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Protective layer on Carbon Fiber parts
Hi all,
I was hoping for a bit of advice. I've got my nice new Carbon Fibre frame, but the paint is getting rubbed off in a few places from brake/shifter cables near the headset, as well as from my bike rack. The bike rack actually chipped the paint some, which I'm not happy about at all!
I'm hoping someone may have an idea of how to protect the frame from this type of wear? I was thinking a thin plastic shield would work really well, along the lines of what I've already got on the bottom of the down-tube.
I've heard/read that the clear plastic layer on the bottom of the down-tube is to help protect against cracking due to rocks being flung up into the frame. I figure something like that would also work really well to prevent the paint being rubbed off due to cable friction and my bike rack. I've no idea where to find something like that though...
Cheers!
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Personally, when I put a carbon frame on the bike rack I wrap a rag around it first which seems to work so far.
The clear protective plastic can be had from most motorcycle stores. I bought some years ago ($15 for 3 huge sheets from that place on Epping Road in Lane Cove) and still haven't even used the first sheet yet after several builds.
Thanks Rob. My first couple times putting it on the rack I wrapped it with a cloth, but it was such a hassle that I didn't keep up with it.
I'll check out my local motorbike shop and see what they've got.
Definitely go the clear frame protectors. I have them on anywhere a cable/hose would rub. You can buy sheets of different shapes at any bike shop.
Here is a link to one company they makes them
http://www.frameskin.com/
I should add that as much as you try it's impossible to keep it like new. I seem to get new scratches every ride I do
Why not try Frameskin? Everything I hear about them is great. There is even an article in the recent AMB (Aust Mountain Bike) mag detailing how to apply it.
I have some at home but haven't put it on yet as I'm lazy and tend to replace bikes often so don't bother with protection but have it on my list of 'when I get time ...'
Oh, and another reason - THEY SPONSOR SOME OF OUR EVENTS!
Actually, now I'm on a roll I'll start a new thread re supporting those who sponsor our events rather than taking over this thread.
And I don't know anyone related to Frameskin!
I ordered my frameskin last night