KTM 690 handguards on the Versys

[RickySpanish]

I was able to get my old ktm 690 enduro handguards to fit on my versys.
I had to buy longer M8x1.25 bolts for the bar ends and some fender washers to sandwich between the handguards.
The 690 handlebars are beefier than the versys's, so the handguards don't clamp very tight on the versys handlebars. It's tight enough so that it doesn't flop around. It would take a strong hit with a mallet to move the handguards up or down. That's good enough for me, since I only care about wind protection. If you care about offroad protection for your hands and levers, get the aluminum handguards. Fastway handguards are my favorite!!

I moved the levers inward by a 1/4-inch just to be safe.
I sanded the orange plastic with some 600 grit sandpaper and then spray painted it. I didn't use spray paint that's meant for plastic....hopefully it won't peel.
I probably should've spray painted the fender washers black, but whatever....
I have the GIVI windscreen and I can do a full lock. Nice!

I think it looks nice. The matte black spray paint matches the matte black part of the bike. They block wind just fine. With heated gloves, I should be more comfy in 20-F temps.
I just had these handguards lying around, so I'm happy with how it turned out.

[crow]

They look really good, nice job with the painting too.

[cbolling]

[RickySpanish]

Originally Posted by crow

They look really good, nice job with the painting too.

I'm glad folks like them.
If you go to advrider or thumpertalk and ask the 690 riders for their handguards, they'll probably sell them to you CHEAP!

The secret to painting is to sand the plastic down first. This will strip the very top layer. This layer has elasticizers on it to help the plastic break from it's mold. The paint will adhere better without this layer, and more generally, with a rough layer.

Lay the plastic down flat, and start spraying with short strokes. Always keep the can moving. It's ok if you miss a spot.
Let the paint dry for 10 minutes and put another layer on. I did a total of 3 layers.
After a couple of hours, I flipped the plastic over and sprayed the other side.
Shake the can after a couple strokes.

If all else fails, ask yourself if it looks good from 10 feet away or at 10 mph, if so continue on!