Backing For A Tank Bib 'n Fender Cover....

[David]

I respect your right to your opinion, but to be fair David, there is a major difference between "chewed up, toasted paint" and slight discoloration or faint, buffable marring. The latter is what folks should expect a well made and properly maintained tank bib to cause happen to paint. I have never said that a tank bib won't leave some kind of a mark, to think so is simply delusional (leave anything on paint long enough it will leave a mark just from sitting in the sun).

However, proper maintenance of the bib & paint underneath will reduce marking greatly, this includes regular cleaning of both. The method I describe above is the best way I have found to reduce the marking to a minimum for those that prefer bibs for their look and/or utility. After having various bib styles on my personal bike for 7 years, 3 of those have been my own bibs, and being able to correct any marks with a bit of buffing & polishing when needed; the difference in having one on and not on a frequently ridden bike is negligible.

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For my main clientele, they are looking for ways to keep jacket buckles, zippers and tank bags off the tank, which will do more damage, faster than any bib will. Other reasons are storage options and multiple ways to customize without committing to the look and cash outlay of a custom paint job not to mention those that simply enjoy the look of leather vs. custom paint. Another common reason for a bib, whaletails in particular, is on the larger bikes, like the VTX1800 with their very wide tanks, is that chaps and jeans commonly rub the rear corners and paint can literally be rubbed through in less than 1-2 seasons for a everyday rider without something to buffer it. Different strokes for different folks...

Unfortunately the folks I've made them for have left them on for years, spilled things....Coke and gasoline and even ridden people sitting on them ..... yeah stupid idea. Then they complain that my bib damaged their paint.

[chancey77]

Well I think we all know where "THOSE PEOPLE" CAN GO!

If any of my clients complain because they where stupid... Maybe they can speak with the complaint department:)

[Spinner]

Unfortunately the folks I've made them for have left them on for years, spilled things....Coke and gasoline and even ridden people sitting on them ..... yeah stupid idea. Then they complain that my bib damaged their paint.

Yeah, I can see how that would mar the paint a bit, LOL. One of my first clients did the spill Coke thing and then pointed a finger my direction. It wasn't until I asked for the bib back for inspection and pics of the affected area on the bike did she admit the true problem. Since then I make sure to include a "care & feeding" bit in my correspondence discussing the same as above with the final delivery email.

You're right though, most folks put them on and forget about care & cleaning only to realize years later they never cleaned underneath, essentially turning their custom bib into the equivalent of a brillo pad with road dust & other crap.

[Twisted 66]

can you use rubber cement to attach the felt? or 'goop" glue?

Edited March 22, 2014 by Twisted 66

[leatheroo]

I back fender bibs etc with a piece of soft leather that covers any lacing by undercutting as well. However i put very thin rare earth magnets between the layers at the points where you might get curl. Keeps the bib secure and prevents movement thus reducing tank wear.

[bustedlifter]

Oh, boo ,hoo, hoo, the bib ruined my paint. Tell em to man up and grow a pair. Wear marks add to the character of a scoot.

[BACAPOPEYE]

I am making my first tank bib ever and was wondering how do you form it lay flatter on the fender? I am pretty new to all of this leather stuff so be gentel.

[shadowryder]

I am making my first tank bib ever and was wondering how do you form it lay flatter on the fender? I am pretty new to all of this leather stuff so be gentel.

BASIICALLY WET YOUR LEATHER FORM IT TO THE SHAPE YOU WANT N LET IT DRY IN THAT SHAPE.