Bike Wash Tips - All You Need To Know (Motorbike Maintenance)

As the New Year is just around the corner, we thought why not make your motorcycle a shine like a new one again. Yes, this weekend you can start your new year by giving your bike the treatment it deserves.

There are few things to keep in mind while cleaning the bike. So let’s start what you need to do and avoid while washing a bike.

Bike Washing Dos –

● First of all, you need to remove the accessories which you don’t want to get wet such as motorcycle bags, tank and seat covers, GPS, etc.

● Get all the cleaning products ready by your side. For cleaning, you will need a bucket, warm water, mild soap or liquid detergent, tar remover, engine cleaner, a toothbrush, tyre cleaner, metal polish, and most importantly microfibre towels (2-3). Always go for detergents those are not too acidic nor too basic.

● Start off by rinsing your bike with cool water to loosen the dirt. You can use a mug for this or you can go for a water pipe.

● Clean the sophisticated parts using a sponge dampened in a solution of detergent and water. Rub the dirty area including the chain. But rub both parts using different cloth/sponge/brush. So that the grease of the chains doesn’t get over to the other parts of the bike.

● After you are done with cleaning, rinse off the motorcycle thoroughly with plenty of clean water, because the detergent residue could corrode away the parts.

● Now get the bike wet again and wash it thoroughly. Spend more time on wheels and areas such as rear suspension as these areas get dirty frequently.

● Once the washing is done, dry the bike, start the engine and let it run for few minutes.

● Before taking the bike for a ride, test the brake as you need to make sure that they are giving the normal feel as before the washing.

● After washing and drying, lubricate the chain immediately. There are a number of good quality “chain lubes” available in the market and you can opt anyone.

● A TIP – It’s always good to go for a wax too. Waxing will keep the paint in good condition. It also prevents water from entering holes and gaps. Waxing is not mandatory, but it will surely benefit you in the long run.

Bike Washing Don’ts:

● Try not to go for commercial washing facility rather do it yourself. As high-pressure cleaning can force water into electrics and cracks (or openings) where it can cause corrosion.

● Don’t wash your bike right away after a long ride. Give some time for the bike to cool down because it’s harmful to spray cold water on a hot engine. Plus, you could also end up burning your fingers.

● Avoid washing bike in the middle of the noon as the direct sun can leave unwanted marks (of detergent) on the bike’s surface before you rinse off, and will give a bad look to the vehicle.

● Avoid too frequent washing as it will displace lubricants from cables and exposed grease points on old engines.

● Beware of the abrasive cleaners or general purpose household cleaning products as these can damage paint or chrome. Resulting in dull look for the bike.

● Never dry the bike straight away under the sunlight, the best is to dry it in a shaded area. A garage or a parking lot is the best place to dry off your motorcycle.

To know more about car and bike care and other maintenance related topics keep reading TyreMarket.Com!