Should I spray coat my mountain bike with clear automotive lacquer? Plus another...

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ǝıʞunɾ‾sɐlʇɐ

New member
...question. Thanks!? I have a very nice Cannondale mountain bike that I bought about 9 years ago. It cost about $1700.00 back then and I have not ridden it much at all. The paint is still in perfect condition and the only signs of wear are a couple nicks in the rubber on the handlebars from having it turned upside down on asphault. I have been thinking about selling it since I hardly use it and I would like it to be in the best condition possible. Do you think it would be a good idea to spray cover it in a coat of clear automotive lacquer give the paint some extra strength and to prevent the paint from chipping?

I know Cannondale uses that stuff to spray cover the entire painted parts of the bike during the manufacturing process but does that stuff break down/wear off over time?

One more thing... how much do you think I could sell it for? It's a Cannondale Jeckel with front and rear lockouts for the full suspension. I bought it in 2000 but like I said, it has rarely been ridden and looks practically new.

Thanks so much!
 
WAIT a minute.
What automotive clear coat lacquer??

Modern base coat/clear coat automotive finishes now days are not lacquer at all. Some are now water borne -- even aftermarket. Most cars are sprayed at the factory with water borne.

The point: These systems have to be compatible with one another, the paint on your bike is not compatible with today's auto finishes.

It would take a total strip and refinish. Leave it alone.
 
Do not spray the frame with anything! No need to as long as the clear coat is still present on the paint from the factory which I believe it is. Since you barely used the bike and the handlebars can easily be replaced then LEAVE IT ALONE. Any clearcoat will probably not adhere properly to the existing clear coat and you would need to strip the parts off to respray it anyway. Sell it as is and you will get more money for it as is!
 
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