How difficult would it be to paint my own motorcycle?

Question

I am in the market for a good used bike. I cant get a sport bike (because of insurance) so have to go with something more like a cruiser. Problem is, i dont like how most cruisers look (with the exception of some harleys). dont get me wrong, they are nice for other people, but im a smaller guy and dont like having a huge tank between my legs, it just makes it feel awkward for driving. if i find a harley thats in my price range, but is a little bit older of a body style (probebaly somewhere in the 90s) how hard would it be for me to 'fix it up' the way i like it? could i find a different, aftermarket tank to put on? we have a spray gun and compresser etc. for painting, but ive never used it. could i learn and use it on my bike? what would be a good way to practice? any guesses on how much paint costs and wher eyou can buy it from? if you know of any sites that give tips and demonstrate painting, thatd be a big help. i want to get hands on with a project. thanks a lot for any help

Answer 1

ppg makes good paint. get an in line dryer deal so you don't get fish eyes from water. spend a long time prepping your goods. sand the c**p out if it, use solvent and good primer. sand in between coats of clear. the more coats the shinier it will be. and take everything off your bike, it is hard to paint it on the bike. house of kolor has awe inspiring paints for a little extra money. people would say WOW. and for the little bit you need to paint it would not be that much. Oh only use sandpaper for automotive use.

Answer 2

would take a lot of time. Steel wool, primer, finisher, paint, wouldnt be to expensive to do it your self but you have a lot of room for errors if not done properly.

Answer 3

Start by practicing on an old fender

Don't assume that some old spray gun that's been hanging around is good enough to do finish paint job with. (some only good for primer or house paint)

There are books @ bookstore for this - easier to use than bunch of printouts

costs vary depending on how good the paint is

Best demonstration is knowledgeable friend who can walk U through the process and watch U spray.

got a utube, no recomendation-www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZ...

Answer 4

Not hard at all. Now making it look good takes years of practice and skill.