The BHG-054 is the Barkbusters mounting backbone designed around the handlebar geometry of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R from 2014. It is a two-point mounting kit: the aluminum bar anchors to the handlebar end and to a clamp on the straight section, forming a continuous arch around the hand.

On a naked bike with this much power, the handguard is not there to protect against branches. It is there for tip-overs at a standstill, contact during maneuvering, and low-speed falls: minor situations that can cost a lever on a Super Duke and often the switchgear too. The bar is black powder-coated, so it does not clash with the bike's dark livery.

Good to know before ordering: the protective plastics are not included. Barkbusters sells the backbone and plastics separately, and some Super Duke owners fit only the aluminum, without a surface exposed to the wind.

Key features

• Two-point mounting: the configuration the manufacturer specifies for impact protection. Single-point mounting is stated only for wind and weather protection.
• Heat-treated aluminum bar: the treatment increases strength without adding weight to the structure.
• Black powder-coated finish, as specified by the manufacturer.
• Four series of compatible plastics: JET, VPS, STORM and CARBON, interchangeable on the same backbone.
• Made in Australia by Rideworx Pty Ltd, which has designed handguards since 1984.

A note about the code

The full code is BHG-054-NP, but the NP designation does not indicate the finish: for this kit, the manufacturer explicitly states that the backbone is black powder-coated. It is a recurring source of confusion in the Barkbusters catalog and worth stating clearly.

Protection and use

The wraparound structure protects the brake lever, clutch lever and switchgear: it absorbs the impact and distributes it through the aluminum instead of leaving it to the lever. The plastics determine the rest: JET remain compact, VPS have a two-position adjustable deflector, STORM provide more coverage and are the choice for those who ride in winter as well, while CARBON are made of carbon fiber.

Materials and construction

Heat-treated, black powder-coated aluminum bar, dedicated clamps and hardware. The manufacturer does not state the weight and dimensions numerically, and we do not estimate them. Handlebar weights are not listed in the official parts list for this code: Barkbusters explicitly specifies them for other kits, but not here, so we do not assume they are included.

Compatibility

The manufacturer states an open-ended range, with no final year: more recent model years are also covered by the official specification.

Barkbusters compatibility applies to the motorcycle in its original factory configuration. An aftermarket handlebar changes the diameter and thicknesses, so the mounting must be checked before purchase. Write to us with the model and year and we will check it with you.

Installation

1. Make sure you have a 1290 Super Duke R from 2014 onward, with the original handlebar.
2. Clear the handlebar end of anything fitted as standard.
3. Fit the clamp to the straight section of the handlebar, in front of the controls, without fully tightening it.
4. Attach the aluminum bar to the handlebar end and the clamp, then position it.
5. If you have chosen the plastics, fit them, align everything and tighten.
6. Check the throttle, front brake, clutch and free steering from lock to lock, then check the tightening again after the first 50 km.

The tightening torques and complete installation sequence are provided in the official Barkbusters instructions supplied with the kit and attached to this product page.

What's in the box

• Two heat-treated aluminum bars, black powder-coated
• Clamps and complete hardware
• Installation instructions INS-BHG-054-NP

What is NOT included

The protective plastics, which must be ordered separately: JET-003, VPS-203, STORM STM-003 or CARBON BCF-003. EGO plastics are not compatible with this backbone. Handlebar weights are not listed in the official parts list.

Why choose Barkbusters

Barkbusters is a brand of Rideworx Pty Ltd, an Australian company that has been producing handguards since 1984. Born in enduro, it has brought the same approach to road bikes: a structure designed for the specific motorcycle, with interchangeable plastics to choose separately. You make the main investment once, and if you want more coverage in two years, you only change the plastics.

Why buy it from Endurrad

At Endurrad, you will find the Barkbusters range with compatibility checked against the manufacturer's official documentation, code by code, and details that remain ambiguous elsewhere - such as this kit's finish - clearly stated. Free shipping in Italy on orders over €100, returns within 14 days, 1-year warranty. Also see all KTM accessories.