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Fairing Mesh Mod

5.7K views 33 replies 19 participants last post by  SafireEyz  
#1 ·
This was mentioned in another thread of mine so I thought I would post a write up on it:

 Start by buying some gutter guard at your local hardware store. I got a pack of 5 for $5.00. Get some small zip ties, strong epoxy (ie: Plexus), and zip tie Weld Mounts (AT3 SM TIE MT FOR ADHESIVE BONDING available at Lewis Marine Supply) Take off your fairing and clean the inside well with soap and water and then wipe with alcohol.


 The tools you will need. Pliers (needle and flat), wire cutters, shears or tin snips, sharpies and heavy duty duct tape (I used black marine grade).
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 Start by sizing up the piece you will need, draw the opening with the sharpie. Use shears to cut. Be careful after you cut, this stuff has really sharp edges, you might want to wear gloves.
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 Then use the sharpie to mark the curves of the opening leaving 1-2” around and then cut.
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 Now where the curves are cut in to the original opening marking, this will allow it to bend over the side better with less material to deal with. Now start to bend the metal to the line of the opening using the flat pliers. Make a bend then put it where you want it to make more adjustments. Don’t make all the bends and folds at first, it will take you forever. Do one corner and side at a time, it takes patience. Once you have all the correct curves, bends and corners you can use tape to hold it in place.
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 Then carefully use the needle nose pliers to tighten up the edges. Push the metal down into the opening and crimp the edges over the lip.
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 Remove the tape and now you can glue you Weld Mounts to the fairing. I used Plexus 320, however other epoxies will work. Make sure the fairing is clean, if the area is shiny, make sure you scuff it up first and remove the dust. I used mini zip ties so I placed the mounts about 1.5 inches from the mesh. I waited over night to secure the zip ties. Start with one corner and then the opposite corner next and so on. Make sure to tighten the zip ties down as far as they will go to ensure secure fit and no room for vibration. Tip: Push down on the mesh as you pull the tie.

 The finished product is a great mod for the SV or any bike. :D
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#2 ·
Good write up. I am definitely doing this mod and have been wanting to since ACSurveyor did it.

Were you satisfied with the mesh? I am thinking something a bit smaller and def. painting it black.
 
#3 ·
I totally love it! There are many shapes out there at hardware stores. The only thing with the smaller mesh it is tends to be more flimsy and harder to work with, unlike this stuff that is ridged and holds it shape well. Good luck!
 
#8 ·
This is a perfect example of how to personalize your ride!

If you can order it on-line, big deal.
If you buy it at Ace Hardware and cut it to fit, THAT's a mod.

btw: this looks awesome.
 
#15 ·
What color is your frame and wheels? I think weasel is right it looks good matching the silver. But if you don't have much silver on yours I would think black would be cool! If you have questions when your doing it hit me up, I woud be glad to help. Post pics when your done. ;D
 
#23 ·
Originally Posted by MTL650
Anyone do this on a 2nd gen??
Kinda hard to see in this pic, but my '05 S has black mesh installed into the fairing using the same method described by the OP.

Regards
Darryl
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#29 ·
AWESOME!
what a great post i'll be doing this for my dark blue 2008SVF - in black of course!
What kind of paint are you guys recommending? - JB
 
#31 ·
I would recommend a high heat or ceramic paint , though they are not exposed to it, it think it binds better the metal mesh, a couple light coats inside and out should do it.
Post pics when your done, email me if you have any questions!
;)