Sticky handlebar pad cover 95GTX

[hopalongcasualty]

There seems to be a problem with the older models handlebar pad covers turning soft and sticky. I started checking around and could only find either the OEM replacement for over $120.00 or other old discolored funky looking used stuff.

I tried something. I went to Home Depot and picked up 2 cans of "Plasticote" it is the rubber stuff you dip tools in to make rubberized handles. They offer it in the aerosol kind as well as the (dip) brush on.

I washed the old cover which was starting to split, dried it and applied 3 heavy coats of the "plasticote". it has now been 3 weeks of heavy use and still looks great, plus the coating has sealed the split.

This stuff comes in black, red and yellow (but I havent found anyone with yellow in stock).

I used the black.

As time goes on I will post the long term results but this might be a good option for someone with an older ski and doesn't want to continually sink cash in for every little thing. Besides, the cover in black with the black grips looks good!

 

[robin savell lloyd]

Grate post I am sure others will appreciate if they ever have that problem.:cheers:

 

[derek]

i love you man!!! did you brush it or spray it on? i've been using auto parts store vinyl die. better than nasty black spots on sticky, but not a lot. thanks.

 

[hopalongcasualty]

type of applicator.

I used the shaker can, it worked pretty good. I had a some fish eyes on the first coat and found that if you put the 2nd coat on too quickly the solvents in the spray will disolve the original coat. Since it is holding up so good I may not get the opportunity to try it on a cover that is just stained. I was just desperate, my original cover went from dingy but livable to soft and sticky in 2 weeks.

If I can pick up a spare off e-bay or craigs list for about $20.00 to $30.00 I will try brushing it on. The stuff is quite flowable so my gut reaction is that if it is brushed on thickly and allowed to cure before the 2nd coat, there would not be brush strokes.

 

[hopalongcasualty]

finish

I thought I would add that the finish is eggshell or leather-like and not the shiny liquid latex or patton leather.

 

[derek]

hi. just picked up a can. it is plasti-dip. not plastikote. black only. avail in 5 colors, so they say. their phone number on the can; 800-969-5432. also on ebay but 6 bucks a can plus shipping. all colors.

 

[crashcourse101]

you are great... I need to do it myself also I have one that is falling apart...

 

[hopalongcasualty]

Plasti-something

thanks for the correction on the brand name, I knew it was plasti-"something"

Good luck on your projects...

 

[tdeloach15]

i have a 92' and couldnt find a handlebar cover and this is the perfect solution:hurray: do they make it in purple???