Viking 3M Polyurethane Protective Tape 25mm x 3m

Viking 3M Polyurethane Tape was originally designed for the US military to protect vehicles from scratch and abrasion damage, which is why it's often referred to as 'helicopter tape'. It should ensure pretty frame finishes remain chip 'n' blemish free under fire.

Being an industrial tape, it's available in a wealth of widths and lengths. A consumer-friendly roll like this 25mm-wide, 3m length is relatively expensive..

With most stick-on frame protection, it's usually a matter of time before dirt, regular washing and solvent from Teflon sprays creeps beneath, causing them to lift and peel. Viking says theirs will not discolour or pick up dirt at the edges.

A full blown sudsy wash isn't necessary for the tape to stick, but make sure all surfaces have been rubbed with an alcohol wipe and dried thoroughly beforehand. Drying at room temperature or thereabouts is similarly important for staying power, although in practice, some localised assistance from a hairdryer works a treat.

Start by measuring and cutting sections to suit.It's a middleweight, malleable density so there's no need for Stanley knives '' good quality household scissors are fine.

Crafty types can also create really slick patterns for awkward areas, such as head tubes, although for the most part simple squares and diagonals have been perfectly adequate. Tease the backing clear while simultaneously smoothing each section down, paying particular attention to those corners.

Introducing a hairdryer on medium heat at a distance of fifteen centimetres during the smoothing phase removes any trace imperfections, improving adhesion on tricky regions including saddles. Talking of which, we started on the usual suspects '' cable buffers chain/seatstay and top tube protectors (especially where luggage or bottle batteries mount) before extending its horizons to stems, or as substitute finishing strips on top drawer handlebar wrap.

Mountain bikers, cyclo crossers and gravel racers might want to introduce longer strips under down tubes to protect against stone chip damage. Those still using old school clips n' straps will be pleased to note it also prevents unsightly wear forming on pretty crank arms.

Given the asking price, I'd be expecting it to look pristine given three weeks or so, though six months might give a clearer indicator of its staying prowess and UV resistance, but I'm certainly not expecting it to yellow, flake or peel anytime soon.

Verdict

Extremely versatile protective tape