Cleaning your ride can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and products, it can become a satisfying routine. Here are some motorcycle cleaning and maintenance tips to keep your bike looking its best:
1. Wax
Mother's Carnuba (Cleaner) Wax is a great option for maintaining your bike's painted surfaces. Unlike regular waxes, Carnuba wax doesn't build up and is easily cleaned. It's a natural wax that wears off over time.
2. Chrome and Mag Cleaner
Mother's Chrome and Mag Cleaner is highly recommended for polishing and cleaning chrome and aluminum parts of your motorcycle. Its strong formula ensures that even the toughest dirt and grime are removed.
3. Metal Polish
Mother's Metal Polish is another excellent product for keeping your bike shiny. While it may not be used as frequently as other Mother's products, it works wonders on restoring tarnished aluminum and chrome.
4. Never Dull
For hardcore cleaning, Never Dull is the go-to choice. While it requires a lot of effort, this powerful metal cleaner can restore heavily tarnished aluminum and chrome surfaces. Just be prepared for some elbow grease!
5. Brush
Kiwi Brush offers a great solution for those hard-to-reach places on your motorcycle. This small "toilet bowl" brush with its red handle and small bristles works wonders for cleaning around the engine and other tight spots.
6. Wheel Brush
A Wooden Wheel Brush with pig bristles and a wooden handle can be a handy tool for cleaning your motorcycle wheels. Although it may not reach all the tight corners, it provides ease of use compared to the Kiwi brush.
7. Sponge
Invest in an industry-quality sponge for effective cleaning. A thick sponge, about 2.5 to 3 inches thick, with excellent water and soap absorption, will make cleaning your bike a breeze. Just make sure to keep it away from wives and moms, or buy them their own!
8. Soap
A mild detergent or a specialized motorcycle soap can do wonders for cleaning your bike. S100 and mild car wash soaps are popular choices among riders. Pre-soaking the bike with a glass cleaner mixed with a Rainex cleaner solution can help loosen road grit and grime, making the cleaning process easier.
9. Drying
A leaf blower can be an excellent investment for drying your motorcycle. Doug's suggestion of using a leaf blower to dry his bike led to the purchase of a powerful blower with a 200 mph wind. It efficiently blows away water, and a chamois or clean towel can be used to finish the job.
10. Bug Cleaner
Splat! Bugs are a common annoyance for riders, but using a bug cleaner specifically designed for motorcycles can help get rid of them quickly. Look for a safe and effective bug cleaner that won't damage your bike's paint or removeable windshield.
11. Leather Conditioner
Eagle One Carnuba Leather Cream is a top choice for keeping your leather seat and riding gear in excellent condition. Apply it with your bare hand for best results, ensuring no petroleum products are added.
12. Leather Cleaner
Mother's Leather Cleaner is a reliable product for removing bugs from your leather gear. Simply spray it on and use an old soft cotton sock to rub the cleaner into the leather. After drying, follow up with a leather conditioner to rejuvenate the leather.
13. Wet Leather Conditioner
If you've been caught in a downpour, wiping off excess water from your wet leather gear and applying a product like Lexol can help protect the leather. Use a soft cloth or old sock to apply thin coats and avoid saturating the leather. Follow up with a leather conditioner, such as Eagle One, for added protection.
14. Battery Terminals
For cleaning battery terminals, an old copper pipe cleaning brush does wonders. After cleaning, apply a coat of Cyclo Battery Protector to protect the terminals from corrosion.
15. Liquid Tape
When splicing wires, it's important to make them waterproof. Liquid tape is an easy-to-apply solution that seals the connections and keeps them dry. Apply it after testing the connection to ensure everything is working correctly.
16. Belt Drive
The belt drive is often overlooked but should be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage. While washing your bike, clean the belt with mild soap and water. Towel dry it while inspecting for any issues.
Remember, while keeping your motorcycle clean is essential, nothing beats the feeling of hitting the open road and exploring new destinations. Whether you prefer open-air camping or luxury hotels, finding the perfect accommodation can enhance your motorcycle adventures. Plan ahead and choose a hotel that caters to bikers, offering secure parking, motorcycle washing stations, and rider-friendly amenities.