Motorcycle wrapping is a great way to change the look of your bike without having to go through the hassle of painting it or replacing the fairings. There are a lot of different options when it comes to motorcycle wrapping, so you can find a style that fits your personality and your bike. In this blog post, we will discuss the question of how much does it cost to wrap a motorcycle, how to wrap a motorcycle as well as some of the different types of wraps that are available.
What Is a Motorcycle Wrap
A motorcycle wrap is a vinyl graphics kit that is applied to the fairings and/or fenders of a motorcycle. The vinyl film covers the original paint job of the motorcycle and can be removed without damaging the paint underneath. Motorcycle wraps are available in a wide range of colors and designs, and they can be customized to include text or logos. Many people choose to wrap their motorcycles because it is a cheaper and easier alternative to repainting the entire bike. In addition, wraps can be removed and replaced if you ever decide to change the look of your bike. Whether you want to give your motorcycle a new paint job or simply want to add some personal flair, a wrap is one of the best ways.
Why Wrap a Motorcycle
There are many reasons why you might want to consider using a vinyl wrap on your motorcycle. For one thing, it can help to protect your paint job from scratches, UV damage, and other types of wear and tear by applying a protective layer. It can increase the resale value for a bike with a less than perfect paint job. Plus, it’s a lot easier to change the look of your bike with a vinyl wrap than it is to repaint it, so if you get tired of the same old look, you can just peel off the wrap and start fresh.
Vinyl wraps also come in a wide range of colors and designs, so you can really make your bike stand out from the crowd. And because they’re so easy to apply, you can do it yourself without having to pay a professional. So, if you’re looking for a way to protect your bike and give it a new look, a vinyl wrap is definitely worth considering.
Different Types of Motorcycle Wraps
Motorcycle wraps come in many different styles, each with its own unique look. Vinyl wraps are a popular choice for those who want to add a bit of personality to their bike, as they come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Carbon fiber wraps give a bike a sleek, racing-inspired look, while matte and gloss wraps offer a more subdued aesthetic. No matter what style you choose, motorcycle wraps are an easy way to customize your bike and make it your own.
Basic Vinyl Wrap
A basic vinyl motorcycle wrap will cover the entire bike with a single color or pattern. There are many different colors and patterns to choose from, so you can find one that matches your style. A vinyl motorcycle wrap is a great way to protect your bike from scratches and weather damage. It also makes it look new again.
The cost of a basic vinyl motorcycle wrap will typically be around $15-$20 per square foot. This includes the cost of the vinyl, installation, and taxes.
If you chose to do it yourself, you can generally buy the material for around $11 to $15 depending on finish and quality. Single colors like matte black are generally cheaper than glossy patterns or color-shifting paint lookalikes. You can expect to pay around $11-13 per square foot for a Matte Finish and around $11-14 per square foot for a Gloss finish.
Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber vinyl wraps are a popular choice for motorcycle enthusiasts. They are lightweight and durable and can give your bike a high-end look. The cost of carbon fiber vinyl wraps will vary depending on the size of your bike, the type of vinyl wrap used, and the installation costs. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,500 for a full carbon fiber motorcycle wrap. The average cost per square foot if you want to do it yourself will be around $14-$17.
Custom Vinyl Wrapping
Lastly, we have the option for a completely custom wrap. This lets you be as creative as you want to get a real one-of-a-kind bike with your own unique design. The cost of a custom vinyl wrap varies the most out of all the options depending on the material you chose and how intricate and custom your design is. The average custom wrap is generally around $15-$18 per square foot. Although more expensive than the alternatives this option should be considered for those that want a custom paint job for their bike without the custom paint job price tag.
How Much Wrap Will I Need?
Motorcycles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from sleek and sporty race bikes to bulky cruisers. As a result, the surface area of a motorcycle varies significantly depending on the type of bike. However, most motorcycles have a surface area of between 8 and 10 square feet, including fairings and fenders. This range covers the majority of motorcycle types, including Standard/Naked, Sports, Touring, Cruisers and Adventure bikes. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, and some motorcycles may have a larger or smaller surface area depending on their design. However, in general, the average motorcycle has a surface area of between 8 and 10 square feet.
How To Wrap a Motorcycle Yourself
Vinyl wrapping a motorcycle is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and a little bit of patience, anyone can achieve professional-looking results. The key is to take your time and follow the instructions carefully.
Before you begin, make sure you have all the supplies you need. You’ll need vinyl wrap/ vinyl sheets, scissors, a utility knife, and a squeegee. It’s also helpful to have some kind of measuring device so you can cut the vinyl to size. Once you have everything gathered, you’re ready to begin.
The first step is to clean the surface of the motorcycle. This will help the vinyl adhere better and prevent air bubbles from forming. Use a mild soap and water solution and make sure the bike is completely dry before proceeding.
Now it’s time to cut the vinyl wrap to size. Measure the areas you want to cover and then use scissors or a utility knife to cut the wrap accordingly. If you’re working with large pieces, it’s best to cut them into smaller sections so they’re easier to work with. If it’s your first time, start with a smaller, smooth surface of the bike before moving onto something rounded like a gas tank.
Once the vinyl is cut to size, it’s time to apply it to the motorcycle. Start at one end and slowly work your way across, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. Use a squeegee to really work the vinyl into all the nooks and crannies especially for those awkward areas like a fuel tank that follow the bikes contours. Another popular way to deal with air bubbles is with a heat gun. When you’re finished, trim away any excess wrap with a utility knife.
That’s it! You’ve successfully vinyl wrapped your motorcycle. Enjoy your new custom look!
How Long Will a Wrap Last?
Motorcycle wraps are a great way to give your bike a new look, but how long do they last? The answer depends on a number of factors, including the quality of material, the type of motorcycle, and how often the bike is ridden. Generally speaking, however, you can expect a motorcycle wrap to last for several years. If you use high-quality material and look after your bike you could reasonably expect it to last 4-5 years.
This makes wraps a great option for those who want to change up their look without making a permanent commitment. Of course, taking good care of your motorcycle wrap will help to extend its lifespan. Avoid washing your bike too often, as this can cause the wrap to deteriorate. When cleaning is necessary, be sure to use mild soap and water. And be sure to avoid putting any kind of pressure on the wrap, as this can cause it to peel or tear. With proper care, your motorcycle wrap will keep your bike looking great for years to come.
Alternatives
Painting
According to Popular Mechanics, the average cost of repainting a motorcycle is $600 to $1,200. This figure will vary depending on the size and complexity of the paint job, as well as the type of paint used. For example, a high-quality paint job and finish will likely increase the cost over a standard inexpensive paint job. Additionally, if the motorcycle has extensive damage or rust, it may need to be sanded down and primed before repainting, which will also add to the cost. However, repainting a motorcycle can be a great way to restore its appearance and protect it from further damage. When done properly, a new paint job can give a motorcycle a whole new look.
New Fairings
There is no simple answer to the question of how much motorcycle fairings cost. The price will vary depending on factors such as the make and model of the motorcycle, the materials used, and the level of customization. For example, a basic set of plastic fairings for a Honda CBR600RR might cost around $600, while a custom-painted set of carbon fiber fairings for a Ducati 1199 Panigale could easily cost more than $2000. In general, however, it is safe to say that motorcycle fairings can range in cost from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Partial Wraps vs Full Wrap
Only wrapping part of your motorcycle is cheaper alternative that allows a change in style for a small fraction of the cost of wrapping an entire motorcycle. This is a great option for people who just want to add some style and change the look of the bike without breaking the bank. Some popular parts of the bike for a partial wrap are the gas tank and the rear fender. A partial wrap is also a great option for those stone chips on a small section on an individual part that don’t require a full motorcycle wrap.
What Do I Do With The Left-Over Vinyl Decals?
Motorcyclists have been customizing their helmets for decades, and but vinyl wrap offers a new level of customization. With vinyl wrap, you can completely change the color and design of your helmet in a matter of minutes. The best thing about vinyl wrap being a removable film, is you can easily change the look of your helmet whenever you want without much trouble. If you’re looking for a way to make your motorcycle helmet stand out from the crowd, vinyl wrap is a great option. Not only will you be able to express your personality, but you’ll also be protecting your helmet from scratches and UV damage.