How to Remove Motorcycle Graphics

Removing vinyl doesn't have to be a chore.

Removing motorcycle graphics can be challenging. Old, worn-out, sun-baked vinyl graphics take more effort to remove. The type of vinyl, and length of time the graphic has been on the motorcycle, can impact the ease at which vinyl is removed. Intermediate grade vinyl is harder to take off than a higher grade of vinyl. A variety of techniques are available for vinyl removal. Select the choice that works the best for your personal vinyl removal needs.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic scraper
• Heat gun or blow dryer
• Professional vinyl removal fluid
• Professional adhesive remover
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Paint brush or low nap paint roller
• Cloth or towel
• Sign making squeegee
• Razor blade or craft knife (windshield removal only)

Instructions

Dry Removal

1. 

   The dry method of removal prevents any damage to paint.

   Try a slow peel, dry method on newer graphics. Use your fingernail or a sign making plastic scraper, and peel back a corner of the vinyl graphic.

2. 

   Pulling upward on the vinyl could cause tearing.

   Grasp the edge of the graphic and pull the decal away from the motorcycle chassis. Keep your fingers near the vinyl surface as you pull the vinyl slowly away from the motorcycle surface.

3. 

   Remove residue to prevent dirt from sticking to the glue.

   Remove residue with isopropyl alcohol or a professional vinyl adhesive remover. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the bottle for more information.

Heat Method

1. 

   Use caution when removing vinyl graphics with heat.

   Remove the motorcycle decal with a blow dryer or heat gun set at a low temperature. Wear gloves, protecting your hands from the warmed vinyl. Select a low heat setting, or the paint on the motorcycle may bubble and peel.

2. 

   When the glue liquifies, separation becomes easier.

   Warm the vinyl until you can see the vinyl separating from the motorcycle. Pull the motorcycle graphic away from the surface slowly.

3. 

   Always use caution when using heat.

   Reheat as needed and continue pulling until the graphic is removed. Remove any excess adhesive with a vinyl glue removal solution.

Combination Method

1. 

   Test any removal fluid before applying.

   Test any vinyl removal fluid in an area on the motorcycle that is not visible, ensuring the paint will not be damaged.

2. 

   Do not allow the fluid to run onto the bike.

   Wipe the motorcycle graphic with a towel, removing any moisture on the decal. Apply a small amount of vinyl remover solution, covering only the motorcycle graphic.

3. 

   Flammable materials can ignite if the temperature is too hot.

   Wipe a petroleum-free, nonflammable vinyl removal solution onto the motorcycle graphic using a sponge, foam brush, a fine grain paint roller or paper towel. Allow the solution to rest for 1 to 5 minutes.

4. 

   Don't fry your paint job with excess heat.

   Warm the decal with a heat gun or blow dryer. When the vinyl softens, grasp the edge and pull the vinyl at a 35-degree angle.

5. 

   Chemical removers can cause skin irritations.

   Remove any left-over glue residue with an adhesive remover. Wash off any fluid that gets on your hands.

Adhesive Remover

1. 

   Using adhesive remover prevents dirt build-up later.

   Spray on adhesive remover on any remaining glue, or soak a cloth or rag with professional adhesive remover.

2. 

   Adhesive removal must have time to penetrate the pores in the vinyl.

   Saturate the area. Wait approximately one minute.

3. 

   Remove decals with a soft brush.

   Start at the bottom and work your way to the top and then scrape with a plastic scraper, or wipe off with a clean towel.

Windshield Graphics

1. 

   Sharp objects can cause nicks and scratches in the paint.

   Do not use a craft knife or a razor blade on windshield graphics, unless the vinyl graphic is on the windshield.

2. 

   Remove large graphics in sections, by carefully cutting in strips.

   Slide the blade of a 3-inch razor under the motorcycle graphic, loosening the vinyl.

3. Use the slow peel method for further removal.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove vinyl graphics only when the temperature is above 55 degrees F.

• Always clean the motorcycle with soap and water before applying replacement graphics. Air dry. Clean with isopropyl alcohol. If the windshield has a window film, using a razor or craft knife could slice the film.

• Never use an abrasive cleaner when removing vinyl graphics. Motorcycle paint can be damaged by incorrect methods of removal.

References

• Sign Industry Magazine: Stripping Vinyl Graphics Made Easy
• Crystaltek.com: Vinyl-Off: How to Apply Vinyl Off
• Crystaltek.com: How to Use Adhesive-Off

Resources

• Sign Industry Magazine: Factors Impacting Vinyl Graphics Removal