Washing your bike without damaging it

What you need

• Two buckets of water, a soft sponge and a microfibre cloth
• Bike or car shampoo
• A plastic bag and a rubber band for the exhaust end

Steps

1. Let the engine and exhaust cool down first. Cold water on hot metal can warp parts.
2. Cover the exhaust opening with the bag. Keep water away from the ignition switch and the instrument cluster.
3. Rinse off loose dust and mud with a gentle flow of water.
4. Wash from the top down with the sponge and shampoo. Rinse the sponge often so grit does not scratch the paint.
5. Rinse, then dry with the cloth. Remove the exhaust bag.
6. Ride slowly for a short distance and brake gently a few times to dry the brakes. Lube the chain afterwards.

Common mistakes

• Pointing a pressure washer at wheel bearings, the chain, switches or the radiator.
• Using washing powder or dish soap. They strip wax and dry out rubber.
• Using kerosene or petrol on the paint or plastic.

When to go to a mechanic

• The bike misfires or a light stops working after a wash. Water may be in a connector.
• You spot oil leaks, cracks or loose parts once the bike is clean.

More guides

• Parking the bike for weeks or months
• Starting the bike on cold winter mornings
• Your free services explained: 1st, 2nd and 3rd
• A fair workshop bill, and how to spot upselling
• Genuine vs duplicate parts: how to tell