Motorcycle Washing Guide: Steps, Tools, and Precautions Explained!

Correct Way to Wash and Clean Your Motorcycle

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If you don't wash your motorcycle regularly, not only will accumulated dirt make it look bad, but it can also shorten the lifespan of some parts.

However, if you don't wash your motorcycle using the correct procedure, you might cause minor scratches or water penetration into unexpected areas, leading to malfunctions.

Following the steps below will not only make it easier to remove dirt more efficiently but also prevent motorcycle malfunctions, so please check them before washing your motorcycle.

1. Perform when the engine is cool

It's essential to always wash your motorcycle when the engine is cool. The reason is that spraying water on a hot engine can cause the parts to cool down rapidly and potentially suffer damage.

Furthermore, spraying water on a hot engine can create steam and cause burns, so always wash your motorcycle when the engine is cool.

Motorcycles are designed to withstand riding in the rain, so they are resistant to water from above, but not as resistant to water from below. Therefore, when spraying water, it is generally best to spray from the top of the motorcycle body.

2. Lightly remove dust and mud (pre-wash)

With the motorcycle engine cool, first perform a "pre-wash" by roughly rinsing off surface dust and mud with water.

For the pre-wash, gently spray the motorcycle body with a hose to rinse away surface sand and dust. Avoid scrubbing at this point.

Rubbing the motorcycle's surface when sand is present can cause scratches, so use only the force of water to gently rinse away sand and dust. For mud, apply plenty of water and then gently rinse it off.

3. Main wash with detergent

After rinsing off surface sand and dust with a pre-wash, proceed to the main wash with detergent. We recommend using a neutral detergent specifically for motorcycles.

Instead of applying the motorcycle-specific neutral detergent directly to the motorcycle body, first put an appropriate amount into a bucket and dilute it with water before use.

When washing, use a soft, highly absorbent item like a scratch-resistant sponge or microfiber cloth and wash gently to prevent scratches.

Some people wash with neutral dish soap, but this can cause the paint gloss to be lost on some motorcycles, so be sure to use a detergent made for motorcycles.

4. Rinse thoroughly with water

Once the entire motorcycle has been washed with detergent, rinse it thoroughly from the top with running water to ensure no detergent remains. Just like with the pre-wash, avoid spraying water from below the motorcycle.

Avoid strong water pressure and be careful not to spray water directly onto electrical components (meters, switches, and around lights). Gently rinse off the detergent.

In summer, when the outside temperature is high, detergent can dry quickly and leave stains, so it is recommended to divide the motorcycle into three sections (front, middle, rear), wash and rinse each section repeatedly.

5. Wiping and drying

Once the detergent has been thoroughly rinsed off with water, proceed to wipe away water droplets and dry the motorcycle.

Use a soft, highly absorbent microfiber cloth or chamois leather cloth to quickly wipe away moisture. For hard-to-reach areas, use an air blower to remove water droplets or combine with air drying.

Any remaining moisture or missed spots can cause water spots or rust, so wipe and dry thoroughly to ensure no moisture remains.

6. Chain cleaning and lubrication (if necessary)

Because the chain contains oil, it's difficult to clean it as thoroughly as the rest of the bike during washing. First, apply a chain cleaner to remove dirt.

After applying chain cleaner, lightly scrub the chain with a chain brush to remove dirt, then wipe it off with a cloth.

When chain cleaner is applied, the cleaner will drip along with the loosened dirt. Therefore, lay a tray or something similar under the chain to prevent soiling the ground before starting the work.

Once most of the dirt is removed, apply an appropriate amount of chain lube (oil) to the entire chain, aiming the nozzle between the rollers and plates. The chain cleaning is now complete.

Precautions when cleaning chain dirt

Parts cleaner is convenient for removing oily dirt, but avoid using it when cleaning your motorcycle chain.

Motorcycle chains use a component called an "O-ring" which prevents chain lube (oil) from splashing due to rotation.

Using parts cleaner can damage the O-ring with oil-dissolving solvents, which can cause chain oil to splatter more easily. Therefore, always use a chain cleaner specifically for motorcycle chains.

7. Finishing with wax or coating (optional)

After wiping and drying, applying motorcycle wax or coating to the fairings and fuel tank will help maintain their shine and dirt-repelling properties, as well as provide paint protection.

Waxes mainly come in solid and liquid forms. Solid wax offers a more beautiful finish, while liquid wax is easier to handle.

In summer, apply wax in the morning before the temperature rises, avoiding direct sunlight.

Precautions for washing a motorcycle

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When washing a motorcycle, how water is applied and the type of detergent used can lead to malfunctions or damage to the paint.

By understanding these precautions, you can safely wash your motorcycle and prevent problems, so please check them before you start.

Be careful with how you apply water

High-pressure washing, while effective for quickly blasting away dirt with high water pressure, should not be used on motorcycles. This is because water can penetrate areas not designed to withstand water ingress, potentially causing damage.

Although motorcycles are designed to be ridden in the rain, there are areas such as the muffler and air cleaner where water ingress can cause malfunctions, so care must be taken to prevent water from entering these areas.

Also, electrical systems are vulnerable to water, so care must be taken not to spray water directly on wiring or ignition systems. It is especially recommended to protect keyholes and similar areas with masking tape before washing.

Be careful with water treatment after washing

After washing, it's essential to wipe the motorcycle dry with a microfiber cloth and remove as much moisture as possible. If moisture is left behind, it can lead to dust accumulation and rust.

Air drying is not recommended, as it can cause water spots and stains. Therefore, after washing, always wipe the motorcycle dry to ensure no moisture remains.

When wiping with a microfiber cloth, if moisture remains in areas that are difficult to reach, use an air blower to effectively remove the moisture if possible.

Be careful with the detergent used

When washing your motorcycle, always use a detergent specifically designed for motorcycles and avoid using dish soap.

Using dish soap to wash a motorcycle can damage the clear coat of the paint, causing it to lose its shine. Therefore, always use a motorcycle-specific detergent.

Also, when using detergent, do not apply it directly to the motorcycle. Instead, dilute it with water in a bucket and mix it well before use.

Be careful with chain cleaner

When cleaning a motorcycle chain, always use a chain cleaner and be careful not to use a parts cleaner.

Since chains are permeated with oil, regular motorcycle detergents cannot remove the dirt. A cleaner that can remove oil components is necessary.

Using a parts cleaner that can also remove oil components may damage the "O-rings" that retain oil in the chain. Therefore, always use a chain cleaner specifically for motorcycle chains.

Be careful about the washing location and weather

Before washing your motorcycle, it's important to check that the location is not prohibited for washing (e.g., public roads or parking lots).

In the case of apartments or condominiums, some places prohibit washing vehicles in parking lots or surrounding areas, so it's a good idea to check with the real estate agent or landlord before washing.

Washing in direct sunlight can cause water spots and stains, and if the ground is dirt or gravel, splashes from below can make the motorcycle dirtier. Therefore, attention to the washing environment is crucial.

Be careful with the engine and chain

Spraying water on a hot engine or muffler after riding can not only cause water spots but also generate steam, leading to burns. Caution is advised.

To prevent water spots and burns, if the engine or muffler area is hot after riding, allow it to cool down before washing.

After cleaning the chain, it is necessary to lubricate it with chain lube. Forgetting to do so can damage the chain and sprocket, shortening their lifespan, so be careful not to forget lubrication after chain cleaning.

Motorcycle washing tools and detergents required

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In addition to the basic washing tools needed to clean a motorcycle, there are also tools that can make the washing process easier and more effective.

First, we will explain the basic washing tools required for motorcycle washing, so please use this as a reference when gathering your washing tools.

Basic washing tools

The basic washing tools required for motorcycle washing include the following:

• Microfiber cloth
• Sponge (for cars/motorcycles)
• Bucket
• Brush (soft)
• Air blower

We will explain the role of each item and also introduce recommended washing items.

Microfiber cloth

A microfiber cloth is a cloth made of ultra-fine synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon. When used for wiping, the soft fibers prevent scratches on the motorcycle body.

This cloth is ideal for wiping and dry cleaning after washing a motorcycle. Its ultrafine fibers provide very high absorbency, several times greater than that of ordinary towels or rags.

Many are highly durable and can be used repeatedly. When used for dry wiping, this cloth also has the effect of removing dust and static electricity.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-93029

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DAYTONA's "Microfiber Cloth" is an easy-to-use square-shaped microfiber cloth.

It comes in a pack of two, allowing one to be used for wiping off moisture and the other for dry wiping or storage on the motorcycle.

• Product Name: Microfiber Cloth
• Manufacturer: DAYTONA
• Quantity: Set of 2
• Size: 300×300 (mm)
• Sales Price (incl. tax): 591 yen

Sponge (for cars/motorcycles)

A sponge is used to wash the motorcycle body with detergent, and is made of materials like polyurethane or microfiber.

A soft sponge that won't scratch the motorcycle's paint or parts is recommended. Polyurethane is a good choice as it offers a balance of absorbency and softness.

Source: www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B08WPGTM1P

carpika net's "Scratch-free Car Wash Sponge" is a set of 6 polyurethane foam sponges for car washing.

The sponges are yellow, making dirt visible, and can be cut to any desired size with scissors or a utility knife.

• Product Name: Scratch-free Car Wash Sponge
• Manufacturer: carpika.net
• Quantity: 6 pieces
• Sales Price (incl. tax): 1,680 yen

Bucket

When using detergent for motorcycle washing, it's necessary to dilute it with water rather than applying it directly to the vehicle body.

A wash bucket is necessary for diluting motorcycle-specific detergent. A larger capacity allows for more water storage, which helps prevent sand from adhering to the sponge.

A 10L bucket is sufficient, but if you want to avoid getting sand on your sponge, prepare a larger wash bucket of about 20L.

Source: www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0BLP1DLF4

SPEEVAL's "Bucketnizer 2" is a user-friendly wash bucket with designated spaces for brushes and sponges.

It prevents sponges and brushes from sinking to the bottom of the bucket and features five drainage holes for excellent water drainage after use.

• Product Name: Bucketnizer 2
• Manufacturer: SPEEVAL
• Size (Height × Width × Depth: cm): 19.4 × 27.8 × 13.7
• Color: Black, Red, Blue
• Sales Price (incl. tax): 1,980 yen

Brush (soft)

Brushes are used to remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas like around the key and fuel tank cap, where sponges cannot effectively clean.

A soft-bristled brush is recommended to avoid scratching parts, and brushes made from animal hair (natural bristles) are less likely to damage paintwork.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-pg-293

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TANAX's "Motorcycle Wash Brush Soft" is a brush with soft boar bristles.

It's as easy to handle as a paintbrush and gently sweeps away dirt from areas like around the key where sponges can't reach.

• Product Name: Motorcycle Wash Brush Soft
• Manufacturer: TANAX
• Material: (Handle) PP, (Brush) Boar Bristles
• Sales Price (incl. tax): 564 yen

Air blower

An air blower is an item that uses air pressure to blow away moisture, dust, and sand.

There are various types, from professional-grade ones that require an air compressor to rechargeable ones that can be used easily anywhere.

Source: www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0F4841M3L

Kaedear's "Motorcycle Blower Small Rechargeable for Washing" is a rechargeable air blower that can be used easily anywhere.

It's a compact, handheld type, with a charging time of approximately 3 hours and a maximum usage time of 90 minutes.

• Product Name: Motorcycle Blower Small Rechargeable for Washing
• Manufacturer: Kaedear
• Continuous operating time: up to 90 minutes
• Charging time: Approx. 3 hours
• Battery capacity: 3000mAh / 3.7V ×2 (7.4V)
• Sales Price (incl. tax): 6,988 yen

Detergents (cleaners)

Detergents (cleaners) necessary for removing dirt include the following:

• Body shampoo
• Chain cleaner
• For brake dust and wheels
• Wax/coating agents

Body shampoo

Body shampoo is a detergent used to remove dirt from the motorcycle's surface. Choosing a neutral type makes it easier to remove various types of dirt.

Household dish soap is also neutral, but it can damage the paint, so always choose a neutral detergent specifically for motorcycle washing.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/tn-pg-282

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TANAX "Pro Tsuyashampoo 100" creates a micro and creamy foam with two different types of surfactants, lifting away dirt.

It's a 100x dilution type, so it's very economical to use, diluting one capful with 1L of water.

• Product name: Pro Tsuyashampoo 100
• Manufacturer: TANAX
• Volume: 200ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 959 yen

Chain Cleaner

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/did-4525516903028

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Daido Kogyo (DID) "Chain Cleaner" is a reliable chain cleaner released by a chain manufacturer.

With its strong cleaning power, it washes away sand and dust adhering to the chain, and it's also gentle on O-rings, which play a role in retaining oil.

• Product name: Chain Cleaner
• Manufacturer: Daido Kogyo (DID)
• Volume: 420ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 1,047 yen

For Brake Dust and Wheels

Cleaners for brake dust and wheels are cleaning agents that remove brake dust generated from disc brakes.

Brake dust can sometimes reach high temperatures, making it prone to adhering to wheels, and if left for a while, it may become impossible to remove with ordinary detergents.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/d-62311

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Daytona "Motorcycle Wheel Cleaner" is a cleaner that removes brake dust and other dirt adhering to wheels.

Simply spray it on the area to be cleaned, leave it for about 3 minutes to lift brake dust and dirt, then rinse it off with water for easy maintenance.

• Product name: Motorcycle Wheel Cleaner
• Manufacturer: Daytona
• Volume: 280ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 1,697 yen

Wax/Coating Agents

Waxes and coating agents are used to protect painted surfaces after washing, not only protecting the paint but also giving it a natural shine.

The difference between wax and coating lies in their durability; wax typically lasts about one month after application, while coating lasts about three months, so coating agents generally last longer.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/lav-97837-51101

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LAVEN "Bike Wax" forms a strong glossy film using high-purity carnauba wax.

It can be used on resin parts as well as on gasoline tanks and cowls, so waxing can be completed with just this one product.

• Product name: Bike Wax
• Manufacturer: LAVEN
• Volume: 180ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 1,318 yen

Chain Area

Since chains have oil on them, the following items are necessary for chain maintenance:

• Chain oil (lube)
• Chain brush

Chain Oil (Lube)

Chain oil (lube) is a lubricant for chains, applied after cleaning the chain with a chain cleaner.

If you forget to apply chain oil after cleaning the chain, there is a risk of damaging or breaking the chain and sprockets, so be sure to apply it after cleaning.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/kt-969-0900012

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KITACO "EK Chain Lube Oil Type Universal" is a chain lube uniquely developed by Enuma Chain, a chain manufacturer.

It's universal and can be used on any motorcycle model. With excellent penetration and high film-forming components, the chain lube resists scattering and maintains its lubricating effect for a long time.

• Product name: EK Chain Lube Oil Type Universal
• Manufacturer: KITACO
• Volume: 300ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 1,937 yen

Chain Brush

A chain brush is used to remove dirt from the chain when cleaning it with a chain cleaner.

A chain brush with soft bristles is recommended to avoid damaging the chain's O-rings and other parts.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/kt-674-0200430

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KITACO "Chain Brush A-BS001" is a U-shaped brush that makes chain cleaning easy.

The soft bristles prevent damage to the chain's O-rings and other parts, allowing only dirt to be removed.

• Product name: Chain Brush A-BS001
• Manufacturer: KITACO
• Selling price (incl. tax): 1,228 yen

Finishing and Care Products

After washing your bike, you can protect it further by using the following items:

• Silicone spray
• Glass cleaner
• Rust inhibitor (if necessary)

Silicone Spray

Silicone spray is a spray that applies silicone to form a silicone film on surfaces, providing waterproofing, water repellency, and lubricating effects.

It can be used on various materials, including plastic parts, in addition to metal parts. However, its effectiveness decreases at high temperatures, so it is recommended to use it only on areas that do not get hot.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/kre-4972444010463

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Kure Kogyo (KURE) "Lubricant/Release Agent Silicone Spray" is a silicone spray that forms a silicone film with excellent heat resistance.

It can be used on various areas, including metal parts, plastic resin parts, and rubber parts, and is expected to provide lubrication and gloss-enhancing effects.

• Product name: Lubricant/Release Agent Silicone Spray
• Manufacturer: Kure Kogyo (KURE)
• Volume: 420ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 423 yen

Glass Cleaner

Glass cleaner is used to remove stains and dirt from glass parts (such as rearview mirrors), but for motorcycles, it can also be used to clean around the engine and suspension.

However, if the glass cleaner's ingredients are not weakly acidic, it is best to avoid using it on rubber parts.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/gc-kg193

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MOON EYES "GOLD RUSH Glass Cleaner" provides a clear view by simply spraying it on the rearview mirror and wiping it off.

While it makes cleaning rearview mirrors easy, using it when sand or dust is present can cause scratches, so use it after removing dirt from the mirror.

• Product name: GOLD RUSH Glass Cleaner
• Manufacturer: MOON EYES
• Volume: 500ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 2,412 yen

Rust Inhibitor (if necessary)

A rust inhibitor is an item that acts on the surface of metal to prevent oxidation, thereby suppressing the formation of rust.

It also penetrates into minute gaps in metal, preventing rust from forming inside the material, and maintaining its rust-inhibiting effect over time.

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/hnag-hsg-rr-300

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HANASAKA "Last Remover for Iron/Stainless Steel Rust Removal" is a rust inhibitor applied with a brush.

After removing rust, it forms a fine rust-inhibiting component of only 3 microns, suppressing the generation of new rust.

• Product name: Last Remover for Iron/Stainless Steel Rust Removal Anti-corrosion agent
• Manufacturer: HANASAKA
• Volume: 300ml
• Selling price (incl. tax): 2,899 yen