Motorcycle Detailing

by Jeremy Goodspeed

Detailing preparation: Washing a motorcycle is the most thorough and efficient way to clean miles of dirt and grime. Before getting the bike wet however, a few items need to be removed to ensure a good cleaning. First, remove the seat. This will allow the area to be cleaned from dirt that can build up and rub against the paint. Also remove any side bags or pouches for the same reason. After these items are removed, evaluate the condition of the bike. Look for grease build-up under and around the motor, dirt under the fender wells and any other areas subject to soiling build-up. Allow the bike to cool.

Washing: Start the washing process by rinsing the bike thoroughly, including the painted areas. Using warm to moderately hot water will aid in this washing process. Use a non-flammable engine degreaser diluted 1:1 with water. Spray on the motor and its components, and agitate. Only allow the degreaser to dwell on the surface for a minute or so. Rinse thoroughly, and repeat as necessary. It is better to repeat this process than allow the de-greaser to stain the surface. For stubborn grease use a metal and plastic parts cleaner to blast heavy pockets. This type of cleaner will not harm coatings and is commonly used in the motorcycle industry.

The next area to clean is the wheels. Motorcycle wheels can vary greatly in composition and style. Use a multi-purpose wheel cleaner to clean all bike wheels. For instance, a wire wheel with a chrome outer lip may have stainless steel spokes. Cleaning these wheels with a chrome acid can stain the stainless spokes and turn them white. The over spray may also find its way onto other surfaces causing them to become stained as well. Use caution when cleaning wheels. If a wheel cleaner is not necessary, use a mild soap solution instead.

The final area to clean is the paint and the trim. Start this process by preparing a clean 5-gallon bucket with the appropriate amount of car wash soap (approximately 1 oz per gallon). Fill the bucket 2/3 with water and add a cleaned wash mitt. Use the wash mitt to remove bugs and dirt from the paint and other surfaces. Rinse and repeat as necessary. (Refer to car washing section for more descriptions).

Drying a motorcycle is very important to eliminate any water spots from forming on the bike. The use of an air compressor hose can quickly and safely chase water from its many surfaces. Use a synthetic chamois to trap the water as it is being chased from these surfaces.

Paint Polishing and Waxing: Hand polishing is the safest way to polish a motorcycle. The process can be slow, however the results can be rewarding with some patience. Always hand polish in a cool, shaded area. Always work in small areas, one fender or half of a tank. Polish should be applied with a soft cotton towel or an applicator pad. Apply polishes in a back and fourth motion following the bikes bodylines. Refer to manufacture instructions. Wax in the same manner, allowing the wax to be left on the surface for 15-20 minutes before removal.

Chrome: Chrome plated parts are very easy to maintain. For normal cleaning, use glass cleaner. Spray into a towel and wipe to remove grime. Follow with a clean towel and burnish to a streak free gloss. To remove soiling build-up or water spots, clean the surface with a chrome or metal polish, or a glass polish that is friendly to chrome. Wipe polish with a towel, and burnish with a clean towel. NEVER USE WAX ON CHROME SURFACES. This will seal the surface and not allow the chrome to breathe. This will cause pitting and destruction to the surface.

Finishing: With the bike washed, the paint polished, and the chrome looking its best, it is time to clean and reinstall the seat and any side bags. For leather surfaces, refer to the interior section for cleaning instructions. Check tire pressures and final inspect for any abnormal belt or chain wear.