Updated By Vinyl Frog On March 26, 2024
How To Wrap A Motorcycle?
Motorcycle is the most economical vehicle for daily commuting. Since it is widely used, it has to face the harsh elements on the road and excessive wear and tear. In order to protect your motorcycle and give it a new look, it is best to go for a vinyl wrap.
Wrapping your motorcycle with vinyl will not burn a hole in your pocket and will certainly be less expensive than a paint job. It will also save you from frequent visits to the mechanic as a wrap is your first defense against chips and dings. Though we recommend going to a professional for a perfect wrap job but if you think you have the required expertise, the right tools and extra help then you can do so yourself as well.
Let's get to know how you can wrap your motorcycle and the tools you would need to get the impeccable final look!
Things To Consider Before Wrapping A Motorcycle
There are certain points to consider before wrapping your motorcycle. These are as follows:
Premium Quality Vinyl
Purchasing the right vinyl that is of premium quality is highly imperative. You cannot just settle on a color and finish, you have to research whether the vinyl you are buying is simply an eye candy or delivers as well. Ask around, read the reviews and then buy the vinyl. At Vinyl Frog we have some of the best vinyl films available. You will not only find a huge variety but also the excellent one that money can buy.
Right Environment
Once you have bought the vinyl that you need to wrap your motorcycle, choose a place that is dust free and has the right temperature for the job. You cannot do it outdoors or in shade since you will not be able to save your vinyl from dust and UV rays. If you have a garage where you can work, that is the best. Clean the garage thoroughly before starting the job.
Clean The Motorcycle
The garage is not the only place that needs to be cleaned. You have to thoroughly wash and dry the motorcycle to remove any contaminants from it. Clean it with the isopropyl and water solution afterwards and dry it completely with a microfiber cloth before applying vinyl. There should not be even a speck of dust on it.
Gather The Right Tools
We have provided the list of all possible tools that will be needed to wrap the motorcycle. Make sure you have them before starting to wrap. Vinyl Frog is your one-stop solution for all the tools needed for wrapping any vehicle. You can buy durable, high quality equipment at economical rates which can be used time and again to give the same performance.
Extra Pair Of Hands
You cannot wrap vinyl on your motorcycle without help. You need assistance, preferably two companions who are also well versed in vinyl wrapping. This is highly imperative for correct placement of the vinyl and successfully removing the creases and air bubbles.
Knowledge Is The Key
For wrapping a motorcycle with vinyl you have to disassemble it so that each part is covered properly. Once the job is done, you will have to reassemble the motorcycle. Do it only if you are fully aware of what you are getting into.
A Lot Of Time And Patience
You will need a lot of patience and perseverance. Wrapping might take long and quite a few retakes. It is time consuming so embark upon it when you have hours to spare to finish the job.
Tools Needed To Wrap A Motorcycle
Before initiating the process of wrapping your motorcycle, gather the following tools for a smooth ride:
- Vinyl wrap: This should be of the best quality available. Check out the colors and finishes at Vinyl Frog.
- Squeegee: This is a plastic tool that you can use to smooth out the wrap and remove creases.
- Heat gun: Heat is very important to activate the adhesive and allow perfect adhesion to the surface. This device emits hot air and serves the purpose very well.
- Infrared thermometer: You cannot apply too little or too much heat to the vinyl hence a thermometer is needed to measure the temperature after heating.
- Surface cleaner: As mentioned earlier, you need to clean your motorcycle before applying the wrap hence you need an appropriate surface cleaner.
- Microfiber cloth: This is needed to help dry the surface and clean it further.
- Blade: You will need a blade to cut the wrap after installation is complete.
- Gloves: If you want better grip and don't want your fingerprints on the vinyl, it is better to wear a pair of gloves.
Finally, we are all set to wrap a motorcycle. Here’s how you should go about it:
Disassemble The Parts
You can not wrap your motorcycle as it is, if you do so, it will be a total waste of time and energy. The wrap will be wasted too. Just like wrapping a car, you would need to disassemble the motorcycle beforehand and then wrap each part one at a time.
Clean Your Motorcycle
Before you start wrapping, make sure to clean your motorcycle. Begin with dusting and then use a mild cleaner to clean any dirt left. Then wipe it off with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Make sure to wear gloves and repair all the dents and rust before you wrap to avoid any distortions. THis will also ensure perfection and flawlessness.
Measure And Cut
The next step is to measure each part separately and cut the vinyl sheet according to it. Cut a generous amount of sheet for every part with a margin of 1 to 2 inches for each side so that mistakes can be corrected.
Start Wrapping The Surface
Once you start wrapping, begin with flat surfaces and larger spaces, such as the gas tank. These are the easiest ones to do. Make sure to stretch the vinyl just enough and wrap the complete part in a go. Do not over stretch. Apply pressure to keep the vinyl in place and remove creases using a squeegee.
Wrapping Complicated Areas Using Heat
Curves and crevices are difficult to wrap. You may end up having creases and bubbles. In order to avoid such a situation you would use an appropriate amount of heat. Make sure the heat is gentle or it may burn the vinyl wrap. You can also use the air release pen available at Vinyl Frog to remove bubbles and then smooth out the area with a squeegee.
Edges And Excess Wrap
In order to wrap the edges neatly you might need a little amount of heat. Once the edges are folded in, trim any extra vinyl sheet using a blade.
Seal It All
Finally, after wrapping the whole motorcycle, it is now time to seal the wrap using heat. The temperature required would be around 80°C to help the adhesive bond with the surface nicely.
How To Take Care Of A Wrapped Motorcycle?
Once your motorcycle is wrapped, it is important to take care of it to ensure the durability and longevity of the vinyl. Here are a few tips:
- Wait for at least a week to wash your motorcycle after you have wrapped it with vinyl.
- Never take your motorcycle to automated washes.
- Avoid pressure washing. Use buckets to wash your motorcycle.
- Use a mild detergent or automotive specific shampoos to wash your vinyl wrap.
- Always use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe dirt.
- It is not recommended to wax a vinyl wrap or use greasy cleaners.
- Use isopropyl rubbing alcohol to spot clean isolated stains on your motorcycle. Rinse the area with cool water after cleaning.
- Do not wipe the wrap when it is hot, this can cause wrinkling.
- Do not park your motorcycle directly under the sun.
- Wipe the fuel spill immediately then wash the affected area with hands.
Types Of Wraps For A Motorcycle
Motorcycle wraps come in many different colors and finishes. You can choose from matte to glossy, metallic, chrome, and carbon fiber. Here’s a lowdown on each category:
Types Of Vinyl Wraps
Gloss Vinyl Wrap
If you want to upgrade your bike and give it a new shiny look then this wrap would be great to choose. Its look is nearest to the original paint job. It is the most commonly used wrap and offers many amazing colors.
Recommended colors: Paint black, Nardo gray, Ivory white and Carmine red.
Matte Vinyl Wrap
This one would absolutely look great if you love dull, completely lackluster finishes. It includes air drain technology which gives you a bubble-free wrapping experience.
Recommended colors: Black, Russian violet, Gunmetal purple and Chameleon white.
Metallic Vinyl Wrap
This one gives your motorcycle a shiny metallic look. It is the most sought after vinyl for motorcycles due to its high sheen. It has further five categories: Glossy, candy, rainbow, glitter, matte and brushed metallic.
Recommended colors:
- Check our blue shades in glossy metallic.
- Candy metallic neon green and magic gray green are other different colors to go for.
- In glitter metallic, diamond purple blue and diamond black are simply superb.
- In matte metallic, charcoal gray, metal silver, pearl red and forest green are best for your motorcycle.
Carbon Fiber Wrap
This one is our favorite for motorcycles. It will give your ride a sturdy, macho look as it replicates the actual carbon fiber weave. Motorcycles come in different shapes and sizes. When you plan to give them a makeover using a vinyl wrap, it can be challenging but the amazing result would make you stand out from the crowd.
Cost To Wrap A Motorcycle
Wrapping a motorcycle costs around $1500 to $4000. This figure may vary depending on the quality, type, and the brand of the wrap. The size and dimension of the motorcycle also affects it
If you opt for a partial wrap, like just wrapping the gas tank of your motorcycle, the cost will reduce significantly. Another factor that affects the cost is whether you are wrapping it yourself or hiring an expert. Obviously, an expert will charge for his services but the result will be perfect ensuring longevity of the vinyl wrap.
How Much Does It Cost To Wrap A Motorcycle?
Advantages Of Wrapping A Motorcycle
Needless to say, a vinyl wrap completely revamps the look of your vehicle, may it be a car or a motorcycle. It enhances the beauty and makes it a head turner in the traffic. There are certain advantages of wrapping of motorcycle such as:
- Wrapping is completely reversible. If you get bored after a period of time, you can change the look again using a different vinyl.
- It provides a sturdy protective layer to the body of your motorcycle.
- Any minor damages to the vinyl can be easily fixed using a heat gun.
- Wrapping a motorcycle is very cost-effective in terms of customization, colors, and textures.
Disadvantages Of Wrapping A Motorcycle
- The whole process is time consuming if you do it yourself.
- If not done properly, the wrap will not last long and may end up having creases and bubbles.
- It could get pricey if you plan to get it done by a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
We hope that with this thorough guideline, you would be able to wrap your motorcycle and win accolades. Choose the vinyl wrap you like best and the right tools from Vinyl Frog, wear your gloves and wrap that cherished motorcycle you own!
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