Gravel Endurance

Protecting your gravel bike frame from damage is essential, especially when riding over rough terrain. Frame protection preserves the bike’s aesthetics. It also maintains its structural integrity.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to frame protection options for gravel bikes, along with recommended products from leading manufacturers. Frame protection comes in many colours – from clear to fluorescent pink. If you have an urge to pimp your ride, have a look at the options below.

Why Frame Protection Matters

Gravel biking exposes your bike to dirt, debris, and impacts from rocks and branches. These factors can lead to scratches, chips, and potential frame damage. Areas most prone to wear include the downtube, chainstays, seatstays, and forks. Applying frame protection minimizes damage. It preserves your bike’s resale value. It also ensures the longevity of components like the paint and carbon fibre.

Popular Frame Protection Options

1. RideWrap – Complete Frame Protection RideWrap offers full protection kits designed to cover the entire frame of your gravel bike. Their kits are made from high-quality polyurethane film. They offer tailored protection for different parts of the frame. This ensures a near-invisible shield against abrasions and impacts. RideWrap provides a variety of options. You can choose from full kits to partial coverage. This makes RideWrap a premium choice for riders who want comprehensive protection. Prices for full kits are typically around £75-£100, depending on the model and bike size.
   • Website: RideWrap
2. All Mountain Style (AMS) Honeycomb Frame Guard AMS offers the Gravel/Road Frame Guard Total. This is an 18-part system. It is designed specifically for gravel and road bikes. It uses a micro-honeycomb PVC material that is lightweight yet provides robust protection against impacts, scratches, and cable rub. The clear design ensures that your bike’s aesthetics remain intact while offering comprehensive coverage. The full kit costs around £50-£60.
   AMS offers stylish options. These include colored or patterned designs. They add a personal touch to your bike’s look.
   • Buy on Amazon here
   • Cost: £50-£60 for a full kit
3. Lizard Skins Frame Protector Lizard Skins offers a more affordable option with their Frame Protection Kits. These kits include pre-cut patches and pieces for key areas like the downtube, chainstays, and seatstays. Lizard Skins protectors are made from a thicker polyurethane material. They are ideal for riders looking for basic protection at a lower cost. However, they don’t offer complete frame coverage. This makes them better suited for riders who only need protection in high-wear areas. The cost ranges from £12 to £30 depending on the size of the kit.
   • Buy on Amazon here
4. InvisiFRAME – Full Bike Wraps InvisiFRAME provides tailored wraps for various bike models. They offer near-complete coverage using a transparent, self-healing film. These kits are custom-cut for each frame, ensuring an exact fit. InvisiFRAME kits are highly praised for their durability. They have a stealthy application. This makes them a top choice for those looking to protect carbon or high-end alloy frames. Their gravel bike kits generally cost around £80-£120, depending on the size and complexity of the frame.
   • Website: InvisiFRAME
   • Cost: £80-£120
5. Helicopter Tape (DIY) This is great for riders on a budget. It also suits those who prefer a DIY approach. Helicopter Tape (also known as 3M Scotchgard or ISC Racers Tape) is a cost-effective option. This polyurethane film was originally developed to protect helicopter blades from debris. You can apply it to vulnerable areas of your bike frame. It requires cutting to fit. You must apply it precisely to avoid bubbles. However, it is durable and can be used on multiple bikes. A roll of tape costs around £15-£25, making it an economical choice for DIY enthusiasts.
   • Website: Available at various retailers such as Amazon and eBay
   • Cost: £15-£25

Areas to Protect on a Gravel Bike

When applying frame protection, focus on the following areas:

• Downtube: Often the first point of impact for rocks and debris kicked up by the front wheel.
• Chainstays: Prone to chain slap and dirt buildup from the rear wheel.
• Seatstays: Vulnerable to scratches from debris and bag straps.
• Forks: Regularly exposed to dirt, mud, and stones, particularly in wet conditions.
• Head Tube: Prevents wear from cables rubbing against the frame.
• Bottom Bracket Area: Can get hit by rocks or scraped by debris when riding over rough terrain.

Installation Tips

Installing frame protection can be a bit tricky. This is especially true when applying larger kits. It is also tricky when working with curvier parts of the frame. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth installation:

• Clean the Frame Thoroughly: Make sure the frame is completely clean and dry before applying the protective film. Any dirt or grease left on the surface can cause bubbles or reduce the adhesive strength.
• Use Heat for Flexibility: Applying a little heat using a hairdryer or heat gun can make the film more flexible. This allows it to better conform to curves and tricky areas.
• Wet Application: Some tapes, such as helicopter tape, are easier to apply when wet. Use a mixture of water and a small amount of soap. This helps to eliminate bubbles. It also allows you to reposition the tape before it fully adheres.
• Take Your Time: Rushing the process can lead to bubbles or misaligned pieces. Patience is key when applying frame protection.

Conclusion

Gravel biking can be tough on your bike. However, with the right frame protection, you can extend the life of your frame and components. This will keep your bike looking pristine. You can choose a full coverage solution like RideWrap or InvisiFRAME. Alternatively, you can opt for a budget-friendly DIY option like helicopter tape. There’s a solution out there to fit your needs and budget. Prioritizing frame protection will save you money on future repairs. It will also ensure that your gravel bike remains in peak condition for your next adventure.

What’s your opinion on frame protection?

Is it worth it? Let us know in the comments below.

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