Gloss, Matte, or Glitter? Choosing the Right Finish for Your Dirt Bike Graphics

Aug 8th 2025

Gloss, Matte, or Glitter? Choosing the Right Finish for Your Dirt Bike Graphics

You’ve picked your design, selected your base material, and now it’s time for one final decision — the finish. This last layer might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in how your graphics look and feel. The three most popular options are Gloss, Matte, and Glitter finishes. Here’s how they compare.


1. Gloss Finish

  • What It Is: A high-shine, reflective laminate applied over your graphics.

  • Look: Smooth, bright, and reflective — makes colors pop and look deeper.

  • Pros:

    • Maximizes color vibrancy.

    • Classic, professional appearance.

    • Easier to clean — dirt and mud wipe off more easily.

  • Things to Consider:

    • Can show scratches more than matte.

    • Highly reflective in sunlight (good for flash, but may create glare in photos).

  • Best For: Riders who want bold, rich colors and a sleek, polished look.


2. Matte Finish

  • What It Is: A non-reflective laminate that diffuses light for a smooth, flat appearance.

  • Look: Modern, muted, and stealthy — colors appear softer and more subtle.

  • Pros:

    • Hides fingerprints and small scratches better.

    • No glare in photos or bright sun.

    • Gives bikes a unique, custom feel.

  • Things to Consider:

    • Colors will look slightly less vibrant than with gloss.

  • Best For: Riders who want a stealth look or want to stand out with a modern, understated style.


3. Glitter Finish

  • What It Is: A laminate that contains fine metallic or iridescent flakes, adding sparkle to your graphics.

  • Look: Eye-catching shimmer, especially in sunlight or under track lights.

  • Pros:

    • Adds a unique, fun element to any design.

    • Works great over solid colors, chrome, or holographic vinyl.

    • The sparkle effect helps logos and patterns stand out.

  • Things to Consider:

    • The glitter effect can make designs look busy if overused.

    • Typically more of a custom or novelty choice.

  • Best For: Riders who want their bike to sparkle and turn heads on and off the track.


Final Thoughts

Your choice of finish can transform the feel of your dirt bike graphics:

  • Gloss = Bold, bright, and classic.

  • Matte = Sleek, modern, and glare-free.

  • Glitter = Fun, flashy, and full of personality.