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How to Paint a Mountain Bike Frame

How to Paint a Mountain Bike Frame
One of the cheapest ways to get a good mountain bike is to buy a used frame and restore it, and that often means getting rid of rusty spots and putting on a new coat of paint. Painting a mountain bike frame is a simple process, and at the end you will have a frame that looks just as if it were newly made and straight from the factory.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Acetone-based paint remover
  • Brush
  • Plastic scraper
  • Bucket
  • Car wash detergent
  • Old rags
  • Power hand sander
  • Sandpaper (rough, medium and fine grits)
  • Spray can of bike primer
  • Spray cans of bike paint
Step 1
Strip the bike frame of all secondary parts. That means the wheels, seat, handlebars, chain, gear wheels and everything else.
Step 2
Apply a layer of acetone-based paint remover to the bike frame with a brush. Allow several minutes for the paint remover to take full effect, and then scrape the paint off with a plastic scraper.
Step 3
Wash and dry the bike frame with soapy water and old rags.
Step 4
Sand rusty, scratched or gouged areas with a hand power sander. Use rough-grit sandpaper to remove the rust or damage from the surface, and then sand with first medium-grit and then fine-grit paper to achieve a smooth finish.
Step 5
Spray on a thick, even layer of primer. Wait 10 to 30 minutes for it to dry before proceeding with the paint.
Step 6
Spray on three to four light but even layers of paint. Wait 10 to 30 minutes for the paint to dry between each layer. Thin any areas that are forming globules by brushing on some paint thinner.
Step 7
Allow the bike frame to completely dry and harden overnight before trying to handle or reassemble it.

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

Write for Trails.com

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