Tank protection

DallasNorton · Nov 2, 2015

Are there any options to protect the tank from scratches? Tank pads don't look right. What are you using to protect your tank?

BionicDan · Nov 3, 2015

I too am interested in this.

I bought a new leather jacket. Went for a run and when I dismounted I noticed an inch-long deep scratch (down to the white) on my black tank!
It seems a sharp edge on the buckle of my new jacket must have caused it while mounting or dismounting! I now use a leather patch to cover the buckle every time I go for a ride. Too late for the existing scratch though... which I'll need to get fixed.

D

roofus · Nov 6, 2015

DallasNorton said:
Are there any options to protect the tank from scratches? Tank pads don't look right. What are you using to protect your tank?

The only answer I have is tank pads, which you don't like. I put a clear one on my bike and it works pretty well but it could be wider. I have also seen imitation carbon fibre ones as well.

richard-7 · Nov 6, 2015

Go to a window tinting and or vehicle wrap place. Ask for paint protection film. You wont be disaponted. I used to own a window film company. PPF is where its at. I did my forks, head light, tank, tail section, under the tail. All protected and its clear. Some people call it the 3m bra but LLUMAR is better than 3m. Just saying.

BionicDan · Nov 7, 2015

Interesting.
I'll look into that, Richard.
D

DallasNorton · Nov 7, 2015

I found this precut kit to DIY.

http://www.invisiblepatterns.co.uk/shop ... -2011.html

richard-7 · Nov 7, 2015

Based on my experience. Don't do it yourself. Its not that easy to apply. Ive done it for 8 yrs maybe once a month or so and still hate super curvy surfaces like the Norton Tank. It involves a heat gun to shrink it. Just ask at a detail shop or tint shop or auto graphics shop. One or all of the three will send you to the best spot in town to get it done.

roofus · Nov 7, 2015

richard-7 said:
Based on my experience. Don't do it yourself. Its not that easy to apply. Ive done it for 8 yrs maybe once a month or so and still hate super curvy surfaces like the Norton Tank. It involves a heat gun to shrink it. Just ask at a detail shop or tint shop or auto graphics shop. One or all of the three will send you to the best spot in town to get it done.

That's good to know. I have a clear vinyl pad protecting the back of the tank, but I am still getting some rub marks beyond the pad. Also I am getting a few rub marks on the tail piece even though I wear leather riding pants which are pretty soft and I try and lift my leg high to not rub the tail piece when mounting the bike.

That material sound like just the ticket!