I bought an 08 XL883L last week and the previous owner had installed a tank bra. When I got the bike home, I removed the bra as I did not want to have it on the bike at all. The bike only has 1800kms (sorry, the only metric part as I am Canadian) so I am hoping that I can remove the fret line. I used the 3 stage Mothers Canuba wax and the line is still visible. Does anyone know what I can do or use to get rid of the faint ghosting line? If this helps...my bike is crimson red sunglo in colour. Perhaps I just need to use more muscle.
Thanks...Anne

 

a buffing wheel...that will take the marks out...just have to be careful you don't burn the paint.....try a detailing shop...there is one in Nanaimo on Northfield Rd just east of Bowen rd. on the north side of the street...just down from the Landlubber Pub. can't remember what it's called.

 

Depending on how "deep" it is.
From hardly anything, to DEEP

1. I'd start with Mequiars Swirl Remover. I use it 'by hand' noramally, but you can use buffer, no prob. Just be careful, IF you use a buffer, to NOT stay in one area too long - BURN the clear(gets cloudy/dull looking)

2. IF that doesn't do the trick, then move up to a 'heavier cut' compound. In other words, you are starting low, and working up the scale.

3. IF it is REALLY deep, and the compounds are not enough to clear it up, then you are approaching wet sanding it with 1500 or 2000, and THEN working the compounds, from Coarse to Fine, until you have it.

4. Deeper than THAT, and you are either looking at reshooting the clear, or a repaint.


FYI, I use Mequiar's Swirl Remover on mine, before I wax 'em. Yes, EVERYTIME. Try it sometime, you'll know why.


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All of the above, and if you're going to use a buffer, use one of the low speed orbital variety....a high speed buffer in the hands of a novice is a terrible thing to behold! You can do a lot of coating damage in a very short period of time.

 

Try some Maguire's M-105 Ultra Cut Compound. Worked well on my car for removing some scuff marks. Also check on the Maguire's web page. There are lots of "how too's" and forums.

 

This why I don't like bras on my vehicles (or on my women, but for a very different reason!) You avoid rock chip damage, but always end up with fret marks (no matter how much wax you apply before installation) as abrasive dust finds its way between the bra and the paint. Of course the best policy is to just ride the damn things (women and bikes) and quit worrying about a few marks...

 

Thanks everyone. I shall start with the Maguires. I am hoping Canadian Tire carries it.

 

Uh, ...... Uh, ....... sorry. Your sig pic has me distracted!!!!

Everyone gave good suggestions and those are great products. But before you try that, you might give a clay bar a shot. It just might take care of it. And it would be easiest to do.

 

Amen

 

[quote=DannyZ71;6247234]Uh, ...... Uh, ....... sorry. Your sig pic has me distracted!!!!


Thanks. No Harley is complete without the Stiletto shot.
Gotta get one of me on my new bike now.

What is a clay bar? I am not familiar with those.
I did buy the Maguires and it helped a bit. Will have to do more again though.