The prepping, painting, and clear-coating was done by a shop. I am not equipped (or inclined!) to apply a high-quality clear-coat onto this frame.

So, is there a dramatic decrease in durability by using water transfer decals? They are actual paint, right, and thus should be somewhat hard. Assuming water transfer looks better, is a slight drop-off in scratch resistance worth giving them a try?

Also, I think I've read about masking off the rest of the bike and just rattle-can spraying clear-coat over just the vinyl decals. Has anyone done this and, if so, how did it turn out?