Quickly Fix Paint Chips On Your Bike

A small fall or a little inattention and your bike's paintwork can get chipped. While this may not be pleasing to the eye, it is unlikely to cause damage to the frame. You can fix a paint chip on your bike using a small pot of model paint, car paint, spray paint, touch-up pencil, or universal paint. If you are using a paintbrush, apply thin layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. You can also use nail polish to fix paint chips, especially if you have a wide variety of colours to choose from.

Finding the right paint colour

Firstly, it is important to identify the specific colour that matches your bike frame. A RAL colour chart is widely recommended for this purpose. RAL is an industry-standard colour system with over 200 colours, allowing you to find a close match for your bike. You can obtain a RAL colour chart from a DIY store or find an online version. Compare the colours on the chart to your bike frame, preferably in different lighting conditions, to identify the closest match. Note down the RAL number for future reference, as it will come in handy when purchasing the paint.

Alternatively, you can take a small chip of paint from an inconspicuous spot on your bike and take it to a hardware store or a craft store to find a matching colour. This method ensures an exact match but may require you to fix the chipped area later.

Another option is to use nail polish, which often comes in a wide variety of colours and can be effective for small touch-ups. Compare the nail polish shades to your bike, and you may be able to find a close match. You can even mix different nail polish colours to create a shade that closely resembles your bike's paint.

If you're unable to find an exact match, don't fret. A close colour may suffice, especially if the repair is in an unobtrusive area. Additionally, you can consider using enamel paint, which can provide a better finish than acrylic and doesn't require a base primer. Humbrol model paints are recommended in this category.

Lastly, some bike brands offer touch-up paint specifically designed for their bicycles, so it's worth checking with the manufacturer to see if they can provide you with the exact colour used for your bike model.

By following these steps and utilising the various methods mentioned, you should be able to find the right paint colour to fix that paint chip on your beloved bike.

Applying paint to the chip

To fix a paint chip on your bike, you will need to first find the correct paint colour. Take a photo of your bike in daylight and compare the colour to physical paint colour samples. If you can't find an exact match, you can try to find a colour that is "in-between" two shades. You can also take a small sample of the existing paint on your bike and take it to a hardware store to find a close match.

Once you have the paint, you can start applying it to the chip. If the chip is too deep, you can use filler to smooth out the surface. Allow the filler to dry and then use sandpaper to smooth the surface. Cover the surrounding area with newspaper and treat the chip with a primer to help the paint adhere better. After the primer has dried, you can start painting.

Use a small paintbrush to paint a thin layer onto the chip. Allow it to dry and then apply another layer. You will need to apply up to five layers, allowing each layer to dry in between applications. Once the paint is slightly raised above the surrounding area, cut a small piece of fine-grade sandpaper (1400 grit and above) and wet it. Work slowly in small circular motions on the paint until it is flush with the frame.

If the chip is large, apply clear lacquer after sanding to improve the appearance of the paint. Finish by applying a wax polish to add shine and restore the finish of the surrounding paint.

Using filler for deep chips

If the chip on your bike is too deep, you will need to use filler to repair it. This guide will take you through the process step by step.

Firstly, you will need to carefully apply the filler to the affected area, smoothing it out as you go. It is important to only apply filler to the area that really needs it, so take care not to spread it too thinly or broadly. Once you have applied the filler, allow it to dry.

After the filler has dried, you can smooth the area again with sandpaper. Work your way up from coarse to fine-grit sandpaper, being careful not to roughen the area too much. Once the filler is smooth and level with the surrounding area, you can begin to apply paint.

Before painting, mask off the affected area and cover the rest of the bike with newspaper. Treat the filler with a primer, which will help the paint adhere better and last longer. Once the primer is dry, you can begin to spray on the paint.

Apply the paint in thin, gradual layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. You may need to apply up to five layers of paint. Once the paint is dry, cut a small piece of fine-grade sandpaper (1400 grit and above). Wet the paper and work slowly in small circular movements on the paint you have applied, checking to ensure you are not sanding the surrounding area.

When the new paint is level with the frame, you can finish the repair by applying a wax polish to the area. This will add shine and help restore the bike's finish.

Applying lacquer and polish

When fixing a paint chip on a bike, the final steps are to apply lacquer and polish. Firstly, it is important to note that you should use two coats of clear lacquer. After the lacquer coats have dried, you can polish the area with a special polish.

Before applying lacquer, it is important to prepare the affected area. Firstly, ensure that the paint is dry. You can then use sandpaper to roughen the lacquer. Be careful not to roughen the area too much, only sand the area that needs to be painted. Work your way up from coarse to fine grit. If the affected area is too deep, use filler. Carefully apply the filler and smooth it out. Allow it to dry and smooth again with sandpaper.

After the area has been prepared, you can apply the lacquer. Once the lacquer is dry, you can polish the area. An application of wax will add some sparkle to your touch-up job and help restore the shine to the surrounding paint. Pop it on and leave it to sit for a few minutes before polishing off with a soft cloth.

Using nail polish as an alternative

Fixing a paint chip on your bike can be a simple task, and an affordable way to do this is by using nail polish. While it may not be a perfect match, you can get close by comparing the shades of your nail polish collection with the paint on your bike.

Firstly, ensure that the surface is clean and dry. You can use a degreaser or soap and water to clean the area. It is important that the surface is not wet when you apply the nail polish, as it will not adhere properly.

Next, select the nail polish that is closest to the colour of your bike. You can test the colour by shaking the bottle well and then applying a small amount to a napkin. This will ensure that the true colour shows through and that it is the correct shade.

Once you have selected the right colour, apply a thin coat to the chip. Allow this to dry before applying a thicker final coat. You can then use a rubbing compound to polish the area.

Nail polish is a good option for a quick fix, but it may not be as durable as model paint. It is also important to note that if there is any structural damage to the bike, it is best to take it to a professional to avoid any risks.

Frequently asked questions