How to: Remove silver stickers off frame and clean up

[BourneS4R]

I love the black on black of my S4R. Needless to say that the two big silver stickers on the frame were occupying too much real estate. This is a how-to for removing them, relocating (in my case, to under the seat) and cleaning up the frame afterwards. I have seen this trick also work for stickers on windshields; better or worse depending on the sticker itself and the method used.



*Note: the Ducati Motorholding stickers on the frame are solid; they have a wavy/slalom pattern (think skiing) cut into them from the back side. If you are too fast or careless in peeling, you will rip them into shreds. This method, when done right, will most likely get them off in one piece.

Steps:

1) Apply painters tape to the sticker. Match the edges as best as possible and smooth out thoroughly. Once smooth, run over the entire piece with your nails a few times to ensure that it sticks.



2) With an Xacto knife, very gently and carefully cut around the very edges of the sticker. When done with a steady, light hand, you will avoid any damage to the frame.

3) Smooth the tape, from center out, to ensure it is firmly in place and that the edges of the tape are gripping onto the edges of the sticker.

4) I found the best technique to be starting from the top (most accessible) bottom corner of the sticker and, with your finger nail, slowly peel up the edge, working your way to the narrow part of the frame. I would hesitate from using anything other than your nails to ensure that the frame is not scratched. The slower and more meticulous you are, the better the peel job. Make sure that the sticker is sticking to the tape. If it separates, peel it back to where it meets the tape again.



5) Once a decent amount (.5 to 1 cm of sticker/tape) has been peeled up, start peeling the sticker from the lower part on up the frame. If done right, it should remain stuck to the tape.



6) Relocate the sticker to a desired location. In my case, I found it easiest to put them both under the seat next to the emissions stickers. This way you still have the stickers on the bike.





7) Use some Goo Gone (natural citrus; wont harm paint or hoses) to clean off the remaining goo. Hold a rag in one hand and apply the Goo Gone to the entire area where the sticker used to be. Let sit for approximately 5 minutes to dissolve the goo.

8) Clean off and enjoy the new sleek look!