Want to Add Graphics to Your Quad? Here’s How
You’ve spent some money on some killer graphics and can’t wait to personalize your ATV. But now what?
Vinyl graphics can add a personal touch, branding, or interest to your ATV, but hold on to your contact paper. There are some steps to take to make sure bubbles, peeling, or other mishaps prevent your ride from looking its best.
We talked to the professionals to keep you looking sharp out there in the dirt.
At Vito’s, we supply aftermarket products for Banshee , Blaster , Raptor , and YFZ450 , but you’ll want to find the proper outfitter to adorn your quad with quality vinyl. Someone who knows as much about transfer graphics as we do about top-quality, high-performance ATV parts!
Vinyl Decal Transfers for ATVs: Details, Details
A transfer decal is a sticker made of individually cut vinyl with no background material. A layer of transfer tape is placed over the graphic to adhere it to the intended surface.
There are typically two types of vinyl material options for transfer decals: calendared or cast.
Also referred to as short-term, economy, or intermediate films, calendared vinyl lasts 3-6 years and is not conformable and less durable than cast vinyl.
Calendared vinyl facts:
Material is solid then goes through a series of rollers to flatten
Not as conformable as cast
Best for flat, simple surfaces
2.5-4 mils thick
Cast vinyl is a higher performance material that has up to an 8-year outdoor durability lifespan when properly applied and maintained.
Cast vinyl facts:
Material is liquid then goes into a mold (or cast)
Stretchy and moderately conformable
Better for complex and curved surfaces
About 2 mils thick
Depending on how long the transfer graphic will be placed on its intended surface and what vinyl graphic material you choose will determine if residue will be left behind.
Three-step Adherence for Sharp Results
Got your graphics ordered and ready to add life to your quad? Here are the steps to ensure attractive and professional results.
You will need: contact cleaner, razor, scissors, adhesive spray and squeegee, paper towels or rags, heat gun or blow dryer
Step 1: Make sure surface is clean and smooth
- Remove stickers and use a contact cleaner (such as rubbing alcohol or PJ1 ) to get any sticky residue
- You can use a razor blade on plastic to scrape away scratches, but it’s not necessary
- Make sure surface is as smooth and clean as possible
Step 2: Placing the graphic
- Trim any contact paper from edge of graphic
- On flat, noncurved surfaces, take off backing and use an adhesive spray on the surface and sticker to allow adjustments
- On complex or curved surfaces, peal half the contact paper off the back of graphic and cut off
- Trim about an inch off the cut piece horizontally and replace, so that there’s a horizontal gap of adhesive showing
- Place graphic and adhere sticky strip in the center when it’s lined up
- Take one side off and carefully lay vinyl from the middle out, smoothing any bubbles as you go, and repeat on second side
Step 3: Final steps
- If using adhesive spray, scrape squeegee across graphic multiple times to squeeze out fluid and wipe dry
- Use a heat gun or blow dryer to set the graphic, focusing on the edges
- Smooth any bumps as you go
Getting You Out There with Advice from Branding Experts
The rules of the road when it comes to vinyl type and adherence depend on preferences.
Often the rough, adventurous riding of quads means longevity may not be a concern. However, curvy surfaces or a desire to replace older graphics more often with fresh new decals may mean a higher quality, longer-lasting material is desirable for less residue and more conformity.
Some advice the experts would like you to know:
- Get a good kit that fits make and model of quad expertly, such as this kit for Banshee 350 - prices are usually around $200
- Wash the surface well but never use glass cleaner or sprays with ammonia because it will break down adhesive quickly
- Applying graphics wet (with adhesive spray) works great but some fluid may remain and cause bubbling
- Cast vinyl with an over laminate can prevent curling and provide better graphic stability
- Choosing a vinyl with air release channels in the adhesive will prevent bubbles during installation
- Have fun and get creative - there are so many customization options that can truly personalize your ATV and make your ride stand out
We care about the health and beauty of your quad and are here not only to keep you in action but looking sharp while at it. With a little help from the experts, there’s no reason not to achieve both.
POWER UP with Vito's
Since 1998, Vito’s Performance has been supplying the world with top-quality and hard-to-find ATV parts for builders and enthusiasts alike. While we specialize in the Yamaha Banshee and the Yamaha Blaster, we also carry parts for all Yamaha Raptors, as well as the Yamaha Warrior, Honda 300ex and 400ex, and the Honda TRX450r. For assistance with all performance products, contact Vito’s Performance or call (248) 969-9168.