Dirt bike owners often focus on improving their bikes’ performance. However, they should also focus on the appearance of their bikes, as style is what attracts attention. People love Honda dirt bikes because of their outstanding engineering, but the plastics and decals leave something to be desired. People often feel anonymous when riding one of these machines. There’s an easy way to improve the looks of these bikes.
The easiest way to improve a bike’s appearance is to invest in a graphics kit. People often want a Honda dirt bike graphics kit that adds personality to their ride. This graphics kit does much more, however. It also helps protect the owner’s investment in the bike while ensuring it looks good on the track or trail.
The Purpose of Graphics Kits
Dirt bike graphics kits help protect the bike from damage while branding it for the rider. An individual should invest in thick vinyl to ensure the plastics remain protected from scratches and other damage. However, the most significant benefit the rider may get without realizing it is psychological.
Riders feel more confident when their bike reflects who they are. Motorsport psychology research shows that a person’s self-efficacy increases when their ride has a unique visual identity. A person who has customized their ride performs at a higher level, and people will view them as more serious about the sport.
Choosing Graphics
People need to ensure they choose the right graphic for their rides. The bike’s make and model are of importance when selecting these graphics. If the graphics don’t fit properly, they won’t provide the desired benefits.
Riders may choose graphics that provide high contrast to dominate on the track during the day. Many riders choose to add their name to the rear fender and number plates for AMA readability. Grip tape overlays can add texture and help prevent the knees from slipping in muddy conditions.
Graphic Installation
However, the best graphics will look cheap if not installed correctly. Consider the graphics’ elongation and the vinyl’s quality. Air egress channels are beneficial because they help bubbles escape during graphics installation. Carefully prepare the bike before installing the graphics to ensure proper adhesion.
Maintaining the Graphics
The graphics must be adequately maintained to extend their longevity. A properly installed kit can last two seasons when well-maintained. Use low-pressure water and mild soap when washing the bike to prevent the graphics from deteriorating. A ceramic coating should be applied monthly to repel UV rays and mud, and riders should carry a mini heat gun and vinyl off-cuts to races to reseal any loose components.
Standing Out in the Crowd
The right graphics kit will help a rider stand out in the crowd. People should invest in quality graphics to preserve the original plastics and maintain the resale value of their machine. These graphics also influence viewers’ perception of the bike and its rider. A rider who attracts attention on the track in the trail is more likely to garner sponsors that help offset the costs of this popular sport.
A person might hesitate to invest in custom graphics, thinking they are just cosmetic improvements to the bike. The graphics are actually a strategic move on their part. They protect the machine from harm while drawing attention to the rider. The graphics show others that the rider is committed to the sport and all it entails. Furthermore, seconds matter during a race. In fact, a competition may be determined by a tenth of a second. The aesthetic edge the graphics give may be what allows a rider to move up in the standings. Who wouldn’t want that?