MX Graphics Kits: A Guide to Different Types, Benefits and Considerations

 

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Riding on two wheels may seem risky even if done on the street but what about riding one on a beaten path? Dirt biking is exactly that and even more dangerous but if done properly as well as with the correct safety gear you can benefit more from it than you think.

Apart from giving you an adrenaline rush, dirt bike riding is able to improve your core strength as well as overall endurance. All those sudden movements on a tough terrain also help improve your stamina and keep your heart healthy. You also get a day's worth of exercise if not more as well as lots of vitamin D and enough brain stimulation to help you sleep better at night.

Types of Graphics Kits

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Pre-Printed

The most convenient graphics kit of them all is a pre-printed kit meaning one that is ready to be applied straight from the box. These kits are available in a wide variety of colours and designs which makes them one of the most popular MX store graphics kits. 

Custom

A customs kit is one that lets you choose the exact designs and patterns your decals will have. Although the most expensive option, a custom kit is the most versatile because of its unique approach and it's also easy to apply. You get a truly unique look with a custom MX graphics kit.

Radiator Shroud

There are different types of shapes of decals with different types of graphics kits. For instance, a radiator shroud graphics kit has stickers that match the shape of your dirt bike's protective radiator cover. Instead of being just a plain-looking piece of metal or plastic, you get to add a detail that will grab everyone's attention but not in an aggressive way.

Trim

With a trim MX graphics kit, you get to cover both the front and rear fenders with decals. But you also get to do the same with the swingarm, fork tube and even the airbox. Keep in mind that some trim kits don't include airbox decals though.

Full

As you'd expect a full motocross graphics kit includes every single sticker you can possibly get for your model dirt bike. If you go for a full custom graphics kit you're getting the complete decal experience which means you can add certain stickers later on to make it look like you're updating the looks of your dirt bike.

How to Apply MX Graphics

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Prep

1. The most important part before you start applying your dirt bike decals is to prepare the surface for the adhesive correctly. In order for any of the sticklers to adhere properly you need to clean the surface.

2. Cleaning any metal or plastic surface involves going over it with a clean damp cloth and then applying some degreaser. Once everything is dry and free of dirt and oil residue you can apply the decals.

Apply

1. Installing any sticker on your dirt bike no matter its size starts by checking the alignment first. Put the sticker on the surface without removing the backing so that you know it can sit on the part properly. With that confirmed, remove the backing and place the lower side of the sticker first.

2. Apply some pressure on the area in contact with the surface and then start pushing the sticker onto the surface as you go up the rest of it. Do this gradually and smoothly so that you don't get any air bubbles. You can also use a squeegee just avoid doing it quickly.

Finish

Once you install the decals, get a small needle and look for any air bubbles that you may have made during the installation. Even if they are small you should poke them and flatten the area so that the sticker adheres properly. Otherwise, you'll have it peel off sooner than later.

Benefits of MX Graphics

Appearance

The most obvious reason why you'd want to put decals on your dirt bike is to make it look more appealing. While dirt and mud can cover the graphics, your two-wheeler will still look a lot better than it does without the decals. The shine and design of decals change the appearance of a bike tenfold. 

Protection

MX store graphics kits may seem like they're purely there for aesthetics but, in fact, they aren't made just to look good. They can serve as a protective layer, especially for the plastic pieces which can be easily discoloured by UV rays and scratched by flying debris. Stickers prevent this especially if they are thick as they can then absorb the impacts and the sun's radiation quite well.

Maintenance

Motocross graphics also make it a lot easier to keep your bike clean. With an added plastic layer you can easily just hose down your bike and keep most of it clean of dust and dirt. If any stains appear, they'll do so on the stickers and not the actual parts which are more expensive to replace.