Bicycle Painting Techniques

The finish on your bicycle won't last forever. After years of wear, most bicycles will need a new paint job. The technique you choose will depend on how much the bicycle means to you, and how much you are willing to spend. Some techniques require a professional's skills and equipment while other techniques can be applied over an afternoon with some paint and primer purchased at a hardware store.

  1. Hand painting

    • The cheapest way to paint your bicycle is by hand. You will never get a smooth factory finish if you paint it by hand. No matter how carefully you paint, there will always be faint brush strokes on the frame. However, if you only want to protect the frame from rust, then hand painting your bike is the right technique to use.

      Begin by removing all of the parts you don't want to paint and then by sanding off all the paint and rust. You will then need to clear an area in your garage and cover the floor with newspaper to catch the paint. Secure your bicycle using a painting stand. Brush on a coat of primer and let it dry. Then brush on the color you want. Let the paint dry and then add another coat. You can brush on a clear coat to better protect the finish. Apply the paint slowly with a long, back and forth brush strokes.

    Spray painting

    • Using primer, paint and clear coat from spray cans will give you a much cleaner and smoother finish than hand painting. The procedure is almost the same as hand painting, except that the technique for applying the coats is different. Make even back and forth motions while spraying on the different coats. Spray it on slowly and let each coat dry before applying another coat.

    Professional painting

    • The factories and shops involved in bicycle painting use an air-compressor paint gun to spray on coats of primer, paint and clear coat. If restoring a bicycle, the professionals are able to apply factory-matched paint to produce a flawless paint job. Many bicycle shops offer a restoration service or know of shops that do. Many autobody shops can also offer this service.