Introduction
Scratching a bike is one of the most agonizing events a bike owner goes through. Fortunately, films and protective frame tape can help you keep your bike frame looking perfect.
Usually, frame protection covers the parts of your bike most likely to experience wear and tear or impacts with specific transparent tape. First of all, this protects your bike from chipping and scratches, preserving its resale value and hence helping to keep its visual appeal. Second, it can help stop major damage to your bike from pebbles or mishaps.
If you have ever felt the horrible sensation of a rock striking the down tube of your bike, you will know why additional protection—especially for carbon frames—is crucial.
Credit from RideWrap
Structure of Bicycle Protection Film (RideWrap)
Self-healing&hydrophobic topcoat
Out on the trail, the main layer of protection is the topcoat. Its superhydrophobic qualities maintain a fresh, new appearance, make cleaning easier, and help to reject stains and remove muck. Furthermore, the self-healing characteristics of our elastomeric polyurethane topcoat aid in removing light scratches or swirls when heated.
TPU durability structure
Made of impact- and abrasion-resistant thermoplastic urethane (TPU), RideWrap film is designed to protect your bike against damage resulting from collisions, stump strikes, rock strikes, and other impacts. It is intended to protect your bike from damage caused by collisions, stump strikes, rock strikes, and other impacts.
Acrylic adhensive layer
The film builds on a high-performance acrylic adhesive layer. This layer specifically resists delamination and upholds the tightness of the edges. When it comes time for replacement or removal, the adhesive releases as though it were never there, leaving no trace.
credit from RideWrap
Why You Need Frame Protection
Frame protection serves two main purposes. Firstly, it helps prevent scuffs and scratches caused by repeated rubbing or when your bike comes into contact with other objects or surfaces. This can happen when you clamp your bike into a work stand or bike rack or attach bags or straps to the Frame.
Secondly, thicker and more absorbent tapes can also protect your bike from structural damage. This damage can occur when a rock hits the down tube, or something falls onto the top tube. Additionally, in the event of a crash, frame protection tapes can help prevent serious damage.
It's worth noting that carbon bikes tend to be more susceptible to structural damage than aluminum models, while steel bikes are generally more resistant. However, all types of bikes can benefit from frame protection to guard against wear and tear to their finish in key areas.
credit from RideWrap
How To Install Bike Frame Protection
1. Clean the frame
To clean your Frame effectively, use isopropyl alcohol (or a similar cleaning solution) and microfiber cloths. Make sure to clean the Frame thoroughly for best results. If you ignore this step, your frame protection kit may not stick properly.
2. Wet the area
It's time to dampen the first area with the spray you've created. Then, with wet hands, remove the chosen panel and spray the adhesive side.
3. Place your panel
Gently place the panel you have chosen on the appropriate part of your bike. It's best to avoid using the squeegee and apply as little pressure as possible at this stage. We don't want full adhesion just yet. This will give you a chance to align the protective sheet accurately. Once you are satisfied with the alignment, you can press the center portion of the panel to hold it in place.
4. Squeegee water away
Gently position the panel in the desired spot and start squeegeeing it from the center towards the edges. This will make the bond between the protective panel and the Frame permanent by removing any air bubbles and squeezing out the baby shampoo/water solution from under the sheet.
This process is similar to applying a protective film on a phone screen, but it may be more challenging due to the curved areas. It's important to perform this step slowly and thoroughly, ensuring that the panel is fully attached to the Frame. As you reach the edge of the Frame, carefully squeegee the panel around and push the squeegee away from the center.
Once you're done, dry the area with a clean cloth. You may notice some edges that haven't properly adhered, but don't worry about those yet.
5. Dry the frame and stick down the edges
After wrapping your bike with the frame protection kit, it's important to dry the Frame thoroughly to ensure the edges are securely fastened. If the edges are moist, the adhesive may not adhere properly. Once the Frame is dry, the adhesive will be able to work effectively. Please allow 24 hours after applying the kit for the adhesive to bond properly.
credit from RideWrap
Frame Protection for your ICAN X-Gravel
RideWrap Tailored Protection™ Frame Kit is designed specifically for your ICAN X-Gravel. It covers up to 95% of your frame to ensure your bike is protected. Go ahead and get out there, ride more, and worry less.
