Do you need a bullbar or nudge bar for your vehicle? Do you actually need either of them? Let’s take a deeper look in the article below.
If you don’t know much about car accessories like bullbars and nudge bars, it is natural to get a little confused.
And given that both provide a certain level of protection, nobody can blame you for assuming a bullbar and nudge bar represent the same thing.
However, there are distinct differences you have to take note of before getting any accessories installed.
This article will aim to answer your burning questions regarding the differences between bull bars and nudge bars.
And ultimately, provide you with clarity about which one is the better choice. So, expect to learn more about:
- What Is A Bull Bar?
- What Is A Nudge Bar?
- Which Bar Is Better?
Defining A Bull Bar
In essence, a bull bar is the heavy-duty choice.
Due to the fact that a bullbar is secured to the chassis when installed, it can absorb and displace impact from the front.
Chances are you will see steel or aluminium bullbars on most off-road vehicles.
This is because these vehicles probably travel to locations where animals are prone to jump out of nowhere.
Even though a bullbar can provide much better protection than a nudge bar, there are downsides to consider.
To break down the most common considerations before getting a bullbar installed, please take the following into consideration:
- They can take a lot more impact
- They become part of the gross weight of the vehicle, decreasing overall capacity
- There are additional costs in terms of maintenance (increased fuel consumption and wear on tires)
- They might complicate airbag deployment
- They are best suited for off-road scenarios
What Is A Nudge Bar?
A nudge bar can be installed on light vehicles and bigger models. More specifically, it is not designed to resist a hard impact like a bullbar.
Instead, nudge bars are used to add light protection.
For example, when another driver rolls back, it is going to hit the nudge bar and not dent the bumper.
Alternatively, if you lightly bump an object, the nudge bar can protect your vehicle. In some cases, a nudge bar is added purely for aesthetic reasons.
Given that some of the modern designs can possibly improve the shape of the vehicle, and it does not require an excessive installation process like a bullbar, you might want to make your vehicle more attractive on the eye.
Nudge Bar Considerations:
- Unable to handle the same impact of a bull bar
- Much lighter than a bull bar due to the aluminium materials they are made with
- Nudge bars are sometimes used for aesthetic purposes
- Perfect for light protection from incidents like overparking
- Best suited for urban areas and city driving
Which Bar Is Better?
Everything depends on where you will be doing most of your driving.
For instance, using a nudge bar to go on a wild off-road adventure is not the best decision.
At the same time, it is not recommended installing a bull bar for a vehicle you mostly drive in the city.
Because stopping and starting when driving already consumes a lot of fuel, you only make it worse by installing a fully steel bullbar.
So, think about your situation first. Then it is easy to make the best decision.
Always Have Accessories Installed By Professionals
As a final piece of advice, always use experts to install your bullbar or nudge bar.
This will give you the assurance that the bars come from a quality brand and manufacturer.
You will also get peace of mind knowing that you are adding protection to your investment, namely your vehicle.
Not to mention the added protection for the passengers.
If you are looking for a bullbar or nudge bar for your vehicle then look no further than us at Hektik Automotive Group. We specialise in the supply and installation of a wide variety of automotive accessories, audio-visual and security systems.
Please call us today on (03) 9998 2504 or contact us through our website.
