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CVO Technical => Cleaning/Detailing => Topic started by: Copper/Black Cvo on October 29, 2007, 09:14:30 PM
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Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ??? :nixweiss:
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No.
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Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ??? :nixweiss:
I don't...depends on how dirty it gets and how tired I am after the ride. I'll usually get the bugs off the front end, but don't fret over the rest of the bike until I have some time to do it properly. When traveling, I'll use some quick detail and hit the high spots. If it's run through rain, it drives me nuts after a day or so, so usually end up washing it soon afterwards...
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The bugs and dirt just slide off Terry's bike 'cause he uses Glare! :P
Mark
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The bugs and dirt just slide off Terry's bike 'cause he uses Glare! :P
Mark
Hey, isn't he the Glare salesman?
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They are daily riders and one of the 2 usually get washed on Friday after work.
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Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ??? :nixweiss:
No I don't. Sometimes it won't get washed for 3-4 weeks unless I get caught in rain and is done sooner. I wash and clean thoroughly instead of cleaning parts of the bike with quick detailers. There is no correct way, just do what's right for you and your new bike.
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If it's nice enough to clean, it's nice enough to ride! No, I don't clean them after each ride, but I ride one or the other just about daily. Usually wash them about once every 2 weeks, so each week one of them is clean
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I try to at least clean the front end after each ride, windshield, headlamps, front forks, mirrors and then detail the bikes once per week if needed.
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Don't wash it after every ride. I will wipe the bugs off after each ride, and use a California duster before riding it the next time. When I wash I detail it, pull saddlebags, side covers off, put it up on the jack to thoroughly clean everything from top to bottom, and underneath. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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Don't wash it after every ride. I will wipe the bugs off after each ride, and use a California duster before riding it the next time. When I wash I detail it, pull saddlebags, side covers off, put it up on the jack to thoroughly clean everything from top to bottom, and underneath. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
My sentiments exactly Gary.
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No...I wash the bike twice a month weather it needs it or not. Sometimes more..only if the bugs are really bad..the bug juice will etch the paint and that's not acceptable.
Ugly John
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I can't sleep well at night if my bikes are dirty (sounds of chrome pitting and aluminum corroding fill my head :nervous:), so I do my best to give the bikes at least a quick wipe-down after every ride. Naturally, it depends how long the ride was as to how much cleaning is required, so sometimes it's easier than others. A full day's 300 or 400 mile ride with a return at dusk will see only getting bugs off that night and then a full detail the next morning. A shorter, half-day or so ride and I usually put it up on the jack and use a bucket and a wash mit to get 'er back to where she was before the ride.
Take care of the steed and she will take care of you! :2vrolijk_21:
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I don't clean after each ride, but frequently get the bugs off the front with a quick detail spray. I can't stand the bugs. Riding somewhere with bugs caked all over the bike is like going some place important with a dirty face......embarrassing!
Depending on whether I have been riding on wet roads or not, I usually give it a good scrubbing every week or two during the summer and maybe every month or so in the winter.
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I used to, but it got to the point where the more I rode it, the less time I had to clean it. I'll settle for once a month if I can.
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I scrape the tourpack clean annually.
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No.
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Don't wash it after every ride. I will wipe the bugs off after each ride, and use a California duster before riding it the next time. When I wash I detail it, pull saddlebags, side covers off, put it up on the jack to thoroughly clean everything from top to bottom, and underneath. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
Ditto, same, that's what I do, yup.......
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I scrape the tourpack clean annually.
Is that to get the mold out? :D
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After every ride...... ? :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :oops:
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;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
NOT! :o
Hoist! 8)
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Don't wash it after every ride. I will wipe the bugs off after each ride, and use a California duster before riding it the next time. When I wash I detail it, pull saddlebags, side covers off, put it up on the jack to thoroughly clean everything from top to bottom, and underneath. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
Same for me except for the saddle bags of course. I hate taking off the cover and finding a dirty bike. It gets wiped down before and after every ride.
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I wipe the bugs off the front on the :bananarock: regularly but when it comes to putting it on the lift and removing seat, saddlebags and chit, that's too damn much like work. I try to do it every spring, if it needs it or not. ;D ;D
I've found it much more satisfying to sit and watch JR be the Mr Clean of the :bananarock: world.
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Hey that was my 2008th post. Cool, it caught my eye and I was going to keep it there but I just blew that with this one. Damn, what a waste. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Congrats to MJZ on 2,000+ posts.
Clean after every ride? No, except to wipe the bugs off the lights & shield & wipe the mirrors on multi-day rides. Sometimes folks I ride with comment on the dirt - I figure if it bothers them enough, they can wash it off. Sometimes there are exceptions to this, but when gone for an extended period, the bike just gets dirty over & over so I figure why bother.
When it's a 1 day ride and the bike is parked in the garage, I get the bugs off from wherever the bugs decided to commit suicide. Bug juice is bad for bikes, IMHO.
Both bikes get cleaned/washed thoroughly monthly. In between they get wiped down, as my mood on cleaning dictates.
Basically, I'd rather ride than clean.
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Is that to get the mold out? :D
mold, scum from road kill, dried out fruit, and other things I won't mention here.
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mold, scum from road kill, dried out fruit, and other things I won't mention here.
Ken-
At MV07, you were the quick detailingist guy there. Cleaning debris off in the morning and evening. :2vrolijk_21: :) Bob
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Not so man! I cleaned at it one time!
Actually, I don't let my bike get terribly dirty, BUT..I'm sure not as neat as some of these guys.
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Ha!
I guess I'm not the usual Harley guy because I clean mine really well about 2 times a year. Eventually it reaches equilibrium with the environment and the dirt that sticks to it equals what the rain and wind blows or washes off of it.
I'm lucky if I get time to ride, so if it isn't raining or freezing and I have an hour I ride. I'd rather ride than clean and if I don't have time for both then cleaning definitely loses. I've thought of driving through a car wash but not sure that would be such a good idea. :huepfenjump3:
A little extra grime also seems to act as a theft deterrent. I do change oil, etc. regularly and often the dealer's mechanics feel so bad for the bike that they pressure hose the bugs and tar off.
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I scrape the tourpack clean annually.
I tend toward this approach. If it is embarrassingly dirty I clean it and just before the ride.
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I spoke to Perry from Glare Products today. He stated that all I need is to buy his Sahara Detailing spray to remove the dirt off the bike first. Then use the Pro-Polish to rub onto the bike chrome, paint, wheels etc. and then take it off with the microfiber rag as you apply it. Then reapply the
Pro-Polish again like a wax allow it to stay on for 30 minute then with the other microfiber rag remove the polish from bike.
That it....allow it to air dry for 24 hrs and see the "wet" look he claims will appear onto the bike the next day....
Are these the results that others have seen using Glare Products....
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I spoke to Perry from Glare Products today. He stated that all I need is to buy his Sahara Detailing spray to remove the dirt off the bike first. Then use the Pro-Polish to rub onto the bike chrome, paint, wheels etc. and then take it off with the microfiber rag as you apply it. Then reapply the
Pro-Polish again like a wax allow it to stay on for 30 minute then with the other microfiber rag remove the polish from bike.
That it....allow it to air dry for 24 hrs and see the "wet" look he claims will appear onto the bike the next day....
Are these the results that others have seen using Glare Products....
He's right about the look you'll acheive.
The Sahara spray works well between times, but I'd just wash the bike, blow it dry, then put the Glare Pro Polish on as directed. I only use the Sahara when I can't/don't want to wash the bike with Glare wash and then dry with a Cycle Dryer...like between water washings.
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Perry stated to me that most guy don't Soap the hose down their bike due to all that electrical stuff around the engine compartment... :nixweiss:
All I Need is the Sahara....
But my though on a thorough cleaning is to wash the bike first then use the pro-polish.....
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The Sahara does work, but nothing beats a good wash with soap and water. I have two mitts, one for the lower parts of the bike, and one I use only for the painted parts. The Glare wash works very well and will not strip finishes like some detergents. It is true that the Sahara will lift the dirt off without scratching the paint, and I do use it when the bike doesn't need a bath, but it's more trouble than it's worth for a total cleaning of the bike, IMO.
Just use a garden hose with a setting like "shower" or something other than "jet", and you'll be fine. I've been doing it this way for years and have never had an issue with getting electrical things too wet, or no wetter than they'd get in a good rain going down the road. Just don't spray water directly into the ECM or other critical electrical components and you'll be fine. If you pull the side covers off when washing (I do not, but clean them with a micro cloth when I've got the side covers off for something else),don't skeet water directly into those areas, but if the covers are on, you're good to go.
My routine: bike is cold; pull off the saddlebags and put them somewhere safe, like an old piece of carpet, or a stand for them; spray wheel cleaner (a safe for clear coat kind) on both wheels; let sit while filling up wash bucket with lukewarm water; rinse wheels and entire bike; starting from the front, wash entire bike, painted surfaces first, then switch mitts and do other parts of bike, rinsing as needed. Do this in the shade, if possible, then the soap wont start drying on you before you get done. I will also use the Glare wheel cleaner on the engine...it will NOT hurt it, and cleans it pretty well. Rinse entire bike very well, particularly the cracks and crevices on the lower engine/frame. Get out the blower and start drying the bike. Go over the bike with a microfiber towel, visually inspecting fasteners to ensure they are tight and nothing is about to fall off the bike (they do shake, after all); Take a look and see if there are any places that need a touch up with Glare product, or detailer of choice (or at this point I would Glare the entire bike, if needed...all shiney surfaces get Glared on my scooter); put bags back on bike, start it up for a minute or two...done.
That's just the way I do it...pretty f'ing Anal, huh?
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Or you can just roll it out when it rains, and do the twice a year thing that megavolt said (actually, the detail shop does it twice a year)! That's worked for 35 years for me! ;D
Hoist! 8)
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......
That's just the way I do it...pretty f'ing Anal, huh?
Not to me. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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Add: I don't do this every week or anything like that, just when it needs it, like after a big trip or after running through a rain. There is nothing that gets off the road film well but elbow grease and soapy water. After a "normal" weekend ride, I just use Windex AMONIA FREE wipes to get the bugs off. Henry showed me that trick, and it works extremely well while traveling as well.
On a scale of 1 to 10, with one being a "Rat bike" and 10 being d00d's or 103T's, mine is probably an 8 and sometimes a 6 or 7.
Of course, d00d is Detailer Emeritus of the CVO Website...he has the hat and the red "Rub my Buddha Thongs" to prove it... so he'll chime in here before you know it.
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...
Are these the results that others have seen using Glare Products....
I just got to look at this thread and have seen that Terry has already answered. I knew you were in for a detailed (all pun intended) response.
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Yep, unless I'm on a trip
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Re: Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ???
I try to keep the scoots clean as possible but not every ride unless the are dirty Have taken off work on Mondays to clean the bike after a long weekend ride....
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Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ??? :nixweiss:
Before & After every single ride since she was purchased, and I have also been known to sneak out into the parking lot in the middle of the night on weekend excursions just too do touch ups, because I can not get to sleep if I don't. :-[ yes......I'm one sick pup :P :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
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Before & After every single ride since she was purchased, and I have also been known to sneak out into the parking lot in the middle of the night on weekend excursions just too do touch ups, because I can not get to sleep if I don't. :-[ yes......I'm one sick pup :P :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
Oh Eagle; there's got to be meds for that man. You need some help :drink: .
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Add: I don't do this every week or anything like that, just when it needs it, like after a big trip or after running through a rain. There is nothing that gets off the road film well but elbow grease and soapy water. After a "normal" weekend ride, I just use Windex AMONIA FREE wipes to get the bugs off. Henry showed me that trick, and it works extremely well while traveling as well.
On a scale of 1 to 10, with one being a "Rat bike" and 10 being d00d's or 103T's, mine is probably an 8 and sometimes a 6 or 7.
Of course, d00d is Detailer Emeritus of the CVO Website...he has the hat and the red "Rub my Buddha Thongs" to prove it... so he'll chime in here before you know it.
Spew! LMFAO -- I know I shouldn't try to catch up on this web site while I eat dinner!!!!
BTW - 2Lane only removes the dead cats when the time changes in fall and spring!!!
Seriously, I dont wash after my rides, I like to wash my bike late on Friday afternoon while putting some blood in my alcohol system - a good way to release the stress of the work week. This way it is all shiny for Sat and or Sunday. Pretty much follow Terry's approach but have swapped out Glare for the new Turtle Wax system. I'd do the Glare but I don't have his BSR to help me out! ;)
Mark
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Before & After every single ride since she was purchased, and I have also been known to sneak out into the parking lot in the middle of the night on weekend excursions just too do touch ups, because I can not get to sleep if I don't. :-[ yes......I'm one sick pup :P :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
With much love and all due respect..... You are one sick puppy. :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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Spew! LMFAO -- I know I shouldn't try to catch up on this web site while I eat dinner!!!!
BTW - 2Lane only removes the dead cats when the time changes in fall and spring!!!
Seriously, I dont wash after my rides, I like to wash my bike late on Friday afternoon while putting some blood in my alcohol system - a good way to release the stress of the work week. This way it is all shiny for Sat and or Sunday. Pretty much follow Terry's approach but have swapped out Glare for the new Turtle Wax system. I'd do the Glare but I don't have his BSR to help me out! ;)
Mark
Ok Mark, I have to bite. What is involved with the "Turtle Wax system." I never did the Glare thing. It seemed pricey to me for a shiney inducing paste and sound like more work than I wanted to put in to the task. And the directions said not for use on dead cats.
So what's up with the Turtle?
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Before & After every single ride since she was purchased, and I have also been known to sneak out into the parking lot in the middle of the night on weekend excursions just too do touch ups, because I can not get to sleep if I don't. :-[ yes......I'm one sick pup :P :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
Hell Eagle1, If you lived in Houston I would support your addiction by allowing you to detail my CVO anytime -- LOL.
You sick puppy....
Mark
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Turtle Wax has some new products that pretty much are like the Glare ones but cost half as much and there is NO white residue on your rubber or black painted parts.
I bought all the products at Target (Walmart will NEVER see my fat *ss in its stores).
The $$ savings are significant so I can buy more oil to push through my leaking 110 heads. :P
Mark
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Nope......at most, I clean the bugs off...............BUT, there are situations afterwhich I will wash and detail: Rain, lovebugs, before surrendering it for maintenance/modification/upgrades, after maintenance/modification/upgrades, the passage of two weeks.....but certainly not after EVERY ride. I usually ride every day if it isn't raining or so friggin' sweltering hot. The way I clean, I'd never get to ride. :P
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Spew! ...
BTW - 2Lane only removes the dead cats when the time changes in fall and spring!!!
Major spew!
When I first found this site I was looking for add-on's for the bike to be. The first was an oil temp gauge. That's when I found 2ln's post and dry sense of humor! :D
I really thought this site was all serious and just about "wrenching" and didn't want to look like a newbie who absolutely nothing about motorcycles & then I saw that post & knew I'd fit right in.
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With much love and all due respect..... You are one sick puppy. :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
but I'm tryin Ringo,..... I'm trying real hard, to stop the OCD :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:
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Terry already mentioned these things..........the Windex Ammonia free wipes.........you can get 'em at Walmark in the car cleaning stuff section. Those things are great when you're on the road, or when you get home late, really want to grab a beer and go to bed, but can't stand thought of bugs eating at your clearcoat. I've gone through 7 packages of those things this summer. Great stuff.
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Used to clean and detail about every twenty minutes when I first got it, just work the bugs off every ride now.
I've never washed it, nor did I wash my other ones... just kept them wiped down.
For some reason this one doesn't get very dirty, even while in the rain!
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That or yer just gettin old like the rest of us and need to get your eyes checked?? :huepfenlol2:
Waiver - I have no real opinion as I take my duty as BSR seriously and let HogBreath deal with cleaning the girlfriend (apparently it works out that I clean the house and he cleans the garage. Just wish I could use the leaf blower too!)
:P
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Cheri...we keep waiting for that riding Vacuum Cleaner to do the housecleaning... ;)
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Cheri...we keep waiting for that riding Vacuum Cleaner to do the housecleaning... ;)
Wait no longer..
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Wait no longer..
HHMMMMM...do they make that in black and orange?? Ya know, Halloween colors?? :2vrolijk_21:
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Major spew!
When I first found this site I was looking for add-on's for the bike to be. The first was an oil temp gauge. That's when I found 2ln's post and dry sense of humor! :D
I really thought this site was all serious and just about "wrenching" and didn't want to look like a newbie who absolutely nothing about motorcycles & then I saw that post & knew I'd fit right in.
AJ found a home..... and a dead cat and cat puke and dog puke and Arkansas but the boy is still looking for a freaking trailer!
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AJ found a home..... and a dead cat and cat puke and dog puke and Arkansas but the boy is still looking for a freaking trailer!
You don't need a trailer in Howieland Don. Everything's already there, when you get where you're going. Including the cold beer! ;D
Hoist! 8)
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You don't need a trailer in Howieland Don. Everything's already there, when you get where you're going. Including the cold beer! ;D
Hoist! 8)
oooooh, that's a heluvan idea. Rider friendly POMCUS sites strategically set along the highway grid for our resting, feasting, fueling and other pleasures. Definitely voting for Howie now.
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I may have a way out view on this
The biggest investment in ones life is their house.....how often do you wash it every 2 or 3 years:nixweiss:
Then why in the he!! would I wash my 21st largest investment more often :coolblue:
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I wash mine every couple of weeks
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AJ found a home..... and a dead cat and cat puke and dog puke and Arkansas but the boy is still looking for a freaking trailer!
I'm still workin' on it! ;D
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I remove seat, saddlebags and side covers then powerwash with chemical injection using meguiars gold class soap, gets off all dirt and grime from everywhere. Blow dry with Stihl gas powered leaf blower, towel down with microfiber, then apply glare pro polish to everything except windscreen. Use meguiars plastic cleaner and polish on that. Also apply tire shine to sidewalls only.
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I remove seat, saddlebags and side covers then powerwash with chemical injection using meguiars gold class soap, gets off all dirt and grime from everywhere. Blow dry with Stihl gas powered leaf blower, towel down with microfiber, then apply glare pro polish to everything except windscreen. Use meguiars plastic cleaner and polish on that. Also apply tire shine to sidewalls only.
Pete-Now we know the secret(s) of how you keep that punkin so nice. :) Bob
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Only after a long trip.
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I usually clean my bikes after every ride... The biggest problem is that since the wife caught the bug a number of years ago I now have 2 bikes to clean up after every ride as she knows how I love to get up close and personal with my bike every chance I get... Furthermore, she doesn't mind a bit if I get that close to hers either. :nixweiss: Go figure!
The one rule I have is that on road trips we're out there to ride and NOT wash. So the bikes are clean when we leave home and get cleaned again when we return. That's a rule I've always lived with and has allowed us more riding time in doing so. With us both putting on approximately 25k miles yearly, they get plenty of bathtime and still look as good as the day they were delivered.
Get to know your bike - wash her regularly!
Happy sudsing,
Mike
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This time of the year...The question should be...Do you ride your bike after each cleaning...I'm sick of polishing on this bike. I'm ready to ride it.
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I try to at least clean the front end after each ride, windshield, headlamps, front forks, mirrors and then detail the bikes once per week if needed.
I do like you do. after every ride I wipe off the bugs. I detail the bike as needed, thats close to once a week. I never "wash" my bike. I also use S-100 to keep things protected.
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I do like you do. after every ride I wipe off the bugs. I detail the bike as needed, thats close to once a week. I never "wash" my bike. I also use S-100 to keep things protected.
I don't either, Spoken2........every since the water restrictions (drought) came about. :'( aaaargh. spyder
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I clean my bike after every ride,but it can get to the stage where it becomes an obsession and affects the ride outs.but look after the bike and it will always be a credit to the rider.
John
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I used to power wash my old bike and use the weed blower to dry. Finding out the power washer is a bad idea. I stopped using it. After seeing the psi my power washer puts out glad I stopped. I know even w/ the low setting still bad idea.
Cleaning the bike in parts the best idea if: no rain, snow, bettle swarm, or doesn't have that nice bling. IMO
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No
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No, I clean it when it starts to look grubby, however I do keep on top of the bugs and if it has been raining I will hose the bike down and power dry it with the blaster.
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Hell sometimes during the ride, Honda Chrome in the bag baby :2vrolijk_21: oh lets see its not Honda Chrome any more the EPA scared them and they took there name off it. My OCD is not real bad, I can go to sleep at night as soon as the bike is clean and ready to ride the next day :)
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Usually one solid detail at season start then S100 a few times-usually after rain. Bug removal every ride-that's it I want to be on the road not polishing-
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::) ;D ;D ;D :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: ;)
Hoist! 8)
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I wash it every time, I live on a gravel ( .05 mile ) road but I ride in the neighbors yards . I've got this washing down to a science. Hose down, jonny mop, yard blower, baby diaper final dry. 15 minutes. Hossdog
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You bet , and if it's a week long trip I clean every night or at least every other night.I am anal or so I'm told. :bananarock:
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You bet , and if it's a week long trip I clean every night or at least every other night.I am anal or so I'm told. :bananarock:
I think a number of us here would agree that there's just not as much enjoyment if your scooter's dirty. :( Not sure that it's classified as a disorder (or is it, D00d)? :-X har! :huepfenlol2: spyder
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Nope, it's not a disorder. :no:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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I think a number of us here would agree that there's just not as much enjoyment if your scooter's dirty. :( Not sure that it's classified as a disorder (or is it, D00d)? :-X har! :huepfenlol2: spyder
Of course there isn't. A dirty motorcycle is heavier than it would be if it were clean.........therefore slower. Slow motorcycles aren't enjoyable. So, it stands to reason that if you keep your motorcycle clean at all times, it will be lighter than it would be if it were dirty..........therefore faster. Fast motorcycles are enjoyable, which equals............FUN!!!!! :2vrolijk_21:
REGGAB------> :zstupid: But his scooter is clean, enjoyable, FUN..........and what the heck, it's fast enough. :2vrolijk_21:
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Of course there isn't. A dirty motorcycle is heavier than it would be if it were clean.........therefore slower. Slow motorcycles aren't enjoyable. So, it stands to reason that if you keep your motorcycle clean at all times, it will be lighter than it would be if it were dirty..........therefore faster. Fast motorcycles are enjoyable, which equals............FUN!!!!! :2vrolijk_21:
REGGAB------> :zstupid: But his scooter is clean, enjoyable, FUN..........and what the heck, it's fast enough. :2vrolijk_21:
Scary! Sounds a lot like my logic. ??? har! :huepfenjump3:spyder
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I give them a wash one night during the week..quick ride to blow off the excwss water..back in the garage..towel dry any spots off, It is now 830am on saturday morning morning...plan to ride the old softail today...got out in the Garage about 600 am with a cup of coffe and the stereo on low and waxed bike from top to bottom....used the new Nanowax stuff with microfiber towel wipe off....Still not sure how I like this product yet. The roadglide is going up to Leesbug fl next Friday morning, It will get the full monty....3 step mothers system...cleaner, swirl and polish produuct, then the 100% carnuba...folllowed by mothers chrome polish...oh yeah use only Mothers car wash too.....ALWAYS clean my bikes before they leave the garage for a ride :orange:
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Hey, isn't he the Glare salesman?
Well, yes he is. :2vrolijk_21:
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I clean my bike whenever I need to chill out, ponder the meaning of life, forget about the job and remember that I've got it pretty good. Sometimes I clean it when it's already clean just for the therapy.
B B
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I Sometimes I clean it when it's already clean just for the therapy.
B B
Me also BB!
No matter how clean and shiny I can always find a frame member or chrome bracket that needs a little attention.
You know, "What can shine will shine".
And, "You can never argue with done"
Start polishing!
:2vrolijk_21:
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Sure do!!!! Doesn't everyone?
I just can't stand a dirty bike. I usually spend
2 to 3 hours detailing.
Mark
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I'd say about 95% of the time , yep
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need to pay attention to the small places--especially the oil cooler fins.
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need to pay attention to the small places--especially the oil cooler fins.
What do you use on those little fins? Something like the ole lady's toothbrush. :D :o har! spyder
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Horror of horrors :o :o :o :o :o
LD is sitting in the garage filthy where it' been since Saturday when I got back from Sedona :orange:
Now what ???
Is it gonna die on me or something :nixweiss:
B B
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I clean mine after every ride that it gets extremely dirty from rain, road dirt, or bug splatter. If nothing like that happens I will let her sit til she get dirty or something special comes along. If I'm commuting mine to and from work I will clean it on the first day I have off.
Mark
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Of course there isn't. A dirty motorcycle is heavier than it would be if it were clean.........therefore slower. Slow motorcycles aren't enjoyable. So, it stands to reason that if you keep your motorcycle clean at all times, it will be lighter than it would be if it were dirty..........therefore faster. Fast motorcycles are enjoyable, which equals............FUN!!!!! :2vrolijk_21:
REGGAB------> :zstupid: But his scooter is clean, enjoyable, FUN..........and what the heck, it's fast enough. :2vrolijk_21:
:2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: Yep, that theory seems to fit the situation!!!
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need to pay attention to the small places--especially the oil cooler fins.
Would like to hear more about how everyone cleans their Oil cooler fins. Preferably not the better halfs tooth brush( She might catch me) :nervous:
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Here are a couple of cleaners I use for the bikes, the Mean Green is $3 a bottle, the Simple Green cost more its concentrated so you get more for your dollar. I use the Mean Green for most cleaning and the Simple Green for wet sanding on surfaces that I'm going to paint, it removes all waxes and does not leave any kind of silicone or oils on the surface to be painted, rinse it off with water let it dry and wipe down with a tack clothe and your good to go for painting :2vrolijk_21: Spraying either one of them in your oil cooler fins and rinse out works real well.
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Thanks I will try it , the fins has always been a trouble spot for me.
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Clean and detail like Iam going to a show after every ride thats why you need a beater bike to ride around town.
OTIS
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Clean and detail like Iam going to a show after every ride thats why you need a beater bike to ride around town.
OTIS
AMEN! Only problem is I can't let the "beater" sit around looking like a beater. It gets just as much attention as the SE.
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Clean and detail like Iam going to a show after every ride
What he said!!
Here in the uk our bikes come with a weather forecasting device, its called an IGNITION SWITCH, you turn it and then wait 5mins or so then it p****s it down, it really is that accurate >:( :bananarock: :bananarock: :bananarock:
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Today ; 12 days post Sedona, LD finally got washed. Sitting on the table lift now waiting for detail which most likely will take place this weekend over multiple bottles of beer.
B B
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Today ; 12 days post Sedona, LD finally got washed. Sitting on the table lift now waiting for detail which most likely will take place this weekend over multiple bottles of beer.
B B
OMG!!!!! :shocked2: That hurts.
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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OMG!!!!! :shocked2: That hurts.
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
Don't worry about that anymore d00d, mine still ain't washed from York yet. Then went up to the Catskills! Then I got rained on yesterday taking it to Vern's. I don't think your heart can take looking at it. And I'm probably riding it to KY that way too! :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:
If I get ambitious, I might wash it at Ken's. Otherwise, it'll wait til I get home. ;)
I guess that answers the thread subject question too, huh? ;D
Hoist! 8)
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Don't worry about that anymore d00d, mine still ain't washed from York yet. Then went up to the Catskills! Then I got rained on yesterday taking it to Vern's. I don't think your heart can take looking at it. And I'm probably riding it to KY that way too! :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:
If I get ambitious, I might wash it at Ken's. Otherwise, it'll wait til I get home. ;)
I guess that answers the thread subject question too, huh? ;D
Hoist! 8)
Ahhh!!!!!
/me does his Fred Sanford impersonation grabbing his chest as if he was having a heart attack!!!
Youze guys are killing me. :bigcry:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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The man was/is my hero! Ya big dummy.
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d00d
Last time I checked, you gotta ride it to get it dirty.
B B
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d00d
Last time I checked, you gotta ride it to get it dirty.
B B
Been riding everyday this week while some Chitheads been working. :nixweiss: Did you say you were working today? :sneaky: :evilgrin:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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Been riding everyday this week while some Chitheads been working. :nixweiss: Did you say you were working today? :sneaky: :evilgrin:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
This Chithead may not ride every day, but when he does ride, he rides as much in a day as you do in a month.
B Chithead B
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This Chithead may not ride every day, but when he does ride, he rides as much in a day as you do in a month.
B Chithead B
And your point is. :nixweiss: You ride when where you want and I do the same. ;)
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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Cleaning after you ride is good idea. I tried cleaning the bugs off after each ride, but it didn't work out that they. Time is precious at the house. Now that the weather is clearing up riding everyday for at least 1 or 2 hrs leaves a lot of bugs. So I wipe off the big ones and wash everything on the weekend. That gives me a chance to look over the whole bike; kind of like doing a PCI. Taking it in for its 2,500 service. Got it get it b 4 I PCS. Saves me 450.
And by the way, it doesn't how much you ride, it's the ride that counts......
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Cleaning after you ride is good idea. I tried cleaning the bugs off after each ride, but it didn't work out that they. Time is precious at the house. Now that the weather is clearing up riding everyday for at least 1 or 2 hrs leaves a lot of bugs. So I wipe off the big ones and wash everything on the weekend. That gives me a chance to look over the whole bike; kind of like doing a PCI. Taking it in for its 2,500 service. Got it get it b 4 I PCS. Saves me 450.
And by the way, it doesn't how much you ride, it's the ride that counts......
FYI
To clean bugs off, soak a towel in water with a little soap and drape it over the windshield and fairing. Leave it on for several hours and it will loosen up all of the guck so you can simply rinse off with a hose. When you wipe off hardened bug guts you run the risk of scratching your paint and windshield
B B
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And your point is. :nixweiss: You ride when where you want and I do the same. ;)
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
No my point is to be as big a chithead as possible so you'll change your vote on that thread to ME.
You don't have any more chance of winning than you do of winning the most miles ridden in a year award so what's YOUR point :sauer052:
B B
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No my point is to be as big a chithead as possible so you'll change your vote on that thread to ME.
You don't have any more chance of winning than you do of winning the most miles ridden in a year award so what's YOUR point :sauer052:
B B
If you'd been paying attention you'd realize that the poll was set up so the votes couldn't be changed therefore you requests can not nor will they be granted. Furthermore you don't see me campaigning to win neither the Chithead award or the most miles ridden. :P :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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If you'd been paying attention you'd realize that the poll was set up so the votes couldn't be changed therefore you requests can not nor will they be granted. Furthermore you don't see me campaigning to win neither the Chithead award or the most miles ridden. :P :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
I don't know about that d00d, the post above seems very Chithead to me :P :huepfenjump3:
B B
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I don't know about that d00d, the post above seems very Chithead to me :P :huepfenjump3:
B B
:zroflmao: :zroflmao: Finally we agree. From one Chithead to another... Love Ya Bro. :2vrolijk_21:
:pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
:fireman:
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No but when i have been out and got wet i always mint it up again,otherwise i just get flies etc off.
John
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Without any bias to any chitheads out ther, by the way, chithead are riding color coordinated bikes and helmets arent they? Try the stuff called "ICE Detailer" I've used it for about three months now and I love it. I use it on the windshield too. Takes the bugs and tar off like someone else is doing it for you, hardly any rubbing at all...O.K. a little rubben never hurt anybody. IMHO
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No. I guess it's like with fine optics. More camera lenses are destroyed by excessive cleaning than from use.
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Finally. :-[ This thread returns to some form of normalcy. ??? har! spyder
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Gotta detail mine after dinner - just got caught in a down pour...no windshield. Ouch!!
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I wash my bikes before the ride. Wash, leafblower and wax everytime. but alot of salt air on gulf coast
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Everybody likes our bikes - were obligated to keep em clean for our fans
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No for me. I am embarrassed at how dirty my bike is when you get up close. I wash it good a couple of times per season. The rest of the time, I just spot clean with the Harley spray cleaner. If I have to do all of that polishing & cleaning like I see some bikers do, I'd have to sell it. I am way to lazy to clean after every ride. My bike is kept in a garage, which helps it a little. If you ride relatively often, I don't see how one can spend the time to clean that often.
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The answer is No,
However before putting away in the Garage, I usually let everything cool down, then take a Microfiber wash cloth without detergent, and use hot water to get bugs etc off of any front area of the bike.
Then use a microfiber drying cloth and I'm done till the next ride.
(Takes about 5-10 minutes)
Since I am usually in a hurry before a ride, it is nice to pull out of garage ready to ride.
For sure a good wash and detail if on a long trip, or driving through any weather, pull everyting off and put on jack.
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Yes, and often DURING the ride, although the older I get the tougher it is to reach back and detail the rear fender and saddlebags while doing 70 mph...... ::) ;D :bananarock:
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THOURGHLY wash mine at least once a week, more if it gets dirty. Remove seat, bags, cover air compressor & xm with cellophane. Wash tires/wheels using Mothers AtoZ tire/wheel cleaner, do Brakes (calipers/rotors etc) with Meguairs All Wheel Cleaner, inside fenders with dogbone sponge then change buckets and do engine with reg car wash soap, cold water, use feathered brush to get in around bolts/screws etc then mit for all other engine surfaces, change buckets and was all painted surfaces with micro fiber mit. Blow with Hot Rod Dryer (20 foot hose/filtered inlet) then dry with Big Blue III drying towel, starting at windshield and working down. 1.5 - 2 hours later done. Bike has 25K and is cleaner than new. Take equal care of personel cars. Something I enjoy. Helps them bring prem bucks when sold as well. Personel pride, Never "wipe down" as others above state, don't understand use of GLARE products (to much residue), just didn't like the stuff, we all have different preferences. Use Mothers Waxes/Cleaners and like them, they also support Hot Rodding in general, and I try to support those that support stuff I enjoy.
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I wash mine couple times a month unless i get caught in the rain, Wax it 2 or 3 times a year, usually before and after trip to the beach, other than that use a quick detailer every time i ride, and most of my riding is on the weekends.
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I try to wash mine at least once a week but like SERK3, my ridings done on the weekends. What ticks me off is fingerprints so I do try to wipe those off. If I ever catch the guy leaving them, I'll kill him.
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yeap
always start the ride on a clean bike
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Living the Apartment life, it is hard to wash the bike, especially the hours I work. However, I cln has much as I can best I can. Dont want dirt, bug, calcium build up. Using the jacket stand helps alot with washing and clning.
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I work at an auto dealership so I park in the detail bay at least once a week and give her a complete wash and shine. If I ride a lot durng the week I will do a quick soak and wipe down. A white bike attracts a lot of lookers. :2vrolijk_21:
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After a nice night ride I hose her off and use air to blow dry. Let it cool down and then the next day it's POLISHING time. If it's not clean I won't ride/drive it! I don't know how many times I've borrowed someones car/truck and it's filthy,so I give it a once over before I use it. Just don't like to be riding/driving something that's dirty. Maybe that's why they tell me I can borrow it? Love to clean !!! ;D Don't have to tell me I know I'm weird!
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Does everyone clean/Detail their bike after every ride ??? :nixweiss:
Hell I have not washed mine all year!!!!! The only time Ole Punkin gets washed is when it rains!!!!!
I might of washed her but Axil is always in a hurry to go drinking oh I mean riding!!!!!
Be Safe
THE DAWG
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::)I do my wife thinks I'm nuts but getting off the bugs and break dust off the rims saves allot of time and money down the road, break dust can eat a rim if let go, so cleaning is good. ::)
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I'm with Mike! It usually gets cleaned when it rains (with a rare occasional tweener cleaner)! Except when Chip details it in MV!!! ::) ;D ;D ;D ;) :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3: :huepfenjump3:
Hoist! 8)
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Its not anal washing it after a ride saves you time when you go on the next one.Clean is Good. :tekst-toppie:
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::)I do my wife thinks I'm nuts but getting off the bugs and break dust off the rims saves allot of time and money down the road, break dust can eat a rim if let go, so cleaning is good. ::)
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Mine gets washed every time I lie about washing it. I bought it to ride not to clean!!
That time can be used for better things, like :drink: :drink: :drink: :drink: :drink: :drink:
Mike
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Hi Mike, yes I clean my bike after each ride this way its ready for the next ride,my wife says Im anol but what does she know. :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:
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Can't show ya how badly I don't! Just broke a lens trying to get a pic of Cybil after MV! :o
She's still like that and now she's in the shop. Prolly makes many of ya'll's skin crawl! So I guess ya know by now that I should probably start a thread for those that really never worry about this chit at all. And they'll know they're not alone, and I know they're out there too! I just admit it publicly is all!!! ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
Hoist! 8)
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Can't show ya how badly I don't! Just broke a lens trying to get a pic of Cybil after MV! :o
She's still like that and now she's in the shop. Prolly makes many of ya'll's skin crawl! So I guess ya know by now that I should probably start a thread for those that really never worry about this chit at all. And they'll know they're not alone, and I know they're out there too! I just admit it publicly is all!!! ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
Hoist! 8)
I think Mikeetee said he's in your camp on this issue. :-[ har! spyder
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Hey Hoist, a little soap and water does wonders. 8) 8)s
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I wash my bike after riding it.
I washed it after MV 07 right before MV 08!
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Hey Hoist, a little soap and water does wonders. 8) 8)s
I've taken showers before! What are you implying? :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss: ::) ;D ;D ;D
Hoist! 8)
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Mine gets cleaned and detailed every other Friday. I use a treated duster by Beverly Hills Motoring Accessories on it during the off weeks. When I travel I use a quick detail product at the end of each day just to get the bugs and road dirt off
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mine gets dusted and detailed about every other day, but that is mainly because i ride at night with all the juicy bugs. the good thing about keeping up with the cleaning is you don't have to break out the hose and blow dryer as often.
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I have cats to take care of the bugs. They just lick them off. The only problem is they are indoor cats and it's hard to get the RG thru the garage walk door and up the stairs.
Mkie
:drink:
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I have cats to take care of the bugs. They just lick them off. The only problem is they are indoor cats and it's hard to get the RG thru the garage walk door and up the stairs.
Mkie
:drink:
Cats are light, and if you get good with the touch, a light kick is all you need to increase their cleaning radius...
(No animals were harmed in the posting of this message)
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Cats are light, and if you get good with the touch, a light kick is all you need to increase their cleaning radius...
(No animals were harmed in the posting of this message)
If I can catch them ( cats ) I'll try taking them out to the garage and try your way.
Mike
:drink:
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Just did 1250 miles from DFW to AR and back. It is still sitting in the garage with all of the imported bugs and crap all over her. Maybe get around to cleaning it this weekend when the bugs are all good and hard.
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If I can catch them ( cats ) I'll try taking them out to the garage and try your way.
Mike
:drink:
tuna and two sided tape, then you have a captive audience
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I don't wash mine after EVERY ride, have so much wax on it everything just slides off, used quick detailer everyday last week while in Myrtle Beach, Will get good wash and wax tomorrow.
Live Easy, Ride Hard
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CLEAN IS GOOD :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21: :pepper: :pepper:
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I have cats to take care of the bugs. They just lick them off. The only problem is they are indoor cats and it's hard to get the RG thru the garage walk door and up the stairs.
Mkie
:drink:
Just throw the cats in the garage. Problem solved. THE MUFFMAN
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tuna and two sided tape, then you have a captive audience
Slingshot. THE MUFFMAN
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Mine is being washed right now. It's parked outside here at work and it is raining.
Love the wheather. ;D
Mike
:drink:
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I guess everyone has their own method on how they clean their bikes. :confused5: :nixweiss:
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Am I committing heresy ?
I've ridden LD four times about 75 miles each time since I cleaned it last.
B B
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Am I committing heresy ?
I've ridden LD four times about 75 miles each time since I cleaned it last.
B B
Nope. Same here. I'll get to it one of these days.
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You must be living in a dome where their are no bugs. :confused5: :confused5: :nixweiss:
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no
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I don't detail my bikes after every ride, but I'll usually use the detailing spray to get the bugs off...other than that, the bikes get washed maybe twice a year and spray detailed in between.
:devil:
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I use Meguiars Tech Wax 2.0 twice a year this stuff lasts a long time and a detail wax in between, I never have a problem with bugs I just take a hot towel to the bugs and they wipe wright off. :2vrolijk_21: :2vrolijk_21:
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You know, it's funny but I just throw a case of Bartles & james in the Garage and invite the Hooters girls over. my scoot is magically cleaned.