5 Best Spray Paints For Your Motorcycle Frame

Has the paint on your motorcycle become too chipped or old? And you want to apply a new coat of spray paint before your next ride? We have the top 5 spray paint for motorcycles that can help you complete this project in no time without compromising finish quality, durability, and excellent adhesion.

Today, the spray paint market is so saturated that it’s easy to fall into the wrong hands of manufacturers who sell sub-standard paint products. Some spray cans haven’t undergone proper quality assurance checks—if at all. Additionally, all spray paints contain harmful chemicals that must not be inhaled or come into contact with skin, so proper precautions are essential when using them.

From our survey, most motorcyclists and custom bike builders have no trouble selecting the right spray. The majority understand the importance of the right paint job on motorcycle frames.

Why? For the many times I’ve applied a fresh coat, I’ve helped more than 20 riders return their chipped motorcycle frames to their former glory, giving them that sleek finish. Through trial and error, I’ve used a wide mix of paint products, and some clearly offer better results than others.

DIY painters have often asked for my recommendation. So here, I present the top 5 best motorcycle spray paints. Pay attention to the details—some of these products may be pricey, but their value is earned through quality painting.

And thanks to fast-drying formulas, your coat won’t take long to dry—similar to the evaporation of methylated spirit.

What materials do you need to spray paint your motorcycle frame? 

Before I start to tell you what’s good about the best five spray paints, I must inform you that we need to have the following essential materials ready and at hand before we start to spray paint our motorcycle frame.

Spray painting your motorcycle frame is quite an easy job, and you may not need to hire the services of a pro to do it for you. If you’re going for the DIY spray painting, here is a detailed list of everything you need to get it done efficiently and with professional-looking results: Remember, you must remove certain motorcycle parts to ensure better coverage and a smooth finish when painting the surface.

• Quality spray paint – Choosing the right spray paint is crucial for durability and finish. Look for paint specifically designed for metal surfaces or automotive use to ensure proper adhesion and resistance to weather and wear.
• Clear coat or rubbing alcohol – A clear coat provides a protective glossy finish that helps preserve the paint and resist scratches. Alternatively, rubbing alcohol can be used to clean the surface before painting to remove oils and residues.
• Lint-free towel – To wipe down the motorcycle frame and ensure it is free of dust and lint before painting, which helps achieve a smooth paint job.
• Painter’s tape (for covering parts you don’t wish to paint) – Use this to mask off areas such as the engine, wheels, or decals that should remain paint-free, preventing overspray and ensuring clean edges.
• Sandpaper – Sanding your motorcycle frame allows the paint to stick better by creating a slightly rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Use appropriate grit sandpaper (usually between 220 and 400 grit) to scuff the surface without damaging the metal. For plastic motorcycle parts, you will need a plastic primer to ensure proper adhesion.
• Protective gear – This includes safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from paint fumes and particles.
• Tack cloth – A sticky cloth used to wipe away any remaining dust or particles after sanding, ensuring the surface is perfectly clean before painting.
• Primer – Applying a primer coat helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform base color, especially important if you are painting over bare metal or a different color.
• Spray equipment or spray cans – High-quality spray cans with adjustable nozzles or a spray gun with an air compressor provide better control over the paint application, resulting in a smoother and more even coat.
• Work space – A well-ventilated, dust-free area with enough space to move around your motorcycle comfortably is essential for safety and to avoid imperfections in the paint.

Having these materials ready will make your spray painting project smoother, more enjoyable, and more likely to produce a professional-looking finish on your motorcycle frame.

Self-protective and Safety Gear

• A pair of safety goggles (for your safety)
• Dust mask
• Gloves

Two things you must keep in mind

1. You can only use sandpaper on your frame if the frame isn’t made of raw aluminum, carbon, or steel. For these materials, sanding might cause damage or compromise the structural integrity, so alternative surface preparation methods such as chemical cleaning or using a scuff pad are recommended.
2. Ensure you’ve got all the above essentials before attempting to spray paint your motorcycle frame to get excellent results. Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, durable, and professional-looking paint job. This includes having the right type of spray paint suitable for motorcycle frames, appropriate primers, clear coats, and protective gear, as well as a clean, well-ventilated workspace.

Now that we have our essentials ready, let us visit the shelf so I can show you the top 5 best spray paints you can use on your motorcycle frame. These options have been carefully selected based on their durability, finish quality, ease of application, and resistance to weather and wear, ensuring your motorcycle frame not only looks great but also stays protected for the long haul. Among the top providers, ColorRite stands out as the leading provider of paint for motorcycles, trusted by enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Aerosol Paint

This automotive acrylic lacquer aerosol paint is number one on my list of the top 5 best spray paints. I have recommended this fantastic spray paint to hundreds of my customers, and the feedback has been incredible. The number of nods it has received online on various dropshipping and e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon, speaks volumes about the fantastic work the spray paint performs on motorcycle frames. Additionally, ColorRite offers paint for models going back as far as 1990, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of motorcycles.

If used correctly, this paint has proven to be of rugged durability and lustrous finish. Besides, this painting is the right partner for DIY painters because it makes painting easy while giving your motorcycle frame a professional look.

Acrylic lacquer is a premium automotive design that guarantees a quality finish on your motorcycle frame. Because it is a lacquer, this formula dries fast and sticks quickly to your motorcycle frame. This makes it easy for you because you’ll get it done by sparing a few hours on a Saturday afternoon. Besides, the paint has superior adhesion to metal. 

Once it gets dry, this spray paint can be machined or hand-buffed to give your motorcycle frame an even glossier look that is typical of a professional job.  Do not be in a hurry to buff or sand the frame; wait for at least 48 hours. Also, do not spray this paint over existing air-dried enamel paints. You won’t get the best result you desire. 

Do you have any model of automotive acrylic lacquer paint to recommend?

That’s a no-brainer. I will recommend the black gloss Rust-Oleum Automotive 253365 12-Ounce Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Rust-Oleum 1906830 Lacquer Spray, 11-Ounce, Gloss Clear, and Rust-Oleum 1905830 1905-830 Spray Paint, 11-Ounce, Black 

Features

• Excellent adhesion
• Indoor-outdoor durability (can last you for no less than six years)
• Comfortable spray nozzle
• Premium automotive formulation  
• Multiple angle spray 
• Size: 12 oz. Spray

Read Customer Reviews and learn more.

Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint

Packaged in an 11 oz can, the Rust-Oleum 248637 Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint is vintage copper metallic in color. If you mention a motorcycle frame spray paint without one capable of delivering a brilliant shiny finish, then your mention is complete. 

Besides, this spray paint makes our selection because it is also one of the highest-quality spray paints you can find on the market as I write this post. Rust-Oleum is famous for its durability and offers high resistance to corrosion, abrasion, chipping, and fading.

This oil-based formula can withstand any weather conditions. That gives you a guarantee that the spray paint will protect your motorcycle from rusting and corrosion, which often weaken parts of your motorcycle frame. 

When it comes to application, the Rust-Oleum 248637 Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint easily and quickly dries. In fact, in less than 20 minutes, drying takes place. 

Highlighted features

• Resistant against corrosion and other weather conditions 
• Oil-based formula 
• Durable protective coating  
• Dries quickly and fast
• Excellent abrasion, chipping, and fading resistance
• It delivers a flawless finish
• 11 oz can

Read Customer Reviews and learn more.

Rust-Oleum 11-Ounce Spray Paint

This is another product from Rust-Oleum. The 11-Ounce Specialty Spray Color Shift was the spray paint I recommended to a friend in early 2019 when he wanted to build his custom motorcycle.

What sets this spray paint apart is its innovative use of upgraded light interference pigments, which react to light sources to produce a mesmerizing color-shifting effect. Depending on the angle and lighting conditions, the paint can display a vibrant spectrum of colors, giving your motorcycle frame a unique and eye-catching appearance that truly stands out on the road.

Beyond its stunning visual appeal, this paint is also prized for its long-lasting durability and versatility. It performs exceptionally well in both indoor and outdoor environments, resisting fading and wear over time. This makes it an economical choice, as you won’t need to repaint frequently, saving you both time and money.

Application is made easy thanks to the comfort tip and any-angle spray feature. This allows you to spray in any position comfortably, ensuring even coverage even on hard-to-reach areas of your motorcycle frame. For best results, it is often recommended to apply this color shift spray paint over a black base coat, such as black primer or paint, to enhance the depth and vibrancy of the color effect.

In summary, the Rust-Oleum 11-Ounce Specialty Spray Color Shift offers a cool, durable, and pretty unique finish that can transform your motorcycle frame into a true custom masterpiece. Its ease of use and lasting life make it a favorite among custom builders and DIY painters alike.

Highlighted features

• Any-angle spray with comfort and spray tip
• Easy to use
• Suitable for use on different materials
• Versatile for indoor and outdoor use
• Durable

Read Customer Reviews and learn more.

Honda R23 Tahitian Red Spray Paint

If you’re looking for spray paint that offers your motorcycle frame the best look and finish, then the Honda R23 Tahitian Red Spray Paint Dirt Bike ColorRite is the right choice. Made specifically to make your DIY motorcycle painting job easier and more efficient, this spray paint is a single-step paint, meaning you don’t need to apply any clear coat on your motorcycle frame before applying the paint, saving you time and effort.

One common concern among riders is whether this paint is legal for use in all states. Rest assured, the Honda R23 Tahitian Red Spray Paint is compliant and legal in all 50 states of the US, so you can confidently use it wherever you ride. This makes it an excellent option for quick touch-up jobs or full-frame repainting.

This versatile paint can be applied to various motorcycle frames, including models like the 1975-1982 CR125 or CR250 Honda Dirt Bikes, as well as ATV frames. Its rich color and durable finish provide a professional look that enhances your motorcycle’s appearance while offering resilience against wear and tear. The paint’s quality and toughness mean your motorcycle frame will maintain its vibrant look for a long time, boosting your confidence for many rides to come.

In addition to its outstanding color retention, the Honda R23 Tahitian Red Spray Paint offers excellent adhesion to metal surfaces, ensuring that the paint stays put and resists chipping or peeling even under rough riding conditions. Its fast-drying formula allows you to complete your project efficiently without long waiting times between coats.

Overall, this spray paint offers a convenient, high-quality solution for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to refresh or customize their motorcycle frames with minimal hassle and professional results.

Highlighted features

• Perfect for quick touch-up jobs
• Legal for use in all 50 states
• 11oz can
• No clear coat required
• Durable and versatile

Read Customer Reviews and learn more.

Yamaha Racing Blue Spray Paint

In my quest to help motorcycle owners, motorcycle lovers, and custom motorcycle builders get real, hands-on value for the motorcycle they own, I walked up straight to a spray paint store in late December to make inquiries about the quality of Yamaha’s 0564 Racing Blue Spray Paint Dirt Bike ColorRite Single Stage. The review I got from many of the buyers right in front of me in the store was amazing. This is not virtual feedback. It was real, live, and practical.

One thing that caught my attention about this paint is that it is cost-efficient, time-saving, and effort-conserving. How? It involves a one-step painting process. You don’t have to use any clear coat before applying the paint on your motorcycle frame. That means fewer materials to buy, less time spent waiting for coats to dry, and a simpler overall project, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced DIY painters.

Again, whether you reside in the lowlands of eastern portions of Kansas, Oklahoma, and northeast Texas, or the cold regions of North Dakota, Alaska, or Minnesota, you can order this paint, and no state law forbids its use across the length and breadth of the US. The Yamaha 0564 Racing Blue Spray Paint Dirt Bike ColorRite Single Stage is legal in all 50 states, making it ideal for quick touch-up jobs and ensuring compliance no matter where you ride.

The motorcycle frame spray paint is packaged in convenient 11oz cans, designed to provide ample coverage for multiple projects. It boasts many years of use as a trusted model on all Yamaha motorcycles, ATVs, and dirt motorcycles. So, if you’re looking for paint that won’t fade easily, then the ColorRite model is the right choice. It matches your motorcycle’s original factory color perfectly, offering a professional and authentic finish.

Moreover, this spray paint is formulated to resist chipping, cracking, and peeling, which means your motorcycle will maintain its vibrant racing blue color even after exposure to harsh weather conditions and rough rides. Its durability ensures that your paint job will last for years, protecting your motorcycle frame and enhancing its overall appearance.

In addition to its performance benefits, the paint also features a comfortable spray nozzle that allows for precise application, reducing overspray and paint waste. This makes it easier to achieve a smooth, even coat, even on complex frame shapes and hard-to-reach areas.

Overall, the Yamaha 0564 Racing Blue Spray Paint Dirt Bike ColorRite Single Stage offers a perfect blend of convenience, quality, and durability, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to refresh or customize their motorcycle frame with minimal hassle and professional results.

Highlighted features

• No clear coat required
• 110z can
• Available and legal in all states
• Ideal for fast touch-up jobs

Read Customer Reviews and learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do you have to disassemble your entire motorcycle before painting the frame?

The direct answer to your question is an absolute NO. There is this wrong idea among frame painters, including some pros, that to paint a motorcycle frame, you will need to remove and uncouple the whole body of your motorcycle, including removing the engine. 

My experience over the last few years has taught me that I don’t need to disassemble the motorcycle when planning to paint the frame.

Besides the fact that removing the engine can be daunting and have dire consequences if not properly handled, not uncoupling the motorcycle won’t compromise the quality and standard of your painting.  

The best way to do this is to tape off the engine and other motorcycle parts that don’t require painting. Make sure that overspray gets on the engine. To achieve this, you can use a newspaper or some masking tape.

Do you need experience painting a motorcycle gas tank?

This is a binary question. Yes, I will say you need experience. I will also say -no, you don’t. Yes, because no experience is required to paint a motorcycle gas tank. However, having experience is a plus; it gives an added edge. If you have some practice before painting a motorcycle gas tank, it may help you avoid some common errors.  

But if you’ve not painted a motorcycle gas tank before, nurse no fear. You can start by picking some unimportant objects around you and painting them. Feel how it feels and looks, and use the experience from that unimportant practice to get your hands on an important painting.

What are motorcycle frames made from?

Typically, the old motorcycle frames were made from tubular steel. However, as technology advances and demands for upgraded models increase, motorcycle frame manufacturers are made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Meanwhile, we still have some motorcycle frames made from steel, which is not as rampant as aluminum or carbon fiber.

Can I spray-paint my motorcycle engine?

Why not? You can spray paint your motorcycle engine. But it is better to start with the services of a pro rather than going the DIY way. This is because engine paints can withstand high temperatures. In that case, if you’re a new person in the line of engine paints, it is advisable not to use ordinary spray paints but formulated engine paints. Unlike the common spray paints, formulated engine spray paints glue to the engine and don’t come off easily. Besides, they don’t combust when the engine is hot during operation.

What should you do before painting your frame?

Painting a motorcycle frame does not start and end with the word ‘painting.’ It is a lot of work, and many things are involved before you paint, wait for it to dry, and desire its beauty.

To achieve the desired results, there are several steps you have to take. Some of these steps are things you’re already familiar with; some are not-too-strange ideas; all you’d need is to get acquainted with them as soon as possible quickly.

Meanwhile, the list of the prep works you need before painting depends a lot of times on how much painting you want to give to your frame. If you’re repainting, the requirements differ, and the demand won’t be the same if it is a new motorcycle frame. If you’re painting the whole frame, whether old or new, you know the process would be more intensive and cumbersome than a part painting.

Remove any obstruction 

The first thing to do is to get rid of any parts that may stand in the way and make the result look shabby and chipped. Never overspray on parts, as they may be difficult to remove after painting. If you can remove it, tape it off.

Clean the frame to remove chunks

This is not usual among frame painters who want to finish the job quickly; they don’t mind whether or not the painting will chip shortly. You’ll also make this mistake if you don’t clean the motorcycle frame and remove all dirt, grime, and gunk built upon it. If any of the dirt proves stubborn enough to be removed, use a wire brush or scraper.  The sandpaper is also there for you to use to eliminate those harder chunks that won’t budge. 

Scuff up old paint

Let me reiterate the rule of thumb for the umpteen times: don’t paint over an underlayment. What do I mean, as much as you can, scuff up the rest of the paint you want to paint over? You don’t have to sand the whole area you want to paint on the frame to bare metal, but at least make sure you scuff the underlayer. Once done, a wet rag will finish the rest before you start to paint.

Start painting

After completing all the processes, it is time to apply your spray paint. You can paint the engine or the frame, but the processes and procedures are different. So, understand each process and follow through. How much do you need even to do the spraying? Check out my next issue. 

How to Paint a Motorcycle

Users interested in painting their motorcycle with spray paint often seek a detailed, step-by-step guide covering preparation, application, and finishing techniques to ensure a professional and durable finish.

One important aspect is the use of clear glamor spray cans, which contain two separate chemicals that must be activated before use. This activation involves mixing the chemicals properly to achieve the desired glossy finish and protection. Following activation, the spray can should be shaken thoroughly to ensure an even mixture.

Preparation begins with applying two coats of primer. It is crucial to wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between coats to allow the primer to dry adequately. This drying time helps the primer adhere well to the surface and provides a solid base for the paint, preventing issues like peeling or bubbling later on.

When applying the paint itself, patience is key. Users should wait at least 10 to 15 minutes between coats to allow each layer to dry sufficiently. This interval helps build up an even, smooth color without runs or drips. Applying multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat results in a more professional and durable finish.

Beyond these basics, proper surface preparation is essential. This includes thoroughly cleaning the motorcycle parts to remove dirt, grease, and old paint residues, and sanding with appropriate grit sandpaper (typically 150-grit) to create a slightly rough surface for better paint adhesion. Wet sanding with water is recommended to avoid damaging the surface and to achieve a smooth texture.

After painting, applying several clear coats enhances the durability and glossiness of the finish, protecting the paint from scratches, UV rays, and weather exposure. Each clear coat should be applied with adequate drying time in between.

Safety precautions must not be overlooked. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and respirators is vital to prevent inhalation of harmful fumes and contact with skin. Additionally, painting should be done in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to volatile chemicals.

By following these detailed steps—activating the clear glamor, applying primer and paint with proper timing, preparing the surface carefully, and observing safety measures—users can achieve a high-quality, long-lasting paint job on their motorcycles using spray paint.

How much does it cost to spray a motorcycle frame?

The cost of spray painting your motorcycle frame depends mainly on the volume of work that will be done before and during the painting process. If the painter has to go through all the stages of preparation, including removing obstacles, disassembling parts if necessary, thoroughly cleaning the frame to remove chunks, dirt, and debris, and scuffing off old paint layers before the actual painting begins, the cost can range anywhere from $300 to $1500. This price reflects the labor, materials, and attention to detail required to achieve a durable, high-quality finish that will last and protect your motorcycle frame.

On the other hand, if you decide to take the DIY route and handle the spray painting yourself without extensive prep work or if you are not particular about achieving a showroom-quality finish, the cost can be significantly lower. In such cases, you might spend around $100 or so, mainly covering the cost of spray paint cans, primer, clear coat, and essential supplies like sandpaper and masking tape.

Keep in mind that investing more in proper preparation and quality paint products will result in a better-looking, longer-lasting paint job. Skipping steps or using cheaper materials may save money upfront but could lead to premature chipping, fading, or peeling, requiring more frequent touch-ups or repainting down the road. Therefore, when budgeting for spray painting your motorcycle frame, consider both the cost and the level of quality and durability you expect from the finished job.

DIY Motorcycle Painting Techniques

Users looking to paint their motorcycles themselves will benefit from understanding essential tips and techniques that can help achieve a professional finish. First, preparation is key: thoroughly remove any existing paint on the motorcycle parts you intend to customize. This ensures better adhesion and a smoother final appearance. When sanding, use 150-grit sandpaper and always wet sand with water to prevent damage to the surface and maintain smoothness. Proper sanding creates a slightly rough texture that allows the paint to bond effectively.

Between coats of primer, it is important to wait at least 5 to 10 minutes to allow adequate drying time, which ensures each layer sets properly and avoids peeling or bubbling. After applying the paint, finish with three clear coats to achieve a glossy, durable finish that protects the underlying paint from scratches, UV damage, and weathering.

Safety should never be overlooked: always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator mask to avoid inhaling harmful chemicals or getting paint on your skin. Additionally, work in a well-ventilated area to reduce exposure to fumes.

All motorcycle parts should be sanded using 150-grit sandpaper before painting.

By following these best practices—careful surface preparation, proper sanding, timely application of primer and paint coats, and safety precautions—DIY motorcycle painters can achieve a high-quality, long-lasting paint job that looks professional and enhances their bike’s appearance.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve explored the best spray paints for your motorcycle frame, it’s time to take action! Whether you like glossy and bright colors or rustic finishes, there is a spray paint out there for you. Be sure to test the paint on a sample before working on your actual motorcycle frame to ensure the color and finish you want.

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