PPF On A Motorbike
There’s a common misconception that we only apply paint protection film to cars. But motorbikes are as vulnerable to stone chips and debris as cars. Given how frequently bikes cross the road’s centre line (where loose chippings tend to gather), they might even get a harder time. So, in this week’s article, we thought we’d write a blog post that covers the installation of PPF on a motorbike. This subject seemed topical as we’ve recently welcomed a couple of two-wheeled friends to our Hampshire studio.
PPF on a Motorbike – Why it needs protection:
On a motorbike, the forward-facing surface area is a lot less than on a car, but other bits of bodywork are subject to more wear.
As a motorcyclist, you’re usually wearing clothing with many zips and fasteners, which can scratch petrol tanks easily. When you ride, you grip the tank with your knees and move about on the bike, creating friction and wear on the paint. Just getting on the bike, depending on the style, might need a big swing of the leg to clear the tail bodywork, and it only takes a moment to drag a boot across the paint to scratch it – I know, I’ve done it to my bikes!
Then for the Touring style bikes that have panniers on the sides to carry luggage, the ones that are colour coded to the bike benefit hugely from being protected.
Coverage Options:
When you’re considering PPF on a motorbike, coverage options depend on the style of bike in question, but we would recommend fitting everything available for your bike.
For something like this Ducati Panigale Speciale V4S, we covered pretty much all of the visible paintwork.
There are usually options to protect at least the fuel tank, tailpiece, headlights, and the nose of a small fairing or cowl, if fitted on most naked or unfaired bikes.
Using XPEL PPF on Bikes:
Regular readers will know we use Xpel PPF at our Hampshire studios because we believe it to be the best in the business. Xpel has a small database of motorbikes, and it’s something they are looking to expand upon.
However, within the Xpel dealer network, there is a professional who only deals with bikes. He designs kits for most bikes on the market, and we have access to that database. So, we can obtain kits for most popular models.
Preparation & Installation:
Preparing for the installation of PPF on a motorbike is pretty much the same as a car. It needs to be scrupulously clean and in the best condition possible before it begins.
Bikes present unique challenges when it comes to PPF installation.
The kits are fiddly to install. Many individual pieces need to be installed super accurately to line up correctly. The larger fairing pieces can have a lot going on in a relatively small area – convex and concave shapes, vents and fixings to work around, and a detailed outline to follow correctly.
Cost & Timelines:
Full PPF coverage on a faired bike will take a full day; on a half faired bike, around half to two-thirds of a day.
In terms of cost, this depends on coverage and complexity; but it will typically range from between £500-£800.
If you’ve been thinking about protecting your bike with Xpel PPF, we can help at our Hampshire (Auto Curators) detailing studio. We’re very happy to offer a full quote; just contact us HERE.
