Introduction
Scratching your bike is one of the most painful experiences for a bike owner. Fortunately, protective frame tape and films make it easy to keep your bike frame looking pristine.
Frame protection typically involves using special clear tape to cover the areas of your bike that are likely to suffer from wear and tear or impacts. This serves two purposes: first, it helps maintain your bike's aesthetic appeal by protecting it from chips and scratches, preserving its resale value. Second, it can help prevent severe damage to your bike, such as that caused by rocks or accidents.
If you've ever experienced the unpleasant sensation of a rock hitting your bike's down tube, you'll understand why adding some extra protection is important, especially for carbon frames.
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Structure of Bicycle Protection Film (RideWrap)
Self-healing&hydrophobic topcoat
The topcoat is the primary layer of protection when you're out on the trail. Its superhydrophobic properties help repel stains and shed mud, make cleaning easier, and maintain a fresh, new look. Additionally, when heat is applied, our elastomeric polyurethane topcoat's self-healing properties help eliminate swirls or light scratches.
TPU durability structure
RideWrap film is made of impact—and abrasion-resistant thermoplastic urethane (TPU). It is designed to protect your bike from damage caused by rock strikes, stump strikes, crashes, and other impacts.
Acrylic adhensive layer
The movie employs a high-performance acrylic adhesive layer as its base. This layer is formulated specifically to withstand delamination and keep edges securely in place. When it's time to replace or remove, the adhesive releases without leaving any trace, as if it was never there.
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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.
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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.
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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.