Here are our tips and recommendations on how to clean your motorcycle.
Keeping your motorcycle clean is essential, not only for aesthetic reasons but also because it helps prevent potential issues. However, it’s important to note that compared to a car, a motorcycle requires a bit more care as there are exposed parts that could get damaged from improper washing, and traditional pressure washers could be too aggressive.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR MOTORCYCLE: TOOLS AND PRODUCTS NEEDED
To wash your motorcycle, we recommend getting:
a soft sponge to remove dirt from the body without scratching it
a brush for cleaning specific parts
cloths for drying and microfiber cloths for polishing
an air compressor to remove any remaining moisture in hidden areas
As for products, you could use a degreaser for motorcycles, but be careful if it’s specific to the engine or body. Engine-specific degreasers are more aggressive and could cause irreversible damage if used on the body. A universal detergent could be an option, but it needs to be diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio to avoid damaging the paint. For rinsing the body and mechanical parts, use a standard pressure hose: a too strong water jet could damage some parts of the motorcycle.
DELICATE PARTS TO CLEAN IN YOUR MOTORCYCLE
Firstly, it’s important to know that there are parts that are best not to get wet, such as air intakes and exhaust systems, so it’s advisable to protect them. Air intakes can be covered with nylon pieces, while for the exhaust, there are special rubber caps available commercially, or if you don’t have them, you could use homemade solutions like a rubber glove or a simple cloth. Any liquid entering the exhausts could lead to internal corrosion: especially if the motorcycle isn’t used much, if water enters the silencer labyrinth, serious mechanical problems could arise. This precaution is particularly recommended for motorcycles with inclined exhausts.
There are other parts of the motorcycle that are particularly sensitive, like the chain and engine, and they should be the first parts to clean. The chain should be cleaned every 300-500 kilometers. Especially when riding on non-paved terrains or in rainy days, moisture and road dirt accumulate on the chain and, when mixed with lubricant grease, it leads to its wear, which could be dangerous. Therefore, it’s necessary to keep it clean and re-lubricate it regularly. To take care of it, the first step is to remove the coarse dirt from the chain with a brush and then apply chain cleaner that should act for a few minutes. Always remember that after cleaning and once the motorcycle is completely dry, it’s always necessary to lubricate the chain with the appropriate product to make it elastic and protect it from corrosion. Also, pay attention to the engine of our motorcycle, especially in those models where parts are exposed, like cooling fins, that could get damaged during washing. Start by using a soft sponge to wash the engine surface and then a brush to carefully remove dirt from the cooling fins and smaller spaces, and then rinse with clean water.
WASHING AND DRYING
Firstly, we recommend a general wash by spraying the detergent (specific or diluted) all over the body, letting it sit for a few minutes, and rinsing gently; remember to use a gentle flow that doesn’t damage any parts of your two-wheeler. This will help loosen dirt and make washing easier. Now you can begin to soap up the entire body properly from top to bottom. With a bucket of water and detergent and a sponge, the job will be easier. Dip the sponge, run it over the body, and rinse it well every time it gets dirty. It’s inevitable for water to reach brakes and the chain, but it’s important not to rub these parts. It’s important that rinsing occurs quickly to avoid leaving shampoo residues. The same applies to drying, which will help your motorcycle shine without spots. Many think that taking a ride on the motorcycle is enough to get rid of all the water, but this isn’t a safe method. You need to use a cloth to dry all parts to prevent not only aesthetic consequences but also corrosion. You can use cloths, chamois if you have them, or an air blower.
As a final touch, apply wax to the entire body using a cloth and remove the excess with a clean cloth to give your two-wheeler an enviable look.