Motorcycles are exposed to nature’s elements more than cars and they require extra attention. A good motorcycle detail will eliminate the contaminants that washing alone can’t.
To start your Motorcycle Detailing Perth spray a clay bar lubricant on a small section of the bike.
If you’re used to a quick blast with the pressure washer and a squirt of chain lube between rides, you might think your bike is in good shape. But a dirty chain will eventually wear down the sprockets, swingarm, and engine casings, not to mention your leg, so it’s important to keep it clean and well-lubricated.
To do so, you’ll need a degreaser (like Krud Kutter Original Concentrated Degreaser) and a chain cleaning brush. Start by scrubbing the chain with the brush, then applying the degreaser and letting it sit for a few minutes. Then scrub again and rinse the chain with clean water. Be sure to rinse the rear sprocket as well, as it tends to get a coating of grease that can be tough to remove.
Next, you’ll need to re-lubricate the chain with your preferred product. When you’re done, it should be smooth and ready to ride! Be sure to use a chain lube that is specifically designed for motorcycles, as regular lubricants can fling off and leave marks.
Lastly, you’ll need to inspect the chain and sprockets for any signs of excessive wear or rust. If you notice any, it’s a good idea to replace them as a set so that you have matched tolerances and the new sprockets will fit properly.
While you’re doing this, you should also take the time to inspect all other areas of your bike for loose or cracked components. It’s always better to catch a problem now rather than on a long ride.
Once you’ve cleaned the chain and examined all other areas of your bike, you can begin the actual detailing process. Be sure to do so in a shaded area, cover any components that are sensitive to water, and use a microfiber wash mitt to avoid scratching the paint or chrome. Be sure to use special cleaners and wipes for plastic, rubber, and vinyl parts on your motorcycle, as they require a different kind of cleaning than painted surfaces.
Clean the Engine
The heart of your motorcycle, the engine, should be cleaned carefully. Unlike cars, bikes are generally exposed and there are many components that could be damaged by water or harsh cleaners. For this reason, it’s important to choose a good biodegradable cleaning solution that won’t damage your bike’s chrome or metal parts. For best results, use a sponge and a brush to get the dirt off the engine surface, then rinse with clean water. Be sure to dry the engine before starting your motorcycle.
If your engine is really dirty, a degreaser may be needed. This can be found in a foam formulation, which makes it easy to apply. Some degreasers even come with an engine brightener, which can help restore the shine of your motorcycle’s engine and protect it from future oxidation. Always follow the instructions on the product label and ensure that your engine is cool before applying any cleaners.
Keeping the engine clean can increase your bike’s performance and enhance its resale value. Be sure to clean the exhaust, carburetor and oil caps to remove any built-up gunk. Once the engine is clean, it’s a good idea to re-install any rubber gaskets and seals, as well as the air filter.
The rest of the motorcycle should be thoroughly cleaned using a high quality, biodegradable soap and water. The bike’s leather and vinyl parts are especially susceptible to weathering and need to be cared for with products specifically designed for this type of material. Many of these products also contain protectants to keep your leather and vinyl from fading or cracking.
If your motorcycle is equipped with a windshield, saddlebags or trunk, consider taking them off to make it easier to access all the nooks and crannies while detailing it. If your motorcycle has matte paint, it requires a different detailing process and should be washed separately.
Clean the Tires
The tires and wheels of a motorcycle get some of the worst abuse, especially during off-road use. They often come in contact with tar, oil, grime, dirt, animal waste and more. Wash the wheels and tires separately from the rest of the bike, using a mild tire cleaner to eliminate oils that can cause damage. Once the tires and wheels are clean, polish and protect them.
It’s also important to remove the battery and cover any components that you don’t want water to touch (like the ignition system). You should also plug or cover the exhaust to prevent water from entering the engine. This will help to ensure that the pipes don’t get damaged by sudden cold water or a change in temperature.
If your bike is really dirty, start with a degreaser. This product breaks down contaminants so that they can be easily removed with a simple wipe. Then follow up with a thorough rinse to remove any remaining residue.
Don’t forget to clean the hard-to-reach areas, like between the spokes of the wheels and in the nooks and crannies of the frame. In addition, it’s a good idea to remove the rear saddle and tail section to allow easier access to the chain. Finally, it’s important to pay special attention to the leading edges of the motorcycle. This includes things like the levers, mirrors and switchgear. They tend to collect more dirt and bugs than other parts of the bike because they face forward and are exposed to the elements.
After washing your bike, it’s time to start prepping it for the paint with a clay bar. Spray a small area of the bike with clay bar lubricant and rub the bar over the sprayed surface, working in sections. Fold the bar over frequently so that it doesn’t dry out. When the clay bar starts to lose its slipperiness, it’s time to move on to another section of the bike. Rinse the sprayed surface and dry it with a microfiber towel when you’re done. This process will remove any contaminants that are stuck to the paint and will make it smoother, shinier and more protected.
Clean the Wheels
The wheels and tires of your motorcycle take the most punishment from the elements. They are exposed to rocks, dirt, sleet, snow, and other seemingly impossible terrains while also taking in lots of road film and debris such as tar, bugs, and animal waste. Washing them is a big part of the detailing process and you’ll want to use a non-acid wheel/tire cleaner that will remove brake dust, tar, and other contaminants.
You’ll also need a good quality scrub brush to get into the narrow crevices of your wheels and clean any stuck on debris. Once you’re done cleaning the wheels you should rinse them thoroughly.
For a really thorough cleaning you can also apply a metal polish to your wheels. This will help to restore their shine and eliminate any oxidation. Always follow the directions for the specific product you’re using and be sure to test the metal polish on a small section of your motorcycle’s surface before applying it to the entire bike.
Once the polish has been applied and you’ve rubbed it into the metal surfaces of your motorcycle, you can use a metal conditioner to ensure that it will stay shiny. This is a great step to add in your detail routine on a regular basis because it will keep your chrome and metal looking glossy and new for a long time.
When you’re ready to detail your motorcycle, find a place where you can work in comfort and that will protect the vehicle from any rain or wind that might blow dirt into places it shouldn’t be. It’s also a good idea to have a lot of microfiber towels handy as these can absorb up to 11 times more water than ordinary cloth and will not scratch the surface of your motorcycle.
Motorcycles are a joy to ride but they can be difficult to maintain in top condition. Having your motorcycle detailed regularly will not only make it look better, but will also increase its value if you ever decide to sell it. Plus, a well maintained motorcycle is easier to maintain and repair.