The Shimano FD-9000 Front Derailleur Skid Plate is a protective accessory designed to shield your FD-9000 (Ultegra 9000 series) front derailleur from impacts, debris, and frame contact during rides and transport. While a front derailleur isn’t typically exposed to constant hits like drivetrain components on a mountain bike, occasional knocks — from pedals catching racks, shoes tapping on tight clearances, or bikes bumping in storage — can ding the outer plate or interfere with smooth shifting. This skid plate adds a layer of defense that helps maintain performance and appearance over time.

Machined with durability in mind, the skid plate fits under or over the FD-9000 derailleur cage (depending on design) and redirects incidental contact away from critical surfaces. Its form is engineered to match the contours of the Ultegra 9000 front derailleur so that protection doesn’t compromise chain path or shift quality. A simple install with common tools lets you add this safeguard during builds, maintenance, or component swaps.

Because proper shifting depends on precise cage alignment and clearance, adding a skid plate can be especially useful for riders who transport their bikes frequently, endure tight trail access, or simply want to preserve the pristine look and function of their Ultegra drivetrain. By protecting the derailleur’s exterior elements, this accessory helps extend the life and reliability of a high-performance shifting system.