Look closely at the top of the fuel tank on most used bikes and you'll see it: a patch of fine scratches right where the rider's jacket zip, belt buckle or tank bag sits. It builds up slowly, and once it's there, it's there.
A tank pad is a cheap way to stop that happening. Some types also give your knees something to grip, which a lot of riders find makes the bike feel more planted.
Here's what the different types do, which one makes sense for you, and how to fit one so it stays put.
What does a tank pad actually do?
There are really two jobs, and different pads do different ones.
Protection. A centre pad sits on top of the tank, usually just in front of the filler cap. It takes the rubbing from zips, buttons and belt buckles when you lean forward, and from the base of a tank bag. On the tank sides, pads stop your knees and boots scuffing the paint.
Grip. Side pads, often called knee grips or traction pads, have a textured rubber surface. They let you hold the bike with your knees under braking and through corners, which takes weight off your wrists and arms. Track riders have used them for years, but plenty of road riders like them too.
Types of tank pad
Resin or gel centre pads
These have a domed, glossy surface, a bit like a thick sticker filled with clear resin. They come in all sorts of shapes and designs, from plain black to carbon effect and printed patterns. They're good at stopping scratches and they're easy to wipe clean. Because they're shaped to sit on a curved tank, it's worth checking the size and shape against your bike before you order.
Rubber anti-slip pads
Thinner, flexible rubber pads with a textured surface. They're mostly used on the tank sides as knee grips, but you'll also find centre pads in this style. They wrap around curves better than resin pads and give a lot more grip.
Clear protection film
If you don't want to change how the bike looks, a clear film protects the paint without being obvious. It won't give any grip, but it's a good choice for keeping a newer bike looking original.
Model-specific kits
Some pads are cut to fit a particular bike, following the exact shape of the tank, side panels or fairing. They look the most factory-finished but obviously only fit the models they're made for. Universal pads are more flexible and are easier to find.
Which one should you get?
If you mostly ride in textile or leather jackets with zips, or use a magnetic or strap-on tank bag, a centre pad is the one to start with. That's where most of the damage happens.
If you ride a sports bike, do track days, or find yourself sliding forward under braking, side knee grips will make more difference.
Plenty of riders fit both. It's not expensive, and it covers every part of the tank that takes a beating.
If your bike has a plastic tank cover rather than a metal tank, pads still work well. Just check the surface is smooth enough for the adhesive to bond properly.
How to fit a tank pad
Most tank pads use a strong self-adhesive backing. They're easy to fit, but you only really get one go, so a bit of preparation pays off.
Pick your moment. Adhesive sticks best when it's warm. Fit the pad indoors or on a mild day, ideally above about 15 degrees. In a cold garage, a hairdryer on a low setting can warm the tank and the pad slightly.
Clean the tank. Wash the area, dry it, then wipe it down with isopropyl alcohol to remove any wax, polish or grease. Any residue left on the paint will stop the pad sticking properly.
Plan the position. Sit on the bike in your normal riding position and see where your jacket zip or knees touch the tank. Hold the pad in place before peeling anything off, and mark the edges lightly with masking tape so you know exactly where it goes.
Fit from the middle out. Peel back the backing a little at a time, line the pad up with your marks, and press it down from the centre outwards to push out any air bubbles. Pay attention to the edges, because that's where pads start to lift.
Leave it alone. Give the adhesive at least 24 hours to cure before you ride hard, wash the bike or put a tank bag on it.
Removing an old pad
When it's time for a change, warm the pad with a hairdryer to soften the glue, then peel it back slowly from one corner at a low angle. Don't use a metal scraper. Any leftover adhesive will usually come off with a plastic card and an adhesive remover that's safe for paint. Polish the area afterwards, and you may find the paint underneath looks better than the rest of the tank.
You can browse our full range of tank pads, knee grips and decals, including resin centre pads, anti-slip side grips and protection kits.