2 ways to keep your bike looking new!
2 inexpensive ways to keep your bike looking new!
Two items that are on all my bikes, clean bar tape and 3M protective film.
Let’s start with the bar tape.
Weather interested in selling your bike or just wanting it to look cared for, having clean, well wrapped, non peeling bar tape can go a long way. if your bar tape is unraveling, peeling or wrapped like you could care less, one has to question how much care and maintenance has been put into their bike.
Next to an inner tube, bar tape is probably one of the least expensive purchases you can make for your bike. If someone is not willing to make an $8 – $20 investment in bar tape, how likely are they to fix that clicking bottom bracket or bearings in the rear hub?
I understand there are some purist out there that don’t use bar tape at all, this is not intended for them.
If you think wapping bar tape is hard, check out the bar tape installation video on our website. It’s easy!
Next is a product that has been around for many years, 3M / Scotchgard protective film.
Yes, it’s the same film used on the front of automobiles to protect them from rock chips and scratches.
The stuff is great and the amount used on a bike makes it very inexpensive ($6 – $10). It’s easy to apply, dries over night and is very hard to see when applied. No yellowing and yes, the pictures of the bike frames have the protective film applied!
Next is a product that has been around for many years, 3M / Scotchgard protective film.
Yes, it’s the same film used on the front of automobiles to protect them from rock chips and scratches.
The stuff is great and the amount used on a bike makes it very inexpensive ($6 – $10). It’s easy to apply, dries over night and is very hard to see when applied. No yellowing and yes, the pictures of the bike frames have the protective film applied!
If you cyclocross or gravel grind, the thrashing the bikes take can take its toll on the paint. Applying the protective film on all the leading edges, top tube and chain stays will keep it looking new.
When your ready to sell your bike, simply apply a little heat (hair dryer) and peel it off . You’ll be amazed at the fresh unchipped new looking paint. Both these items will definitely keep you bike looking presentable, and may make the difference between selling your bike or not.
My friends tease me from time to time about how anal I am about my bikes, but whenever I have one for sale, it doesn’t last long.
As you know bar tape can be purchased at any bike shop, Shape My Grip has it’s own brand (GripTech+). We feel our bar tape will stack up against many of the more expensive tapes on the market, with non-slip, grippy, vibration absorbing, stretchable and easy to apply features.
3M / Scotchgard protective film can be purchased on ebay.