapped around the grip actually hang lower than the bottom edge of the guard. And as there is no bottom to them, the negative air pressure causes the cold wind to be 'sucked' up in to the guard area.


So I organised a group buy on the VSRI of a set of handguard extenders from forum member 'Warhammer' in the States.  Once P&P and customs had taken a slice, they cost about £40.  This includes 4-pieces, a top and a bottom section for each handguard.


Here's my installation method..  

Firstly, clean all handguards and mod pieces with IPA/Isopropenol to ensure a clean surface

I started by heating the additional pieces with a hairdryer, to the point where they were quite hot to make them nice and pliable.  Then whilst warm I moulded them to the shape of the stock guards to make them fit snugly.  Using a 5mm bead of clear strong waterproof adhesive/sealer on the edges

I clamped them in place and left to dry for a couple of hours.  The heating gave a really snug fit and prevents leaving a huge gap that would leave an unsightly void filled with adhesive. I couldn't believe how strong the adhesive was, once cured they felt extremely solid

But edging on the belt n' braces approach, I drilled holes as shown and used 7mm Snap Studs

 to give them a mechanical fixing as well

In fact I quite like the look of the studs

The finish guard.

I think it gives it a 'rugged' look and feel

I have also bought a replacement set of stock Suzuki guards and in Spring time I just swap them back over.