Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film: Keeping Motorcycle Graphics Looking New Longer
When I first began installing custom motorcycle graphics, I used to focus most of my time and effort on the vinyl graphics alone.
Colors, designs, materials… I obsessed over every detail so that each motorcycle wrap turned out just right.
What I didn’t understand at the time was that your printed graphic is only half of your equation for success.
I soon noticed that after just a few months of riding, some of my earliest motorcycle wraps began to show wear and tear. Fine scratches started to appear on the surface. Colors began to fade. Areas that were consistently exposed to sunlight faded much quicker than the rest.
That’s when I discovered Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film.
These days I give cold lamination film just as much attention as the printable vinyl that goes underneath.
So what exactly is motorcycle Cold Lamination Film?
Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film is a clear protective film applied over printed motorcycle graphics and wraps.
Instead of applying the laminate using heat (like hot laminates), cold laminating film uses pressure-sensitive adhesive to apply directly to the printed surface.
Once applied, the laminate provides a protective layer that helps guard against:
- Scratches
- UV Rays
- Road Grime
- Water & Dirt
- Wear and Tear
Think of it like sunscreen for your motorcycle graphics.
Why Motorcycle Graphics Need Cold Lamination Film
Motorcycles spend a lot of time out in the harsh outdoor elements.
Unlike indoor signs or graphics wraps, your motorcycle graphics will be exposed to direct sunlight, rain, dust, flying rocks, fuel spills, and frequent washing.
If you leave your printed graphics unprotected, even high-quality printable vinyl will start to show wear.
This was one of my biggest frustrations. I had put so much time into creating great designs, only to watch them look dull after one season of riding.
I quickly realized that by adding motorcycle Cold Lamination Film to my wraps, I could dramatically improve their lifespan.
Scratch Resistance
Many people don’t realize how many factors can contribute to scratches on a motorcycle graphic.
Between backpacks, jackets, gloves, riding gear… there are numerous ways for a rider to accidentally scratch their graphics.
Even things like microfiber towels and wash brushes can cause fine surface scratches over time.
Motorcycle cold lamination film helps prevent these fine scratches from reaching the printed graphic.
Better UV Rays Protection
Sunlight can be incredibly damaging to printed graphics.
Color fading occurs over time as UV rays break down the dye used to create your print.
By adding a layer of Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film, you can reduce the amount of UV damage your graphics will incur.
For motorcycles that spend a lot of time parked in the sun, this can make a huge difference in the longevity of your graphics. Colors will stay more vibrant for longer and your graphics will maintain their “new” look.
Improved Appearance
Motorcycle Cold Lamination film doesn’t just provide protection, it can also improve the overall appearance of your wrap.
Depending on the type of finish you choose, you can actually change the way your colors look.
Gloss finishes give your graphics a rich and vibrant look. Matte finishes give graphics a sleek look with less glare. There are even textured laminates that can give your graphics a unique visual and feel.
Instead of hiding behind your graphics, the laminate becomes part of the design.
Easier Maintenance
I have also found that laminated motorcycle graphics are much easier to keep clean.
Dust, dirt, and water spots come off so much easier on a laminated surface.
Because you know the laminate is providing a strong layer of protection, washing your motorcycle doesn’t have to be stressful.
You don’t have to worry about your gloves scratching the graphics when giving it a good cleaning.
If you ride your motorcycle long distances or in harsh conditions, this is a HUGE benefit.
Cold Lamination Film Isn’t Created Equal
As I installed graphics using cold lamination film from different manufacturers, I quickly learned that some products were clearly superior to others.
Cheap laminates tended to have issues such as:
- Yellowing
- Lack of Transparency
- Poor Adhesion
- Shrinking
- Edge-lifting
- Uneven Finishes
A quality Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film should never lose transparency or change the way your colors look.
It should stick to your graphics tightly and remain stable throughout the lifetime of the wrap.
Applications for Motorcycle Cold Lamination Film
Cold lamination film can be applied to almost any type of motorcycle graphic.
Popular uses include full motorcycle wraps, fuel tank graphics, plastic fairing decals, racing graphics, custom decals, sponsor logos, and even promotional motorcycle branding.
Cold lamination helps keep your design looking newer longer – regardless of the size of your project.
Should you use Cold Lamination Film On Motorcycle Graphics?
Yes! In my opinion cold lamination film is well worth it.
The extra cost of applying a laminate to your graphics is minimal when you consider the time and expense that goes into designing, printing, and installing custom motorcycle graphics.
If you don’t protect your graphics they will eventually wear out. Even the highest quality print can fade or become scratched if left unprotected.
By spending a little more on a quality motorcycle Cold Lamination Film you can keep your graphics looking cleaner and brighter for years to come.
End
If you plan on investing money into custom motorcycle graphics, don’t forget about motorcycle Cold Lamination Film.
It will protect your graphics from scratches, weather damage, UV rays, and daily abrasions. Not only that but it will help keep your motorcycle wrap looking new for years to come!
Cold lamination film is great for motorcycle owners, installers, and print shops that produce motorcycle graphics.
Don’t settle for cheap protection for your graphic designs. Give your motorcycle wraps the protection they deserve with a great Cold Lamination Film.
