Bull Bars

["Al Powell" <apowell@agcom.tamu.edu>]

Hizzoner Phil P. sez:

Bull bars are huge tubular frames (if you like, the antithesis of US 5mph 
bumpers) mounted on the front of SUVs supposedly to protect the vehicle from 
damage by large wild animals.  Most of the vehicles so equipped are driven 
exclusively in areas where the only mammal extant in large numbers is Homo 
Sapiens.

AH!!  Often called "brush guards" in the Yew Ess of Ay.  Usually 
garishly chromed and affixed to the front of monster pickups whose 
actual utility usage can be determined by checking the bed and not
finding one ONE scratch.

To be fair - they are also very common on hard-working trucks which 
spend much of their time traversing fields which are very, very rough 
indeed.  These trucks are easily distinguished by their painted (not 
usually chromed)  brush guards and battered rocker panels.

BTW - the "pretty pickup" drivers also are REAL big on chromed 
diamond-plate covers for the bed side-rails and top of the tailgate.  
THEN they add a "bed-liner" which is cast to protect the entire bed 
and tailgate.  Turns the back end of the truck into a giant 
teflon-coated skating rink in which any object caroms around 
continually while the vehicle is in motion.

Makes SUV's look downright practical!!

BTW - I have a new, more accurate wording to go with SUV.  Try 
"Suburban Utility Vehicle".  This aptly describes the real utility it 
provides: hauling families and groceries.  No sport to it.


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Al Powell                        Voice:  409/845-2807
107 Reed McDonald Bldg.          Fax:    409/862-1202
College Station, TX 77843      
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