Paint and Chrome

 Almost every biker is attracted to shiny accesories. And the world ends if ANY scratches or blemishes appear. So how can you keep the paint clean and the chrome shinny? Well, to prevent scratches from appearing watch where you park. There are people that don't care for motorcycles or that don't even pay attention to their car doors as they open. If you are out to eat, try to park where you can see your bike . People DO sit on bikes that DO NOT BELONG TO THEM!

Now don't think that everyone that eyes your bike is going to sit on it and drop it to the ground. There are those who LOVE bikes but don't yet have one of their own. If You are out and about and someone asks you if they may take a picture of your precious two wheeled machine, go ahead and let them. Please don't be a mean biker!

Now as far as how often to clean your bike, don't be the guy who tries to wash the paint off of the tank. Guys and Girls, once a week is OK. Now if you have hit a little rain or wet pavement and there is road grime all over it, then please wash it, it will ruin a good paint job. Another thing to be cautious about is fueling up. Watch out for gas on the tank. Gas will eat through clear coat! Take the time to get a paper towel out of the winshield washer box and use it to make sure gas doesnt get on the tank. For those riders in coastal areas, wash your bike after long rides and set a schedual. Salt water WILL EAT CHROME AND PAINT! Salt will also destroy electrical and mechanical components.

Do you want to know what cleans the best? Well unfortunatly I can't tell you, only because there are so many options. Also it is a matter of opinion which product will clean and polish better. I know that Windex will clean chrome and give it a nice streak free shine and Pledge polish will do a good job on a paint job and will act as a great wax. You can also choose from a variety of dealer products or automotive products.  Now don't take short cuts and just spray your bike down with Pledge and Windex if it covered in dirt and dust. That is just a way to beg for scratches. Before polishing, wash it down. Get all dirt and dust off first. Any automotive soap or dish soap will do. Use a clean soft sponge and clean water. ALWAYS let your bike cool down before washing and polishing and dry it completely before starting.

While I am telling you when to start your bike after cleaning, I want to touch on the subject of exhaust pipes. Because your pipes reach such high temperatures, anything left on them will scar them PERMANATELY! If you have any finger prints or oil on your pipes, get it off! the last thing you want is a nice fingerprint on your nice set of chrome Vance and Hines.

Take care of your bike and it will take care of you. Dont fall behind on cleaning or any schedualed maintenence for that matter. A bike is not just a hobby, but a lifestyle. Be smart, be responsible, and be safe.

".........Its not the destination, but the journey."