Views: 102 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2022-09-29 Origin: Site
A motorbike fairing is one of the most essential components of a motorbike. A fairing not only shows the overall appearance of the motorbike, but also helps to improve riding performance while protecting the rider from road and weather conditions. Unfortunately, not many riders know what a fairing is and what materials are used to make motorbike fairings (so we aim to help inform you with this blog).
Having the necessary knowledge about what a motorbike fairing is and what materials are used to make them will go a long way to helping you make an informed decision when buying a new set of fairings for your motorbike.
Let's start with some basics. Firstly, there are several terms that are synonymous when it comes to motorbike fairing kits. You may hear phrases such as "motorbike fairing", "fairing kit", "motorbike plastic", "a set of fairings", etc.
Secondly, it is worth noting that motorbike fairings can be manufactured and purchased as complete fairing kits, or as individual fairing components. The main fairing components that make up a motorbike fairing kit are ......
1. ) Headlight/nose fairing
2.) Front tyre flap/splash guard
3.) Left and right side guards
4.) Water tank cover
5.) Tail fairing and seat cover
Now that we have a better understanding of what motorbike fairings are, in addition to their purpose, let's review the common materials used in the manufacture of new motorbike fairings.
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) - this plastic is known for its strength, flexibility and durability, in addition to its light weight. It is most commonly used in the manufacture of fairings for sport bikes. Most manufacturers of aftermarket fairings also use ABS; due to its impressive characteristics, combining the rigidity and strength of styrene and acrylonitrile with the robustness of polybutadiene rubber. Many prefer ABS because it prevents scratches and protects the rider from flying debris. In addition, ABS was originally designed to ensure the best protection for the rider in the event of any type of accident. Now, if you would like a more in-depth look at how ABS fairings are manufactured, you can check out our blog which outlines the two most common methods injection moulding and compression moulding respectively.
Glass fibre - this material is made from woven fibres and is mainly used as a reinforcement for many polymer products. Motorbike fairings made from this material are mainly used in racecourses. Typically, fibreglass is more durable and lighter than ABS plastic. If your fibreglass fairing is damaged, you can repair it by applying a new coating of fibreglass weave combined with a polymer such as epoxy resin to the damaged section, after which it should be sanded and finished.
Carbon fibre reinforced polymer - this is the lightest material but is also one of the most expensive materials used for motorbike fairings. Carbon fibre motorbike fairing kits are mainly used for sport bikes, motorbike racers or riders who want to stand out.
Now that you know more about motorbike fairings and the different types of materials used, we hope you feel well informed so that you can go ahead and buy a new motorbike fairing with confidence!
