Prior to cleaning your motorcycle, it is essential that all materials are gathered to ensure a proper wash. A bucket, soap, gloves, tar remover, degreaser, WD40, toothbrush, large brush, wheel cleaner, cotton sponges, cotton towels, and a chamois cloth are all needed to give your motorcycle that gleam that first caught your eye.
Cleaning bugs off a motorcycle does not have to be frustrating. In fact, WD40 is one of the most important tools a motorcyclist will have in removing these blemishes from the vehicle. It is advised to spray dead bugs with these chemicals and let them sit for a minute. Using a gentle cloth, it should be a simple task to wipe them off. Do not use excessive force or you may damage the exterior paint.
Some concern should be taken when cleaning with degreaser. For instance, it is recommended that paint or chrome should never be cleaned with degreaser. Hard parts such as the swing-arm and the exhaust pipe on a motorcycle will need special treatment. These parts will not require a microfiber cloth. With the aid of a degreaser, a rag will be able to remove much of the soot and tars that will accumulate on these parts. Once again, it is recommended to wash these parts with extra care to prevent degreaser from accidentally stripping paint or chrome.
The toothbrush is essential for getting into the nooks and crannies of the bike. This is especially true of parts such as the springs or components that may be otherwise too difficult to wash with a rag. Spray some degreaser on the toothbrush and reach into spots that are inaccessible. Degreaser should easily remove much of the road grime that has accumulated much of the motorcycle.
One of the hardest parts of cleaning a motorcycle happens to be the wheels. This is where a long-arm brush will come into play and will make removing brake dust and grime a simple task. On the wheels, a wheel cleaner should be applied and left to sit for a minute or two, depending on the severity of the grime. Next, use the long-arm brush to scrub excess soot off before wiping it down. Make sure to consult with the wheel's manufacturers before cleaning. Many wheels, especially chrome, will require a special cleaner to not damage the finish of the wheel. It is recommended to skip against any tire cleaning products because they can decrease the ability of the tire to handle the road and reduce grip.
Last the body of the motorcycle should be cleaned. It is best to use a microfiber sponge glove to clean the paint. Always use warm, soapy water and do not hesitate to get the body wet before cleaning it. Ideally, soapy water protects the paint and prevents any hairline scratches from occurring. When washing, always use 100 percent cotton towels or a microfiber sponge to prevent blemishes and micro-scratches. Rinse the water off gently using a hose on low pressure or a fresh bucket of water.
Finally, it is suggested that that drying take place while the bike is in the shade. A chamois cloth is best to soak up excess moisture from the paint job. This type of cloth is excellent when trying to prevent scratches, streaks, or spots from happening.
Now that you have gone through all the trouble of bringing out the luster in your motorcycle, it is time for a ride. While riding, you may notice that some water will come out of places that were unreachable. This is fine. After a much deserved ride, take your chamois cloth and wipe the motorcycle down before putting it away.
It's important to keep up maintenance on your motorcycle, including keeping it clean. Smoky Mountain is a Harley Davidson dealer serving Knoxville, Maryville and Pigeon Forge.Visit this motorcycle dealer at its Maryville location for bikes, cleaners, fluids, apparel and parts.
