Thanks for the good info; I wouldn't have considered moving the mask to achieve a blend. I am thinking of going the complete opposite direction: as the original color is a sparkly deep brown, a contrasting bright color should be interesting - sort of highlight the change in the bike (and has the added benefit of eliminating color matching anxiety). I also have a heat gun, which can spit out some pretty hot air, so that might be useful.

As far as paint, use sand primer + any kind of spray paint? + a clear coat (I'm guessing ideally of the same brand) - with sanding between each step. I think I got it. I'll make it over to the big box hardware store sometime this week.