How to Touch Up Paint on a Scratched Motorcycle?
3 Answers
If the scratch hasn't exposed the primer, simply gently buff the scratch with polishing compound and it will disappear. It takes at most 10 minutes. For very shallow scratches, you can use a touch-up paint pen available at automotive parts stores. For deep scratches, you need to first apply body filler, sand it smooth, then apply red putty, followed by primer spray.
I just dealt with motorcycle scratches and have some thoughts. Don't panic over minor scratches - first check the depth: for shallow scratches, just apply a touch-up pen directly after cleaning and drying the surface with a clean cloth. For deeper ones, lightly sand down any burrs. Color matching is key - check the owner's manual or visit a dealership for the paint code. Apply thin, even coats when painting, waiting 15 minutes between layers to avoid drips. The final step is polishing - gently buff with a soft cloth and polishing wax. DIY saves money, tools are available at supermarkets, it just takes patience. For prevention, park in safe areas and use protective covers to avoid repeat scratches.
Every time my motorcycle gets scratched, I do the touch-up painting myself—it saves money and is convenient. The general steps are cleaning, sanding, and painting. For cleaning, plain water and a cloth will do; for shallow scratches, a touch-up pen is enough; for deeper ones, lightly sand them smooth with fine sandpaper before painting. Make sure the paint color matches the exact model code, or the result will look bad. Apply the paint gently and in multiple thin coats, then polish after drying. A full set of tools costs just a few dozen bucks, while a professional shop would charge several times more. I recommend keeping a touch-up kit handy to fix minor damage promptly and prevent rust from affecting the body. Park away from tight spaces to reduce accidental scratches. DIY repairs are quick and let you pick up some handy skills too.
