Motorcycle Cleaning Guide

With all the time you spend on your motorcycle, it can be easy for the parts to accumulate a significant amount of grime due to dirt and other elements on the road. Maintaining the bike and keeping it clean is key to making it last longer and operate better. If you want to learn more about cleaning your motorcycle, reach out to Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, serving Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin.

Use the Right Tools and Products

Start by gathering all the tools and cleaning products you need to wash your motorcycle. You'll need items like brushes, sponges, and clean cloths to scrub and dry the different parts and components of your bike. Chamios are also reliable for drying the bike off because they're highly absorbent. A microfiber cloth is also necessary when you need something to wipe off the rest of the bike and remove any lint or dust. 

It's also necessary to find the right place to clean the motorcycle. Cleaning it in the direct sunlight will cause the water to quickly dry on the surface of it. Find a cool, shady place to scrub everything and prevent any water spots or streaks from forming.

The engine should also be cool before you give it a bath because it can be dangerous to hose it off with cold water after you took it for a spin.

Plug Your Exhaust Holes

Use a rubber plug to plug the hole in your exhaust to prevent any water from getting into it when you hose everything off. A rubber glove will also work well and is a cheap and quick way of protecting it. This will prevent any damage from occurring to the internal components.

Clean From the Top Down

Start creating suds and scrubbing the bike from the top down. The products you're using should be safe for the bike that you own. Change out the bucket that you're using to clean everything because a lot of dirt and oil can start to accumulate at the bottom of it. Avoid scrubbing the brakes and the chain because these need to stay lubricated with oil to operate correctly. 

Dry everything well to prevent any rust or corrosion from forming in any of the parts where the water can settle. An air blower will also work well for drying hard-to-reach areas. Taking it for a spin or leaving it in the sun can also allow the internal components to dry off quicker.

Are you interested in learning more about the best ways to keep your bike clean each week? You can learn from the professionals at Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, serving Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin.