Making Blackwalls into Whitewalls

[Monoplex]

I have a People 150 with 16" tires which doesn't have any whitewall tires available for it. So while my wheels are getting powdercoated, I'd like to try painting the sidewalls white.

Before I get in over my head, I was wondering if anyone on this board has tried this? If so, what kind of results did you get, e.g., did they come out looking like real whitewalls or were they more like "graywalls"? And did you find the process to be straightforward?

Thanks for your input!

[Rianna]

Hey, Monoplex, have you seen those Shinko whitewall tires yet? I saw them online. I've never seen them on a scoot, though.

[Monoplex]

Rianna, thanks for tip but I'll be darned if I can find the right sizes in whitewall. Have you been able to find the oddball 80/80x16?

I'm heading to my dealer tomorrow (Friday) to get the footpeg; I'll see if he has any better luck in tracking down whitewalls.

Thanks for the idea, though. If they make a whitewall, that'd be great. In doing some more reading on the making whitewalls, no one has been able to get good, long-lasting results.  

[Rianna]

I haven't actually seen them in that size, Monoplex, not sure if they make them. But you might send an email or give a call to these folks if your dealer can't get a lead on any. I haven't used them, but I've read good things about them. Good luck tomorrow.

http://www.scooterworks.com/Search.aspx?k=Shinko%20Whitewall

[lankeeyankee]

Paint doesnt flex well with rubber and will eventually crack.

[WT100]

Years ago i saw some rubber "stick on" white walls.  I think that would be a realistic option.  As Monoplex said, paint is just going to make them look bad over time.

[TechGuy]

You can get a white wall paint but it can be a lot of work to keep white and it eventually yellows and needs to be completely re-done. 

The Shinko only comes in the Vespa 10 and 12 inch sizes IIRC.