How To Install Wrap Onto Your Bike

The video tutorials on this page are in high-speed so that you can take in the information a lot faster. It will serve you well to view them before attempting your own installation.

'Wrap' is for dry applications and liquids should never be used as it will hinder the performance and it's main purpose.

1

In this first first video, you'll see how a wrap was applied to the front fender of a Polaris Victory motorcycle. It was chosen for your first preview as it is the most complex shape to apply onto.

Applications vary, and not every install will require the additional heat or extra hands to apply. However, if the application is for a dragster, the extra hands will surely come in handy. And for those with a can-am Spyder, heat may be necessary when applying wrap onto the tour case, tank area and saddle bags. Discretion is advised, because if you are already working in a hot environment, adding more heat may not be favorable or necessary. Do however take notice that wrap media generally stretches 30% over it's original size with heat, and can be shrunk back to its natural state when applying heat again. This feature should be taken into consideration when addressing tight curves and organic shapes, such as a motorcycle tank, fenders, etc...

Always work in a clean area and be sure the project is free from dirt, dust, sand and any surface barriers such as wax, which may affect the desired outcome. Also, if there are fast moving wind currents or intense fans blowing, this may affect handling larger wrap panels during application.

2

This tutorial start off with a glimpse of the custom design while it feeds through the 6 color solvent printer. As the video progresses, you will see how I setup a medium sized panel using the hinge method. Also. is the practice of tucking in the extra/overhang - so that it covers the edges in this particular project. Upon inspection and satisfactory installation, heat is applied which will expedite the wrap media to take-on it's new form. Do pay attention to your hands for sweat and finger grease, and wipe down with rubbing alcohol before handling the sticky side, and as often as needed.

A wipe-down of the panels with alcohol was initially performed before starting the application.

Look carefully for air bubbles, pockets and creases as you apply, as it's better to solve those issues before finishing off to the edge. If you don't, the application may be unsightly, so best to be patient and move slowly by taking your time. That's the reason these videos were edited into fast speed, because the process takes time and is well worth it in the end.

3

Here is a continuation as the Victory bike receives more wrap panels. Take the time to put the panel into position on the body first, and use temporary masking tape to hold it into place so that you can get it aligned the way you would like it to fit. If there is a need to cut away some extra material during the install, use a backing such as a piece of hard plastic, and make your razor cut upon that, instead of cutting into the bike. If you're using a fresh new blade, such as an Xacto or Olfa, you won't need to cut in deep at all. Just deep enough that it will separate. If there are compartment or storage doors, go right over top of them and depress the wrap into the separations. Using a steady hand, perform a separation cut in the center of the joints, then finish by tucking in the remainder.

4th and Final

Heat is applied after each panel has been installed, however if doing the full application in a single day, you can wait till the end. On the other hand, if you're only installing a few panels over consecutive days, it's best to get the heat on it that same day and as you move forward. With regards to the saddle bags, 3M Finish Line Knifeless Tape was used to cut a UV mapped template to shape. It's an absolutely wonderful product to deploy in just such situations and will save you time. This process is not necessary for most applications, however in this video, a template for artwork was acquired in order to fit properly back onto the shape later. And if you recall reading earlier, where it was mentioned that this 'wrap media' stretches 30% over its size, you will visually see this in action. That panel was then removed, and brought back to it's natural state of 100%, thus, flat enough to be run through the scanner for artwork composition so that it fit into the shape of the template, and finally back on the bike.

Notice the care being taken during the installation of the saddle bag portion of the wrap. Every move is calculated in advance, and when an air pocket is discovered, it is worked out methodically. Stop when you see air pockets or creases left behind and pull up on the panel so that it can be reset. This can be done many times, just as long as the adhesive side is not contaminated. And if it stretches out of shape, simply shrink it again by applying heat, and try again.

Near the end of this video, you'll see 3M Edge Tape being applied where panels meet. This may not always be necessary, though this project was worth the extra time.

We hope that by watching these tutorials, you will find comfort and confidence in doing it yourself.

TIP: Start with your smallest panels, then work your way up in size as this will offer you the opportunity to get comfortable with handling the wrap media.

If not installing on your own, and are considering to hire someone to install the wrap package for you, you can contact a local sign shop in your area, as there is generally someone there who knows how it's done.

And be sure to get at least two separate quotes so that you can work within your budget.