Keeping your motorcycle clean doesn’t just make it look good; it helps your bike run smoothly and last longer. Dirt, grime, and water spots can take a toll over time, but with the right products and a little know-how, you can protect your investment and enjoy every mile with confidence.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Washing
Cool It Down
Before starting, ensure your bike is cool to the touch. Washing a hot engine can lead to water spots and potential damage to delicate surfaces.
Gather Your Supplies
Prepare everything you’ll need:
- Ceramic Gwash for a deep clean
- W6 Iron Removing Wheel & Paint Cleaner for stubborn grime
- C2 Ceramic Sealant for lasting protection
- WM2 Microfibre Wash Mitt
- Microfiber cloths, such as the MF1 ZeroR Microfibre Buff Cloth
- MF4 Diamond Drying Towel
- Pressure washer (or garden hose) and clean water.
For an even deeper clean:
- W7 Tar and Glue Remover for road tar buildup
- W8 Bug Remover
- C4 Permanent Trim Restorer
- M1All Metal Polish
- Quick Detailer for final touches
- L2 Foaming Leather Cleaner
Protect Electrical Components
Cover electrical connections to prevent water damage. This step ensures no sensitive areas are exposed during the wash.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
To prevent water spots, always wash your motorcycle in a shaded area.
Step-by-Step Washing Process
Step 1: Pre-Rinse
Start by rinsing your bike with a gentle pressure washer (or garden hose if not accessible) to remove loose dirt and grime. Pay special attention to the exhaust pipe and wheel bearings, as buildup in these areas can lead to corrosion and affect performance.
Step 2: Wash
Mix Ceramic Gwash with water in a bucket. Use a wash mitt to gently clean the bike, focusing on areas with stubborn grime. If your wheels have heavy buildup, apply W6 Iron Removing Wheel & Paint Cleaner to effectively dissolve dirt and contaminants.
Step 3: Remove Tar and Marks
For road tar or adhesive marks, use a specialized cleaner like W7 Tar and Glue Remover on affected areas. To remove dead bugs, we recommend the W8 Bug Remover, it makes light work of removing bug splatter without relying on aggressive caustic ingredients.
Step 4: Rinse and Inspect
Thoroughly rinse your motorcycle with clean water to remove any residue. Inspect the bike for spots you might have missed, especially on the exhaust pipe and delicate surfaces.
Drying and Finishing Touches
Drying
Use the MF4 Diamond Sandwich Drying Towel to absorb excess water, or opt for an air compressor to reach tight spaces around the engine and electrical components.
Applying Sealant
If using standard wash, like Gwash, spray C2 Ceramic Sealant onto the bike’s surface and buff it out with the MF1 ZeroR Microfibre Buff Cloth. This sealant adds a glossy finish while providing long-lasting protection. If using Ceramic Gwash, you don’t need to apply a sealant, since there is already a protectant in this product!
Polishing and Trim Restoration
Use C4 Permanent Trim Restorer to rejuvenate any faded trim, giving your bike a like-new appearance.
Seat Care
For leather seats, apply L2 Foaming Leather Cleaner using a leather brush for a deep clean, ensuring your ride is as comfortable as it is spotless.
Chain Maintenance
Clean the entire chain and apply chain lube to keep it running smoothly. We recommend cleaning the chain with W2 diluted 1:1. Once applied, rinse, dry, and apply desired chain lube afterwards.
Maintenance Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips:
- Wash your motorcycle regularly to prevent stubborn grime and dirt buildup.
- Use a waterless wash like Quick Detailer for quick cleanups on smudges or water marks.
- Keep microfiber cloths and wash mitts clean by washing them in a washing machine with cold water.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Never use dish soap or harsh chemicals, as these can strip the protective coating on your bike.
- Avoid leaving excess water on delicate surfaces, which can lead to corrosion over time.
Achieve a Gtechniq-Level Clean
By following these steps and using Gtechniq products, you can achieve a showroom-ready clean motorcycle every time. Regular maintenance not only preserves your bike’s look but also ensures optimal performance. Explore Gtechniq’s full range of products to keep your motorcycle protected and looking its best!