If you purchased a new ATC in the early- to mid-1980s, it probably didn’t take long before you started making modifications to it. For most, the first bolt-on upgrade was a front master cylinder/brake reservoir guard. Several different manufacturers made them, with Maier Manufacturing and H&S (Helm & Sons) becoming some of the most popular brands. The Maier guard is actually a steel cage that bolts to the front master cylinder and covers the entire reservoir. Today, you can find these guards on eBay and classified sites for $20 or more.

Early generation ATCs, like the 1981 ATC250R seen above, came stock with a plastic brake fluid reservoir on the hand lever activated front brake master cylinder. The plastic part was prone to breakage from roost, rocks, and tumbles. So the aftermarket companies were quick to come up with a product that provided the protection it needed. Even after Honda switched to alloy reservoirs, these guards remained popular on newer Honda ATCs and TRX250R quads.

A company called Westcoast came up with a brake reservoir guard that offered superior protection to roost and hard hits, while leaving the top open for easy access to the cover. Original Westcoast brake reservoir guards are a rare find, so expect to pay a much higher price to obtain one.