Just Got My First F56! and Stripe question
 

I should be getting it Wednesday (hopefully sooner!), it's pepper white with a black roof and black mirrors, 6 speed manual
I want the car to have either black bonnet stripes, or an offset racing stripe. If I buy the bonnet stripes, I want to buy them from Mini and install them myself. Is that a bad idea? Also, anyone know a good spot for me to get the racing stripe if I choose to?
Can't wait to take pics

You may like some of the stripes we offer at OutMotoring.com:

https://www.outmotoring.com/_search....tripes&x=0&y=0

If you buy the ones right from a MINI dealer just keep in mind that they are not adhesive backed. Meaning, they will have to be applied wet in combination with a squeegee. Some think that they are regular stickers when in fact they are actual pieces of bare vinyl.

Factory MINI stripes should be regular self adhesive vinyl(stickers), a wet application just makes it easier to apply, and reposition if necessary, without air bubbles. If you've never applied vinyl before, I recommend a wet application. You can buy application fluid or mix up your own with distilled water, alcohol, and a couple of drops of baby shampoo.

I have one of the stripes right next to me. Yes it is sticky to the touch but not "regular self adhesive vinyl(stickers)." It needs to be applied with fluid for a more permanent install. If you try to apply these without, yes they will stick to the hood but not for long.

Interesting, maybe they changed something. Usually the vinyl has pressure sensitive adhesive and it won't feel as sticky to the touch. The adhesive will get stickier when pressure is applied with the squeegee during application.

Regardless, a squeegee is needed for either application and a wet install is easier for novice installers so the factory stripes shouldn't be an issue. Aftermarket will be a good way to save money and get something a little more unique.

Antmelo, be sure to post some pics after you put on the stripes.

I think if you are asking if self install is a bad idea, then it probably is. I would never attempt it myself as I don't have the attention to fine detail. I'd wind up with bubbles and crooked stripes! If you are good with your hands go for it, worst case you peel them off and go pro.

I think I was more concerned with the stripes themselves, or if people had wound up regretting doing it themselves.

I'm actually looking at the checkered stripes from out motoring also, anybody got experience with their vinyl stuff?

Replaced twice, wet, easy peasy. Just takes patience and time.
Get 'em taped (blue painter's tape works) down the way you want them then lift one end and start at the middle laying it down then the same for the other half. Chase the air bubbles out while its still very wet.

F56
 

Sounds great, can't wait to see some pictures. Congrats :thumbsup:

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

Not the best pic, but I just picked it up today and I'm ecstatic! I love it! Re-learning manual in rush hour traffic was about as fun as it could be. Can't wait to post more when I attach the stripes

F56
 

Very clean, congrats! Looks great! :thumbsup:

Want to make sure everything is spot on? Here's a handy service & maintenance guide for you:

Click Here

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.