Barkbusters BLG-017 handguard protection for Ducati Multistrada 950, 2017-2018

The BLG-017 is the Barkbusters framework designed to reinforce the original handguard of the 2017 and 2018 Ducati Multistrada 950, the first 950 series. It does not replace the stock handguard: it fits around it and adds what it lacks on its own, namely an aluminum bar running in front of the levers and able to withstand an impact.

Key features

• Heat-treated aluminum bars, black powder-coated, one right and one left.
• Two-point mounting: inside the handlebar end and with a clamp on the tapered section of the tube.
• Fits around the original Ducati handguard and controls, with no drilling or cutting.
• Dedicated clamp connector, different from the one used by the BLG-016.
• Official instructions with illustrated parts list and tightening torques.

Protection and use

The original Ducati handguard is an aerodynamic plastic component with the turn signal integrated into it: it protects against wind, not impacts. Barkbusters clearly distinguishes between the two mounting configurations, and the two-point configuration, anchored both at the end and at the center of the handlebar, is the one the manufacturer specifies for impact protection. It is the choice for anyone who uses the 950 for touring and on narrow roads, where a branch or a low-speed fall can hit the brake or clutch lever directly.

Materials and construction

Heat-treated aluminum bars (manufacturer code BAR-LG-017) with black powder coating. Clamps made of two half-shells with dedicated CP9-V2 connector, end anchoring with expander, conical nut and spacer for the bar end. Barkbusters does not state the kit's weight, so we do not report it.

Compatibility

The official Barkbusters product page states this code for the 2017 and 2018 Multistrada 950. The older fitting instructions also mention the 950 and 950S from 2019 onward, which the product page instead assigns to the BLG-016. If you have a 950 or 950S from 2019 onward, contact us before ordering.

Barkbusters states compatibility for motorcycles in original factory configuration, with the stock handguard installed. Aftermarket handlebars have different diameters and thicknesses: the mounting must be checked before purchase.

Have another Multistrada? Each generation has its own code:

• Multistrada 1200 from 2010 to 2014: BLG-013
• Multistrada 950 from 2019 onward, 1200 from 2015 onward and 1260: BLG-016
• Multistrada V2 and V2S from 2022 to 2024: BLG-019
• Multistrada V4, V4S and V4S Sport from 2021 onward: BHG-089, a kit that accepts Barkbusters plastics

Installation

Loosen the original handguard screw, remove the black bar end with its internal components and separate it from the handguard. Then fit the clamp onto the tapered section of the handlebar without tightening it, attach the bar at the end together with the original handguard and the clamp connector, and tighten in the order specified by the manufacturer, leaving at least 10 mm between the bar and the tank with the handlebars turned fully. Specified torques: 10 Nm for the M6 screws and 28 Nm for the M8 screws, with medium-strength threadlocker and a tightening check after the first 50 km.

If the bar touches the TFT dashboard with the handlebars turned fully, the manufacturer indicates adjusting the steering stops on the rear of the lower plate. Barkbusters recommends that installation be carried out by a workshop and reminds users to check, once the work is complete, that the throttle, brake, clutch and engine kill switch operate freely and that the indicators remain uncovered.

What's in the box

• 2 black aluminum bars, one right and one left
• 2 clamp connectors and 4 half-shells
• 2 expanders, 2 conical nuts, 2 stepped spacers, 2 bar-end spacers
• Hardware: 2 M8x70 countersunk screws, 2 M8x20 button-head screws, 2 M6x30 screws, 2 M6x25 screws and 4 M6 self-locking nuts
• Official INS-BLG-017 instructions

What is NOT included

• Barkbusters protection plastics, which are not even предусмотрed for this code: the framework works with the original Ducati handguard and does not have mounts for the JET, VPS, STORM or CARBON series.
• Handlebar weights: they are not included in the parts list.
• The original handguard, which must already be installed on the motorcycle.
• Threadlocker and tools.

Why choose Barkbusters

Barkbusters is an Australian brand owned by Rideworx Pty Ltd, specializing in motorcycle handguards. Each code is designed around the geometry of a specific handlebar, with a published parts list and a fitting PDF specifying the hardware, sequence and torques: this is why a specific kit can be installed without modifications and stays in position.

Why buy it from Endurrad

At Endurrad, every Barkbusters product page states the exact code, the years covered and what is actually in the box, with the official instructions available for download before purchase. You can find the full range in the Barkbusters collection.