Cable rub!

[Bajs]

Wasnt sure where to put this thread so i appologise if im in the wrong place! The cables on my first road bike are rubbing at the frame, i have heard that the best thing to stop this is 3m scotchguard film. Only thing is i have no idea where to get this in the central belt of scotland. Could anyone help me? Thanks

 

[ianrauk]

HERE

 

[smokeysmoo]

or HERE, also commonly referred to as helicopter tape.

Also available with a matte finish if required

 

[Bajs]

Is it just basically selotape that people use then? I thought it would have been some sort of magic film! Lol.

 

[ianrauk]

Yup, it's what I use.
No need for anything expensive or specific.

 

[smokeysmoo]

I've never heard of people using normal sellotape, (until now).

The helicopter tape is thicker and I've never managed to rub through it.

Also, sellotape dries out and goes flaky too, (think Christmas tree box after a couple of years in the loft).

Each to their own I guess, but helicopter tape is both inexpensive and designed for purpose.

 

[ianrauk]

Well there you go.. each to their own.
It hasn't dried out yet on 6000 miles of all weather London commuting.

The companies stationary cupboard has it's uses...

 

[derrick]

Yep i'd go for heli tape, it comes of nice and clean if you need to change it.

 

[compo]

I noticed the cables rubbing my headset months ago. I was going to buy some helicopter tape but whilst waiting I put a couple of thicknesses of black insulating tape where the rubbing was. I forgot all about it until Bajs query so just went to my bike and had a look. There isn't a mark on it and the tape is still stuck nicely with no peeling corners or anything.

I really ought to get some helicopter tape though as I am sure it is better in the long term.

 

[Widge]

I invested in a little box of 'Helicopter Tape'(just a few quid) from eBay when I first got my shiny new bike this summer.

I'd never heard of it 'til I joined this esteemed forum. It's good stuff! Think bullet-proof sellotape....hardly shows at all on a coloured frame. Sticks well and peels easily.

Errm....why is it called HELICOPTER tape?

I'm sure there must be an interesting and fascinating answer?

w

 

[Cubist]

Its original use is to protect the leading edges of helicopter rotor blade. That's why it's tough. It needs to be put on very well. Decrease the frame and use a hairdrier to warm the tape and make it pliable. Smooth it on without bubbles. Cut the edges round so they don't lift.

 

[Blue Hills]

I use silver Duck tape on one of my bikes - makes it look more scrappy/less nickable hopefully.