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

The BLG-017 is the Barkbusters structure designed to reinforce the original handguard on 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 that runs in front of the levers and withstands 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 on 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 version, anchored both at the end and in the center of the handlebar, is the one the manufacturer specifies for impact protection. It is the choice for riders who use 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. Two-piece clamps with dedicated CP9-V2 connectors, 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 lists this code for the 2017 and 2018 Multistrada 950. The older installation instructions also mention the 950 and 950S from 2019 onward, while the product page assigns those models to the BLG-016 instead. 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 screw on the original handguard, remove the black bar end with its internal components and separate it from the handguard. Then install the clamp on 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, using medium-strength threadlocker and checking the tightening after the first 50 km.

If, with the handlebars turned fully, the bar touches the TFT dashboard, the manufacturer instructs you to adjust the steering stops on the back of the lower plate. Barkbusters recommends that installation be carried out by a workshop and reminds you to check, once the work is complete, that the throttle, brake, clutch and engine cut-off switch operate freely and that the indicators are not left covered.

What you will find in the package

• 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 intended for this code: the structure works with the original Ducati handguard and does not have mounts for the JET, VPS, STORM or CARBON series.
• Handlebar end 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 developed around the geometry of a specific handlebar, with a published parts list and an installation 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 to download before purchase. You can find the full range in the Barkbusters collection.