Want to keep your bike looking sharp? Taking the time to clean your motorcycle on a regular basis will keep it looking sharp (and will make you look better too). It can also help you discover any problems and keep your bike running smoothly. The following are recommended steps for cleaning your ride.
Pre-Wash Steps
First, look over your bike. This is a good time to check parts for wear and to see if anything is loose or missing. If you find something that needs attention, go ahead and pick up or order your Yamaha parts.
Water doesn’t mix well with every part of your bike, so make sure that the necessary areas of your motorcycle are protected from water. In order to prevent water from getting into the exhaust pipe, or pipes, plug the ends. Most dealers or parts stores carry universal exhaust plugs, but if you are without them, you can carefully put a plastic bag around the opening and either tie it into place, or secure with a sturdy rubber band.
Also, the air filter will need to be covered. The easiest way is to simply remove it, or you can use a plastic bag to keep water away.
If you discover the engine cases are really greasy, use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, and use it to apply engine degreaser. When using degreaser, always steer clear of the chain, sprockets, and wheel axels, as the degreaser can potentially cause some serious problems.
Finally, ensure that the battery caps, gas cap, spark plugs, engine oil lever cap, and the oil filter cap are all secured to prevent water from getting into the engine.
Washing Your Bike
You can rinse off the dirt and the degreaser using a regular hose—be careful that you’re not using too much water pressure. Only use enough to clear your motorcycle of dirt and degreaser. Using too much pressure could get water into the front forks or transmission seals. Wheel bearings can be susceptible to water creeping in as well.
When most of the dirt is rinsed off, go over your motorcycle with warm water and mild soap. Don’t forget that toothbrush, or some other type of small brush for places that are hard to get to.
After washing the bike, don’t take a rest yet—you should rinse it off right away using clean water, and then dry it as best you can. Pay close attention to the chain— it’s crucial to prevent rust, so make sure it’s good and dry, and then lubricate it with chain lube. For your chrome parts, use auto chrome polish to make them shine.
If you decide to wax the painted and chrome parts of your bike, be sure to use an automotive wax. You don’t want to apply wax that contains abrasive material that could scratch or damage parts.
When you’re finished, don’t forget to remove everything you used to cover the exhaust pipes or air filter, and start the engine. Let it run for a short time to let all the water dry, and to ensure there is no water damage.
Now it’s time to get it back on the road.