With what type of paint should I paint my bike with?

Question

I'm thinking of painting my bike gold, but I'm not sure whether or not the paint will scrap off or somehow fall off in a matter of weeks. What type of paint(s) will stay on?

Answer 1

I've tried various paints, even sanding down to metal, priming and painting and it always scratched very easily.  I've had friends get things powdercoasted by professionals and it's held up well.

Answer 2

air brush paint!

Answer 3

Well, if you paint your bike without preparing it correctly it WILL scrape off an a matter of weeks. On top of that it'll look pretty bad.

Here is a quick (sort of) process to follow:

1) After completely disassembling the bike have it sandblasted to remove ALL the finish, then sand with 320 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper (white in color). Hang it somewhere you can get to all surfaces;

2) Spray it as soon as possible with grey sandable lacquer primer. Duplicolor paint is all lacquer, I think and available at most auto parts stores. Apply at least 3-6 coats, 1/2 hour apart. Don't worry about light runs for now.

3) Wait at least 48 hours. Sand the primer using 220 grit aluminum oxide paper (white in color) until the surface is smooth. It shouldn't take much unless you have a lot of runs.

4) Using a tack rag, lightly go over the entire frame (don't rub!) to remove the sanding dust.

5) Apply several light coats (6 or 7 perhaps) of the color of your choice. Follow the directions on the can. Again, use LACQUER, the same brand that you used for primer. Apply coats 1/2 hour apart. Be sure you cover every part and do NOT get runs. If you get runs you are applying it too heavily.

6) Apply the LACQUER clear cost, perhaps 3 to 6 coats.

7) Let the frame alone- this means DO NOT TOUCH- until you can't smell the paint anymore when you get up close and take a big whiff. If you can smell it, it ain't dry!

8) Do NOT wax or wash for at least 10 days.

OR, if you think this is too much hassle (it is!), disassemble the bike and take it to a local auto body shop. They'll usually sandblast and paint for you for around $50-80. You'll spend at least this much doing it yourself anyway.