Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Motorcycle
Cleaning is a key part of motorcycle maintenance — it ensures that your ride looks and performs its best. Unlike a car, which can simply roll through a carwash, a motorcycle's exposed components and specialty finishes require careful attention. Whether your bike has been in storage or on the road, a thorough cleaning and disinfecting session is a great way to remove germs and dirt. If you need advice about a specific Harley model, call us at Timms Harley-Davidson of Augusta or visit our location in Augusta, Georgia, serving the Atlanta metro area.
Rinse the Motorcycle
When your bike is completely cool, park it using the main stand and use a garden hose to rinse it down. This helps wash away loose dirt and buildup. If you're dealing with caked-on bugs or mud, it can be helpful to spray the bike with a motorcycle spray cleaner before you rinse. Allow the cleaner to soak in according to the directions on the package. When you're rinsing the tires, make sure to rotate them to reach all parts of the tread.
Clean the Wheels
Spray a motorcycle wheel cleaner onto your rims, spokes, and whitewalls. Always use a cleaner that's approved by the bike manufacturer; check the manual for recommendations. If your rims are covered in oil splatter, look for grease-removing products. Gently scrub the tires using a soft, non-abrasive brush, making sure to get into the small books and crannies. If you have a fender, you'll need to move the bike to access the full tire. Before proceeding, check the instructions — some cleaners must be rinsed off, while others should be wiped off with a clean, dry microfiber towel or sponge.
Wash and Dry the Bike Body
Dilute a gentle motorcycle cleaner with water in a bucket. Keep a hose or a second bucket of water nearby for rinsing. Dip a clean, gentle wash mitt or sponge into the detergent mix. Starting at the top, scrub the bike gently, a small section at a time. When you finish a section, rinse it off so the loose dirt doesn't dry in place. Then, rinse the mitt to remove abrasive particles before moving on to the next section. This reduces the risk of scratching a delicate paint job. When you're done, give the bike a final rinse and dry it with a soft, clean microfiber towel. Drying helps prevent water stains and corrosion.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
Once your bike is clean, use disinfectant wipes to wipe down high-touch surfaces: handlebars, buttons, ignition, vents, and screens. Do the same with your helmet and keys. If you carry passengers regularly, wipe down the seat with a manufacturer-approved disinfectant.
Frequent cleaning keeps your motorcycle looking great — plus, it eliminates germs, so you can ride with confidence. For more information, contact our crew at Timms Harley-Davidson of Augusta, or come by to see us at our Augusta, Georgia, location, where we serve customers from across Atlanta.