My Tubus Tara front rack did not come with any tape that I remember. I've seen a lot of Tubus racks on the road but not sure I've seen any that had rusted much at all. If it happened, a little light sand paper and a quick spray of Rustoleum in flat black would cure that every few years. I have Axiom aluminum rear panniers and been very happy with their durability though they do show areas of discoloration where the panniers attach.