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CVO Technical => Cleaning/Detailing => Topic started by: Harleyboy3 on October 13, 2014, 05:10:55 PM

Title: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Harleyboy3 on October 13, 2014, 05:10:55 PM
Could anyone let me know what the best bike dryer on the uk market is. Many thanks guys
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Cat Eye on October 14, 2014, 04:34:52 PM
I have used the Air Shammy
http://www.airshammy.com/

No issue and does a good job
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: greglyon on October 14, 2014, 05:56:53 PM
Some have complained that it leaves water spots on dark colored bikes.
The time to get rid of the spots negates the time saved by the dryer.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: muddypaws on October 14, 2014, 05:58:58 PM
I use my Stihl leaf blower and it works great. Not to mention it's orange..
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: ChopperPilot on October 14, 2014, 10:23:16 PM
I use a leaf blower as well, gives me more time to detail the bike.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: LilysBigDaddy on October 14, 2014, 10:38:36 PM
Leaf blower here as well, large backpack, I will also power wash, just not too close with either.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: dooinit2u on October 15, 2014, 07:18:29 AM
I have used the Air Shammy
http://www.airshammy.com/

No issue and does a good job

X2... :2vrolijk_21: And I'm very particular about detailing...
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: ultrarider123 on October 15, 2014, 08:49:58 AM
Used the leaf blower for years on both the bike and car.  Worked great and then had an old 100% cotton flanel sheet that I get the remainder of the fluid.
Purchased a mini Hog Blaster Sidekick (smaller version of the hog blaster) from a site member November '13.  Used it for the first time this past April and haven't looked back.  Easy to use/carry/handle, works like a charm and little to no follow-up rubbing.  Cut down my drying time and I'm VERY picky on spots....don lyke 'em.  In the shade, no issues.  If you are washing in the sun, you have to keep the bike damp as you wash it so you don't let the water stand and spot.  Otherwise, no issues.
The HD unit takes two hands to use.  Looks like the same basic design but my Sidekick is a one handed operation all day long.
Also, I've been using the HD Sunwash and have noticed limited spoting.  Helps with the drying process, too.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: PanheadJeff on October 19, 2014, 10:31:33 AM
I used to use the leaf blower until my OL gave me a Air Force Blaster blower. Nice unit. Long hose, lots of attachments, long cord. It warms the air up 10* above ambient which really helps. Really don't need to do the whole wax thing every wash and the bike looks great. My riding buddies think I spend days detailing the bike. NOT! Just use what works.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: martys on October 19, 2014, 10:53:16 AM
I use the leaf blower as well  :) I find it works just fine as long as I wash the bike in the shade as was stated by Haird  :2vrolijk_21:

Marty
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: DesertHOG on October 19, 2014, 11:41:19 AM
Wow.. another #learnsomethingneweveryday moment for me. You all are blowing your bikes. Well, blow drying your bikes. Never never ever would have thought of that on my own. I just let the shop wash is every 2500 miles and then I air dry it on the way home :)

DH
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: FLHTCUSE7 on October 19, 2014, 01:52:37 PM
Wow.. another #learnsomethingneweveryday moment for me. You all are blowing your bikes. Well, blow drying your bikes. Never never ever would have thought of that on my own. I just let the shop wash is every 2500 miles and then I air dry it on the way home :)

DH

I am on your program. I don't get the whole wash and polish crap. It's a vehicle 
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: aclass on October 19, 2014, 02:33:55 PM
I used to blow dry with the leaf blower but I'm much more satisfied with this unit,
https://www.metrovacworld.com/Air_Force_Blaster_Motorcycle_Dryer_B3-CD/overview

The hose is all rubber so if you contact the bike you don't have to worry about scratches, the air uses heat from the motor so it warm air,  and you can direct the air a lot better than the leaf blower.  Only thing about it, you better put ear plugs in or you'll be deaf by the time the bike is dry.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Chains on October 19, 2014, 03:45:23 PM
This is what I try to use when I can find them.


http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=cH02vHJtnN0
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: cyco1450 on October 21, 2014, 08:27:05 PM
X2 on hog blaster
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: TXGator on October 21, 2014, 09:30:47 PM
Leaf blower here.  I just try to make sure the area around the bike is still damp so sand particles don't kick up..
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: ematicic on October 22, 2014, 08:25:44 AM
I am on your program. I don't get the whole wash and polish crap. It's a vehicle

I am just as picky about my wife's car and my Jeep. To me, spending that much for something and not taking care of it would be about as silly as visiting and subsequently commenting on a thread I did not care about. My Jeep is an 07 and still looks brand new.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: markp1965 on October 23, 2014, 04:05:24 AM
I too have always used a leaf blower but have been thinking of getting a proper dryer , I always say take pride in your ride
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: porthole on October 23, 2014, 10:53:57 AM
I used to blow dry with the leaf blower but I'm much more satisfied with this unit,
https://www.metrovacworld.com/Air_Force_Blaster_Motorcycle_Dryer_B3-CD/overview

The hose is all rubber so if you contact the bike you don't have to worry about scratches, the air uses heat from the motor so it warm air,  and you can direct the air a lot better than the leaf blower.  Only thing about it, you better put ear plugs in or you'll be deaf by the time the bike is dry.

I use the same dryer, works real well. It is branded on at least 4-5 different purposes. Same item is sold at dog - pet events for drying the pooches.
Mine is unlabeled and was about $150 when I got it.

The warm air effect is really good for your dogs.

You definitely need hearing protection using the narrow nozzle, especially around edges where the air will scream.

When using it on the dogs I don't use the nozzle and the noise level about half (still loud though).
Both the cord and hose are pretty good lengths.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Fired00d on October 23, 2014, 10:57:37 AM
I use the same dryer, works real well. It is branded on at least 4-5 different purposes. Same item is sold at dog - pet events for drying the pooches.
Mine is unlabeled and was about $150 when I got it.

The warm air effect is really good for your dogs.

You definitely need hearing protection using the narrow nozzle, especially around edges where the air will scream.

When using it on the dogs I don't use the nozzle and the noise level about half (still loud though).
Both the cord and hose are pretty good lengths.
If you get a "pet dryer" vs "motorcycle dryer" you will get the same thing and save some $$$. Just like everything else if they say it is for "motorcycles" the price gets jacked up. :(

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: CVOStreetglide on October 23, 2014, 08:02:38 PM
I use a Stihl to dry mine.  ;D
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Jswerve on October 23, 2014, 09:53:45 PM
If you get a "pet dryer" vs "motorcycle dryer" you will get the same thing and save some $$$. Just like everything else if they say it is for "motorcycles" the price gets jacked up. :(

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Yes sir! We have a pet dryer for my huskies when the blow coat. Cheaper and works great.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Retired Navy Chief on November 09, 2014, 09:11:57 PM
The best dryer is to let it dry it's self.  Rinse the bike (or car, boat, anything) with A Water Deionizer. It will remove Hard Water Minerals With Ion Exchange Resins For A Spot-Free Finish!  It is amazing.  I have one from Griot's garage and have never looked back.  It is the same as the cars wash "spot free rinse".  David


http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/portable+water+deionizer.do?sortby=ourPicks&page=2&refType=
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: mjb765 on November 09, 2014, 09:44:01 PM
I use the same dryer, works real well. It is branded on at least 4-5 different purposes. Same item is sold at dog - pet events for drying the pooches.
Mine is unlabeled and was about $150 when I got it.

The warm air effect is really good for your dogs.

You definitely need hearing protection using the narrow nozzle, especially around edges where the air will scream.

When using it on the dogs I don't use the nozzle and the noise level about half (still loud though).
Both the cord and hose are pretty good lengths.

Here it is for $187

http://www.thedogsupplyco.com/store-products-B-3CD-Metro-Blaster-Motorcycle-Dryer-B-3CD_42129593.html

Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: porthole on November 10, 2014, 06:20:10 AM
Here it is for $187

http://www.thedogsupplyco.com/store-products-B-3CD-Metro-Blaster-Motorcycle-Dryer-B-3CD_42129593.html

That's it, same as what I got, and way less then when sold as a motorcycle dryer.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: aclass on November 10, 2014, 07:49:56 AM
Regardless which one you get, let me give everyone a little pointer.  Dont leave the hose anywhere near the wood stove when you build a fire in it.  If you do, the p/n is MVC-56D and it cost you $37.50 plus shipping/handling.... >:(
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: wachuko on November 10, 2014, 10:39:24 AM
Here it is for $187

http://www.thedogsupplyco.com/store-products-B-3CD-Metro-Blaster-Motorcycle-Dryer-B-3CD_42129593.html

FYI - just a few dollars less from Amazon and with free shipping.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: akodust on May 08, 2015, 11:05:24 AM
Just get a Walmart portable vacuum...I is cheap $25 and works well. Do not waste your money on "motorcycle dryers". :drummer:
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: screaminCVO on May 08, 2015, 11:36:40 AM
Just get a Walmart portable vacuum...I is cheap $25 and works well. Do not waste your money on "motorcycle dryers". :drummer:

Good point - we have portable Rigid vacs from Home Depot. Would work well reversed as long as its just used for drying was they do blow out dust on starting.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: JCZ on May 08, 2015, 11:55:31 AM
I used to use the leaf blower until my OL gave me a Air Force Blaster blower. Nice unit. Long hose, lots of attachments, long cord. It warms the air up 10* above ambient which really helps. Really don't need to do the whole wax thing every wash and the bike looks great. My riding buddies think I spend days detailing the bike. NOT! Just use what works.

Air Force Blaster is the one that I've been using for about eight years.  And sure glad it has a rubber tipped nozzle......don't ask me why.  ;D
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: grc on May 08, 2015, 01:31:04 PM
Good point - we have portable Rigid vacs from Home Depot. Would work well reversed as long as its just used for drying was they do blow out dust on starting.

I purchased a 1.25" hose and adapter for my 16 gallon Craftsman wet and dry vac that is only used for blowing off the bike.  That way there is no transfer of dirt and trash from the hose that's used for vacuuming.  It's also much easier to maneuver the smaller diameter hose.  Btw, I also use a crevice tool on the end of the hose to concentrate the air flow to clear out the nooks and crannies.

The leaf blower thing sort of works, if you don't mind not getting filtered air and you don't mind the PITA it is to maneuver versus my method.  I would say that anyone who has a good shop vac with an exhaust port would be better off using it with a dedicated hose.  Why pay for a motorcycle specific dryer when you can use your existing equipment?

JHMO - Jerry
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: toddwebber on May 08, 2015, 07:44:22 PM
I use the master blaster. Expensive...yes, but it works amazing. And, it blows warm air. If it broke today, I would buy another tomorrow
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: willyB on May 12, 2015, 08:26:34 AM
My Echo leaf blower has served me quite well for the past 12 years.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: CVO Couple on June 04, 2015, 07:44:32 PM
Leaf blower, but the shop vac I could see working better.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: wachuko on June 05, 2015, 08:27:10 AM
Leaf blower, but the shop vac I could see working better.

Yeah... just make sure it is clean first...



Don't ask...

Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Dejad on August 25, 2015, 06:51:59 AM
I guess I'm old fashioned. I use a Chamois.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: ptnlinda on August 25, 2015, 06:56:41 AM
I guess I'm old fashioned. I use a Chamois.
I'm with you.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: longlast on August 26, 2015, 01:23:19 AM
1/2 hr 70mile an hr ride out 1/2 hr 70 mile an hr back works for me then I give it a little wipe down then polish  :2vrolijk_21:
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Burgundy Blaze CVO on May 03, 2016, 10:35:32 AM
Could anyone let me know what the best bike dryer on the uk market is. Many thanks guys
Echo leaf blower!
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: ChopperPilot on May 03, 2016, 12:49:22 PM
I'm with you.
I do as well on the painted surfaces, blower reduces drying time on the engine and other parts that are hard to dry.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: Jbbrown73 on May 03, 2016, 02:52:43 PM
I bought a little canister shop vac I bought several years ago at Rural King. It was cheap, I paid about 30 bucks for it. I don't use it for anything else so no chance of it blowing dirt out on the bike. It has a nice little cloth filter even.
Title: Re: Best bike dryer on the market
Post by: CVODON on May 03, 2016, 10:15:58 PM
I have been using air for over thirty years to dry the cars and bikes. If you have filtered air (acceptable for painting a car) I just use that with a rubber nippled blow nozzle, adjust it at the regulator to whatever pressure you are comfortable with and dry away.
Have to be careful using leaf blowers as some of the better, read newer, have the exhaust going thru the blow hose. If two cycle you will get mini oil spots from the exhaust residue which is not good.
A Metro or similar Dog or Motorcycle type works very good, I have mine bolted to the wall on a easy remove bracket that came with it and a 20" hose, that also came with it. Works exceptional but regardless of what has been said, you cannot blow the bike completely dry without leaving spots, still need some type of automotive drying towel in conjunction with the blower unless you have treated water (soft).
I find it humorous that adults will make comments like "ride it @ 70 MPH, it will dry". Yes it will dry, and it will look like someone washed it that had no idea what he was doing. People like that, make mine look better than it actually does, I like people to think it is new, regardless of how old it is, car/bike/boat or whatever.