Cleaning your motorcycle

You might think keeping your Honda clean is as simple as a good old scrub down with soap and water, but there are a few dos and don’ts to remember.

Cleaning tips

Use products made for your motorcycle

Cleaning products not made for motorcycle or car surfaces may contain harsh detergents or chemical solvents that could damage your bike’s metal, paint, and plastic.

Let it cool down

If your motorcycle is still warm from use, grab a cup of tea and wait until the engine and exhaust system cool off.

Avoid high-pressure water sprays

Avoid high-pressure sprays like the ones you find at coin operated car washes. High-pressure water or air can damage parts of your motorcycle.

Washing your bike

1. Rinse your bike.

Rinse your bike thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.
2. Clean your motorcycle with a sponge or soft cloth using cool water.

Next, start cleaning your motorcycle. Make sure to use cool water and don’t squirt water at muffler outlets and electrical parts.
3. Clean the plastic parts using a cloth or sponge dampened with a solution of mild detergent and water.

Rub the soiled area, gently rinsing it with cool water. Take care to keep brake fluid or chemical solvents away from the surfaces, they’ll damage the plastic and painted areas. The inside of the headlight lens may be clouded after you’ve finished washing.
Switch the headlight on to high beam and you’ll see the moisture condensation inside the headlight lens gradually disappear. Remember to run the engine while keeping the headlight on.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Rinse all detergent off of your motorcycle. Make sure no detergent remains because residue can corrode alloy parts.
5. Dry your bike.

Dry the bike, start the engine, and let it run for several minutes (it’s a nice opportunity to admire your handiwork).
6. Test the brakes.

Test the brakes before riding. You might need to pump them several times to restore normal braking performance. You might find braking is less responsive immediately after washing. That’s why it’s a good idea to give yourself a longer stopping distance to reduce the chances of an accident.
7. Oil the chain.

Lubricate the drive chain immediately after you finish washing and drying the motorcycle.
8. Add some finishing touches.

After washing your motorcycle, think about using a commercial spray cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste wax to finish the job. Be sure to only use a non-abrasive polish or wax made specifically for motorcycles or automobiles.
If using a spray cleaner/polish, avoid spraying directly onto tyres and brakes, cover parts before spraying.

Looking after your motorcycle

Use transparent protective spray

Using a transparent protective spray on your motorcycle’s aluminium parts, like your engine and transmission housing, helps shield its paint and finishes from UV rays, dirt, and moisture, preserving the bike’s appearance and extending the life of its surfaces.

Clean your exhaust pipe

Your exhaust pipe is steel and may become stained by oil or mud. It’s important to keep it clean and prevent rust and carbon deposits from building up, so your engine and exhaust system last longer.

Keep your bearings dry

Keeping your bearings dry is crucial because moisture can cause them to rust and seize up, leading to poor performance and potentially dangerous riding conditions.

Check and clean your air filter

A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, improving fuel efficiency and preventing dirt and debris from causing damage over time. Road bikes do not have washable filters, the filters will be replaced by a technician during a general service.

What type of detergent should I use to clean my motorcycle?

It's best to use a motorcycle-specific cleaner or a mild, non-abrasive detergent that won't strip away wax or damage your bike's paint and finishes.

How often should I clean my motorcycle?

Regular cleaning is recommended, ideally after every few rides, or more frequently if you've been riding in rain, mud, or dusty conditions to prevent grime buildup.

Is it safe to use a pressure washer on my motorcycle?

While pressure washers can be effective, it's important to use them with caution to avoid damaging sensitive components like electrical parts, seals, or bearings.

How do I clean the chain on my motorcycle?

Use a dedicated chain cleaner and a soft brush to remove dirt and grime, then lubricate the chain afterward to maintain its longevity and performance.

Should I clean my motorcycle when it's hot?

It's better to let your motorcycle cool down before cleaning, as spraying water on hot surfaces can cause thermal shock and damage to the paint or engine components.