What does everyone use to clean their bike with, Motor shampoo, de-greaser? I'm going to try S DOC 100 gel and then diamond bright everything to give it a protective finish. Here in the UK weather can be unpredictable and as I use mine everyday it's time consuming, although enjoyable I clean at least once or twice a week.

I've just changed a Diablo black for the silver, so I hope it stays looking cleaner longer

all the products mentioned in this thread are good...

http://msriders.org/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=1733&p=15335&hilit=cleaning+products#p15335]

* Last updated by: reevesmreeves on 3/13/2009 @ 11:50 AM *

I use Eagle One's NanoWash which is always enough before a weekend ride. Every couple weeks I use NanoWax which brings out the mms paint really nice. If you look at the mms paint cross-eyed it gets swirls in it.

+1, eagle one is also the easiest to use. spray on rag and wipe off. nothing left but pure shine.

Although this thread is kinda' on the old side, it's quickly becoming riding season in a lot of places so I thought I'd share how I go about it.

The area that I live in has very harsh hard water and it will leave some nasty water spots if left to dry on it's own. Because of that, I have been using (for the last 3+ years) that stupid looking, but effective, "Mr.Clean Auto wash system". It uses a PUR brand filter and a polymer soap that works awesome. For bugs and any major grease, I use S-100 motorcycle cleaner spray. Again, this stuff is fantastic and safely cleans all surfaces of almost anything from bugs to grease.

One thing to keep in mind though is that it's not good to let either soap/cleanser dry before you rinse.

I use SuzukiWash(haven't found any KawiWash)...... rinse, spray on entire bike(fairings/wheels) and let sit for about 1-2mins, then rinse off. Dry off with air compressor, then finish with Plexus and a good wipe down.

this is the best stuff imo that ive found and trust me i ve tried everything this is so easy a caveman could use it lol seriously this stuff is no touch you spray it on and hose it off. bugs and tar just rinse away.

http://www.bikebrite.com/

s100 engine cleaner is the bomb for doing the engine just dont leave it on too long with painted engines

* Last updated by: scottjkyl on 8/25/2009 @ 1:23 PM *

eagleone nanowax, just started using it , love the way it goes on and have stopped using the turtlewax ice found out on the black bike its turns ur ride into a dust magnet

This is my soon to be 6 year old VTX1300C (early 2004 model purchased new in October 2003). I took the picture you see here last Saturday. The bike still looks like the day I bought it. To keep one looking like new:

1. If possible, keep it garaged, sunlight, heat and ozone destroy a motor vehicle faster than anything else.

2. If possible, avoid riding in the rain...I know that's hard for some, especially in Europe. Up North avoid winter riding in areas where a lot of road salt is used. If you do ride in the rain,rinse her down with clear water and dry as soon as possible to remove road film and chemicals.

3. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals. Dove dishwashing detergent is as harsh as it gets for my bikes. Car wash is OK, just avoid spraying high pressure against the radiator or any seal or bearing areas. I always stand back a bit so I don't force water anywhere it's not supposed to go.

4. Keep it covered in the garage when you are not riding it. Keeps dust off the machine and it stays clean longer. The less you have to wash your bike, the longer the finish will last. Dust is an abrasive and no matter how careful you are, everytime you have to remove it, your paint gets scratched.

5. After washing, dry it out to prevent rust and corrosion. I always go do a ten minute freeway ride at 70-80 mph to blow dry remaining water out of every crack and crevice.

6. Wax often, I use Mother's Pure Carnuba on all the painted surfaces. It nourishes the paint, seals it and prevents it from drying out.

Kruz

* Last updated by: Kruz on 8/25/2009 @ 2:12 PM *

Good looking bike Kruz! You think you have enough toys?

I just want one more..I promise...one more.

Kruz

I moved to Germany two years ago, the home of S100 products and have recently used up my supply of Autoglym from at home in Ireland so I'm buying the S100 stuff now.

I find the cleaner great, best I've used yet. I've yet to use the polish though. Looks like I might have to get a bottle soon. I drive in clear weather only, no need to drive in the rain. So I just need to clean her every 3 weeks or so.