Carbon-Look Motorcycle Fairings: How Hydrographics Work

Actual carbon fiber can be prohibitively expensive and difficult to work with. Water transfer printing technology comes in. It’s an innovative solution that offers a cost-effective and accessible way to achieve that carbon look on your sportbike. Nowadays, Carbon-Look Motorcycle Fairings is another way to make your motorcycle stand out.

Water transfer printing, also known as hydrographics, is a method of applying printed designs to three-dimensional surfaces.

This technique involves dipping an object into a water solution containing a film of the desired pattern. The process is not just for aesthetics; it also adds a protective layer to the object.

The versatility of water transfer printing allows for a wide range of patterns, but for motorcycle enthusiasts like you, the carbon fiber design is a particular favorite.

1. Cost-Effective: Real carbon fiber is expensive, both in material cost and the labor involved in crafting it. Water transfer printing offers a similar look at a fraction of the cost.
2. Versatility: This technique can be applied to various materials, including plastic, metal, and fiberglass, making it ideal for motorcycle fairings.
3. Durability: The process adds an extra layer of protection to the fairing, safeguarding it against scratches and environmental elements.
4. Aesthetics: The finish achieved through water transfer printing is remarkably close to real carbon fiber, giving your bike a high-end, customized look.

1. Preparation: The fairing is first thoroughly cleaned and sanded to ensure a smooth surface.
2. Base Coat Application: A base coat is applied to the fairing. This color is usually chosen based on the final design; for a carbon look, a dark base coat is preferred.
3. Dipping: The fairing is then dipped into a water tank where the carbon fiber pattern film is floating. The film dissolves in water and wraps around the fairing, transferring the pattern.
4. Rinsing and Drying: After dipping, the fairing is rinsed to remove any residue and left to dry.
5. Sealing with a Clear Coat: Finally, a clear coat is applied for a glossy finish and additional protection.

Here’s a reference video for your better understanding:

Maintaining a water transfer printed fairing is similar to caring for any painted surface. Regular cleaning with mild soap and avoiding harsh chemicals will keep the carbon look pristine. It’s also advisable to protect the fairing from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Water transfer printing technology is a game-changer for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to customize their rides. It offers a perfect blend of affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

By choosing this method for a carbon fiber look on your motorcycle fairings, you can achieve a high-end appearance without breaking the bank. It’s an innovative way to personalize your bike, reflecting your style and passion for the ride.

Water transfer printing gives your motorcycle fairings a premium carbon fiber look without the premium price tag. Choose from our most popular carbon-look models below or explore the full catalog.

• Honda CBR1000RR Carbon-Look Fairing
• Yamaha YZF-R1 Carbon-Look Fairing
• Yamaha YZF-R1 Carbon-Look Fairing (Gen 2)
• Yamaha YZF-R6 Carbon-Look Fairing
• Ducati 1098 Carbon-Look Fairing

Browse our full carbon-look fairing collection. Free custom paint is included on eligible street kits. Standard shipping is free to most destinations; remote routes may require a partial charge.

Carbon-look fairings use the same virgin ABS base as our standard fairings, so they are just as tough on the road. Real carbon fiber is lighter and stiffer, but for street riding, the difference is negligible. The clear coat finish on a carbon-look fairing provides the same scratch and UV protection you get on any premium painted fairing.

Yes. You can combine carbon-look sections with custom painted sections on the same fairing. Many riders choose carbon-look for the main body panels and a custom color for the tail or tank cover. Tell us your idea and we will confirm if it is doable.

The carbon-look finish is sealed under automotive-grade clear coat, the same finish used on our custom painted fairings. With proper care, it holds up for years of regular riding. Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals and prolonged direct sun exposure to extend the life of the finish. Treat it like any quality painted surface and it will look sharp season after season.