Do Ceramic Coatings Work for Motorcycles?
When you are riding through scenic Missouri - whether on a country road or cruising the highway - your motorcycle's paint is at risk. Ceramic coatings provide a tough, permanent, diamond-shine finish that protects your paint against bugs, bird droppings, and exhaust stains.
For thousands of bikers, protecting the longevity of the motorcycle is just as important as their own personal safety. That's why a record number of bike owners have turned to ceramic coatings - a product that offers unmatched paint and surface protection. However, there is still a lot of confusion and misinformation about what a ceramic coating does. What is the truth about ceramic coatings? What are their benefits? What is the best option for your vehicle? In this blog, we will explain the process of ceramic coatings and provide in-depth information about how the coating works.
WHAT IS A CERAMIC COATING?
A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied by hand to the various surfaces of your motorcycle (for example paint, leather, chrome, etc.). The coating chemically bonds with the bike's paint, creating a semi-permanent layer of protection.
In short, a ceramic coating is a superior wax alternative since it does not degrade over the span of a few weeks. Ceramic coatings create a semi-permanent (or permanent) bond with your bike - meaning that it does not wash away and does not require repeated application every couple of months. From fairings and forks to seats and exhaust pipes, the coating creates a hard layer of protection. Here's how:
WHAT DOES A CERAMIC COATING DO?
The cut and dry of a ceramic coating is that it adds an additional layer of protection to your motorcycle and helps keep it looking brand new with minimal maintenance. That means your bike will be easier to clean and stay cleaner longer! Here are the main benefits of a ceramic coating:
PROTECTION FROM UV DAMAGE AND OXIDATION
When a motorcycle is exposed to the sun for extended periods of time, the paint will begin to oxidize. This results in dull and faded paint that can only be brought back to life with a polish. Ceramic coatings protect the paint from UV rays thus reducing the amount of oxidation.
PROTECTION FROM CHEMICAL STAINS AND ETCHING
Another danger your bike faces is chemical staining from naturally acidic contaminants (for example bird droppings and bug splatter). Since the ceramic coating creates a chemically resistant surface, it can keep these contaminants from eating away your bike's paint. The result is that your bike will be more resistant to this etching, provided that the contaminant is removed in a timely manner.
NOTE: Bird droppings and bug splatter can etch into the ceramic coating. However, with minimal effort, these problem areas can be washed away to prevent damage to the coating.
That segues us into the next main benefit of a ceramic coating!
EASE OF CLEANING
One of the most significant features of a ceramic coating is that it is hydrophobic. Which is really just a fancy, technical way of saying that it repels water and dirt. Just like every other surface, your bike's paint has pores. The ceramic coating chemically bonds to the paint and fills these pores, making a completely smooth surface that water and debris can't stick to. This means that dirt and grime will have a more difficult time bonding to your bike's paint. When you wash your bike, the contaminants can be removed with less effort! That also means no more countless hours spent polishing your chrome!
ENHANCED SHINE
If you want your bike to really POP and stand out from the others, you definitely want a ceramic coating. A professional-grade ceramic coating (like the ones we use here at Extensive Detailing) will enhance the gloss of your bike, adding depth and clarity to your paint.
HOW CERAMIC COATINGS ARE DIFFERENT FOR MOTORCYCLE OWNERS
While ceramic coatings can be applied to any mode of transportation, motorcycles offer their own unique opportunities.
First of all, many bike owners keep their rides parked outdoors, sometimes in unsheltered areas. A ceramic coating offers protection from fading paint due to sun exposure, water spots, and most light scratches.
Professional-grade ceramic coatings are also safe to use on high-temp surfaces. So things like exhaust pipes, brake calipers, hubs, and exposed engine components can all be coated and protected.
Helmets and other various protective gear are fair game, as well. There is growing interest within the bike community in ceramic coating visors and video recording equipment. Rain and mist bead up and roll away, and scratches on transparent cases are reduced.
MOTORCYCLE CERAMIC COATING IN MID-MISSOURI
If you are interested in preserving the look and quality of your motorcycle, you can request a quote in about 30 seconds! We will answer any questions you may have about ceramic coatings. We did not build our business on extravagant promises or pushing a product on you. We are here to help you make the right decision for your needs. We would love to discuss your specific situation and set up a plan for maintaining your vehicle's beautiful shine.
