Introduction- How to Paint a Bike without Spray Paint
Are you a biker who is in need of an alternative paint other than the conventional spray paint to coat your bike? Do you wish to optimize and give your bike a new look that is more attractive? Then this article is meant for you.
Over time, our bikes may lose their shine due to wear and tear and weather elements. If your bike has lost its gracious beauty, it may be time for a new coat of paint. This can be easily done by using tools such as a primer, colored coat, brush, and protective gear.
Most paints that work on automobiles should work on bike frames too.
Por-15 is a direct-to-metal paint that does not require a primer.If you wish to use the traditional approach of applying a primer, followed by a colored coat, the Rust-Oleum Zinser Bulls Eye primer works with most surfaces and sticks easily. You can then finish off the job using a top coat such as KBS Coatings’ DiamondFinish.
Types of bike paint
Although there are different types of bike paints, the most common are:
- Epoxy-based paint: This is the most common bike paint and may or may not require heat to get it sealed up. They stick firmly to the frame, extend its lifespan, and also beautify it. Epoxy paint may require drying. However, while painting using epoxy paint, chemical strippers should be kept away from your bike to avoid damaging it.
- Enamel paint: These are air-dried paints that contain resins and are used for coating surfaces to enhance the beauty and lifespan of machines. They are very strong, glossy and give a satin finish. Enamel paint is offered by popular brands such as Rust-oleum. Oil-based enamel paint may emit toxic fumes, so make sure your work area is well-ventilated.
- Aerosol paint: The aerosol paint is a coat that can be painted with a self-etching primer. Although this paint is easier to use, extreme care and proper technique are needed for optimum results.
What Are the Alternatives to Spray Paint?
While there are many alternatives to spray paint, the best and most common are:
Primer, Colored Coat and Clear Coat
The paint primer is useful in painting all bikes, especially the metallic part. They dry up quickly and stick firmly. A special primer called zinc chromate is effective in preventing rust. The colored coat comes next. As the name suggests, it’s the layer that gives your bike frame its color. Finally, you may finish off with a layer of clear coat for added protection.
NOTE: Protective gear such as gloves must be worn while applying the paints, as they may be difficult to remove.
Carbon Touch up Paint
Most bike frames are made up of either aluminum, steel, titanium, or carbon fiber. Carbon touch up paint, such as the ACDelco Carbon Flash Metallic Touch-up Paint, is useful for covering up minor scratches.
While painting it, make sure you guide the part to be sealed off and apply pressure gently.
How to Paint a Bike without Spray Paint – Steps
Try to paint your bike on a warm day and in a well-ventilated, dust-free place.
Before you paint your bike, you ought to have put all the necessary tools in place, including your protective gear such as a painter’s mask, pair of safety goggles, and a pair of gloves. Then disassemble the bike and follow these steps.
- Place a rag cloth around your working area to catch any stain
- Wash off your bike frame gently by rubbing it with alcohol or acetone to remove oil or other dirt
- In case you have any rust on your bike, use a solvent such as Coca-Cola and pour it on an aluminum foil. Rub it thoroughly, and it will disappear.
- Use a tack cloth to wipe down your frame, then leave it exposed to air to dry completely
- Use newspaper or masking tape to tape over the areas that you do not wish to paint. Better still, remove the bike parts which will not be painted
- Use a sheet of sandpaper of 220 or higher grit to sand down your frame lightly. This ensures your paint will be able to stick on to the surface.
- After this, use a clean cloth to remove any trace of sanding dust. Set your bike up on a repair stand for ease of painting.
- Start painting the bike quickly. In case you want to customize your bike, use painter’s tape to leave your inscription.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guide as to how long to let the paint set. Add more coats if necessary, after the initial layer has dried completely.
Conclusion
Even without spray paint, it’s possible to paint or touch up your bike frame. More importantly, make sure to adhere to all safety precautions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.