I've noticed that a lot of pre-2001 Cat owners have Oxlite boot guards installed. There are stock boot guards on the 2001 model 500 auto. Are the Oxlite guard replacement equipment or installed in addition to the stock guards?

I run over a lot of corn stubble and break trails through small timber. It's just a matter of time before I rip a boot but, I'd like to take whatever measures are necessary to prevent a problem instead of having to fix one.

 

I have a 500AC (2000)and I did have the Oxlite guards but, I took them off and made my own that were lighter (alum) and that did not hold so much mud behind them.The Oxilite guards are very good protection and do work.I just found that alot of junk was always up on top and behind them.(They are like a large shelf on the back side)
I have seen the new guards on the 2001 and they do look like a good improvement.
I think these new guards would do the job under
the conditions you describe where you ride.They may or may not if you hit a rock.
If you have concerns about damage then go for the Oxlite brush guards.They do work.
Anyway, you can't have too much protection...can you?

 

DreyMac:
I think it was smart of AC to add the boot guards, though I wish they would have made them a little tougher. I run through a lot of fallen timber and sticks, etc., and I'm affraid that in my conditions, they just wouldn't hold up. I've added Cycle Country stick stoppers to my '00 'Cat, and have had very good luck with them. If I remember right, I got them for a discount when I bought the 'Cat and think they were right around $30 or so. Not sure what the Oxlites cost, but I would recommend you do get a set, regardless of the brand name. Basically, it's cheap insurance. Otherwise, you could end up replacing boots, or worse, the joint itself for $150 a pop.

Good luck!

Mike

 

I've got oxlites on my y2K. I think they are probably the best protection you could get. They are heavy duty and yes, they will gather mud and stones along the top of the "shelf", but nothing a garden hose can't spray off. I'm very pleased with them as we have a lot of rocky areas around here to ride.

 

You can't beat the Oxlites. Under $50 at most places and when I get my Sportsman, it will only be a matter of time before I put a set on it.