You want to look good cruising downtown on a Saturday night, right? Then you had better know how to clean a motorcycle. You can clean virtually any part of your bike, but the most common areas are:

• Chrome
• Exhaust
• Engine
• Paint
• Leather

The wrong cleaning solution or a brush that is too abrasive could end up costing you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. With a few tips and techniques, you will be getting compliments and looks everywhere you go.

If you didn’t like the way your motorcycle looked, you would not have bought it. And if you are like other bikers, you put cleanliness next to Godliness, with your bike at least. You will need to know how to clean a few key part of your bike to keep it looking its best. A few details before getting to the how to.

Never, I repeat, NEVER wash, wax, or clean a motorcycle while it is still warm to the touch. You risk burning yourself, starting a fire, or causing irreparable damage to your bike – cleaning solutions or water could crack an engine. Household soaps are a no-no, if you don’t have the correct products don’t chance stripping the finish. Running water from a hose is best, a pressure washer or spray nozzle could damage electrical systems. Finally, don’t allowing wheel or engine cleaners to dry on your bike.

Now that the warnings are out of the way, on to the cleaning! Chrome can be easily restored with an automotive chrome cleaner. To remove nasty burnt on plastics, or skin, soak the melted material with a non-dyed fabric (old socks work great) and WD-40 or carb cleaner overnight. It will take some time and a lot of elbow grease, but it will eventually come off. Mild car wash detergent and a big brick sponge work great to clean a motorcycle. Make sure to remove flattened bugs as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage to your bike.

When it comes to waxing, it is a personal decision. Most bikers prefer to use a carnauba wax, a natural product that won’t leave a build up like synthetic waxes can. To clean your motorcycle seat use a leather cleaner followed by conditioner. Last but not least, drying your motorcycle can be fun if you have a leaf blower, but a chamois will suffice.

With these tips you will be on the road in no time showing off your fresh chrome. One last tip if you are going to clean a motorcycle, check your belt or chain for damage, clean the battery terminals, and check the electrical connections too. Ride safe!

Learn, Ride, Live