I have seen a few threads about this but I haven't gotten an answer to a few specific questions I have, Anyone out there have any DIY experience with wrapping your bike?

1. Does heat effect the wrap? I want the tank wrapped all the way around, is it a problem that it is sitting within inches of the engine? Heat is used to apply the vinyl and make it pliable, how does heat from the engine not loosen up your hard work?

2. Do i need to seal the edges of the vinyl with something?

3. Do I need to laminate the wrap? Im using 3m 900 series vinyl, they claim that it comes with a clear protective laminate integrated with the vinyl. Is it an industry standard to use this AND a separate laminate

Info from anyone with experience would be appreciated, info from anyone in the industry (graphics / vehicle wraps) would be cherished.

 

1. Regular heat, like from the heads should not affect the wrap. However, it's not like paint. The vinyls they use nowadays are very pliable and can get soft under very hot conditions. In other words, when it's hot, don't pick at it, but it should be fine. Unless it's really close to the pipes.

2. No edge sealing required.

3. The vinyl itself is the same vinyl that they cut up for pinstriping or stock graphics at the factory, so non-printed vinyl does not need laminating. When printed, different printers use different inks. It used to be that the printed graphics always had to be laminated, but with wraps becoming more popular, better inks have been developed along with vinyl specially for vehicles. If you're printing, the shop should provide the wrap with any laminating required.

Hope this helps.

Mike
Vital Signs Ltd.

 

Why don't you have it dipped

 

Thank you very much, very helpfull

 

I wanted to keep this as low cost as possible, I can get the vinyl for cheap through someone and this way I can (at least attempt) to do it myself.

 

plastidip is a cheap alternative as well and doesn't require a lot of skill. You can also get it in several colors

 

Here you go...PlastiDip