Today's bikes have more angles and contours than ever before; this can make the application of your new graphics kit somewhat daunting.  To help your graphics look their best — and last for many rides to come — we've put together a list of application tips and tricks below:

1 - Wash Your Plastics!
If you're reusing an existing set of plastics, it's a no brainer that you need to clean away dirt and mud before applying your new graphics kit.  What you may not know however, is that a brand new set of plastics should also be washed before applying graphics to them.  Similar to baking cookies, manufacturers apply oil to keep the plastic from sticking to the mold during production.  It's common for your new plastics to have some of that oil leftover.  Whether new or old, we recommend cleaning your plastics with soap and water, before finishing with rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth.

2 - Take Inventory
Before beginning application of the graphics, take a few minutes to inventory all pieces and be sure that you know where each piece goes.  Please note that the shape or size of some parts may necessitate production of its corresponding graphic in multiple pieces.  For example, the front fender graphic is commonly comprised of three to four pieces on many models.

3 - Start Simply
If you're feeling intimidated or unsure about applying the graphics, start application on a small or simple part first.  For many bikes, the front number plate may be a great starting point!

4 - Line It Up
To ensure the best application, be sure you know how each piece of your kit fits — BEFORE removing the backing paper, lay each piece over its corresponding part.  Pay special attention to any holes or cut outs, making sure that they are aligned to the part you are applying to.

5 - Take Your Time
With the graphic aligned to the plastic, peel away a few inches of the backing paper at one of the corners or edges.  Stick the exposed adhesive down to the plastic, then continue peeling away the backing paper, adhering the graphic as you go.  Going slowly, using your included squeegee (or your fingers) to press down, will help any trapped air to escape so that your graphics are bubble free.

6 - Trim If Needed
No matter which model of bike you own, the fitment of our graphics should be precise.  In the event that you didn't align the graphic perfectly however, an X-acto knife or razor blade can be used to trim away any excess graphic material that may be overhanging the edge of the plastic.  Doing so helps to eliminate the chance for your pants, boots, etc. to snag the graphic and pull it away from the plastic.