Detailing, cleaning and protecting products/techniques

[MingtheMerciless]

Morning, with imminent new purchase I was wondering what products and techniques people use to keep their bikes clean and shiny.

I've used ACF50 and a Bilt light wax underseal spray on the bottom/engine of the KTM which seems to work OK.

Is getting a ceramic coating polish worth doing?

Washing wise I've always been a 2 bucket and washing mit user, with brushes for the difficult to reach spots, any suggestions on improvements?

[weeksy]

I know people think I should be the expert on this question but the reality for me I'd that I don't let bikes get dirty, so cleaning is easy.

GT 85 and Mr Sheene are my 2 go to products. I like a bit of citrus degreaser as well as times.

Regards to polishing, I like S17
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Scholl-Conce ... SwoydeSJO9

But mostly just a bit of effort and time.

I use ACF50 on bikes a couple of times a year, sprayed onto a cloth then wiped over anything metal.

[joe19]

I'm the total opposite to Weeksy. I never wash them, then hate myself 6 months later when there is no choice. So my techniques are more for *very* dirty bikes / Winter.

chain - might sort the chain before I start this process. Depends. I just use a chain cleaner and brush. Then ...

1. sdoc100 on a dry bike. I buy in bulk and mix into something like this: https://www.homebase.co.uk/pump-action- ... 2l_p498426
2. Pressure wash - just don't take the piss
3. might repeat the above for luck
4. Two bucket process for the actual wash, should be easier now
5. For really greasy stuff, wheels etc - https://vulcanet.pro/moto-en/vulcanet/

Those wipes are super aggressive and you need to polish the residue off ASAP. Use very carefully, test on a small area etc.

[ogri]

park outside = when it rains it gets a wash

[Taipan]

I'M still a fan of paraffin. It's an excellent degreaser and it leaves a protective oily film behind.

[MrLongbeard]

I am become Weeksy

Back in the day I was all snow foam lances, 2 buckets, wash mitts, waxes and sealers etc etc. but now I've got a new bike I don't let it get dirty, so can get away with a wipe over with;


For metal that needs polishing I go to;


For paintwork I swore by and still use (on the cars)

[G.P]

For the commuter which (before lockdown) would get very grimy:
-
Bug shifter on the screen and GT85 / WD40 on the rear wheel and SA.
Pressure wash (at a distance) those bits and then Snowfoam the bike. leave for 5 mins then rinse and wash with Mitt (except the paint work). Rinse with pressure washer then dry with the garden blower.
Paint work will be Mr Sheen'd or occasionally polished.
Clean chain with toothbrush and WD40.

The Ducati will get the snowfoamed if gets proper dirty but generally I will manage with GT85/ wd40 and Mr sheen.