How Often Should You Wash Your Motorcycle: Tips and Advice

Motorcycle maintenance is a crucial part of owning a bike, but how often should you wash your motorcycle? The answer can vary depending on a few factors, such as how dirty the bike gets, how often you ride it, and where you store it when not in use.

Factors Influencing Washing Frequency

Consider the following questions to determine the appropriate washing frequency for your motorcycle:

How dirty does it get? How often do you use it? Where do you keep it when it’s not being ridden?

For example, if you keep your road bikes under covers and in a garage when not in use, they might not get very dirty between trips. However, if you have a bike with a hard life, such as a trials bike that gets used regularly, it may need washing more frequently.

Factors for Dusty, Wet, Mud Splattered, or Salt-Encrusted Bikes

When you return from a trip, check your bike for the following conditions:

Dusty – Wash and dry the bike if it’s dusty. Wet – Dry the bike and check for any rust or rot. Mud splattered – Clean the bike thoroughly to prevent caked-on mud. Has salt on it from winter road maintenance – Clean and dry the bike to avoid salt damage.

If you’ve been for a ride in fine weather, you may not need to wash your bike immediately, but clean it when it’s looking below par in appearance.

Frequency of Washing

How often you wash your motorcycle depends on its condition and usage. For everyday use, you can wash your bike once a week or every two weeks. However, if you wash it more often, it might lead to rusting and increased wastewater usage.

For aesthetic purposes, you can wash your bike as often as you like. Simply use a shop towel and auto paint-safe cleaner, but only as needed. Just keep dirt from caking on and clean your lights regularly.

Basic Maintenance and Internal Care

While washing is important, focus more on internal maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. Refer to the owner's manual for recommended maintenance schedules, which typically include the following:

Clean and check the air filter Lubricate all moving parts Inspect and change the oil regularly Check the tire pressure and alignment Test the brakes and electrical system

Additionally, keeping the dirt off your bike by wiping it down with a soft microfiber cloth is important to maintain its performance and aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

In short, wash your bike when it needs it. Avoid leaving it wet or in damp conditions, as this can lead to corrosion and other issues. With proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and attention to internal components, your motorcycle will last for years to come.

For detailed guidance on cleaning your bike, refer to the video below:

Cleaning Your Motorcycle Efficiently

Hope this helps! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any questions in the comments below.