Application of Bodywork Decals & Transfers

Anyone have any experience with the application of decals/transfers to tank/guards etc..
I've got a pinstripe decal set for my '78 Z1-R and would like to know any dos/don'ts/hints.
Particularly - do these require activation of the adhesive or are they just "peel and stick?"
Not sure what brand these are or if they're OEM - they came with the bike when I bought it.
Promo pic of the bike for reference

I do it different from the usual way. This works for chunky Lawson graphics, I've never done pinstripes.

Firstly on prepped surfaces use plenty of wetting agent, a drop of washing up liquid per 500ml bottle works. Cut the decals real close to the edge, use tape to mark them up in a temporary paste up position...stand back and look at them from all angles comparing them to the factory pics...adjust, readjust... get it exact.. Put it on minus backing paper just like a sticker, use a plastic credit card to smooth the bubbles out. Put some music on, have a glass of wine or a hand rolled smoke -whatever gets you into the 'arty' zone.

Seriously, this graphic placement part is critical, applying them wet allows you several attempts. It needs to be just 'right'. Nothing ruins a nice paint job worse than clumsy graphics placement or goofy colours. Use original factory literature as a reference , most of the 'nice' ebay and forum bikes have been resprayed now.

Leave it several days before clear coating, otherwise they will last quite a while without.

www.diablocycle.com/Decal-Application-Instructions.html
Full instructions. They sell as well. Nice stuff

Have a hair dryer handy. A little heat softens the vinyl and helps it snuggle in on creases and corners. It also helps if you get a bubble or budge. Just a little heat, work it down with your fingers and repeat until smooth.

+1 above, also ask for some off cuts to practice with...don't pull the vinyl too tight or it can discolour!

Thanks to all for hints/tips on application of decals - much appreciated.
Think I've got a pretty good idea what needs to be done -
just have to be aware that the decals may have aged - not sure how long they "keep" for -
but I've had them for about 4 years now since I bought the "project."

No probs with the graphic's age within reason as long as it was stored right and not creased. I had some stored for about 6 years. The' 7 year' thing on some vinyl spes is I think for outside use without a (UV protective) clear coat applied. For a garaged bike with 2k clear over the decals I don't think life expectancy of the vinyl is an issue on a decent paintjob.

These graphics are expensive for what they are , get some free off cuts to practice with first. Putting them on wet allows for lots of re positioning. Get int 'the zone' : exact graphics placement is the zen of these motorcycles.

I have done two Z1R's ....both using the Diablo decal kits. Tank stripes seemed a little different from the factory spacing so you have to adjust your layout to get the best look. Also the bend near the gas cap will never look perfect. I think I cut the overlap shorter on the front fender since it is tough to line up a long overlap when can't see through the transfer paper.

Might limit myself to the prep work on the bodywork/tank etc.
Probably pass the application of the paint, striping and clear coating to a pro
after its all ready - might drop in today to see a local bloke recommended by a mate who's had some good work done there.
Will post some pics as the prep and paint progresses - under a new thread.

I used the Reproduction Decals/Diablo Cycle twice. The first for my 81 KZ1000 Ltd., I used right away, it came out perfect. The second. for my 78 KZ1000 Ltd., I did not use for some months, and it dried out, and became very difficult to apply, and job is not perfect. Preparation work is just as important if not the most important part of a paint job, body shop paints are of superior quality than what you get in rattle cans.