Chrome Speedo Surround - I Hate it!!!!

L

Lovely Bride

New member
Hi all,

Does anyone know if you can get a carbon fiber speedo surround for the 2007 Boulevard C50/VL800. I hate the chrome one with a passion!!. Anytime I ride between 11am and 2pm I get blinded by the sun's reflection. It is really hard to see anything!

I was thinking about painting it but would like a carbon fiber one if it exists, but I can't locate one. Perhaps they are available in the US or UK but here in Australia (SE Qld) I just can't find anything (mind you, I have looked on international websites too but no luck). If anyone knows where to get one or perhaps the best way to paint it I would really appreciate some help.

Painting seems like the quicker option but I don't want to stuff it. If you have painted it let me know how it went.

Many Thanks
Zaphod
:bluethum:
 
I have the same problem and am looking at getting a bra.


Suzuki Boulevard C50 & Intruder Volusia
tb040_1.jpg



Suzuki Intruder VS 600 800 1400 Tank Pad - Suzuki Intruder VS 600 800 1400 - LDTAN21009
motorcycle-accessories_1982_19731650


motorcycle-accessories_1982_454356509


motorcycle-accessories_1982_519506159


Not sure if this is what you had in mind or if they will work but this is my options.
 
Unfortunately the tank bra goes AROUND the speedo so the chrome is still showing and therefore reflecting the sun into my eyes. I just checked with Suzuki in Springwood (Brisbane) and they said that a replacement speedo surround is $250!!!

I don't think I will try out the paint because if I stuff it, it's a lot of money to replace it.

My wife did come up with a good idea. She suggested having some pinstriping done on the chrome parts. This way it gets covered and can easily be removed if needed. I am going to take my bike to a pinstriper after Christmas and get them to print up a design that will cover the top edges and maybe come down to some flames on the side. I reckon that would not only look good but would solve the problem.

I'll post some pics when it's done (sooner rather than later I hope).

Zaphod
:bluethum:
 
Paint is a good idea but I think you will have a problem getting it to stick to chrome. Nothing to bite on and it might peel off in time unless you sand it. Maybe some vinyl stripes would do the trick? Easier to remove and easily replaceable. Or if your wife is handy with a needle make your own leather cover.
 
Powdercoating ! Simple, fast and CHEAP !.......most powdercoaters in brisvegas should be able to do it for around 60 bucks.......
 
Krylon sells a spray paint called fusion for plastic. I sprayed the fenders on a dr650 and never had a problem with cracking or peeling. just give it a light sanding with a fine grit.
 
fine grit wet sandpaper, failing that 0000 steel wool. lightly.

Test all this on another piece of plastic so if you goof up, it's no big deal.

Like on the family car.
 
Carbon Fiber doesn't exist.
Pinstriper wouldn't touch a motorbike (too scared I might hurt him if he messed up my baby).
So, one option left - PAINT!!

Turned out pretty good too. I used a non-reflective instrument panel paint. I sanded the chrome with wet and dry sandpaper and then put on 8 coats.
Very Happy. No more blinding reflection!!!!

:bluethum:
 
Maybe Suzuki will catch on and offer the "chrome" version or the "black" version.

I bet they'd sell enough black, especially if there's glare off of the chrome.
 
Why would you want to ruin the beauty of the crome look?

Besides if you're not looking down you can't be blinded. Your eyes are supposed to be on the road!
 
Back
Top