Cyclists often ask how to best protect their bike’s paint and frame from everyday wear, scratches, and damage. In this video, the Eddie walks us through three of the most effective ways to keep your frame looking great—whether you’re commuting through the city or riding rugged mountain trails. 1. The Classic: Top Tube Protector A simple, affordable, and eco-friendly solution: the top tube protector. Made from upcycled inner tubes by Green Guru, this padded sleeve velcros directly onto your top tube, creating a buffer between your frame and any surfaces you lean against—like bike racks or poles. It’s an ideal choice for city commuters who lock their bikes outside frequently. Installation is quick and easy, and while it slightly changes the look of your bike, it’s an inexpensive way to prevent dents and paint chips that come from daily use. 2. Paint Protection Film (PPF): Invisible Armor For a more subtle approach, Paint Protection Film (PPF)—a thin, transparent vinyl film that shields your frame without altering its appearance. Sometimes called “helicopter tape,” this product can be applied selectively to high-contact areas or used to wrap an entire frame. Useful tips: Avoid touching the adhesive side to prevent oil contamination. Use a razor blade carefully to trim excess film (without scratching your paint). Smooth out air bubbles from the center outward or use a heat gun to help the film conform. Once applied, the PPF is nearly invisible but highly effective at shielding your paint from scuffs and rock chips—especially on the underside of the down tube where debris often strikes. 3. Heavy-Duty Frame Protection for Mountain Bikes For riders tackling rough terrain, the video introduces a tougher option similar to RideWrap—a thick, more rigid adhesive protector designed for mountain bikes. This material resists deeper impacts and abrasion better than standard PPF, making it ideal for downhill or enduro bikes like the Priority 600HXT featured in the video. It’s especially useful if you’re shuttling—loading your bike onto trucks, gondolas, or lifts—where the frame might rub against racks or other bikes. The installation process is similar: clean the frame, cut the protector to fit, and apply it in sections if needed to accommodate curved tubing. For a precise fit RideWrap’s custom-cut kits, which match your bike’s exact make, model, and size, are a great choice. 4. Balancing Protection and Aesthetics Reminder: no protection method is completely foolproof. Every film or wrap will eventually wear and may need replacing. While frame protectors can slightly alter your bike’s look, they’re a practical way to extend its life—and many riders wear scratches as a badge of miles well ridden. Final Thoughts From casual commuters to serious mountain bikers, frame protection helps preserve both the performance and beauty of your bike. Whether you go with a simple top tube pad, a discreet paint protection film, or a full RideWrap-style kit, each option lets you ride confidently knowing your frame can handle the miles ahead.