Fiberglass or Urethane...
which is more durable?
by: Harry E.R, harryer@purehonda.com
Fiberglass Kits:
Fiberglass
replacement bumpers are very rigid. Their surface matches that of your
Honda and they do not decompose with heat and age like urethane. Several
factors limit the fit of a fiberglass replacement bumper. Fiberglass
bumpers (if they are made using quality tooling and materials) provide an
excellent surface to sand and paint but are sometimes very difficult to
install. They 'sometimes' just do not match the shape of your Honda.
Since, fiberglass is rigid, it tends to shatter on impact and chipping can
occur even in minor bumps.
Urethane kits:
Urethane
bumpers stretch and bend quite easily, making it easy for them to
accommodate the minor differences in body panel alignment. This stretching
is a big advantage when installing the bumper to 'older model
Hondas". They are made out of a soft compound and can withstand very
minor impacts without noticeable damage. Bumpers
don't break but are bent or torn on severe impact. Urethane decomposes
with heat and age, this 'may' cause the bumpers to shrink slightly, and
the paint to fade - after a few years.
Here's what some
Purehonda.com members had to say:
Ridin
Shotgun: "From what I can remember when I asked the same
question to the guys at Wings West, the Urethane is easier to work with,
lighter and more durable. If you have the option, go with it."
richardmr2:
"I would definitely go with the
urethane kits, I have a... ' fiberglass kit and when I get hit with rocks
or other debris in the road the kit chips..."
ACCRD95EXr:
"I would go with the Urethane because it's more flexible and wont
just crack if you hit something or visa versa... Urethane is more
expensive but it will bend to accept a hit rather than crumble."
Well, there you have it!
Although both materials have their disadvantages, by weighing facts such
as location (roads, climate, etc) height of your Honda and your budget,
you will be able to make a wise choice!
Places to buy your kits:
- www.wingwest.com
- www.asylumms.com
- www.visracing.com
- www.grounddesigns2000.com
- www.andysautosport.com
- www.erebuni.net
- Need more links? Click
Here!
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