VHS Slapper Tape: Chainstay protection from New Zealand
VHS (Velocity Hucking Systems) is a manufacturer from New Zealand that focuses on a single product: the Slapper Tape. This silicone rubber chainstay protector with studs dampens chain slap, protects the paint, and makes your bike quieter.
Founder Ferris Fairbairn had enough of DIY solutions using old inner tubes and tape that would fall off after a short time. His goal: a tape that lasts, is easy to install, and truly quiets the bike. The studs are moulded with air chambers – they absorb the impact of the chain instead of transferring it to the frame.
VHS 2.0 or VHS 3.0: the difference
Both versions are 350 mm long, 10 mm high, and made of UV-resistant silicone rubber. The big difference is the width of the base – and thus how far the tape wraps around the chainstay.
VHS 2.0 – 70 mm wide, in colour
With a width of 70 mm, the second generation covers the top and part of the sides of the chainstay, with soft air-filled studs to dampen the chain. We carry it in blue, green, orange, red, purple, and white.
VHS 3.0 – 140 mm wide, fully enclosed
Twice as wide: the tape wraps around the entire chainstay, eliminating exposed edges where shoes might catch. It also features softer silicone, flatter, angled studs, and a new adhesive. We carry it in black.
In short: The 3.0 covers more surface area and is easier to apply cleanly thanks to the kiss-cut backing film. Choose the 2.0 if you want colour or mainly want to protect the top of the stay.
Directly to the product: VHS 2.0 Slapper Tape· VHS 3.0 Slapper Tape
Will the VHS Slapper Tape fit my bike?
There is one length: 350 mm, intended for one chainstay. If your stay is shorter, simply trim the tape with scissors or a utility knife. You can use any offcuts for other areas prone to wear, such as the seat stay.
Space is important: The tape has a profile of 10 mm. Before applying, check that the chain and chainring have sufficient clearance from the stay in all gears. Highly shaped stays with welds may require some trimming so the tape lies flush everywhere.
Installing and removing the VHS Slapper Tape
1. Remove old protection
Peel off the existing chainstay protector and its backing, and remove any old adhesive residue completely.
2. Clean thoroughly
Degrease the stay and finish by wiping it with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use household cleaners – they often contain silicone, which prevents the adhesive from sticking.
3. Adjust and stick
Test the length and trim if necessary. For the 3.0, first peel off the centre backing film, align and press, then do the sides one by one. Apply even pressure everywhere.
4. Let it cure
According to VHS, wait at least 30 minutes before riding – in damp conditions, wait up to 6 hours.
To remove, peel the tape off slowly and flat; a little heat from a hair dryer softens the adhesive. Clean off adhesive residue with isopropyl alcohol or a paint-safe adhesive remover before applying new tape.
Frequently asked questions about VHS Slapper Tape
What is the difference between the VHS 2.0 and VHS 3.0 Slapper Tape?
The VHS 3.0 Slapper Tape is 140 mm wide, twice as wide as the 70 mm VHS 2.0, and wraps around the entire chainstay. It also features softer silicone, flatter, angled studs, and a new adhesive with kiss-cut film. Length (350 mm) and height (10 mm) are identical for both.
What colours is the VHS Slapper Tape available in?
We carry the VHS 2.0 Slapper Tapein blue, green, orange, red, purple, and white. The VHS 3.0 Slapper Tapeis available from us in black.
How long does the VHS Slapper Tape need to cure?
According to VHS, at least 30 minutes before the first ride, and up to 6 hours in damp conditions. Crucial for adhesion is a grease-free chainstay cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, free of any silicone residue.
Can I remove the VHS Slapper Tape?
Yes. Peel the VHS Slapper Tape off slowly; a little heat from a hair dryer helps. Remove adhesive residue with isopropyl alcohol or a paint-safe adhesive remover. It is best to use a fresh piece of tape for a new installation.
What can I do if the chain still slaps despite the VHS tape?
The VHS Slapper Tape dampens the impact of the chain on the stay, but it does not hold the chain in place. If you want to limit chain movement itself, you can find damping modules from STFUthat sit on the chainstay and capture the chain.
