How to Wash Your Motorcycle

Each time you take your motorcycle on the open road, it returns with a little gunk on it. Bugs splatter on the windshield. Kicked-up mud gets all over the frame. Dust settles on the tires. These may sound like simple cosmetic issues, but over time caked-on grime can start to cause damage to your bike's exterior. But prevention of damage is easy—simply wash your motorcycle regularly! We've created the following guide to help you keep track of every step in the washing process. If you have any questions or want to look at motorcycles for sale, visit McKibben Powersports Lake Wales. Our dealership is based in Lake Wales, Florida, and we also serve those in Kissimmee and Lakeland.

1. Pick the Work Area

The first step is to pick the right work space. Find somewhere with enough space so that you can access every nook and cranny of your motorcycle. If possible, go somewhere out of direct sunlight. The sun makes soap dry faster, which creates streaks and water spots.

2. Gather Your Supplies

Consult your owner's manual to see if there are certain products you should or should not be using. There are many cleaners on the market, so be sure the ones you use are tailored to the material you will be cleaning. You'll also want sponges for scrubbing off grime and something to assist with drying (such as cloths, flannels, or a chamois).

3. Prepare Your Motorcycle

Plug up the exhaust to help keep water out. All you need is a rubber plug, rag, or glove. You'll also want to be sure your bike is cold and hasn't been used recently. Cold water on a hot vehicle can be problematic!

4. Rinse Your Motorcycle

Create a mixture of water and motorcycle cleaner, then rinse your bike with it. This will help eat away at the hardened grime, making it easier to clean away later. Then use a standard pressure hose to rinse off the cleanser. A high-power wash may be faster, but it can be so powerful that it can result in damage.

5. Scrub, Scrub, Scrub

Next, start scrubbing away the gunk. Start at the top and work downwards. Remember to match the cleaner to the specific material on your model. You may need to rinse your sponge a few times since it can get dirty during the process. If your motorcycle was dirty enough, you may need to rinse out your bucket and refill the mixture. Avoid scrubbing too hard to avoid scratching the exterior.

6. Rinse Your Motorcycle

Once all of the grime is cleaned away, you can rinse off the soap. Remember to use a standard pressure hose!

7. Dry Your Motorcycle

Now you are ready to dry your motorcycle. If you have an air blower, such as a can of compressed air, you can use it to dry out those hard-to-reach areas. For the other spots, you can use the chamois, cloths, or flannels.

8. Add Lube to Your Motorcycle

The soap and water likely stripped away some of the lubrication. You will want to apply lube to your motorcycle chain to address this. While you are at it, add a nice layer of polish and wax to help protect the finish and add a striking sheen.

We hope you found this guide useful! If you want more motorcycle maintenance advice or want to explore motorcycles for sale, head over to McKibben Powersports Lake Wales. Our friendly staff is happy to assist you with whatever you need, so stop by and visit us today. Our dealership is conveniently located in Lake Wales, Florida. We also proudly serve those in Kissimmee and Lakeland, Florida.