Paint protection film - DIY install on new car?

[AcidReflux]

I think I need to mount a cycle carrier on the tailgate of my new car and I want to protect the perfect paint finish from the sponge feet of the carrier. I thought I'd try fitting some of that paint protection film that I've seen professionally installed on bonnets and bumpers.

There are several people selling paint protection film on eBay, or I could get 'helicopter tape' that's designed for bicycle frames.

E.g.:
eBay:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Professional-Paint-Protectio...
Helicopter tape:
http://www.biketart.com/products/biketape

Anybody tried this themselves and have any comments?

[hornetrider]

Hmmm. If you are concerned with the perhaps harsh plastic of the rubber feet affecting the appearance of the car, then I expect they would also mark a traditional protective film and become unsightly.

How about using some temporary rubber protection for when the bike rack is attached? I used this stuff for when I used to put a boot rack on the MX5, and it protected the paint perfectly.

Just an idea.

[AcidReflux]

The bike carrier we've got has two bars that rest horizontally across the paint, which are covered in thick sponge like old bicycle handlebar grips. Looks a bit like this one:
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...
The soft sponge supports don't harm the paint on their own but any movement of the carrier as we drive along (especially if it's raining) could grind grit and dirt into the paint, and protection film would take this wear instead.

I see this protection as a temporary measure since it's rare for us to go away with the kids and be taking two adult bikes. I'd probably peel it off again after the trip. Your idea of the rubber mat is interesting but I would still worry that there could be movement between the protection and the paintwork.

On older cars I haven't worried too much but the new one is too perfect!