Custom Motorcycle Graphics: My KTM 200 XCW Gets a Pop-Art Makeover

I’ve always wanted custom graphics on a motorcycle, but I’ve never really had the means, or the right bike for them. That changed when all the plastics on my KTM 200 XCW had to be replaced. (Yes, I crash that much.)

There sat my bike for a few wintery months with plain, shiny, WHITE new plastics, practically screaming at me: “DO SOMETHING!”

If there’s anything I hate design-wise, it’s white, plain, crisp, and minimalist. Boring. Lacking personality. So I decided to do something about it.

Enter PTI Graffix

I called my friend Ryan, who owns PTI Graffix, a graphic design and decal production company based out of Surrey, BC. They design and manufacture all kinds of graphics and decals, specializing in motocross graphics and high-quality stickers for businesses. I asked him what it would take to create a set of custom graphics for my bike. His reply: “Send me some examples of what you like, and I’ll see what I can do.”

So, I browsed images of graphics for my KTM model. I scanned generic dirt bikes. I even checked out sport bike graphics. Most of them felt dull or flashy in that cookie-cutter racer kind of way: sponsor logos, jagged lines, brand color schemes (green for Kawasaki, blue for Yamaha, red for Honda, orange for KTM). Meh.

I liked a few retro graphics—orange, white, and blue lines, more square and old school. Thinking inside the box, I sent him my favourite retro sample. He sent me back a proof, basically copying the style and layout.

Making It Personal

I also wanted to include some memorial decals for the late Peter Lenz, a former student and dear friend. I sent those ideas along, and Ryan placed them where they belonged. It looked really good, and I almost pressed ACCEPT—but then I stopped. I thought: If I’m going custom, why not go all in? Why be regular?

So, I started browsing different styles and suddenly thought: comic book pop art. Biff. Crash. Bam. Bright colours. Bold graphics. I sent Ryan screenshots of comic book panels and colour schemes to see what he could do.

He explained that while graphics are custom, he’s not an illustrator and couldn’t re-create original artwork. “Unless you have an artist friend, draw them up yourself, or purchase images from a stock site like Shutterstock, I can’t use what you’ve sent.”

So, back to the drawing board.

I asked my mom, brother, and sister (all artists) if they could help. They’re busy, and it wasn’t really their style. After more searching, I found some Shutterstock images that matched the vibe I wanted. I sent them to Ryan.

The Magic Proof

What happened next blew me away. Ryan sent a proof, and when I opened it, I was floored. On my screen was a layout I instantly loved: a unique color scheme that blended all five images I’d sent. It even included Peter’s mascot, Dynee (based on the stuffy he always carried to the track), and a Forever 45 sticker on the tailpiece (his race number).

I hit approve. Within days, the kit was printed and professionally installed by Ryan himself.

“We had a blast building Misti’s custom graphics kit! She came to us wanting something completely original, and we got to play with some really satisfying colour combinations.” - Ryan PTIGRAFFIX

The Final Touches

PTI Graffix does more than bike graphics. They also create decal kits for heavy machinery, neck braces, automotive decals, commercial signage, safety stickers, Covid-related decals, and yes—even funny stickers. Along with my custom kit, Ryan added clear grip tape (which works perfectly) and gave me helmet decals with my emergency contact info.

The Result?

The end result? A wildly eye-catching, totally unique design with real functionality. The grip tape grips. The decals tell a story. And everyone knows exactly whose bike it is. It’s all mine. And I love it.

“The best part of what we do is bringing imagination to life,” Ryan said as I happily loaded my bike into the truck.

Tips for Custom Graphics

Customizing your motorcycle can be an exciting experience. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

1. Research Your Style: Before diving in, take time to explore different graphic styles. Whether you prefer retro, modern, or something entirely unique, find what resonates with you.

   
   

2. Collaborate with Designers: Don’t hesitate to reach out to graphic designers. Share your ideas and inspirations. A good designer will help bring your vision to life.

   
   

3. Consider Functionality: While aesthetics are important, don’t forget about functionality. Ensure that your graphics don’t interfere with the bike’s performance or safety.

   
   

4. Personal Touches Matter: Adding personal elements, like memorial decals or symbols that reflect your journey, can make your bike truly one-of-a-kind.

   
   

5. Stay Open to Ideas: Sometimes, the best designs come from unexpected places. Be open to suggestions from your designer and embrace the creative process.

   
   

6. Share Your Journey: Document your customization journey. Share it on social media or with fellow riders. Your story can inspire others to embark on their own customization adventures.

   
   

7. Enjoy the Ride: Ultimately, remember that your motorcycle is an extension of you. Enjoy the process and the ride that comes with it.

   
   

@ptigraffix