Ceramic coatings have become popular among car and bike enthusiasts in the UK, rightfully so. This wonder of modern science provides impressive protection for your bike’s exhaust system while enhancing its overall aesthetic. Ceramic coatings offer a cost-effective solution for extending the life span and performance of sport bike exhausts. In this guide, we will talk about the application of ceramic coatings, more particularly, Cerakote, on sport bike exhausts.
Understanding Ceramic Coatings
Before diving into the technical aspects of the application process, it’s essential to understand what ceramic coatings are. These are chemical polymers that are applied directly onto your bike’s exhaust to form a protective layer. This coating is designed to withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for exhaust systems which are subjected to extreme heat during operation.
Ceramic coatings such as Cerakote are durable and resistant to damage from UV rays, weather, and various other factors. They also add an aesthetic appeal with their glossy finish, available in a range of colours, with black being a popular choice.
Why Choose Cerakote?
Cerakote is a high-performance, heat-resistant ceramic coating that significantly outperforms other coatings in the market. It’s designed to resist corrosion, chemicals, and heat, making it an excellent choice for exhaust systems. Formulated with state-of-the-art technology, Cerakote offers unmatched durability.
The Cerakote coating is available in an aerosol spray bottle, which makes the application process relatively simple. With proper preparation, you can apply Cerakote at home, saving costs on professional services.
Prepping for the Application
Before you get to spray the Cerakote, you need to prepare the exhaust system of your sports bike. Thorough preparation will enhance the adhesion of the coating, ensuring it lasts longer.
First, remove the exhaust system from your bike. Clean it well using a degreaser to remove any traces of oil, grime, or dirt. Once cleaned, sand the exhaust surface until it looks matte. This will create a rough texture, promoting better adhesion of the ceramic coating. Make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses during this process.
Applying the Cerakote Ceramic Coating
After prepping the exhaust, it’s time to apply the coating. Shake the Cerakote bottle well before use. Spray the coating evenly on the exhaust system, maintaining a distance of about 20-30cm. It’s essential to ensure that the coating doesn’t run or drip for optimal results.
Make sure you apply the coating in a ventilated area with good lighting so you can see any missed spots. It’s recommended to apply two coats for the best protection. Let the first coat dry for about 20 minutes before applying the second coat.
Curing the Coated Exhaust
Once the exhaust system is coated with Cerakote, it needs to be cured. This process involves exposing the coated exhaust to high heat to harden the coating. It’s a crucial step because it determines the coating’s resistance to heat and other elements.
Depending on the product you’re using, the curing process might vary. Generally, it involves baking the coated exhaust in an oven at a specific temperature for a given period. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this process.
In summary, applying a ceramic coating like Cerakote to your sport bike exhaust not only enhances its look but also increases its performance and lifespan. It’s a cost-effective measure that pays off in the long run. And with this guide, you can do it yourself. However, if you’re unsure or not comfortable, consider hiring a professional to get the job done.
Cerakote Ceramic Coating Vs. Other Alternatives
When it comes to protection for sport bike exhausts, there are other alternatives to ceramic coatings, such as powder coating and exhaust wrap. While these are viable options, they may not always be the best choice for high-temperature environments.
Powder coating is another popular option, but it’s essentially a type of plastic. This coating can’t withstand the extreme heat that your bike’s exhaust system often experiences, making it less effective over time. On the other hand, exhaust wrap is a simpler solution that improves heat insulation. Still, it lacks the durability and aesthetic appeal of ceramic coatings.
Cerakote, as a ceramic coating, is specifically formulated to withstand high temperatures, making it highly suitable for sport bike exhausts. The thin film of Cerakote that coats the exhaust surface resists thermal shock, corrosion, and UV damage. As a bonus, the shiny, polished look of a ceramic coated exhaust can significantly enhance your bike’s overall aesthetic.
In comparison to these alternatives, Cerakote ceramic coatings are undoubtedly a superior choice. The enhanced durability and heat resistance that they offer make them highly recommended by bike enthusiasts, forum members, and experts alike.
Aftercare and Maintenance of Ceramic Coated Exhausts
Once you’ve applied the ceramic coating to your exhaust, it doesn’t mean you can neglect its maintenance. Regular care will ensure the coating’s longevity, maintaining that high-performance look and feel for longer.
The ceramic coating doesn’t require any special cleaning products or techniques. A simple wipe down with a clean, dry cloth should suffice for everyday cleaning. However, if the exhaust gets exceptionally dirty, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean it. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they might damage the coating.
While ceramic coatings offer exceptional paint protection, it’s advisable to inspect the exhaust regularly. Look out for any signs of wear or chipping in the coating. While Cerakote is formulated to be highly durable, no coating is entirely invincible. As such, periodic touch-ups may be necessary to maintain its high temp resistance and aesthetic appeal.
Regular care and attention will ensure that your sport bike exhaust maintains its high-performance look and continues to benefit from the durable, protective properties of the Cerakote clear ceramic coating.
Conclusion
The application of ceramic coatings like Cerakote on sport bike exhausts has become increasingly popular in the UK, and for good reason. These coatings extend the life and enhance the performance of the exhaust, offering an effective, affordable solution for bike enthusiasts.
While it may seem like a daunting task, applying Cerakote at home is entirely feasible with the right tools and a bit of patience. The process involves preparing the exhaust, applying the coating, and curing it to ensure optimal resistance to heat and other damaging elements.
Alternatively, if you’re uncomfortable taking on this task, professional services are available and highly competent. Nonetheless, the outcome – a beautifully finished, durable, and high-performance exhaust – is worth the effort or cost.
Remember, a ceramic coated exhaust doesn’t just add to your bike’s aesthetic appeal. It’s also about that peace of mind that comes from knowing your exhaust system is well protected, ready to withstand temperatures and perform at its best on every ride.
