Scratch-stoppers: Best motorcycle tank protectors

Updated: 16 August 2024

There are a couple of good reasons you might want to fit a tank protector to your bike’s fuel tank, both cosmetic and practical. On the first hand, one on the very rear of the tank will help protect it from scratches in the paint (whether metal or plastic) from zips on your trousers or jacket as you move around, particular if you’re riding quickly and sliding back and forth on the seat, or are on a sports bike where you lean forward much of the time.

Secondly, pads on the side can help you grip the tank with your knees when you’re riding or cornering and prevent the same sort of damage from the edges of your trousers seams or inside of your leathers. Finally, if you use a tank bag, they can help protect your bike from the rigours of fitting and removing it whether magnetic, strap-on or if it uses a locking ring, as well as helping stop any damage due to movement while you’re riding or during fuelling.

Fitting a tank protector takes moments but can have a much longer benefit and can be as visible or invisible as you want. Some people may use the opportunity to add a little modern tech with a carbon-fibre finish. You may also want to add some manufacturer branding or be more subtle and use a tank protector that can barely be noticed.

The choice is yours and here are a few tank protector examples of how to keep your tank sweet.

Generic Carbon

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This non-model-specific tank pad is Amazonu2019s Choice and itu2019s not hard to see why; a high-tech-looking carbon-fibre effect spine pad that fits to the upright rear section of the tank to prevent damage from clothing zips.

Its standard ‘spine’ design means it should fit well to tanks that use a compound (two-directional) curve on the back of the tank and it’s self-adhesive, meaning fitting should take just moments.

Pros

Self-adhesive, so fitting easy
Protect tank from clothing damage
High-tech carbon-fibre look

Cons

Only 1mm thick, so some damage may still occur

Filler Cap Ring

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A variation on a theme, this set of self-adhesive carbon-fibre-look vinyl is designed to fit to u2013 and around u2013 the fuel filler cap on a range of Honda motorcycles, and protect the top of the tank and the filler cap from damage.

There are a selection of pieces to stick to the outer rim of the mounting assembly, as well as one to fit to the cap and one to the opening tab, for near-complete coverage.

Pros

Protect fuel filler from damage
Designed specifically for key models
Should offer full coverage

Cons

May have an effect on functionality

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Set

Price: $19.99

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This set of graphics is designed for the Kawasaki Ninja 400 though other models are available. In the trademark green on top of base carbon fibre, it comprises a set of branded vinyl to protect the rear of the tank, the sides where the knees may contact and a full set of stickers to protect the fuel filler cap atop the tank. A nice idea that seems reasonably well made.

Pros

Complete package of protection
Designed specifically for one bike
Trademark Kawasaki green

Cons

Might be a bit full-on for some

Rubber Knee Pads

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Aimed more at owners of retro or classic machines, perhaps to replace originals or give a retro a more authentic feel while protecting its paint, these simple rubber pads will help the rider grip the tank with their knees as well as prevent it getting damaged in use. According to the manufacturer, they will provide better bike control and save your pants (trousers) and boots u2013 an impressive claim!

Pros

Protect retro or classic fuel tanks
Rubber compound help insulate vibrations
Improve grip on tank with knees

Cons

Does not say whether self- adhesive or seperate method required

Moto Screenies Aprilia Tuono

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This set of clear vinyl from manufacturer Moto Screenies comprises a rear tank protector and two side pieces, to protect the bike from scratches from zips and from the knees, as well as potentially help improve knee grip.

Being clear, they won’t affect the overall look and feel of the bike but give invisible protection. The company has protection for a range of bikes, as well as screen covers for the new generation of TFT dashboard displays.

Pros

Invisible so won’t spoil look of bike
UV protection to prevent sun damage to paint
Made from stone-chip protection film

Cons

None we can think of

Oxford Gripper

Price: 19.99

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

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This spine-type protector from kit and accessory giant Oxford is a full 2.5mm think and made from flexible silicone so will offer excellent protection from scratches in use.

It is fitted with 3M self-adhesive backing to make sure it stays in place once fitted and can be trimmed to size if necessary. It is, of course, weather resistant as well as to oil and chemicals including, one would imagine, petrol in case of minor spills.

Pros

Thick to offer good protection
Easy to trim to fit
Universal fit

Cons

With 3M adhesive, you may not be able to remove and reposition if you fit it wrong

Gear Gremlin Pads

Price: £13.99

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

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These pads from Gear Gremlin are shaped like normal, full tank pads but the side cuts mean they should fit as many tank curves as possible and be easy to tease around compound curves.

Available either in black or with a Union Jack design, they are self-adhesive and are finished with a gloss top coat. They get good reviews online.

Pros

Should fit a wide range of motorcycles
Two colours options available
Good reviews online

Cons

Gloss finish may not be to all tastes

Oxford Knee Pads

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These clear knee pads from Oxford are designed to sit on the side of the tank and protect from damage from the knees rubbing during the course of riding. Their clear finish means they wonu2019t interfere with the look and feel of the bike, so should be good for all styles including retro and modern and they are self-adhesive for a quick and easy fit.

Pros

Allow paint and graphics to show through
Prevent knee damage to tank
Quick and easy to fit

Cons

Could be a bit larger

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By Jim Blackstock

Product Tester for MCN and sister publication RiDE Magazine - Jim began riding motorcycles in the late 1980s while working in an automotive repair garage after earning a Mechanical Engineering degree. Initially, he used bikes for practical purposes but later shifted to cars, starting a publishing career in the early 1990s focused on car modifications and product testing. After a stint in PR and Marketing for major motorsport teams and events, Jim returned to publishing and joined RiDE Magazine in 2017 as a Production Editor. His expertise in product testing soon led him to oversee the magazine’s product content. Rediscovering his love for motorcycles, Jim earned his license through the Direct Access process and now enjoys riding his KTM 790 Adventure across various terrains.