I have a new HD TLE Sidecar and would like to protect the paint and finish as long as possible. I see that Harley makes a "Bra" for the faring and fron fender, but I've not seen anything even generic for a sidecar. I can think of a lot of creative drawings that you could put on the front of the tub, and I'm surprised that this hasn't been done by someone.
If I've missed something, let me know. I'm thinking of designing something on my own at this point.
Steve
2008 HD Ultra w/Sidecar
2006 XL1200C
The potential problem with bras is they sometimes create wear marks where they fasten on. Also, some need to be removed to wash the bike, or after being in the rain. On out GoldWIng, I had someone apply a clear protective film, both on the front paint sections of the bike and sidecar, as well as the mirrors, lights etc. (The guy who did it had Axl Rose's Ford GT in his garage, applying the same stuff to it when I took the Wing there.)I had it applied just before we left for ALaska last summer. It seemed pretty expensive when I had it done, but 15,000 miles later the paint is still perfect (including the AK trip). I understand it is very difficult to instal correctly (kinda like window tint), but the result is well worth it, imho. Plus, you have to really look close to even tell it is there.
The factory finished cars have a rather thick urethane clear coat applied that resists normal chafing and pitting.
I've always found that "Bras" will accumulate dust or abrasive material then will flap or shimmy enough to cause dull spots where they have rubbed and effectively sanded the paint finish.
Lonnie
This is all great information. The issue would be one of making sure the material resting on the surface isn't going to aggrivate the problem, and a clear coat sounds like a good idea, if it's an issue that I decide that I'm really concerned about.
I'm still new to this and just looking at options and issues as they come up in my mind. Thanks.
How about "Rino-Coat" truck bed liner. It looks like glossy undercoating. Not very sexy, but might out last the bike.
Originally written by skaeser on 2/6/2008 1:26 PM I see that Harley makes a "Bra" for the faring and fron fender, but I've not seen anything even generic for a sidecar. I can think of a lot of creative drawings that you could put on the front of the tub, and I'm surprised that this hasn't been done by someone.
I would totally advise you against a bra. Having had numerous Corvettes over the years and seeing what bras do the their paint and seeing all the damage one can do..you'll never catch me running one. 3M makes some clear plastic sheeting that you can put over paint to protect it. Go to any professional glass shop and they should have it.
Harley puts this tape under several different seats and such on their bikes. I bought a sheet of it to put on the left side of my sidehack to keep me from scratching it when I throw my right leg over the bike. Works great.
o~o
Yeah as mentioned above, I've found that bike bras are a waste of time. They will wear the paint away due to wind and vibration. Best to just keep the sidecar and bike clean and enjoy the scenery.
I tend to agree with the general assessment, but wonder if there's a material tht one could use as a liner that would protect the finish and could be used intermittantly while you're travelling on the highway. I guess I'm more concerned about stones being thrown up and putting nicks in the finish, and perhaps I'm just being paranoid.
I really think that "bras" don't look good in general, and never considered one for my cars. I think it's significant that no one has put one out for a sidecar, so that should probably tell me something.
