Chrome motorcycle wrap is extremely popular because chrome graphics look amazing.
It provides a mirror-like surface that reflects light unlike any other material.
Design shops love chrome wrap for motorcycles because customers love seeing their bikes come to life in chrome.
As a professional installer though, you know that not all chrome materials are created equal.
While design and application technique play a role in the outcome of a project, material quality is what will make or break your results.
What is Chrome Motorcycle Wrap?
Chrome motorcycle wrap is vinyl film that is manufactured to simulate a mirrored surface.Chrome motorcycle wrap is used to cover fuel tanks, fairings, trims and other parts on a motorcycle.
However chrome film isn't just a gloss or matte finish that has been colored silver. Chrome materials are more complex.
The film itself needs to have a special coating that allows it to reflect light like chrome while remaining flexible enough to apply.
That is why material quality is so important.
5 Reasons Material Quality Matters
Here are 5 reasons why material quality matters when it comes to chrome motorcycle wrap:
1. Stretchability and Ability to Work With
Higher quality chrome motorcycle wrap materials are designed to stretch and conform to edges and curves.
Many low end chrome materials feel very stiff and do not want to stretch. Trying to install these materials on round surfaces becomes extremely difficult and tedious.
From an installer's perspective, workability affects application speed, mistakes made during install, and overall finish.
2. Surface Clarity
Customers choose chrome motorcycle wrap for one reason and one reason only.
They want that chrome shine!
High-quality chrome materials produce a smooth consistent reflection with a solid metallic shine and little to no distortion.
Cheap chrome will reflect unevenly, have a dull appearance and have surface texture visibility. Surface imperfections are very apparent with chrome finishes.
3. Adhesive Strength
If your chrome wrap film doesn't have a good adhesive you will have problems.
High quality motorcycle chrome wraps have a pressure-sensitive adhesive. PSA's allow the material to adhere to the surface, but can also be repositioned if need be.
They also help limit bubbling and lifting.
Inferior quality materials will lift at the edges, not stick to tight corners or round surfaces, and leave a messy residue when removed.
4. Life Expectancy
Motorcycles spend a lot of time outside.
This means your chrome wrap needs to withstand UV rays from the sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures.
Cheap materials will break down much quicker than thicker, high-quality chrome films. Garbage in = garbage out.
5. Application
Lets face it. Installing chrome is never fun.
You can greatly improve application by using a high quality material.
Better quality chrome films are much easier to work with. They are more forgiving when it comes to adjustments, react much better to heat, and are easier to smooth out.
If your shop values consistency and speed. Material quality will have a direct impact on these values.
Where to Use Chrome Motorcycle Wrap
Chrome can make a great accent or detail on a motorcycle, but is rarely used to cover the entire bike.
Popular places to use chrome motorcycle wrap include:
- Fuel Tanks
- Side Fairings
- Wheels
- Helmets
- Custom Graphics / Striping
Just like any other application using high-quality material will allow your details to stand out.
Things to Look For in Quality Chrome Motorcycle Wrap
When reviewing chrome motorcycle wrap material you will want to consider:
- Thickness
- Flexibility
- Adhesive holding power
- Surface uniformity
- Heat Activation
- Durability
Factors like these are what companies like K2 take into consideration when manufacturing their products.
Chrome motorcycle wrap is one of the best ways to make a motorcycle stand out from the crowd.
However, not all materials are created equal. Using a cheap chrome film will result in a poor finished product.
If you want that mirror-like shine and a professional finish, spend the extra money on a high-quality chrome vinyl material. You will be glad you did.