My bike could use a cleaning, whats the best way to wash it? seeing as how the electricals are some what exposed i'm assuming the pressure washer and tle local carwash isnt the best way to go. How do you guys keep your bikes clean?

Thanks!!!
Darren
IN-S40

Depends on how fussy you are.

I do quite a few dirt roads, mud paths, low water crossings, etc.  Gets pretty filthy.
So, down to the car wash (not the drive through kind!!   ) , toss in some quarters and spray 'em down!  Just don't spray UP underneath the tank or try to get in behind the side panels!  And, back off a bit further than you would for a car.  Stubborn stuff you can get with a wet rag.
Remember, motorcycle are ridden in the rain.  If you don't try to force water where rain and road spray wouldn't go, you should be OK.

If you have a newer bike, or care more about the appearance, then you can spend a ton o money on the microfiber this, wax stuff that, cleaner something or other.
I spend my money on gas.

lick it, like a cat

maybe get a cat to lick it for you??  

IN-S40 wrote on 02/18/11 at 08:36:07:

You're right about that, and not just because of electricals.. a pressure washer will also force water past seals and rust bearings, and cause fasteners to corrode before their time.. so it is important to stand back and really watch where you are spraying, as youguyz suggests.

Other advice is pretty much spot on, I can only add a couple things.. dryer sheets (fabric softener sheets) are also very good for dissolving bugs, and I use Simple Green on the really greasy parts.  If you want a protectant, 303 marine UV protectant is far superior to ArmorAll.  A paint brush is good for getting in all the tight areas hard to reach with a rag.

I take a bucket of water and use a glass to pour water on the bike to wet it,Then wash with a car wash soap,Then rinse off and towel off and use a detailer on it.You don,t want to use a detailer on it without washing it first .You will rub the dirt on it and scratch the clear coating on it.

Boule’tard wrote on 02/18/11 at 10:54:18:



I use 303 on my hot tub cover, stuff works great!

Thanks guys! I was just wondering about do's and dont's

Darren
IN-S40

I use some stuff we sell here called 210 cleaner - aerosol foam - spray it on the windshield, mirrors chrome wipe off - spray the motor with GUNK degreaser occassionally and hose off with garden hose - use leather conditoner on the seats about 4 times a year - armour all on the side walls of the tires & bags every month (never on the contact patch of the tires) - mcquires wax and polishes on the painted parts about twice a year - "never dull" on the chrome about 3 times a year......she never gets wet from rain riding - I am a daylight dry weather only rider  - riding in the cold is ok but not in the dark or wet....i'm a wuss i guess....but my bike stays pretty clean.

I used to take it o the car wash & hose it with the wand. Never had a problem but the squeaky belt.