I've been resisting to put any kind of protective tape on my Brompton for the longest time simply because I didn't think it was necessary. I put stickers on some parts that were prone to cable rub, but other than that, I left the bike as is. Kung magkaroon man ng gasgas, okay lang--para mas luma tingnan. Para less takaw pansin.
Besides, they're expensive. My folding bike colleagues Ruth and Abel told me about "bathroom tape" that's available in True Value and Ace Hardware, but, boy, are they NOT cheap (P1,000++). Plus, the product just doesn't feel like it belongs on a bike. It has a rough texture that invites dirt to cling on it. So I passed on the "bathroom tape."
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| This part of the Brompton (underneath the frame) is the most prone to scratches, particularly coming from rubbing against the rear tire |
I researched the internet and found out that what bikers use is "helicopter tape." But I don't think that's available commercially here in the Philippines. So, for the past 7 months, I left my Brompton pretty much unprotected from the elements.
Until my good friend, Al Castillo, posted on Facebook that he was selling strips of Surface Guard Tape. P150 per foot. I said to myself, "I can spend P150 for some surface protection for the Brompton. I mean, it sure beats paying P1,500 for a whole roll." So I ordered 2 feet. Thanks, Al!
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| Photo courtesy of Al Castillo |
According to its makers, ISC Surface Guard Tape "is a clear protective urethane film that is virtually invisible to the naked eye. It will protect any surface that is prone to scratching, chipping, and weathering." One blogger says the tape is an outdoor grade, which means it has excellent ultra violet protection and will not yellow over time.
So I took out my bike. Grabbed a rag. And started cutting small pieces of clear protective tape. I cleaned the spots that were prone to cable and tire rub with my rag. Then applied the tape over the affected areas. Simple as that.
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| Before placing Surface Tape |
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| After placing Surface Tape |
The product is easy to apply. Though you might need to use a tough pair of scissors to be able to cut through the tape. The product is thick, so I think it's durable and will really protect the area it is covering. At the same time, the product is smooth and clear. You hardly notice it on the frame.
The ISC Surface Guard Tape worked well on my bike and I think the P150/foot was a good investment. Let's see how long it lasts.
