[CR]Modern paint for "mature" bikes

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Ideale)

Content-class: urn:content-classes:message
Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 16:00:33 -0600
Thread-Topic: Modern paint for "mature" bikes
Thread-Index: AccHbyQDRL776WlBQIi7+GLjwwTS7A==
From: "Watts, Gary J (Vancouver, WA USA)" <gary.watts@hp.com>
To: "CLASSIC RENDEZVOUS" <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR]Modern paint for "mature" bikes

I used to spray frames in the 1970's, using media blast, epoxy primer and Dupont Imron. Fast forward to today, I'm wondering what expert painters like Brian Baylis, Cyclart etc are using instead. It's my understanding that Imron is difficult to find and may be completely phased out due to environmental issues.

I've done several frames lately with 2 stage (basecoat/clear coat)and have likes/dislikes. The gloss is almost stupid it's so shiny. Hard as I've tried to put thin clear coats on, it still seems to obscure the details around lugs, cutouts etc. I've had excellent durability performance thus far as the newer clears are very flexible compared to the ultra hard Imron enamels.

Aside from 2 stage, what other options are there?

Gary Watts
Vancouver, Washington
USA