How to Properly Wash Your Motorcycle

The most fun part of owning a motorcycle is riding it whenever and wherever you please. However, to be able to have that freedom requires that you put in the work to keep your motorcycle in peak condition. One of the ways you can do that is by washing it regularly to prevent grime from building up. A thorough cleaning also makes your bike look better and feel better to ride, and it gives you a chance to get up close and personal to locate any potential repairs you may need.

If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to properly washing your motorcycle, we’ve provided the following tips to help you get started.

Gather Supplies

First, you should collect everything you need all in one place. Determine whether you’re going to wash your motorcycle in your shed or garage with a drain or outside on the driveway. Gather your hose hooked up to fresh water, sponges, brushes, flannels, chamois cloths, and a good motorcycle-friendly soap.

Rinse Thoroughly

Before you start this next step, take a minute to plug up the exhaust pipe with a rag or glove to prevent water from entering it. Now you can apply a spray-on motorcycle cleaner to your dry machine and let it sit for a few minutes to work any grime loose, whether it’s mud or dead insects. Then rinse your bike with a standard-pressure hose that won’t knock it over with sheer force or do any damage to its exterior.

Add Soap

Next, it’s time to get down to business with a soaped-up sponge to clean your bike. Start at the top and work downwards so you won’t have to go over anything twice. Rinse your sponge often so it doesn’t end up making things more dirty with time, and keep your wash bucket water reasonably clean.

Let It Dry

Immediately rinse off your bike once you’re done with the suds so that the soap can’t dry and leave a residue. Dry your bike quickly using compressed air for detail areas or a fan or leaf blower. You’ll want to make sure that your bike is completely dry so it doesn’t corrode with leftover moisture, particularly in its inner workings.

Final Touches

Now you can apply any necessary finishing touches, including lubricant on your chains. A good wax or polish can help protect your bike’s exterior and keep it clean for longer. This process can be its own separate endeavor, though, so you’ll only want to attempt it if you’re already a pro.

We hope that these tips have been helpful. If you’re planning to upgrade your bike to a new one, visit Beach House Harley-Davidson® in Shallotte, North Carolina, to browse our selection of motorcycles for sale. We are your local motorcycle dealer proudly serving Brunswick County, so stop by today!