The combination of sun, water, dust, dirt and road debris will take a toll on the appearance of a motorcycle. If you don't invest some of your time and energy into cleaning it, your bike's appearance will fade in color and suffer from other visible imperfections. The good news is that you can preserve the brilliant color and shine of your bike by cleaning it on a regular basis. Whether you drive a stretched out Harley or compact "crotch rocket," follow the tips listed to clean your motorcycle.
Tip #1) Wax On, Wax Off
Waxing your motorcycle creates a protective barrier against the damaging effects of sun and moisture. Ever see a bike with rust developing on the paint? This is because the owner didn't wax it enough. You can use traditional automobile wax on your bike. Just apply a small amount on your bike's clean exterior and immediately wipe it off.
Tip #2) Use a Degreaser Around The Gears
It should go without saying that the gears are the dirtiest part of a motorcycle. The lubricant and oil here catches dirt from the road, creating a thick sludge-like consistency. When cleaning your motorcycle, spray a small amount of degreaser on an old towel to use on the gears. Degreaser will make easy work of even the toughest, dirtiest bike gears. When you are finished, spray it off with a hose to remove any excess oil or degreaser.
Tip #3) Lube Your Bike Chain
Of course, you can't forget about the chain when cleaning your bike. There are several different ways to clean a bike chain, but the easiest way is to use a basic sponge with warm water and automotive soap. Simply pull the chain around to remove any stubborn dirt and debris. Once it's clean, spray some lubricant, such as WD-40, on the chain to ensure it runs smoothly.
Tip #4) Watch The Leather
There's nothing that compares to genuine leather saddles on a motorcycle; their unique, stylish appearance is sure to turn heads on the road. However, you need to use caution when cleaning a motorcycle with leather saddles or accessories. If moisture settles into the leather, it may cause it to literally rot from the inside out.
Tip #5) Avoid Water Spots
Last but not least, dry your motorcycle off with a terry cloth to prevent water spots. Some bikers hose their motorcycle down with the hose and call it a day. Nine out ten times, however, this will result in visible water spots. Take a few minutes to dry your motorcycle once you are finished cleaning it to prevent this from happening.
