Installing your own MX graphics is one of the most satisfying upgrades you can make to your dirt bike. Done right, they look factory fresh and last for seasons. Done wrong, you'll end up with bubbles, lifting edges, and a kit that peels at the first muddy race. This guide walks you through the process from prep to final press.
What You'll Need
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Plastic squeegee or credit card
- Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and clean rags
- Soft microfiber cloths
- Mild dish soap and warm water (optional, for wet application)
- Sharp hobby knife or trim tool
Step 1: Clean the Plastic Thoroughly
This is the most important step. Any dirt, grease, or residue will prevent the adhesive from bonding properly.
- Remove all plastic panels from the bike.
- Wash each piece with warm soapy water to remove mud and grime.
- Let them dry completely, then wipe down every surface with isopropyl alcohol.
- Wait 5 minutes for the alcohol to flash off before applying graphics.
Step 2: Peel Back a Small Corner
Don't peel the entire backing off at once. Fold the backing paper back a few inches to expose just the leading edge. This gives you control and prevents the graphic from sticking to itself.
Step 3: Align Before You Stick
Hold the graphic over the panel and find your alignment points — usually the bolt holes or panel edges. Take your time here. Once the adhesive makes contact, repositioning becomes difficult.
Step 4: Apply with a Squeegee
Starting from the center and working outward, press the graphic down with your squeegee in firm, overlapping strokes. Work the backing paper back gradually as you go.
Step 5: Use Heat for Curves and Edges
On curved surfaces like shrouds and fenders, heat is your best friend. Warm the vinyl with a heat gun until it becomes pliable, then stretch and press it around the curve. Hold it until it cools and sets.
Step 6: Final Press and Post-Heat
Once fully applied, go over the entire graphic one more time with the squeegee, paying extra attention to edges. Then apply heat to the entire panel — this activates the adhesive and dramatically improves long-term adhesion.
Pro Tips from Five18 Designs
- Temperature matters. Cold plastic and cold graphics don't bond well. If it's below 60°F, warm your panels indoors before starting.
- Don't rush. A 45-minute careful install beats a 15-minute sloppy one every time.
- New plastic is slippery. Brand new OEM plastic may have mold-release compounds. Give it an extra-thorough alcohol wipe.
- Wet method for large panels. A few drops of dish soap in water sprayed on the panel lets you slide the graphic into position before squeegee-ing the water out.
Browse our full lineup of custom MX graphics kits — printed on 21 mil cast vinyl with UV protection, available for all major brands and models.