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Installation - MXProdecals

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Essential Preparation

  • Cleanliness is Crucial: Remove all dirt, oil, and grease. Use cleaner, alcohol, or contact cleaner on all plastics, even new ones, to ensure maximum adhesion.
  • Optimal Temperature: Work in a warm, dry area. If it is cold, use a heat gun to warm the plastics, as this helps the vinyl conform better.

Installation Techniques

  • The Dry Method (Recommended): Peel only a small portion of the backing, align the graphic (starting with bolt holes or edges), and gradually press it down, peeling the backing away as you go.
  • Working from the Middle: To avoid wrinkles and bubbles, apply the center of the decal first, then work towards the edges.
  • Heat Application: Use a heat gun (or hairdryer) on low to make the vinyl pliable. This is necessary for curves and, upon completion, to help the glue fully bond.
  • Managing Bubbles: If bubbles appear, lift the vinyl carefully and reapply. For stubborn, small bubbles, use a pin to pop them.
  • Handling Curves: For complex, curved plastics, apply heat to stretch and form the vinyl.
  • Finalizing: Once all pieces are installed, go over the entire bike with a heat gun, pressing down edges and creases.

Post-Installation

  • Cure Time: Let the bike sit for at least 24 hours before riding, which allows the adhesive to fully cure and ensures the graphics do not peel off.
  • Trim if Necessary: If graphics overlap on bolt holes or vents, carefully trim them with a hobby knife.

Tools & Supplies

  • Graphic kit (obviously)
  • Heat gun or hair dryer
  • Isopropyl alcohol or contact cleaner
  • Clean rags / paper towels
  • Plastic squeegee
  • Razor blade or sharp knife (for trimming if needed)
  • Nitrile gloves (optional, helps avoid fingerprints)

Step-by-Step Installation

Clean Like Your Life Depends on It

This step is critical.

  1. Wash plastics with soap and water
  2. Dry completely
  3. Wipe down with isopropyl alcohol to remove:
    • Dirt
    • Grease
    • Silicone spray residue (huge problem if ignored)

🚫 Do not touch cleaned surfaces with bare fingers afterward.

Test Fit Before Peeling

  • Hold each graphic over the plastic
  • Check alignment, edges, holes, and curves
  • Mentally note where it needs to land

This avoids the “oh no” moment halfway through sticking.

Apply the Graphics (Slow & Controlled)

  1. Peel back a small portion of the backing
  2. Line up one edge or reference point
  3. Press that section down
  4. Slowly peel the backing while smoothing outward

Use:

  • Your thumb
  • A squeegee
  • A credit card wrapped in a soft cloth

Work from center → outward to push air bubbles away.

Use Heat for Curves & Edges

This is the secret sauce

  • Warm the graphic and the plastic slightly
  • Don’t overheat (warm, not melting)
  • Stretch gently over curves and corners
  • Press firmly as it cools

Heat activates the adhesive and helps prevent peeling later.

Pop Air Bubbles (If Needed)

  • Small bubbles usually disappear after a day
  • For stubborn ones:
    • Use a pin or razor tip

Press air toward the hole

Let Them Cure

For best results:

  • Wait 24 hours before riding
  • Keep the bike out of the cold or pressure washing
  • Heat + time = long-lasting graphics
  • Heat all edges

Pro Tips

  • Warm room = easier install
  • Older plastics? Lightly heat them first to soften
  • If you mess up, heat it and peel slowly—don’t yank
  • Thicker kits (like motocross-grade) are more forgiving
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