Painting a Dirt Bike – Can you paint a dirt bike? The simplest answer to this question is yes. Painting a dirt bike usually refers to the frame of the dirt bike which can come in different materials. Most dirt bike frames are made of metal but there are those that comprise a plastic material. Whichever type of dirt bike frame you have, there is a way to paint it.
Applying paint to a dirt bike is one of the many ways you can be creative with your dirt bike and make it stand out. If you want to paint your dirt bike’s frame, you need to understand the process involved.
How to Paint a Dirt Bike Frame
If you want to paint your dirt bike frame, there are some primary steps to understand. The steps in painting a frame are as follows:
- Strip the bike
- Prepare the frame
- Apply rust prevention
- Apply under coat
- Apply paint
- Apply top coat
Before you do anything, preparing the frame is important to prevent any messes. While you can cover up the underparts and paint the frame without removing it, stripping it can give the best possible finish. It can also help with preparing the frame as you will want to make sure it is clean and any broken parts are repaired. Ensuring that your frame is cleaned and prepped will help ensure a quality painted frame.
You can’t just slap paint on a frame, however. It is important to apply a rust-curing paint and primer to prevent wear and make the paint last longer. When applying the paint to the frame, more than one layer is ideal. Make sure to let the paint start to cure in between coats and follow the paint instructions. Depending on the type of paint you used, you may want to apply a top coat.
Painting a Dirt Bike: Powder Coat Vs Painting
There are two options to use as paint for your dirt bike frame. That is powder coating and spray painting. We all know what spray painting means but do you know what powder coating is? Powder coating is the process of having powder paint particles being fired from an electrostatic gun. Compared to spray painting, the frame to be powder coated is charged so the particles seek out and stick to it. Unlike spray paint, powder coating doesn’t leave wet trails and leaves a professional-looking finish.
Both painting methods have their pros and cons. They are as follows:
Powder Coating
Pros:
- Professional finish
- Hard-wearing coat
- Cleaner process
Cons:
- Can vary in prices
- Longer drying process
Spray Painting
Pros:
- Wide range of colors
- Easy to touch up
Cons:
- Not long-lasting
- Can damage easily with chips and scratches
Conclusion
Getting creative with any part of your dirt bike involves a process. If you are not careful, modifying a dirt bike part without knowing the right steps can result in a compromised bike. While there are different frames and methods to paint it, ensuring the part is primed is key. Whatever you choose to do with your bike, there are many ways to make it stand out.
You can also explore how to get “Colored Dirt Bike Tires” or check out different dirt bike options with the “Best Street Legal Dirt Bike.”
