Triton Bullbars: Why You Need One and What to Consider When Buying [Complete Guide]

Installing a bullbar for Triton is usually done for two reasons – adding an important layer of protection to its front end and convenience.

A quality bullbar will protect all your important mechanical parts in the front from kamikaze ‘roos and wayward drivers, as well as from dense scrub when you venture off the beaten trail to that pristine remote campsite.

Depending on the type you equip and what it’s made of, the bullbar can absorb most of the impacts and protect the parts of your Triton that matter, the most notable of which are the cooling system and radiator.

Moreover, a good bullbar can serve as a mounting platform to which you can attach other key 4×4 off-road accessories, such as winches, LEDs, light bars and UHF antennas.

And on top of adding protection and convenience, you get an improved aesthetic as a by-product. Getting the right bull bar will not only do its job well but also look good while doing it.

There are many different styles of bullbar for Triton, so you can rest assured you’ll find one that matches your taste. Let’s get into more detail.

Why You Need a Quality Bullbar?

You might believe that buying a bullbar you discovered on eBay at a discount is a wise choice that will help you save a few hundred dollars, but you’d be horribly mistaken. Although you will initially save money, it will cost you more money in the long run.

While the bullbars on eBay look like every other bullbar from specialized stores, looks can be deceiving and they can end up being less durable.

That said, when shopping it’s important to find a bar that’s ADR compliant. ADR is the Australian Design Standard for vehicles. An ADR-approved bullbar won’t have pointy parts that can potentially harm pedestrians should you come across them, and it will ensure your airbags are still functional in the event of a crash.

Quality bullbars from reputable manufacturers go through a lot of testing and are approved by third-party engineers that certify them as ADR approved. Moreover, they’re made from quality materials that are durable, ensuring they can withstand use and abuse for years to come.

Another thing to keep in mind is the installation. The bullbar should be easily mounted securely to the chassis of your Triton, and it shouldn’t obstruct your headlights. It should have a high enough ground clearance so you can go over obstacles without hitting them.

Consider the Purpose

If you’re certain a bullbar purchase is inevitable, and you’ve found yourself a model you fancy, it’s time to decide whether you need a full bumper replacement or a cut OE bumper. Do you want a single, triple or no hoops bullbar? Do you want a competition-style or tube-style bullbar? Do you need the bar to come with mounts and recovery points? And most importantly, is it airbag and ADR compliant?

The answer to these questions lies within the intended use of your Triton. Different drivers require different levels of functionality, protection and aesthetic appeal.

There’s no point in going for a full-hooped bullbar if you don’t do any off-roading. A single-hoop bullbar will be more affordable and more suitable for you if your daily commute involves country roads where you frequently encounter kamikaze ‘roos.

If you want better departure and approach angles, a lightweight tube bar will suit you best. Mounting points for lighting and aerials can also make or break your choice, so it pays off to spend an extra hour or two researching what features the bullbar you’re considering comes with.

Consider the Material

Bullbars come in steel, aluminium alloy, and plastic varieties. Each of these materials is designed to fulfil a different purpose, and each one has unique benefits and drawbacks.

Aluminium Alloy

Aluminium alloy bars are lighter in weight, meaning you can pack more equipment without putting a strain on your suspension.

However, they might require more maintenance and care to keep them looking pristine.

They won’t rust, making them ideal for those who drive along the beach. The fact that they’re lighter doesn’t mean they’re weaker, as most quality, modern bullbars are durable.

Steel

These bars are heavier, and you need to keep an eye on the overall weight when loading up your Triton with other camping or 4×4 off road accessories.

However, steel bars are extremely durable and provide less flex due to their construction. As a result, they also provide a stronger platform for other off road accessories and are easier to repair.

Bullbars made using steel are made with function and strength in mind.

Plastic

The least popular material for bullbars is plastic. Generally, plastic bullbars are made using some combination of polymer or polyethene plastic. These are used mainly for enhancing the looks of your Triton, and for light-duty city use. They’re quite lightweight, so they won’t impact your fuel consumption as much, and they won’t wear your suspension and tyres at the same rate that steel and aluminium would.

Figured Everything Out? A Few More Things to Remember

Consider getting a bullbar from a trusted manufacturer. Moreover, make sure the bullbar ticks all the boxes as far as your requirements go, and has the capacity to fit all the accessories you need it to.

If you’re going on a hardcore expedition across the outback, you’ll need a serious bull bar. As I mentioned many times before, make sure the bar is ADR and airbag compliant, otherwise, you risk putting yourself in danger, and your rig can be road-illegal.

A bullbar with recovery points means it has been tested and rated by a third-party engineering firm, giving you peace of mind knowing you’ll be able to get yourself out should you ever get stuck in mud, snow or any other sticky situation.

Last but not least, make sure the bullbar comes with a warranty. Most bars from trusted manufacturers come with at least 1-year warranty. Some manufacturers go as far as offering a lifetime warranty on their steel bars, which can come in handy down the road.