How to clean a motorcycle: full guide to keep your motorcycle impeccable
Keeping your motorcycle clean not only improves your appearance, but is also crucial for maintenance and durability. Regular cleaning helps prevent premature wear and detect crucial problems before they become problems that increase the cost of arrangements.
Why is it important to clean your motorcycle?
The reasons for cleaning your motorcycle are extensive. The first is the accumulation of dust, mud and different waste that is on the road and can end on your motorcycle, generating corrosion and oxidation of the fairies and the metal parts. This problem, in addition to modifying aesthetics, can put the structure of some components at risk.
How much dirt accumulates in metal components will also affect you in the general functioning of the motorcycle. The engine, being covered with dust and oil, is the possibility of overhabing for not being able to eliminate heat correctly. As for the brakes, dirt and dust will also be affected producing loss of efficiency and even jeopardized the safety of the motorcycle driver and the rest of the drivers on the road.
In addition, when a motorcycle is clean, it will be easier to detect mechanical problems, such as, leakage of oils and cracks in the fairings among others, than in case the motorcycle is dirty, its detection will be more difficult.
What products should you use to wash your motorcycle?
To wash a motorcycle effectively and safely, it is essential to choose the right products that not only clean the surface, but also protect mechanical components and paint. Next, I present a list of the recommended products to wash your motorcycle, along with some recommendations of popular brands that you can consider.
Essential products to wash your motorcycle
1. Specific Motorcycle Soap
The soaps designed to wash motorcycles are manufactured under a formula to clean without damaging the paint, plastics or motorcycle metals. In addition, these products are less aggressive than common detergents or even the specific cars and are designed to eliminate the typical dirt that accumulates on motorcycles.
2. Degree for motorcycle
A degreaser is essential to clean the chain, the engine and other parts that tend to accumulate fat and oil. It helps dissolve and eliminate sticky dirt that normal soaps cannot handle.
3. Chain lubricant
After cleaning the chain, it is crucial to apply a specific lubricant to keep it protected and functioning gently. The lubricant helps prevent premature wear and oxide.
4. Sponges and soft brushes
Soft sponges help clean the surface of the motorcycle without scratching it. The brushes, on the other hand, are essential to reach difficult areas and remove the dirt from the wheels and the chain.
5. Microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are ideal for drying the motorcycle after washing it. They are absorbent and do not leave fluff or scratches in painting or plastics.
6. Wax or paint sealant
This step is optional when cleaning your motorcycle, however, it is recommended, since the wax or sealant for paint are designed to provide an additional protective layer that maintains the motorcycle brightness and protects against the external elements.
7. Brake cleaner
This step is also optional but recommended, as brake cleaners are essential to keep brakes free of fat and dirt, ensuring optimal performance.
8. Glass and plastics cleaners
These cleaners are designed to clean and protect the surfaces of plastics and glass materials, such as the headlights or the dome. This step is not mandatory, but it will be recommended, it will give you a clearer visibility.
Complete motorcycle washing process
Now that you know the essential products to clean your motorcycle, it is time to get to work. Next, we present a detailed step by step so that you can perform an effective and deep cleaning. This process will help you maintain every corner of your motorcycle in perfect condition, ensuring that it looks impeccable and protected against dirt and climate elements. Follow these steps to ensure that your motorcycle not only looks good, but also works optimally.
- Preparation: Make sure the motorcycle is cold and sneak in a shaded area.
- Initial rinse: Use a hose to eliminate superficial dirt.
- Soap application: Use a soft sponge to apply the specific soap, starting from the top.
- Chain cleaning and fatty parts: Apply the degreaser in the chain and other dirty areas, use a brush to remove fat.
- Final rinse: Be sure to rinse all the motorcycle to remove all the waste of soap and degreaser.
- Drying: Use microfiber cloths to dry the motorcycle, paying special attention to oxidation areas.
- Chain lubrication: Apply the lubricant to the chain to guarantee a gentle operation.
- Wax application (optional): If you want a bright finish, apply wax following the instructions of the product.
- Brake and glass cleaning (optional): Use specific cleaners to maintain brakes and glass or plastic surfaces in optimal conditions.
What products should we avoid to wash a motorcycle?
As we have already been able to read throughout the entrance, it is very important to know what products we must use to wash our motorcycle. However, not all cleaning products are suitable for delicate surfaces and components of a motorcycle. Using incorrect products can cause irreparable damage, from discoloration of paint to corrosion of metal components. In this section, we will explore which products you should avoid when washing your motorcycle and why its use can be detrimental. Make sure you use the appropriate products will protect your investment and ensure that your motorcycle is kept in optimal conditions for a long time.
Products that you should not use to wash your motorcycle:
1. Domestic and dishwasher detergents
Domestic detergents and dishwasher are formulated to eliminate fat and dirt on dishes and household surfaces. These products are highly alkaline and can be too aggressive for the surfaces of a motorcycle, eliminating not only dirt but also essential oils of paint and protection sealants, which leaves the motorcycle vulnerable to oxidation and discoloration.
2. Cleansing with chloros or ammonia
Products that contain chlorine or ammonia, such as bleach or some multipurpose cleaners, are highly corrosive and can damage the metal components of the motorcycle. These products can attack aluminum and other alloys, causing spots, corrosion and long -term structural damage.
3. High pressure cleaning
Although high pressure washing machines seem to be a rapid and effective option to eliminate dirt, high pressure can force water to filter into electrical components, causing short circuits and electrical failures. In addition, excessive pressure can compromise joints and stamps, allowing the entry of water and dirt into critical areas.
4. GENERIC AGUPLE CLEANING PRODUCTS
Although car cleaning products are designed for vehicles, they often contain waxes and silicones that are not suitable for paint and specific motorcycle plastics. In addition, they can leave sticky waste that attract dust and dirt.
5. Abrasive products or hard scales
Abrasive products, such as kitchen scourers or cream cleaners with abrasive particles, can scratch paint.
What parts of a motorcycle cannot be washed?
Unlike other vehicles, motorcycles have several exposed and water -sensitive parts, which can be easily damaged if it is not handled correctly. It is crucial to identify which parts should not be washed directly with water or chemicals to avoid future problems. Next, we present a list of the parts of a motorcycle that you should avoid washing, together with recommendations on how to take care of them properly.
1. Electrical components
Electrical components are extremely water sensitive and may suffer significant damage if exposed to moisture. This includes cables, electrical connections, and the battery, which are designed to function in dry conditions. Water can cause short circuits, corrosion of the connectors, and general electrical problems that can compromise the operation of the motorcycle.
2. Air intake and air filter
Air intake and air filter are fundamental for the proper operation of the engine, providing clean and impurities free air. Water can damage the filter and reduce its ability to filter the air properly, which could lead to a decrease in engine performance and even internal damage.
3. Exhaust and escape system
The escape system, including the silencer, can accumulate water easily, which can cause oxidation and corrosion over time. In addition, water inside the escape can negatively affect engine efficiency and generate performance problems.
4. Boards and bearings
Boards and bearings are designed to protect critical moving parts of dirt and wear. Water and aggressive cleaning products can eliminate the essential lubrication of these components, which can result in excessive friction and premature wear.
5. Chain and transmission
Although the chain needs to be cleaned, excessive use of water or chemicals can eliminate essential lubrication, leading to accelerated and possible corrosion wear. The transmission can also be affected if the water penetrates its internal components.
6. seats and upholstery
The seats and upholstery can absorb water, which can lead to mold formation and bad smells. In addition, water can affect upholstery materials, causing discoloration or weakening.
In summary, washing a motorcycle is not simply a process of sprinkling and sneaking; It requires careful attention to protect its delicate components and keep it in optimal conditions. By properly identifying and caring for the parts that should not be washed directly, you can ensure that your motorcycle continues to function efficiently and look impeccable for a long time. Following these recommendations, you will avoid expensive maintenance problems and prolong the useful life of your motorcycle, enjoying exceptional performance on each trip.
If you need more information or have any questions about motorcycle care, do not hesitate to ask me!