It appears the Ricochet will provide substantially better protection than the OEM guards. I use my quad in a logging area where sticks are a constant hazard. Don at Ricochet was very responsive and helpful in assisting with getting the correct product. Note that trimming about 1/2 - 3/4 inch and 4 inches long from the plastic OEM skid plate directly beneath the inner CV joint was necessary. I held the new guards up and marked the approximate cut. I then dropped the OEM skid plate down (4 bolts), mounted the Ricochet's, and using a Dremel gradually trimmed the skid plate until I achieved a good fit between the plate and the guards.