revisit: latest thoughts on which frame protection tape is effective

[eddief]

gonna be packing my carbon Turbo Creo in a Post Transfer Case and doing some touring with a group of folks. Inevitably the bike is going to get banged around in the case and then some more when bikes are parked or taken on ferries.

wanna apply some protection tape. need considerable length. what to buy?

[unterhausen]

If the tubes aren't too weirdly shaped, Gorilla clear repair tape works pretty well. There are "helicopter" tapes you can get, I'm to cheap to have tried them

[eddief]

I have read pretty tough to get it off. Tape come up but leaves all the adhesive behind.

Originally Posted by unterhausen

If the tubes aren't too weirdly shaped, Gorilla clear repair tape works pretty well. There are "helicopter" tapes you can get, I'm to cheap to have tried them

[yinzerniner]

Originally Posted by eddief

gonna be packing my carbon Turbo Creo in a Post Transfer Case and doing some touring with a group of folks. Inevitably the bike is going to get banged around in the case and then some more when bikes are parked or taken on ferries.

wanna apply some protection tape. need considerable length. what to buy?

Based on the description above it seems like you're only looking for surface / scratch protection, not impact protection. If so, the aforementioned helicopter tape is an option, although a little pricey.

If you have the time (maybe 45mins-hr) and can maneuver around the bike without interfering with too many components then clear bra or similar tapes work great. The issue is that you have to apply by spraying soapy water, then squeegeeing out the air bubbles, then letting it dry overnight. But after that it's on very securely, won't damage paint or leave residue when removed, and is completely clear.

3M clear, or xpel are the easiest options, can get a full roll with application tools for something like $20 from amazon and the like.

If you need impact protection then Effetto Mariposa Shelter tape is the only way to go. It has a clear "gel" layer which you can actually feel, and really disperses sharp impacts. It's pricey but worth it.

[CAAD]

I have Xpel ULTIMATE PLUS 10 on all of my road bikes. The Plus 10 is their thickest film. Downtubes, chainstays, crank arms, and other vulnerable areas of the bike get protected. Double layer on my gravel bike downtube. Use plenty of soapy water when installing and a little bit of heat from a blow dryer to help with contours. Can also be pulled off with some steam. I bought it by the foot directly from Xpel. Amazon you never know what you are getting.

[bironi]

The helicopter tape is pricey, but very durable and removes without adhesive mess.