Motorcycles hold a special place in the hearts of their owners. Far more than just a means of transportation, the relationship between man and motorcycle is rivaled only by that of man and dog. Most owners, therefore, take the utmost precautions to keep their chrome-plated companions free from harm or danger, but accidents unfortunately still happen. This is where PDR, or paintless dent repair, can be a lifesaver.
Motorcycles, in general, are a little more susceptible to dings and scratches than cars for a few reasons. Because motorcycles have far more complex surfaces than most cars, dings, and scratches are also much more evident in general.
Body to Body Contact
Unlike cars, operation of a motorcycle requires the user to sit, lay, lean, and scoot on and across the painted surfaces. Many motorcycle designs attempt to combat this issue by the inclusion of pads and cover plates with matte finished surfaces, but it is still nearly impossible to prevent scratching your bike just by riding it. If you’re really unlucky, things like wallet chains, keychains, and decorative gear with buckles or studs can be the source of significant dents in the tank or fenders. The small dents left behind in these cases are perfect for PDR, as they can usually be removed quickly and externally, without significant access required.
Instability
While very few Camaro owners have ever come outside to find their car tipped on its side because they chose to park on soft grass, this is a common occurrence for motorcycle owners. A poorly chosen parking location can lead to a tip-over and end in extensive dent and paint repair. Motorcycles can also be affected by wind gusts, reckless or negligent passers-by, and poor ground conditions or parking angles. In these cases, a dent is usually accompanied by a superficial scratch or two. With PDR, dent removal can be accomplished without any further damage to compromised paint. This allows the skilled detailer to potentially polish away scratches and avoid more destructive forms of body work.
Storage
Few of us riders are fortunate enough to live in a climate that allows for motorcycle riding all year long. Even those that do seldom have the opportunity to ride as much as they would like. Therefore, most motorcycles get stored, some longer than others. In storage, motorcycles become vulnerable to every tool, toy, or ladder in the garage that needs to be accessed throughout the year. Motorcycles damaged by falling tools or toys often result in a crease type dent, in which there is a sharp line evident near the center of the dent. Crease dents can be one of the most challenging to remove, as the pressure built up in the creased material can be difficult to overcome. PDR tools and techniques are still capable of getting rid of these dents without any damage to the paint or the material itself.
As easy as PDR can be, It’s still always a better idea to avoid dents in general. Most riders can protect themselves from dents by investing in a good quality cover, securing a safe and level place to park, and wearing clothing with minimal external closures, studs, and buckles. However, when you find a dent, PDR is the only option for a quick and easy motorcycle repair.
