"Powersport Grafx" Spells Custom Graphics

Powersport Grafx is probably not the first name you think of when you are looking for graphics kits for your Honda CRF. That's unfortunate because they are an industry leader specializing in high quality custom graphics. If you call up some of the traditional graphics companies and ask for a custom one-off graphics kit you'll likely be transferred to 1-800-#SAND. Not so at Powersport Grafx.

The quality of their graphics are equal to the best in the industry. In addition to great quality they have this new surfacing technology they call Gripz™. Essentially, Gripz™ makes the graphics on your bike more than just an aesthetic statement but functional component. All graphics help protect the plastics they are mounted to but how many provide extra gripping power? This is exactly what Powersport Grafx Gripz™ technology does. Gripz™ technology is available on the shroud and air box graphics only.

Gripz™ texture is similar to grip tape used on skateboards. It provides just enough resistance to aid in gripping the tank with your legs or the air box with your boot. I have to admit this was the first I had seen this type of surface on any graphics package. I was immediately impressed as everything on a racing machine should have a functional purpose.

How does the Gripz™ graphics look? By definition you'll notice that it's not as shinny as standard graphics. How could it be right? However, while looking more subdued than traditional graphics, it has a more rugged look which definitely says race-ready. In fact, they draw attention everywhere I go with my CRF450X. Other riders routinely stop and with a cocked-eye stare at the Gripz™ graphics. Eventually, all reach out to touch the surface and say virtually the same thing, "Wow, that's pretty cool. Where'd you get those?"

The quality of the Gripz™ and standard graphics pieces are exceptional and exactly what you'd expect from a top-shelf supplier of graphics. What was even more impressive is the service that was provided during the selection of the custom graphics for our CRF's Only kit. This is a company focused on customer service and great quality.

Installation was an incredible experience. That's is correct, incredible. When was the last time you said that after installing a graphics kit? The standard graphics went on like most do with a few bubbles and mumbling under my breathe. What was a welcomed surprise was how easy the Gripz™ graphics went down. The only thing that would have made installation easier is if they installed themselves. Short of that, these were the easiest graphics to install of any I have installed. Not just by a little margin but rather a huge margin! They almost just fell on. Not a single bubble, winkle, or do-over. I didn't use water or other tricks that have become the mainstay of modern graphics installations. It wasn't necessary.

Why do the Gripz™ graphics go on so easily? Picture a 1" think board and think of it as the profile a standard piece of graphics material. If you bend the board there would be lots of resistance. Now imagine this same board with v-notches cut into the surface. Trying to bend the board now would be much easier as the surface "tension", if you will, is relieved by the space between the peaks and valleys of the notches. The Gripz™ graphics have similar peaks and valleys across the surface. This allows it to easily "drape" over the uneven contours of a radiator shroud.

What about scratch and wear resistance? I've had several significant get offs in rocky and sandy soil since I installed the Powersport Grafx. These get offs, while significantly damaging the naked plastics of the side panels, have not caused any detectable scratches or damage on the Gripz™ covered radiator shrouds. They look so good that riding buddies continually ask me when I'm going to finally initiate my bike with a good crash. Been there, done that even though the Gripz™ graphics tell a different story. Wear and scratch resistance is exceptional with the Gripz™ technology.

The bottom line is these are one of the most impressive graphics kits I've ever installed. The fact that Powersport Grafx will provide them to you with whatever logo or graphics you want is incredible. If you want to totally customize your bike you can do it just like the factory teams with Powersport Grafx.

CRF's Only Staff Review October 2005
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