Many people love motorcycles because they provide a sense of freedom and peace that cars cannot. Motorcycle Detailing Perth takes great care of its bikes to ensure they look and perform like new ones.
To speed up the process, most pro detailers use a steamer that blows warm, dry, filtered air to remove water from all crevices of the bike in minutes.
Cleaning is a necessary and important part of motorcycle detailing. Bike owners often get their bikes dirty with road grime, oily residue and other contaminants from the bike’s mechanical running gear. This grime needs to be cleaned, and there are a variety of products for this job. Professional detailers often use a spray degreaser to make the job easier and quicker.
Before beginning the actual cleaning, it’s a good idea to protect components that will be damaged by water. For example, it’s a good idea to plug the exhaust pipes and cover the display and gauges of the bike. It’s also a good idea to take off any accessories that can be removed from the bike, such as side panels and saddlebags. This will make it easier to access and clean all of the small nooks and crannies that are usually hard to reach.
It’s also a good idea to put grit guards in the buckets that will be used for washing the bike. These grit guards help keep dirt and other particles from clinging to the wash mitts and towels, which will save time and effort during the cleaning process. In addition, a grit guard will prevent the particles from being pushed into the clear coat of the paint by the movement of the water.
If the motorcycle is going to be left outside, it’s a good idea to park it in the shade. This will protect the painted surfaces from the sun, which can cause streaks and other problems. In addition, if the bike is left out in the rain, it’s a good idea to cover any electrical components and the engine to prevent water damage.
If you have any plastic or rubber pieces on the bike, it’s a good idea to use a cleaner that’s specifically designed for these types of materials. This type of product will make it easy to clean the plastic and rubber while keeping them looking like new. If the bike has a chrome finish, a special chrome polish and wax will keep it looking great.
While washing the bike is a crucial first step, polishing is what really takes it to the next level. Using a fine metal polish removes scratches and oxidation, giving the paint a deep shine. It’s also a great time to inspect the bike for any mechanical problems that may be developing.
The bike should be completely cool before starting this step, and it’s a good idea to work in a shady area where the dust won’t fly. It’s best to use a foam pad and a medium-grit metal polish, but you can also make do with an electric buffer if it’s in the budget. The key is to rub the polish over the entire surface of the motorcycle, with moderate pressure. Be sure to switch to a clean towel frequently to avoid any micro-marring that can damage the finish.
After the polish has been applied, you’ll want to rinse the motorcycle thoroughly with a hose, starting at the top and working your way down. Then, you can move on to a high-quality spray wax. It’s important to make sure that you dry the bike properly, as water spots will ruin all of your hard work. To expedite the process, you can invest in a high-quality air blaster that blows warm, filtered air over the entire surface of the vehicle, driving water away from all the nooks and crannies in a matter of minutes.
When the bike is fully dry, it’s time to take care of any small parts and accessories. You’ll need a specific product for chrome, as it requires special care to keep its shiny appearance. Satin and matte finishes need special products as well, which will keep them looking soft and smooth. If the tires are dirty or scuffed, you can use a tire cleaner and a tar remover to get them back to their original shine.
The engine of a motorcycle isn’t as sealed as the one in a car, so it needs to be cleaned with special care. It’s a good idea to use an engine brightener, which restores the shine and gets rid of any grime or dirt build-up. This can also help prevent corrosion and etching.
The final step in motorcycle detailing is to apply a high-quality wax to protect the finish. This will keep the motorcycle looking shiny and new, and it will also protect the paint from oxidation and other damage. To ensure a good wax job, it is important to make sure that all the surface areas are covered. The wax should be applied generously, and it should be buffed off with a clean microfiber towel to remove any excess. Lastly, the motorcycle should be dried with another microfiber towel or a leaf blower to remove any water spots.
The most important tip when waxing a motorcycle is to do it in the shade. Working in direct sunlight will cause the soap to dry quickly, which can lead to streaks on the paint. It is also important to cover any vulnerable parts of the bike before starting. This will help prevent any unforeseen problems while you are cleaning and will save you time.
Once you’ve finished waxing, it is a good idea to use some rubbing compound on the motorcycle’s paint to smooth it out and eliminate any scratches or dings. This will give the motorcycle a smooth, glossy finish that will look like glass. This will also protect the motorcycle from the elements and help it to retain its resale value.
When it comes to cleaning a motorcycle, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and always use a quality product. Avoid using high-pressure water, and instead opt for low-pressure sprayers and specialized tools to clean hard-to-reach areas. Also, be sure to use compressed air on all switches and electrical components to prevent moisture from damaging them. Additionally, be sure to wear protective gloves when handling the motorcycle, as it can be very hot.
In addition to improving the appearance of a motorcycle, detailed motorcycles are often easier to ride and maintain. They are also more likely to resell at a higher price than those that have not been properly cared for. In order to get the most out of your motorcycle, be sure to detail it regularly and protect it with a high-quality wax.
If you’re planning on buying a used bike, it’s important to do a thorough inspection of the motorcycle before you buy it. This way, you can avoid getting ripped off or spending money on a ride that has significant mechanical problems. You should have a checklist to help you remember the major points to check, as well as some tools and supplies like old rags for cleaning oil off your hands and a tire pressure gauge.
Start your inspection by walking around the motorcycle and looking at it from all angles. Pay special attention to the leading edges of the bike, such as the levers and mirrors. These areas are more likely to be covered in bugs and dirt than other parts of the bike. Also, remember to clean the undersides of these parts and any other surfaces that aren’t easily visible.
When you’re finished, move on to the engine area. Ask the seller to not start the engine so that you can inspect it while it’s cold. This is an important step because it will let you know if the engine has any issues. Look for leaks, oil puddles and other signs of trouble.
Next, inspect the brakes and steering. Make sure the brakes are in good condition and have sufficient pad life. Check that the clutch lever has adequate play and is easy to operate. Finally, test the headlight and taillights to ensure that they work. Make sure the lenses are clear and free of cracks or chips.
If the motorcycle has been modified, be sure to inspect it carefully. Modifications that reduce the safety and performance of the motorcycle should not be allowed. For example, if the muffler has been cut out or the baffle plates removed, it must be replaced with the original equipment.
Before you leave, check the fuel and oil levels to make sure they’re at the proper level. Also, check the tire pressure and ensure that they are inflated correctly. If any of these items are faulty, it’s best to walk away from the sale and find another motorcycle. This will save you time and money, as well as a headache down the road.