So it just so happens that one of my two favorite motorcycle racers (#21 Bayllss) is going to race flat track nearby next month.
I've always wanted to get autographs from both of them at some point. So right now i'm eager to jump on this opportunity.
I was thinking of getting an autograph from him directly on my M1100 seat cowl.
Need some input on:
1) What type of pen should I bring? I'm assuming that a sharpie would suffice but are there pens specifically for this application? Recommendations?
2) How do I properly preserve the signature? I was thinking an additional clear coat but I'm not versed in what I need to do to make the coat stick, how to paint, etc. Do I have to sand it down first?
I don't want this as a wall ornament. If I sell the bike (probably a decade down the road) it might become one but I want this as something that's on my bike at all times.
Thanks in advance.
I'd think the sharpie would work fine, but I'd test with the clear coat as it might make the sharpie run a bit. The other option I can think of clear vinyl.
I saw Carroll Shelby's autograph on the roof of a Daytona Cobra Coupe. It was protected by a transparent vinyl or other plastic material. Not clearcoat.
If you ever want someone's autograph tattooed on your body: have it done with a fine point blue Sharpie, then proceed to your favorite tattooer asap where he/she will use it like a stencil. Sharpies have an alcohol based ink and are actually superior to surgical markers in many aspects. As for your original question...what about having it done somewhere there's metal then proceed to engrave it? That would be kinda cool.
After doing some research. I checked into what is used when people autograph helmets.
I got a Sharpie Paint Maker Pen as a suggestion
http://www.sharpie.com/enUS/Pages/oil-based-paint-marker-medium-point.aspx (http://www.sharpie.com/enUS/Pages/oil-based-paint-marker-medium-point.aspx)
Thinking of going with the gold metallic option as my bike is red and typical ducati monster gold would probably work well with it and match the fork anodizing.
Any issues with using oil based paint pen on the rear cowl? Paint is not my forte so I'm clueless about this stuff.
I'm not familiar with that type of marker since I hate sharpies. But I can tell you that typically, oil based paints take longer to dry. I don't think that is going to be a problem. Just be aware before you go manhandling it.
That isn't a big deal. Goal is Bayliss on one side of the seat cowl, Rossi on the other...
D@mm, EEL. Please post pics if you get that!
UPDATE!
Check one off the list. [thumbsup]
I ended up using an oil based paint pen (Sharpie Medium Point). I think it came out really nice. I chose the metallic gold since monsters have traditionally always had that red and gold look. I think I'll have to baby the signature or protect it somehow but for now it looks freaking awesome!
Poor guy crashed hard into the air barrier of turn 3 of the flatrack race I went to. I think he broke a leg. Hope he heals up quick!
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8803/18313101735_c1d026776b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/tUgr8n)
Autographed Cowl (https://flic.kr/p/tUgr8n)
Where's the "buy it now" button? [bow_down]
There are people who does transparent protective foil on parts like that, and larger, maybe on the cowl just the relevant parts...