Where can you buy rolls of frame protector?

[2wheelwill]

Just paid like $8 for a strip of Lizard Skin chainstay protector from my LBS. Now i realize $8 ain't much of an investment to protect seveal thousand dollars of carbon, but anyone know where you can buy large rolls of this type of tape?

There must be a cheaper option than $8 for 6 inches...

[Tommasini53]

check the auto parts stores...i've purchased a clear film for the top tube of my commuter bike at my local store. I believe it is a 3m product.

Another savings to be had while you are there....anti-seize compound. It's a fraction of the price that charged by bicycle parts/equipment companies.

[fuzzalow]

Helicopter tape. Sourced from race car supply houses. The non-clear tape is cheaper.

https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3437-001

For purposes of chain stay protection, this stuff is overkill. But it is the real deal, whereas the stuff the bike shops sell is an overpriced, thick vinyl tape strip.

[yngpunk]

Available from Amazon in 1" width here


http://www.amazon.com/ISC-Helicopter-OG-Surface-Tape-Outdoor/dp/B000O6BQMG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370122028&sr=8-1

[ultratoad]

I use Velo Skin because it is paper backed like a decal and is easy to layout for desired shapes. It is a 3M product and I believe it is similar (same) as the helo tape. Velo Skin also has bicycle tube shapes etched in that you can use if desired. A lot more expensive than the helo tape but easier to layout and apply. I have been using this on chain stays, cable rub areas, etc. for many years--it is a 10.... www.VeloSkin.com

[one60]

sometimes referred to as clearbra. You can often get 'scraps' from the window tint shops for the asking &/or a 6-pack. They purchase it in large rolls & use a cutting machine to make the masks for different model cars on-site. They often have large pieces which are unusable for their needs.

Ask about the application process, its not a simple 'peel & stick' process. To get good results you need to use rubbing alcohol & a rubber squeegee/applicator to remove the air bubbles. Its not difficult but requires attention.

[Z3c]

I am awaiting an order of 3M Paint Defender which is a new spray on clear bra.. Early reviews are good.

Search Amazon for 3M Clear bra and you will find lots of roll options for the material you are looking for..

[2wheelwill]

Thanks for all the suggestions.. Just ordered some of the helicopter tape from amazon. The velo skin stuff sounds great but still pretty expensive.

[eddief]

After many years, I am just about out of this stuff. Good for dots here and there or can be cut to whatever basic shape you need:

http://www.coloradocyclist.com/product/item/BKSVGY4K

[yngpunk]

sometimes referred to as clearbra. You can often get 'scraps' from the window tint shops for the asking &/or a 6-pack. They purchase it in large rolls & use a cutting machine to make the masks for different model cars on-site. They often have large pieces which are unusable for their needs.

Ask about the application process, its not a simple 'peel & stick' process. To get good results you need to use rubbing alcohol & a rubber squeegee/applicator to remove the air bubbles. Its not difficult but requires attention.

I've found that using an old credit card or hotel key works well as a sqeegee to remove the air bubbles after application.

[Andrewlcox]

I am awaiting an order of 3M Paint Defender which is a new spray on clear bra.. Early reviews are good.



Me too. I saw it on one of my car websites. It looks easy to apply after a coat of wax and peels off when done.

[Steve in SLO]

3M Xpel is the name for their film, which comes in two thicknesses. It cann be bought in foot wide rolls or small sheets. As Previously mentioned, auto detailers should have lots of scraps laying around, and for a couple bucks you can probably pick up a multi-bike supply.

[justinrchan]

+1 on the Veloskin. Pricey but a small price to pay to protect your paint.

[professerr]

Aerostitch, the motorcycle garment mfg., used to sell small sheets of this sort of film for protecting fairings from bag rub, rocks, etc. I'm too lazy to poke around their website to find it now.

[Steve in SLO]

Aerostitch, the motorcycle garment mfg., used to sell small sheets of this sort of film for protecting fairings from bag rub, rocks, etc. I'm too lazy to poke around their website to find it now.

That is 3m Xpel. Much cheaper to buy 'in bulk' at your local auto care place.